Drafters and architectural technology experts
translate architectural plans into scale drawings to be used by
construction workers. Though an associate's degree is the most common
on-campus degree, most online programs in architectural drafting or
technology are offered only as diploma programs.
Certificate programs in architectural technology and drafting provide
direct training in Computer Assisted Drafting (CAD) tools and
engineering drawing methods. This program is the minimum educational
attainment required for entry into the field of architectural
technology. Certificate programs forgo many of the general education
requirements found in associate's or bachelor's degree programs in
architectural technology.
This program can be well suited to online delivery, since much of the
education focuses on estimating and CAD programs. Lasting from 1-2
semesters, these programs generally require only a high school diploma
and appropriate placement test scores for enrollment. Some schools give
students the option to earn a certificate in CAD or other technologies
after the completion of only 2-3 courses. Programs are generally
conducted through online content systems and e-mail, through which
students and professors can interact electronically.
List of Common Architectural Technology Courses
The curriculum for diploma programs focuses primarily on
industry-specific courses. Topics covered include the CAD programs, as
well as concepts in cost estimation and residential architectural
drawings.
Introduction to Computers Course
Due to the computer-based systems common in architectural technology,
this introductory course is a frequent part of diploma programs. This
class gives drafters basic training in the use of modern microcomputers
and peripherals.
Drafting Fundamentals
This baseline course in drafting addresses all of the accepted
standards of architectural technology professionals. Topics include
isometric vs. oblique drawings, correct lettering, proper scaling and
more.
Computer Assisted Drafting Course
Providing an introduction to CAD, this course takes the fundamental
skills of drafting and applies them to computer-assisted drafting
programs.
Building Estimation Course
This course teaches students how to accurately estimate the cost of a
given architectural project, based on the specifications requested.
Topics include theoretical and hands-on lessons in estimating the costs
of different construction models with different materials.
Architectural technology graduates often find careers that specialize
in a type of building or construction material. Their skills help
translate architectural plans into accurately-drawn, scaled drawings of
potential buildings and other structures. According to the U.S. Bureau
of Labor Statistics (BLS),
architectural drafting is a field that is expected to grow more slowly than the national average (
www.bls.gov). The BLS reported that as of 2008, architectural technologists earned a median salary of $44,490.
Architectural drafting students may elect to pursue a career in
architecture, even though the career path from drafter to architect is a
not direct one. Drafting programs provide a few of the more fundamental
lessons found in a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program. Though
not typically required by employers, a voluntary certification is
available for architectural drafters from the American Design Drafting
Association (ADDA).
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