Architectural Technology - Certificate of Achievement

This program map only provides one possible pathway for degree and/or certificate obtainment and is for reference only. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor to develop your individualized Student Education Plan.

A certificate of achievement in architectural technology prepares students for positions in the building industry as architectural interns, architectural drafters/CAD technicians, and technical/production support within architecture or construction firms. In addition, a certificate helps students articulate into a professional program at a four-year institution, which offers a baccalaureate degree. 

The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.

Communicate graphically using both manual and computer aided methods.

Produce a set of architectural plans that may be submitted for plan check approval.

Develop knowledge of and ability to apply building codes.

Produce a comprehensive architectural project that demonstrates capacity to make design decisions across scales.

Program Map

Requirement
GE General Education
E Elective

Fall Year 1

13 units
ARCH 121
Architectural Practice 1
A continuation of construction materials and methods with an emphasis on the selection of appropriate structural systems and the application of relevant codes and regulations including life-safety and accessibility standards. Covered also is the production of technically clear drawings utilizing Building Information Modeling (BIM) software; Revit Architecture, and drafting software;AutoCAD.
            ARCH 160
            Digital Tools In Architecture
            Introduces computer design and presentation skills for architecture students. Topics include image editing, page layout and 3D modeling. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ET 160.
            1. Advisories: ARCH 111
                    ARCH 131
                    Building Construction Materials and Methods

                    An introduction to building construction materials and systems plus the basic principles utilized in the appropriate selection of materials, products, components, and assemblies, based on their inherent characteristics and performance, including their environmental impact and reuse.

                    1. Advisories: ARCH 121
                            ARCH 101
                            Principles of Environmental Design

                            This course offers an introduction to the complex interplay between individuals, society, and the designed and built environment, with a focus on its implications for natural resource consumption, identity, behavior, community development, and human health, safety, and general well-being. The course also explores the role of design from various perspectives, including those of architects, engineers, governing bodies, and individual users. Focus on sustainability and social equity, promoting active participation in community planning and design from a social and environmental standpoint.

                                1. D7 - Interdisciplinary Social or Behavioral Science
                                2. Lifelong Learning and Self-Development
                                1. Category 4A: Social and Behavioral Sciences
                                1. Interdisciplinary, Social & Behavioral Sciences

                                Spring Year 1

                                10 units
                                ARCH 122
                                Architectural Drawing 2
                                The second course in a two-semester sequence that prepares the student to enter the construction field as a drafter. Emphasizes the planning and development of a set of residential plans that may be submitted for plan check approval. The second semester covers structural details, energy, and mechanical requirements, and a study of fire resistive materials and finishes.
                                          ARCH 321
                                          California Building Code

                                          Introduces the student to the purpose and use of the California Building Code (CBC), and prepares the student to make design and job site judgments based on the Code.

                                                    ARCH 100
                                                    Computer Aided Drafting and Design

                                                    An introduction to computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) which covers operation of a computer graphics terminal (specifically AutoCAD) to create, modify, delete, transfer, and plot graphic files used to produce complete engineering drawings.  This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ET 100.