About the Architecture Technology Certificate

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What can I do with an architecture technology certificate?
How long will it take to earn a certificate?
What will I learn through the architecture technology certificate program?

What can I do with an architecture technology certificate?

A student who has earned a certificate of achievement in architecture technology is well prepared to enter the field as an architectural technician.

Architectural technicians work with and are supervised by architects. Technicians may prepare technical and presentation drawings, draft copies of specifications and cost estimates, revise plans, trace details from various sources, operate printing machines, and assemble prints and other documents for projects. Landscape architects, industrial designers, interior designers, and engineers all employ architectural technicians.

Many of DVC's architectural students plan to transfer to a four-year college to pursue a bachelor's degree in architecture. Most courses are transferable and the instructors work closely with students to help them select the courses they need to ensure transfer to a four-year program.

How long will it take to earn a certificate?

Generally, students take two years or 4 semesters to complete all the courses required for the certificate.

What will I learn through the architecture technology certificate program?

This program prepares students for employment as architectural technicians who work with and are supervised by an architect. They may prepare technical and presentation drawings, draft copies of specifications and cost estimates, revise plans, trace details from various sources, operate printing machines, and assemble prints and other documents for projects. Landscape architects, industrial designers, interior designers, and engineers also employ architectural technicians.

To earn a certificate of achievement, students must complete each of the required courses with a "C" grade or better. Required courses are available in the day, and some are also offered in the evening. Students may also earn an associate in arts degree. See the A.A. degree requirements listed in the "Transfer and DVC degrees" section of this catalog.