Architectural Technology

Program Overview

Architectural Technology at Cerritos College

Associate of Arts

This program emphasizes the technical aspects of the architectural profession while including its artistic components. Students are provided with an in-depth knowledge of the career and technical skills required to succeed in the profession and to potentially continue their studies at a professional school of architecture.

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

Architectural Technology - Associate of Arts

60.0 units

• Fall 2024 (1st Term)
  • 15.0 units
  • MAJ ARCH 111: Architectural Drafting and Design I (3.0 units)
  • MAJ / GEN ARCH 112: History of Architecture (3.0 units)
  • MAJ ARCH 110 or ARCH 114: Choose a course (3.0 units)
  • GEN Proficiency: Mathematics (4.0 units)
  • ELEC Elective (2.0 units)
  • MILE Department Information
• Spring 2025 (2nd Term)
  • 15.0 units
  • MAJ ARCH 113: Building Codes (4.0 units)
  • MAJ ARCH 121: Architectural Drafting and Design II (3.0 units)
  • MAJ ARCH 123: Introduction to 2D Computer Aided Drafting (4.0 units)
  • GEN English Composition (4.0 units)
• Fall 2025 (3rd Term)
  • 15.0 units
  • MAJ ARCH 212: Architectural Design Theory I (3.0 units)
  • MAJ ARCH 213: Introduction to 3-D Computer Aided Drafting (4.0 units)
  • MAJ ARCH 221 or ARCH 223: Choose a course (4.0 units)
  • GEN U.S. History or Government (3.0 units)
  • GEN Proficiency: Health & Wellness (1.0 units)
• Spring 2026 (4th Term)
  • 15.0 units
  • ART 110: Freehand Drawing (3.0 units)
  • GEN Communication and Analytical Thinking (3.0 units)
  • GEN Natural Sciences (3.0 units)
  • GEN GE or Elective (3.0 units)
  • ELEC Elective (3.0 units)

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Cerritos College's Architectural Technology program provides an Associate of Arts degree focused on developing the technical and artistic skills needed for success in the architectural field. This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and expertise to:

• Understand the fundamental principles of architectural design and drafting.

• Develop strong technical skills in 2D and 3D computer-aided drafting (CAD) software.

• Gain a deep understanding of building codes and regulations.

Outline:

The Architectural Technology program consists of 60 units, spread across four semesters. The program's outline covers four key areas:

• Major Courses: These courses form the core of the program, providing students with a comprehensive foundation in architectural design and drafting.
Major courses include Architectural Drafting and Design I & II, Building Codes, Introduction to 2D and 3D Computer Aided Drafting, Architectural Design Theory I, Freehand Drawing, and more.
• General Education Courses: These courses ensure a well-rounded education by covering essential areas like English composition, communication and analytical thinking, mathematics, natural sciences, U.S. history or government, and health and wellness.
• Elective Courses: Students have the opportunity to personalize their learning experience by choosing elective courses that align with their interests and career aspirations.

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress. These methods include:

• Coursework: Assignments, projects, and exams within each course contribute to the overall assessment.
• Presentations: Students may be required to present their design projects and concepts to demonstrate their understanding and communication skills.
• Portfolios: Students develop a portfolio showcasing their best work throughout the program, highlighting their skills and abilities to potential employers or further education institutions.

Teaching:

The program features a blend of teaching methods:

• Experienced Faculty: The program boasts dedicated faculty members with extensive professional experience in the architectural field.
These professionals bring real-world knowledge and insights to the classroom.
• Studio-Based Learning: Students engage in hands-on projects and activities in a studio environment, fostering collaboration and creativity.
• Technology Integration: The program embraces technology by incorporating industry-standard software like AutoCAD and Revit into the curriculum, preparing students for the modern architectural workplace.

Careers:

The Architectural Technology program opens doors to diverse career paths within the architectural field. Graduates can pursue roles such as:

• Architectural drafter
• Architectural technician
• Building information modeling (BIM) specialist
• Design assistant
• Project manager
• Estimator
• Specification writer
• And more
The program also prepares students for potential advancement in their careers, including opportunities to become licensed architects with additional education and experience.

Other:

• The program offers micro-credentials in specific areas like Sustainable Design and Building Information Modeling, providing students with additional marketable skills.
• Students are encouraged to participate in field trips and internships to gain practical experience and network with professionals in the field.
• The program emphasizes the importance of sustainability and incorporates green building principles into the curriculum.