Overview of Associate Degree Programs in Architectural Drafting or Architectural Engineering Technology
Majors Overview April 16, 2014Receive information about an associate’s degree program in Architectural Drafting or Architectural Engineering Technology and their coursework, career choices, continuing education choices, and more.
Associate of Arts (A.A.) Degree Programs in Architectural Drafting or Architectural Engineering Technology
An undergraduate degree in Architecture is best suited for those who profess an interest in the residential planning career. Students enrolled in associate’s degree programs are trained to seek jobs that involve providing assistance to professional architects. Schematics or plans may be created based on specifications. They are taught rudimentary concepts such as drafting and design, in addition to standard industry practices.
Internships are often included in some programs whose students may be required to create a professional portfolio of their coursework. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. State licensure is required by interested individuals who wish to work as professional architects.
Coursework
Program coursework may include topic areas such as construction materials, design and drawing. Laboratory sessions in computer-aided drafting may have to be completed by students, in addition to lab sessions in related software programs. General education classes, such as business and math, are also required to be completed. Schools may offer residential planning courses. Coursework may commonly include topic areas such as:
•Residential design
•Site planning
•Commercial design
•Architectural drafting and design
•Building codes
Career Choices
Architects can seek opportunities in diverse industries such as local government, manufacturing, construction, and architectural services (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)). There will be a demand for architectural technicians and draftsmen to improve existing structures or design new ones (BLS). These professionals may choose from various career options including:
•Computer-aided design technician
•Architectural drafter
•Architectural technician
Continuing Education Choices
Individuals may seek professional certification, including some that the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers. Passage of the exam will qualify for credentials offered by the ADDA; these exams cover subject areas such as object representation, drafting standards and geometric construction. Certification can be maintained by meeting continuing education standards.
