COURSE CURRICULUM

In Semester 1 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students begin building a strong foundation in architecture and construction. In *Architectural CAD I*, students gain proficiency in the latest version of AutoCAD through hands-on experience in the CADD lab, focusing on 2D architectural drawings. *Architectural Drafting and Detailing I* introduces students to the fundamentals of manual drafting, free-hand sketching, and residential design, emphasizing scale drawings, symbols, and layout for modest homes. In *Construction Material and Processes I*, students study common construction materials and processes, examining the properties of materials such as metals, wood, concrete, and insulation, while considering sustainability and energy efficiency. *Ontario Building Code and Occupational Health and Safety Act* provides an understanding of the Ontario Building Code and Occupational Health and Safety Act, with a focus on building classifications, system requirements, and renovation objectives. The *Communication Foundations* course strengthens students' written, oral, and information literacy skills, preparing them for professional success. *History of Architecture* explores the chronological development of architectural forms and their cultural and technological influences, while *Mathematics for Architecture* refreshes students’ mathematical skills and applies them to architecture and engineering problems. This semester equips students with essential knowledge and skills to begin their architectural studies.In Semester 2 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students continue to develop their skills and knowledge, building on the foundation laid in Semester 1. In *Architectural CAD II*, students deepen their proficiency with CAD software, learning intermediate techniques and becoming familiar with 3D capabilities using AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, Sketchup, and 3DS Max to create architectural drawings and renderings. *Architectural Drafting and Detailing II* enhances students' manual drafting and AutoCAD skills, focusing on the organization, planning, and detailing of working drawings for a wood-frame residential home. The course emphasizes compliance with the Ontario Building Code (OBC), specifically Part 9. *Applied Mathematics for Architecture* develops students' problem-solving skills in areas such as forces, equilibrium, stress, strain, and systems of equations, all essential for analyzing architectural structures. *Construction Materials and Processes II* introduces students to structural materials and components typically used in industrial, commercial, and institutional construction, with a focus on their physical and chemical properties, energy efficiency, and performance. *Building as a System and Building Science* explores the building as an integrated system, studying thermodynamics, heat transfer, energy efficiency, and the interaction of building components to create a healthy and sustainable indoor environment. Students are introduced to Canadian-specific building science principles, including concepts like LEED, R2000, BOMA BESt, and EnergyStar. A *General Education Elective* provides students with the opportunity to choose an elective course that will complement their studies and broaden their knowledge base. This semester helps students advance their technical skills and understanding of building systems, preparing them for more advanced courses and practical application in the architectural field.In Semester 3 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students advance their knowledge and skills in architectural design and construction. *Architectural Drafting and Detailing III* focuses on creating design-presentation and working drawings for steel-frame buildings with masonry walls, using AutoCAD and adhering to Part 3 of the Ontario Building Code. *Building Information Modelling I* introduces BIM using Revit Architecture, helping students develop essential skills in creating and editing residential and commercial building drawings. *Building Services and Environmental Systems* explores the design of key building systems like HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and fire safety, focusing on functionality and safety. *Construction Materials and Processes III* continues the study of building materials and their integration in construction, while *Project Estimating* teaches students to perform cost estimations and quantity takeoffs for construction projects. In *Structures I*, students learn the theory behind construction systems, focusing on timber-frame design, structural safety, and integration with architectural drawings. A *General Education Elective* allows students to further enhance their education. This semester strengthens technical expertise in drafting, BIM, building systems, structural design, and project estimating.In Semester 4 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students deepen their understanding of architectural design and construction through various specialized courses. *Architectural Drafting and Detailing IV* focuses on developing design presentation and working drawings for buildings like small office buildings, using Revit and AutoCAD while ensuring compliance with the Ontario Building Code. *Building Information Modelling II* enhances proficiency in 3D modeling for multistory commercial buildings, emphasizing sustainable and green design options, and integrating rendering techniques using Revit Architecture. *Land Use and Site Analysis and Planning* introduces the planning process in Ontario, zoning by-laws, and the creation of functional site plans, considering natural systems, soil characteristics, and construction treatments. *Structures II* expands on reinforced concrete, wood structures, and steel framing systems in residential and light-duty commercial buildings, incorporating load analysis and safety considerations. *Career Planning & Development* helps students strategize their professional growth and development, preparing them for careers in architecture and related fields. *Modern Architecture: History and Theory* builds on the history of architecture, focusing on modern architectural developments and contemporary works, and examining the cultural and technological contexts that shape the built environment. A *General Education Elective* provides additional academic enrichment. This semester strengthens technical, historical, and career-oriented skills, preparing students for the complexities of architectural design, planning, and practice.In Semester 5 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students focus on advanced architectural design, project management, and sustainable building practices. *Architectural Project I* introduces students to the pre-design phase of their graduation project, including project selection, site analysis, and sustainable design considerations. Students develop project programming and prepare an interim design development report, which sets the stage for *Architectural Project II*, where they will complete detailed design and construction documentation. *Building Information Modelling III* builds on previous BIM courses, allowing students to work with complex technical data for developing design and construction documents, parallel to their main project. *Principles of Project Management* provides students with the skills needed to manage a project from start to finish, focusing on scheduling, budgeting, cost control, and safety plans. *Preservation, Rehabilitation and Restoration of Heritage Buildings* explores the fundamentals of restoring and renovating historic buildings, while *Writing Construction Specs* introduces students to the essentials of construction specifications, ensuring clear and enforceable contract documents. *Design Concepts for Sustainable Building 1* covers sustainable building practices, energy efficiency, and certification systems like LEED, while emphasizing the integrated design process. Finally, *Field Placement* offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in their field, applying Health and Safety, WHMIS, and other essential workplace training. This semester equips students with the tools and knowledge to approach complex architectural projects, manage construction processes, and integrate sustainability into their designs.In Semester 6 of the Architectural CAD and Drafting Program, students focus on finalizing their design projects, contract administration, and sustainable building concepts. *Architectural Project II* is the culmination of the student's final design project, where they refine their design process from *Architectural Project I*, analyze data, produce a full set of working drawings, and complete a final dissertation. This capstone course culminates in a presentation to a jury, showcasing their understanding of integrated architectural design and professional aptitude. *Administration of Construction Contracts* introduces students to the practical skills and legal aspects of managing construction contracts, including the roles of various stakeholders and the basics of construction law, such as the Construction Lien Act. *Design Options Evaluation* focuses on the financial side of architecture, where students analyze the costs and benefits of different design options, including the evaluation of green buildings and renewable energy systems. *Design Concepts for Sustainable Building II* builds on previous knowledge of sustainability, exploring advanced topics like net-zero energy buildings, renewable energy systems, and high-performance building envelopes, while examining green building certification systems like LEED and BOMA Go Green. Lastly, *Presentation and Portfolio Development* helps students market their skills in a competitive job market by designing a professional portfolio and exploring marketing strategies, networking, and e-portfolio development. This semester prepares students for a successful career by refining their design skills, business acumen, and professional presentation.