Architectural technicians prepare detailed drawings of buildings and other structures from sketches and specifications usually prepared by engineers and/or architects. These drawings will be used to produce functional, efficient, safe, aesthetically pleasing, and structurally sound construction.

Classes simulate the procedures and methods of an architectural office:  working drawings are prepared both on the board (manually) and on the computer (CAD), and presentation drawings are prepared for marketing purposes.

DRAFTING FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

• Two professional drafting labs equipped with Mayline parallel bars on Hamilton tables. 
• One professional CAD lab with Pentium-based personal computers running the latest release of AutoCAD and Windows XP.
• Lab is equipped with HP Inkjet Plotter and Minolta Page Pro Printer.

The curriculum includes typical drafting techniques, architectural graphics, models, architectural history, construction materials, surveying, a 3D-computer graphics course, and Design I and II to complete the program.

Students will study and practice entry-level knowledge and skills for a typical architectural technician as recommended to us by our advisory committee professionals – including how to communicate creative ideas to others.

TRANSFER OPTION

Graduates have the option to transfer to SIU Carbondale to earn a B.S. degree in Architectural Studies.  They can also transfer to other colleges to earn other B.S. degrees.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Graduates work in architectural/engineering firms, city planning or zoning offices, construction management, building inspection positions, residential design firms, kitchen & bath design companies, and other positions that require drafting knowledge relating to architecture.

Recent graduates receive an average starting salary in the low to mid $30,000's.

Note: Recommended courses are for the A.S. degree assuming any developmental requirements have been met.  An A.A.S. degree is also available.

Jason Fithian
812-888-4183
jfithian@vinu.edu
Visit www.vinu.edu/technology

Semester II
Architectural Working Drawing
Architectural Comp-Aided
    Drawing
Surveying Fundamentals or
    Site Surveying and Planning
Hum/Science/Math Elective
Social Science Elective

Semester III
Advanced Architectural
    Software Applications
Intermediate Architectural CAD
Design I or Advanced Design I
English Composition II
Lifetime Fitness/Wellness or
    Concepts in Wellness and
    First Aid 
Speech

Semester IV
Design II or Advanced Design II
Advanced Architectural CAD
General Physics I + Lab or
    Technical Physicis
Survey of Architectural History
Humanities Elective