Degree: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)
Accreditation: Accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), 701 Exposition Place Suite 206, Raleigh, NC 27615, (919) 635-8335, www.atmae.org.
Program description.
The Architectural Design Technology program is designed to train individuals for careers in architectural drafting and design of both commercial and residential structures. Students will gain skills in computer drafting, building information modeling, sustainable design, as well as architectural design concepts. The curriculum prepares students for a wide range of drafting and design careers working alongside architects, engineers, contractors and other professionals. Students will utilize various software programs, including AutoCAD, for 2D design, Rhino for 3D design, and Revit, a building information modeling (BIM) program for 3D design and construction document development. This degree provides a technical foundation for individuals looking to work in the design and construction industry and provide a foundation for those students interested in becoming a LEED Green Associate or LEED AP.
Typical job opportunities: Typical job opportunities include architectural designer, residential designer, light commercial designer, kitchen/bath designer, CAD technician, BIM technician/specialist, CAD drafter/detailer, designer. There is a demand for employees and leaders who know what sustainability is and understand its complexity, how to approach problems and solutions and how to work with and draw from different disciplines. By engaging a breadth of knowledge and experience and by acquiring the skills to integrate various domains of knowledge, sustainability students prepare themselves for a variety of careers. Recent interest in sustainability within business and government has created new employment opportunities in positions like sustainability coordinators, assistants to civil engineers, environmental engineers, architects, developers, construction managers and directors. Sustainability graduates may acquire positions in industry, consultancy, utilities, regulatory agencies, nonprofits, governmental agencies and nongovernmental organizations.
Program goals. Upon completion of the Architectural Design Technology program, the graduate will have developed the skills, knowledge and abilities to accomplish the following:
I. Employ problem-solving and architectural design concepts in the building delivery process.
II. Communicate effectively employing verbal, written and visual means in a collaborative environment.
III. Develop architectural design and construction documents using current industry software applications.
IV. Apply elements of mechanical, electrical and structural systems into architectural documents.
V. Apply Green Building practices in the design and building process
Contact(s): Engineering and Media Technologies Department, (865) 694-6483 or (865) 539-7272