Course Duration
6 Months, 1 Year, or 2 Years (depending on program structure)Course Description
This program equips students with the knowledge and practical skills required in architectural design, drafting, building planning, and construction documentation. Students learn manual and computer-aided drafting, building design principles, blueprint interpretation, model making, and construction fundamentals used in residential and commercial projects.
Program Objectives
Students will be able to:
- Understand principles of architectural design and construction.
- Produce architectural drawings manually and digitally.
- Interpret blueprints and building specifications.
- Apply design concepts, space planning, and building standards.
- Use architectural software for drafting and modeling.
- Prepare construction documents and presentations.
- Demonstrate creativity, professionalism, and teamwork.
- Develop entrepreneurship and project management skills.
Entry Requirements
- Basic literacy and numeracy skills
- Basic computer knowledge (preferred)
- Interest in architecture, design, and construction
Course Modules
Module 1: Introduction to Architectural Design
Topics
- History of architecture
- Careers in architectural design
- Roles of architects and designers
- Architectural terminology
- Overview of building construction
Practical
- Identification of architectural drawing tools and materials
Module 2: Workplace Safety and Professional Practice
Topics
- Occupational health and safety
- Studio and workshop safety
- Professional ethics
- Communication skills
- Team collaboration
Practical
- Safety demonstrations
- Professional conduct exercises
Module 3: Architectural Drawing Fundamentals
Topics
- Drawing standards and conventions
- Lettering and line work
- Scales and measurements
- Geometric constructions
- Orthographic projection
Practical
- Manual drafting exercises
- Scale drawing activities
Module 4: Technical Drafting and Blueprint Reading
Topics
- Floor plans
- Elevations and sections
- Site plans
- Construction symbols
- Reading blueprints and specifications
Practical
- Preparing simple architectural drawings
- Blueprint interpretation exercises
Module 5: Mathematics for Architectural Design
Topics
- Measurements and calculations
- Geometry and trigonometry basics
- Area and volume calculations
- Scale conversions
Practical
- Architectural measurement exercises
- Quantity estimation tasks
Module 6: Building Materials and Construction Methods
Topics
- Types of building materials
- Structural systems
- Foundations and framing
- Roofing systems
- Sustainable construction materials
Practical
- Material identification and testing
- Construction method demonstrations
Module 7: Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
Topics
- Introduction to CAD software
- 2D drafting
- Layer management
- Dimensioning and annotations
- Plotting and printing
Practical
- Creating digital floor plans and elevations
Module 8: 3D Modeling and Visualization
Topics
- 3D architectural modeling
- Rendering techniques
- Interior and exterior visualization
- Presentation graphics
Practical
- Developing 3D building models
- Rendering architectural designs
Module 9: Residential Building Design
Topics
- Space planning
- Residential layouts
- Building codes and standards
- Accessibility considerations
Practical
- Designing residential floor plans
Module 10: Commercial and Institutional Design
Topics
- Commercial building layouts
- Office and public space planning
- Functional design principles
- Building circulation systems
Practical
- Drafting commercial building concepts
Module 11: Model Making and Presentation
Topics
- Architectural model construction
- Presentation boards
- Portfolio development
- Client presentation techniques
Practical
- Constructing scale models
- Preparing project presentations
Module 12: Building Codes and Regulations
Topics
- Local building regulations
- Zoning requirements
- Environmental considerations
- Permit procedures
Practical
- Code compliance exercises
Module 13: Entrepreneurship and Career Development
Topics
- Starting a design business
- Freelancing opportunities
- Project costing and estimation
- Resume and portfolio preparation
Practical
- Developing an architectural business proposal
- Industrial Training / Internship
Students participate in supervised attachment in:
- Architectural firms
- Construction companies
- Interior design studios
- Engineering consultancy
Activities
- Drafting assistance
- Site visits and inspections
- CAD drawing preparation
- Model making and presentations
Teaching Methods
- Classroom lectures
- Studio practice
- CAD laboratory sessions
- Demonstrations
- Group projects
- Industrial attachment
Assessment Methods
- Written examinations
- Drafting assignments
- CAD projects
- Practical assessments
- Portfolio presentation
- Final design project
Required Tools and Equipment
- Drawing boards
- T-squares and rulers
- Drafting pencils and markers
- Architectural scales
- Computers with CAD software
- Printers and Plotters
- Model-making materials
Certification
Upon successful completion, students receive:
- Certificate in Architectural Design and Drafting
- CAD Training Certificate (where applicable)
- Internship/Industrial Training Certificate
Career Opportunities
Graduates may work as:
- Architectural Draftsperson
- CAD Technician
- Building Design Assistant
- Interior Design Assistant
- Construction Documentation Technician
- 3D Visualization Artist
- Site Planning Assistant
- Freelance Drafting Technician
Christian Character Development (Optional for Christian Trade Schools)
Topics
- Integrity in professional practice
- Excellence and creativity
- Stewardship and responsibility
- Teamwork and servant leadership
- Respect and ethical conduct
Suggested Bible Verses
- Colossians 3:23
- Proverbs 22:29
- Ecclesiastes 9:10
- Psalm 90:17