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Students
Tuition Fee
Start Date
Medium of studying
On campus
Duration
10 months
Program Facts
Program Details
Degree
Diploma
Major
Building Design | Building Technology | Drafting & Design Technology
Area of study
Architecture and Construction
Education type
On campus
Timing
Full time
Course Language
English
About Program

Program Overview


Architectural Drafting Technician Program

Overview

The Architectural Drafting Technician program at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is an intensive, ten-month program that fully equips students to prepare drawings of residential and commercial buildings used for construction and to obtain building permits.


Program Description

Drafters work behind the scenes to create technical drawings and plans based on sketches, specifications or notes made by architects, engineers, surveyors, or other industry professionals. They use advanced computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) software to bring designs to life.


The program applies drafting and design techniques and teaches students to understand construction standards and building codes. Students also learn surveying methods in the field to understand how a building fits on a construction site. Additionally, students learn to use AutoCAD to design accurate building plans.


Career Outlook

According to WorkBC, the unemployment rate for architectural drafters is very low. Given the anticipated gains in the construction industry in British Columbia, combined with older workers moving into retirement, job stability is excellent for people in this occupation and demand is steadily growing.


The best opportunities should arise for architectural drafters with experience and formal training using computer-aided drafting and design (CADD) technology. Experienced drafters may advance to positions of senior designer, drafter, or supervisor.


Employment Opportunities

Drafting technologists and technicians are employed by:


  • Architecture firms
  • Engineering firms
  • Consulting and construction companies
  • Utility, resource, and manufacturing companies
  • All levels of government
  • A wide range of other establishments

Program Objectives

The UFV Architectural Drafting program is designed to prepare students for entry-level drafting positions in fields related to architecture, including:


  • Architectural, civil, or structural engineering offices
  • Manufacturing, facility management, municipal services, private design firms, and public agencies
  • Continuing education in the field of architecture

Program Outline


Outline:

  • Program Length: 10 months
  • Content:
  • Prepares students for drafting residential and commercial buildings.
  • Covers drafting and design techniques.
  • Teaches construction standards and building codes.
  • Includes surveying methods and understanding building placement on construction sites.
  • Focuses on using AutoCAD software for accurate building plan design.
  • Encourages creative talent and technique development beyond junior draftsperson level.
  • Structure:
  • Intensive program.
  • Instructors replicate real-world working conditions.
  • Students solve actual design problems.

Teaching:

  • Methods:
  • Instructors create a work-world patterned environment.
  • Encourages problem-solving and creativity beyond a junior draftsperson level.

Careers:

  • Potential Career Paths:
  • Entry-level drafting positions in various fields related to architecture.
  • Architectural, civil, or structural engineering offices.
  • Manufacturing, facility management, municipal services, private design firms, and public agencies.
  • Opportunities:
  • Excellent job stability with low unemployment rate.
  • Growing demand due to anticipated BC construction industry gains and retiring workforce.
  • Potential for advancement to senior designer, drafter, or supervisor positions.
  • Outcomes:
  • Completion program prepares individuals for entry-level drafting positions.
  • Provides foundation for continued education in architecture field.

Other:

  • Program prepares graduates for building permit acquisition.
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Courses


Overview:

University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. UFV is known for its commitment to accessibility and its focus on providing a student-centered learning experience.


Services Offered:

UFV provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:

    Academic Advising:

    Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.

    Library:

    Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.

    Student Services:

    Support for student life, including financial aid, career counseling, and health and wellness services.

    IT Service Desk:

    Technical support for students and faculty.

    Bookstore:

    Purchase textbooks, course materials, and UFV merchandise.

    Shuttle Bus:

    Transportation between UFV campuses and surrounding areas.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

UFV offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:

    Clubs and Organizations:

    Join student groups based on interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.

    Athletics:

    Participate in varsity sports or recreational activities.

    Events:

    Attend campus events, concerts, and workshops.

    Community Engagement:

    Get involved in volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.

Key Reasons to Study There:

    Accessible and Inclusive Environment:

    UFV is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students.

    Student-Centered Approach:

    The university prioritizes student success and provides personalized support.

    Diverse Programs:

    A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.

    Strong Faculty:

    Experienced and dedicated faculty members provide high-quality instruction.

    Vibrant Campus Life:

    Opportunities for students to connect with peers, explore their passions, and build a sense of community.

Academic Programs:

UFV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:

    Agriculture:

    Agricultural Science, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Technology, and various certificates.

    Aviation:

    Aviation Diploma, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, and Integrated Studies with an Aviation theme.

    Business and Management:

    Accounting, Applied Business Technology, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Marketing and Sales, and various certificates.

    Computer Systems and Technology:

    Architectural Drafting Technician, Automation and Robotics Technician, Computer Information Systems, Computing Science, Digital Manufacturing, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Library Information and Technology, Media Arts, and Data Analysis.

    Creative Arts and Design:

    Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Graphic and Digital Design, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, and various diplomas.

    Earth and Environmental Sciences:

    Agricultural Science, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographic Information Systems.

    Education:

    Adult Education, Early Childhood Education, Education, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Integrated Learning Design, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, School and Community Support Worker, and Teaching English as a Second Language.

    Graduate Studies:

    Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Migration and Citizenship, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, Program Evaluation, and Social Work.

    Health Sciences and Services:

    Certified Dental Assistant, Child Life and Community Health, Health Care Assistant, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Practical Nursing.

    History and Culture:

    Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Art History, Arts, Creative Writing, Diaspora Studies, English, French, History, Indigenous Studies, Language Proficiency, Latin American Studies, Liberal Arts, Philosophy, Stó:lō Studies, and Theatre.

    Indigenous Studies:

    Indigenous Studies, Social Service Worker (Indigenous Focus), and Stó:lō Studies.

    Interdisciplinary Programs:

    Diaspora Studies, Early Modern Studies, General Studies, Global Development Studies, Graphic Design, India-Canada Studies, Indigenous Studies, Integrated Learning Design, Integrated Studies, Latin American Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and various certificates.

    Media and Communications:

    Arts, Communications, Creative Writing, English, Essentials of Journalism, French, Graphic and Digital Design, Language Proficiency, Liberal Arts, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Media Literacy, and Professional Communications Essentials.

    Office Administration:

    Applied Business Technology, Advanced Medical Office Assistant, Bookkeeping for Small Business, Dental Office Receptionist, Legal Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Nursing Unit Clerk, Records Management, and Veterinary Administrative Assistant.

    Legal and Criminal Justice:

    Criminal Justice, Political Science, Legal Administrative Assistant, Paralegal, and various diplomas.

    Sciences:

    Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computing Science, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics & Statistics, Physical Geography, Physics, Data Analysis, Science, and various diplomas.

    Social Work & Human Services:

    Child and Youth Care, Diaspora Studies, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, School and Community Support Worker, Social Service Worker, Social Work, and various diplomas.

    Society, Politics, and Policy:

    Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Arts, Criminal Justice, Economics, Geography, Global Development Studies, International and Development Studies, Liberal Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, Program Evaluation, Psychology, and Sociology.

    Trades:

    Architectural Drafting Technician, Collision Repair and Refinish, Automation and Robotics Technician, Automotive Service, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Digital Manufacturing, Electrician, Electronics Technician, Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation, Plumbing and Piping, Trades Management, and Welding.

    Upgrading:

    Adult Basic Education, English Language Studies, and Workplace TASK.

Other:

UFV is situated on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō peoples. The university acknowledges and respects the Stó:lō's historical and cultural connection to the land.

Total programs
155
Admission Requirements

Entry Requirements:


Canadian Students:

  • Graduation from secondary school with a minimum of five Grade 12 academic courses, including English 12 and Pre-Calculus 12 or Math 12.
  • Other Grade 12 courses may be considered for admission depending on your program of choice.
  • You must meet the English proficiency requirements of one of the following:
  • Completion of English 12 with a minimum grade of 60%
  • A score of at least 500 on the written test of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • A score of at least 6.0 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
  • A score of at least 79 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE)
  • Completion of an approved ESL program with a minimum grade of "C"

International Students:

  • Graduation from secondary school with equivalent qualifications to those required for Canadian students.
  • You must meet the English proficiency requirements of one of the following:
  • Completion of English 12 with a minimum grade of 65%
  • A score of at least 550 on the written test of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
  • A score of at least 6.5 on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
  • A score of at least 87 on the Pearson Test of English (PTE)
  • Completion of an approved ESL program with a minimum grade of "B"
  • You must also meet the academic requirements of your chosen program.
  • Applicants with mature student status may be considered for admission even if they do not meet the standard academic requirements.
  • Applicants with relevant work experience may be considered for admission even if they do not meet the standard academic requirements.
  • All applicants are required to submit a personal statement and a letter of reference.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

  • English proficiency requirements are listed above in the "Entry Requirements" section.
  • UFV offers a variety of English as a Second Language (ESL) programs to help you meet the English language proficiency requirements for admission.

Note:

  • The specific entry requirements for the Architectural Drafting Technician program may change from year to year.
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