| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
Program Overview
Architectural Drafting and Design at Cerritos College
Certificate of Achievement
The Architectural Drafting and Design Certificate prepares students to work as drafters/designers in industry and to upgrade the skills of persons presently employed as drafters/designers. This 14 unit certificate will train students in the drafting/design techniques utilized in industry.
Salary, Growth and Careers
Salary
Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $42,000 to $225,000 with an average salary of $104,000.
Growth
Career opportunities for this program are expected to change little nationwide from 2022 to 2032.
Careers
- Urban and Regional Planners
- Education Level: Master's degree
- Job Growth: +3.7%
- Average Salary: $107,000
- Salary Range: $82,000 - $128,000
- Architects, Except Landscape and Naval
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +4.8%
- Average Salary: $120,000
- Salary Range: $80,000 - $135,000
- Architectural and Civil Drafters
- Education Level: Associate's degree
- Job Growth: +0.6%
- Average Salary: $74,000
- Salary Range: $58,000 - $84,000
- Architectural and Engineering Managers
- Education Level: Bachelor's degree
- Job Growth: +4.1%
- Average Salary: $201,000
- Salary Range: $160,000 - $225,000
- Architecture Teachers, Postsecondary
- Education Level: Doctoral or professional degree
- Job Growth: +3.8%
- Average Salary: $134,000
- Salary Range: $123,000 - $134,000
- Calibration Technologists and Technicians and Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
- Education Level: Associate's degree
- Job Growth: +4.4%
- Average Salary: $68,000
- Salary Range: $42,000 - $108,000
- Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Education Level: Associate's degree
- Job Growth: +0.9%
- Average Salary: $81,000
- Salary Range: $64,000 - $96,000
- Electrical and Electronics Drafters
- Education Level: Associate's degree
- Job Growth: +0.9%
- Average Salary: $76,000
- Salary Range: $58,000 - $92,000
- Mechanical Drafters
- Education Level: Associate's degree
- Job Growth: -7.2%
- Average Salary: $83,000
- Salary Range: $62,000 - $98,000
Program Map
Certificate of Achievement
14.0 Units
- Fall 2024, 1st Term
- 6.0 Units
- MAJ ARCH 111: Architectural Drafting and Design I (3.0 Units)
- MAJ ARCH 212: Architectural Design Theory I (3.0 Units)
- Spring 2025, 2nd Term
- 8.0 Units
- MAJ ARCH 121: Architectural Drafting and Design II (3.0 Units)
- MAJ ARCH 122: Architectural Delineation (2.0 Units)
- MAJ ARCH 222: Architectural Design Theory II (3.0 Units)
Program Outline
Architectural Drafting and Design Certificate of Achievement at Cerritos College
Degree Overview:
Objectives:
- Prepare students for careers as drafters/designers in the architectural industry.
- Enhance the skills of current drafters/designers.
- Train students in industry-standard drafting and design techniques.
Description:
The Architectural Drafting and Design Certificate is a 14-unit program designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for entry-level positions in the architectural drafting and design field. Through comprehensive coursework, students will gain proficiency in industry-standard software and techniques used in architectural drafting and design. This certificate program caters to both individuals seeking to enter the field and those seeking to upgrade their existing skills. Its focused curriculum allows students to acquire the essential knowledge and practical abilities needed for success in the architectural drafting and design industry.
Outline:
Content:
The program covers a range of topics, including:
- Architectural drafting principles and techniques
- Building codes and standards
- Design communication and documentation
- Residential and commercial building design
- Construction documents and details
- Architectural software applications (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.)
Structure:
The program consists of four courses:
- Fall 2023:
- ARCH 111: Architectural Drafting and Design I (3 units)
- ARCH 212: Architectural Design Theory I (3 units)
- Spring 2024:
- ARCH 121: Architectural Drafting and Design II (3 units)
- ARCH 122: Architectural Delineation (2 units)
- ARCH 222: Architectural Design Theory II (3 units)
Modules:
- ARCH 111: This module introduces fundamental drafting and design principles, covering basic drawing techniques, terminology, and architectural symbols. Students will gain an understanding of the design process and develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills in a design context.
- ARCH 121: This module builds upon the skills learned in ARCH 111, focusing on advanced 2D drafting techniques and the creation of construction documents. Students will learn various hand-drawing and rendering techniques, enhancing their visual communication skills.
- ARCH 222: This module expands on the design theory covered in ARCH 212, exploring advanced design concepts and exploring the application of design principles in a practical context. Students will engage in design projects, further developing their creative and technical skills.
Assessment:
The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
- Assignments and projects
- Quizzes and exams
- Presentations and critiques
- Portfolio development
Teaching:
The program employs a combination of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and ensure effective knowledge transfer:
- Lectures: Instructors deliver theoretical knowledge and introduce key concepts through interactive lectures.
- Studio work: Hands-on studio sessions provide students with practical experience in applying learned concepts and developing technical skills through individual and collaborative projects.
- Software training: Dedicated sessions are provided for students to learn and practice using industry-standard architectural software applications.
- Guest speakers: Professionals from the architectural field may be invited to share their expertise and insights with students.
Careers:
The Architectural Drafting and Design Certificate prepares graduates for various career opportunities in the architectural industry, including:
- Architectural drafter
- Architectural designer
- CAD technician
- Building information modeling (BIM) specialist
- Junior architect
Other:
- The program offers a micro-credential in Architectural Drafting Fundamentals.
- Students can make an appointment to create a personalized education plan that aligns with their individual needs and goals.
- The program focuses on developing students' technical skills and design thinking, preparing them for success in the evolving architectural industry.
