Learn Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software and techniques used in developing residential housing, commercial buildings, and institutional complexes.
Architectural Technician
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What you will learn
- Technical drafting tools: AutoCAD, Autodesk Revit Architecture, Civil 3D
- Drafting terminology, conventions, and annotation
- Residential and commercial/retail building concepts
- 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
- Architectural theory
- Single- and multi-family residences
- Site planning
- Sustainable initiatives (e.g. LEED)
- Building assemblies
- Envelope design
- Climate-specific materials
- Wood framing
- Light steel framing
- Concrete block construction
- Commercial layouts and accessibility
- Residential and commercial building codes and bylaws
- Technical communications
- Portfolio development
- Résumés and application letters
- Job-search skills and interviews
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
Ten (10) months, comprised of three terms. Maximum time to complete the program: 3 years.
- 10 months of full-time study
- Classes full time days
- 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*
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Studies 12 with a minimum ‘C-’ grade, or equivalent
- Workplace Mathematics 11 or equivalent
Note:
- VCC CAD Short Certificate graduates (granted within the last 2 years) may be eligible to receive credit for: DRFT 1010, DRFT 1011, DRFT 1012, DRFT 1013.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- 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 other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- General computer skills, including working knowledge of Windows OS
- Good mathematical and mechanical comprehension.
- Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
- 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 *
This program is offered full time during the day (approximately 3 days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Days and times are subject to change.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing. Applicants who successfully completed Drafting 11 and 12 or equivalent may also apply for PLAR. Credits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.
PLAR is available for the following courses:
- DRFT 1010 CAD Drafting Fundamentals
- DRFT 1011 CAD Drafting Applied
- DRFT 1012 Office and Construction Site Safety
- DRFT 1013 Construction Mathematics
Students may complete up to 20% of program credits through PLAR. Tuition and fees may still apply to PLAR candidates.
Methods of PLAR vary by course, and may include exams, portfolios, interviews, and other evaluations. See individual course outlines for details.
See Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition policy for more information.
*Note for international students requesting PLAR: Prior to proceeding with the PLAR request, please contact VCC International Education Advising to learn how PLAR can impact immigration status.
| First Year | 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 |
| DRFT 1110 | Architectural Principles | 5 |
| DRFT 1115 | Residential Single Family 1 | 2 |
| DRFT 1200 | Residential Single Family 2 | 2 |
| DRFT 1201 | Residential Multi-Family | 6 |
| DRFT 1225 | Professional Communication | 1.5 |
| DRFT 1202 | Commercial Retail Buildings 1 | 2 |
| DRFT 1302 | Commercial Retail Buildings 2 | 3 |
| DRFT 1374 | Introduction to 3D and BIM | 3.5 |
| DRFT 1375 | Commercial Office Layouts | 6 |
| Credits | 40 | |
| 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.
Discover Open Studies
Open Studies lets you take courses from credit programs without having to be accepted into one. Based on availability, you can sample different courses, earn credits, and build new skills.
Explore your optionsFees and other costs *
This program has additional equipment or technical requirements
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 36 | |
| Tuition Tuition | 6797 | |
| Student union | 192 | |
| College initiative | 114 | |
| Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 136 | |
| Laundry | 0 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical and Dental | 275 | |
| Temporary Medical Insurance | 0 | |
| U-PASS | 442 | |
| Graduation | 45 | |
| Program-specific extra fees | 0 | |
| Total |
* 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
TO APPLY FOR THE ARCHITECTURAL TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE:
If you want to take the Architectural Technician Certificate, go to EducationPlannerBC and apply for the Architectural Technician Diploma. Once you have successfully completed term 3, you may request to exit the program and obtain a certificate.
TO REQUEST ADVANCED ENTRY INTO TERM 2:
You may be considered for advanced entry into term 2 if you have completed one of the following:
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate (granted within the last 4 years)
- Drafting 11 and 12 in high school (with Departmental approval)
Get started
Attend an Information Session
Meet instructors, ask questions, and tour our facilities.