Learn Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software and techniques to create 3D models and drawings used in developing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools, stadiums, high rises, and commercial buildings.
What you will learn
- Technical drafting software: AutoCAD, Autodesk, Tekla Structures
- Drafting terminology, conventions, and annotation
- Drawing from data, designs, and/or specifications
- Technical mathematics
- Construction site safety
- 3D and building information modelling (BIM)
- Orthographic projection
- Sectioning and dimensioning
- Auxiliary view
- Machine detailing
- Canadian building codes and steel construction standards
- Structural steel fabrication and arrangement
- On-site installation
- Bolting and welding
- Structural steel square framing
- Metal guardrails, handrails, platforms, and flooring
- Trusses and truss geometry
- Structural stress and load reversal
- Critical thinking
- Team building
- Interpersonal communication
- Technical communications
- Portfolio development
- Résumés and application letters
- Job-search skills and interviews
What to expect
- 10 months of full-time study
- Classes Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Project-based learning
- Presentations
- Laboratory work
- Homework
- Theory
- Individual projects
- Theory examinations
- Practical/drawing assessments
- Opportunity to advance into a CAD and BIM Technician diploma program*
*Upon completing the 10-month Civil/Structural Technician Certificate, students may earn a CAD and BIM Technician diploma by completing Terms 2 and 3 (8 months) of a second drafting specialty: Architectural or Civil/Structural.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level or CLB/CLBPT Listening 8, Speaking 7, Reading 8, and Writing 7
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 11 or equivalent, or
- VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 72% Basic Algebra
Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the Department
- Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.
- Applicants who have met the above requirements and completed Drafting 11 and 12 in high school can apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.
- VCC CAD Citation graduates may insert into level 2 of the program.
- For assistance with meeting the entrance requirements, please contact Advising Services to schedule an appointment with an Advisor.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and educational documents as required by their course or program.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free in academic upgrading, university transfer or English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses.
Recommended Characteristics
- Excellent English communication skills.
- Working knowledge of Windows OS is strongly recommended.
- Good mathematical and mechanical comprehension.
- Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
- General good health, good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- Successful work habits and an ability to work well with others.
- Logical reasoning and an ability to visualize objects.
- Interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, general construction and related fields.
Courses
*Program general hours
Monday to Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
| Term One | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| DRFT 1010 | CAD Drafting Fundamentals | 4 |
| DRFT 1011 | CAD Drafting Applied | 3 |
| DRFT 1012 | Office & Construct Site Safety | 1 |
| DRFT 1013 | Construction Mathematics | 1 |
| Credits | 9 | |
| Term Two | ||
| DRFT 1290 | Struct Steel Fab Codes & Stand | 1 |
| DRFT 1291 | Introduction to Steel Detail | 1 |
| DRFT 1292 | Structural Bolting & Welding | 1 |
| DRFT 1293 | Indust & Comm Basic Framing | 4 |
| DRFT 1294 | Connection & Layout Geometry | 2 |
| DRFT 1295 | Detail of Inclined Components | 4 |
| DRFT 1296 | Miscellaneous Metals Detailing | 2 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Term Three | ||
| DRFT 1380 | CAD 3D and Assemblies | 2 |
| DRFT 1391 | Introduction to BIM Software | 3 |
| DRFT 1392 | Working with BIM Software | 3 |
| DRFT 1370 | Technical Communications | 1 |
| DRFT 1393 | Heavy Structural Steel Framing | 4.5 |
| DRFT 1326 | Job Search Skills | 0.5 |
| DRFT 1352 | Steel Trusses | 2 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Total Credits | 40 | |
This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and other costs
*| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 35 | |
| Tuition | 6405 |
Tuition Breakdown
1442 - Level 1
2402 - Level 2
2562 - Level 3
0 - Level 4
|
| Student union | 160 | |
| College initiative | 107 | |
| Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 129 | |
| Laundry | 0 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical & Dental | 280 | |
| U-PASS | 425 | |
| Graduation | 40 | |
| Program specific extra fees | 0 | |
| Total |
Need help with tuition?
Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a $300 non-refundable deposit.
Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.
Apply now
Get started
Visit the Registrar's Office at our Broadway or Downtown campus
† Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey
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