Architectural Technologies

Program Description

Gain the knowledge and critical thinking skills you need to work as an architectural technologist for architectural firms, residential builders and various companies involved in the construction industry.

Architectural technologists are involved in all stages of building design and construction. Through project-based learning that simulates and simplifies work practices, you’ll gain experience in a supportive, learner-focused environment. You’ll develop essential skills in a setting that’s modeled on real-world workplaces so you can hit the ground running when you graduate.

This two-year, four-semester program is one of the most complete foundation credentials for anyone interested in a career in the architecture, engineering and construction industry and focuses on blending the science and practice of architectural technology. We see that students learn best when they construct knowledge and meaning from a collaboration between their learning experiences and their ideas. Through this type of applied experiential education, you’ll develop the connection of hand and mind through innovation, relevant content, engaging instructors and peers who also want meaningful careers.

Each semester is organized around a core project. These projects will involve both individual and group-based work through collaborative learning and teaching. There is an emphasis on learning by doing so you can develop the critical thinking skills required in a safe and supportive environment. This will enable you to approach problems that you’ll see in the architecture, engineering and construction industries. In the fourth semester, you’ll complete a capstone project that pulls all your skills and knowledge together and helps set you up for the next leg of your journey into industry.

Program Overview

Your Career

The global construction industry at large is projected to be $14 trillion by 2025. It employs approximately 7% of the worlds working population. The opportunities presented by this industry are vast. These opportunities will only expand as we move further into the digital age.

Graduates from this program will be well prepared for technical architectural planning and design, building science, building systems, proper use of building codes, bylaws and regulations, 3D & 4D building information modeling on many levels, project costing and scheduling, project proposal, proper documentation and management of project work, project management, virtual design and much more. This program is an excellent foundation for future of technological work in the 21st century.

Student Success

The most successful students in the program are those with a good foundation in math & physics, have good interpersonal skills, have a creative mindset, are able to work in a diverse workplace and are not afraid of a challenge.

Credentials

Upon successfully completing this program, graduates will be awarded a SAIT diploma in Architectural Technologies.

Accreditation

Once completed, this SAIT credential may be eligible for transfer credit at another post-secondary institution. Visit Transfer Options to learn more about the transfer agreements currently available to SAIT graduates and incoming students.

Progression

The progression requirement for students taking credit courses is a Term GPA and Total Institutional GPA of 2.0, with the exception of English Language Foundations and Academic Upgrading programs.

Admission Requirements

At least 50% in the following courses or their equivalents:

Math 30-1 or Math 30-2, AND,
English Language Arts 30-1 or English Language Arts 30-2, AND,
A Grade 12 Science.
All applicants must demonstrate English Language Proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Program Outline

First Year

Semester 1

ARCH 200 - Documentation and Regulation I 3 Credits
ARCH 201 - Science and Systems I 3 Credits
ARCH 203 - Technology I 3 Credits
ARCH 205 - Research and Design I 3 Credits
COMM 238 - Technical Communications I 3 Credits

Semester 2

ARCH 261 - Science and Systems II 3 Credits
ARCH 262 - Documentation and Regulation II 3 Credits
ARCH 263 - Technology II 3 Credits
ARCH 285 - Research and Design II 3 Credits
MATH 262 - Technical Mathematics I 3 Credits

Second Year

Semester 3

ARCH 300 - Documentation and Regulation III 3 Credits
ARCH 301 - Science and Systems III 3 Credits
ARCH 303 - Technology III 3 Credits
ARCH 305 - Research and Design III 3 Credits
STAT 245 - Statistics for Engineering and Technology I 3 Credits

Semester 4

ARCH 351 - Science and Systems IV 3 Credits
ARCH 353 - Technology IV 3 Credits
ARCH 362 - Documentation and Regulation IV 3 Credits
ARCH 386 - Research and Design IV 3 Credits
PROJ 372 - Architectural Capstone Project 3 Credits

Total Credits 60

Program Outcomes

1. Use verbal, graphic, written skills and supporting technology to effectively communicate in the Architectural industry.

2. Apply principles of mathematics, physical and natural science to solve technical problems in the Architectural industry.

3. Apply research, critical thinking and ingenuity to create solutions within Architecture industry.

4. Demonstrate professionalism through ethical behaviour, workplace responsibility, principles of safety and applicable environmental policies.

5. Apply architectural principles in assessing, designing and detailing construction projects.

6. Apply applicable codes, zoning bylaws and regulations, and project management industry practices in designing Architectural project.

7. Use current and emerging technology and practices to solve complex problems.

8. Create working drawings, specifications and estimates that incorporate building science, structural, mechanical, electrical and sustainability principles.

9. Interpret, analyze and create bid/contract documents