Architectural Technology (ACH)

Introduces the knowledge and applications of proper methods and fundamentals of architectural construction, with a focus on residential construction documentation. Provides instruction on drafting conventions that utilize basic hand drafting tools and computer-aided drafting techniques. Note: First course of a four-semester studio sequence. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours). Laboratory: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Provides an understanding of the language of architecture and develops an appreciation for building design strategies through direct analysis. Explores various career opportunities in architecture and related professions. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours).

Introduces the development of architecture theory and history as they relate to world culture, with an emphasis on design, structure, materials, eco-social, and political factors. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Extends the knowledge and applications of proper methods and fundamentals of architectural construction documentation with a focus on multi-level framed construction. Further develops an understanding of programming, schematics, design development, and construction document production using current computer-aided technology. Focuses on building codes and related discipline coordination. Note: Second course of a four-semester studio sequence. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours): Laboratory: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Introduces the essentials of the theory of selected building materials and their assembly in appropriate systems with a focus on broader construction elements. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Expands on prior knowledge of the essentials of the theory of selected building materials and their assembly in appropriate systems, with a focus on more specific construction elements. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides a survey of architectural periods from the neo-classic to the present. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides an overview of the various systems found in buildings and the influences that shape architectural design and construction. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides instruction that varies from semester to semester as new technology is developed and new issues evolve and/or to address local architectural issues. Note: May be repeated with different topics to a maximum of six credit hours. Lecture: 1-3 credits (15-45 contact hours).

Introduces the aesthetic principles found in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional compositions. Applies these principles in exercises involving drawing, model construction, and creative writing. Lecture: 1 credit (15 contact hours): Laboratory: 2 credits (120 contact hours).

Provides instruction on computer hardware and software used in preparing architectural design and documents. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours); Laboratory: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Provides supervised, on-the-job work experience related to the student's educational objectives. Note: Students who participate in the practicum do not receive compensation. Practicum: 1-3 credits (40-120 contact hours).

Elaborates upon and reinforces the knowledge and applications by which commercial buildings are designed and constructed. Develops basic skills relating to the implementation of determinants in this process such as program analysis, applicable codes, construction methods and materials, and computer applications. Requires students to apply the knowledge necessary for the completion of a series of structured projects, including the preparation of a set of architectural construction documents for a medium-sized building. Note: Third course of a four-semester studio sequence. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours): Laboratory: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Introduces structural materials and systems including the design of simple structural components. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Builds on previous studio experiences, focusing on the preparation of advanced construction documents using current computer-aided drafting techniques. Emphasizes applying design principles and site development for a commercial construction project. Note: Fourth course of a four-semester studio sequence. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours): Laboratory: 1 credit (45 contact hours).

Examines the professional, legal, and business aspects of the architectural and construction industries. Prepares the student for the workplace through case studies and projects while exploring a broader set of circumstances that affect how decisions are made in the practice of architecture. Note: Serves as a capstone course for the program. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides a qualitative and quantitative study of environmental control systems used in buildings. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces Building Information Modeling (BIM) using Autodesk Revit or other similar and related software, methods, and processes. Provides students with skills to produce and present residential and commercial design models, construction documents, and to extract information and data from the model. Incorporates investigations into issues related to sustainable design and the integration of other software for related analysis. Lecture: 1.5 credits (22.5 contact hours). Laboratory: 0.5 credits (22.5 contact hours).

Focuses on analyzing the content and format of current building codes as well as the necessity for building codes, problems in interpretation and application, and legal aspects. Introduces the basic provisions and procedures associated with building code administration. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Examines the principles and current practices of construction management with an emphasis on project organization, scheduling, and cost control. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides an in-depth analysis of the content and format of current building codes. This course is a continuation of ACH 290. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Introduces and applies a variety of presentation and rendering techniques used in the architectural profession. Further develops design skills and the understanding of spatial relationships. Lecture: 2 credits (30 contact hours). Laboratory:1 credit (45 contact hours).

Provides an in-depth study of the importance of specifications in the design and construction process. Requires students to engage in research, evaluate the quality of building materials, study the methods of writing specifications, and gain exposure to industry-standard software in preparing a variety of specifications. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Provides instruction on computer aided drafting software to enhance construction document production. Integrates other software. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).

Investigates the factors affecting the cost of construction, labor productivity, materials, overhead and profit, including area and volume computations. Applies current methods of cost estimating. Lecture: 2.5 credits (37.5 contact hours). Laboratory: 0.5 credits (15 contact hours).

Provides instruction on how computer hardware and software are used in preparing 3D architectural drawings and client-oriented presentations. Lecture: 3 credits (45 contact hours).