Architectural Technology Program (T109)
Apply Now:
Domestic StudentsProgram Description
Program Overview
Design can change the world. Architectural Technologists are key members of a project team and play a vital role in turning conceptual design ideas into technical construction documents and practical, buildable solutions. This three-year program provides you with the essential knowledge base and fundamental skills required to work as an Architectural Technologist within the many companies and sectors of the architectural and construction industry. Performing tasks of a technical nature, you will be part of a team of professionals and tradespeople involved in the building design, construction and management process.
Full Description
Learning in interactive studios with the most current equipment and software, you will develop a solid foundation of diverse and practical skills required to be involved in projects ranging from new construction to alterations and renovations in the residential, commercial and high-rise sectors of the architectural, engineering and construction industry. The Architectural Technology program prepares you to apply current practices of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, including:
- building design
- sustainability
- building codes and regulations
- building science
- construction law and contracts
- technical writing
- specifications
- cost planning
In addition to technical design skills, you will also develop and apply skills in computer-aided drafting (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D rendering and digital modeling. Students collaborate in teams within a simulated office environment to complete projects involving proposals, designs and construction documents for both new and existing facilities.
Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete Semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into Semester 3 in the fall.
Your Field Education Options
A co-operative work experience component in the Architectural Technology program will be available for a selected number of students. The intake for this co-op program is limited and applications are subject to approval by the School of Architectural Studies academic department.
Those who enter the program will complete Semester 5 from May to August, and co-op placement will take place from September to December. The final sixth semester will be offered through a blend of in-class and online studies, allowing students to graduate in April of their final year of study. It will also allow students the opportunity to continue part-time work while completing their final semester of studies. More details are available through the department.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates are qualified for employment in many areas of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction industry. Architectural Technologists typically hold important roles with advanced responsibilities as part of a team of professionals in the building design, project delivery and management process. There are also job opportunities with the different levels of provincial and municipal bodies and other governing authorities.
Architectural Technology graduates have the advantage of understanding buildings from multiple perspectives, such as architectural and structural elements; mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems; contractual and managerial processes. Graduates may also choose to become entrepreneurs and own architectural drafting and building design businesses.
Courses
Required Courses
Printable Curriculum Planner 2021-2022
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1005 | Architectural Technology & Studio 1 |
| ARCH 1048 | Structural Systems 1 |
| ARCH 1050 | Visual Communications 1 |
| ARCH 1060 | Design Fundamentals |
| CADE 1012 | CAD Drawing 1 |
| COMM 1007 | College English** |
| MATH 1139 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 1 |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1006 | Architectural Technology & Studio 2 |
| ARCH 1013 | Building Code & Regulations 1 |
| ARCH 1070 | Materials, Methods & Components 1 |
| CADE 1014 | CAD Drawing 2 |
| GHUM 1106 | History of Architecture |
| GSCI 1022 | Building Science and Environment |
| MATH 1149 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 2 |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 1058 | Structural Systems 2 |
| ARCH 2004 | Architectural Technology & Studio 3 |
| ARCH 2006 | Practice Management 1 |
| ARCH 2007 | Building Code & Regulations 2 |
| ARCH 1109 | Building Systems – Mechanical and Electrical |
| ARCH 1164 | Fundamentals of Building Science |
| CADE 2001 | Digital Practices for Architecture 1 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2005 | Architectural Technology & Studio 4 |
| ARCH 2008 | Practice Management 2 |
| ARCH 2033 | Visual Communications 2 |
| ARCH 2034 | Structural Systems 3 |
| ARCH 2035 | Materials, Methods and Components 2 |
| CADE 3001 | Digital Practices for Architecture 2 |
| COMM 1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 2172 | Technical Report Writing |
| ARCH 3007 | Architectural Technology & Studio 5 |
| ARCH 3010 | Principles of Building Information Modeling |
| ARCH 3021 | Structural Systems 4 |
| ARCH 3070 | Materials, Methods and Components 3 |
| CADE 3002 | Digital Practices for Architecture 3 |
| OPTIONS: Students Choose Two | |
| ARCH 3015 | Concentrations in Digital Technologies 1 |
| ARCH 3022 | Concentrations in Project Management – Planning |
| ARCH 3019 | Concentrations in Architecture 1 |
| ARCH 3020 | Concentrations in Building Science – New Construction |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH 3008 | Architectural Technology & Studio 6 |
| ARCH 3018 | Specifications and Documentation |
| ARCH 3026 | Sustainable Rating Systems |
| ARCH 3037 | Project Cost Estimating |
| ARCH 3013 | Materials, Methods and Components 4 |
| CADE 3003 | Digital Practices for Architecture 4 |
| OPTIONS: Students Choose Two | |
| ARCH 3016 | Concentrations in Digital Technologies 2 |
| ARCH 3039 | Concentrations in Architecture 2 |
| ARCH 3040 | Concentrations in Building Science – Renovation and Retrofit |
| ARCH 3042 | Concentrations in Project Management – Procurement |
**Based on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM1003 (English Skills)*** or CESL1003 (English Skills – ESL)*** before progressing to COMM1007. COMM1003/CESL1003*** does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
***COMM1003/CESL1003 courses will be replaced by COMM1000 Introduction to College Communication starting with Winter 2022 intake.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate with clients, contractors, other building professionals and approval authorities.
- Prepare, read, interpret and revise drawings, and other graphical representations used in building projects.
- Obtain, analyze, prepare and revise specifications and other project documents used in design and construction.
- Prepare estimates of time, costs and quantity, and participate in the tendering process.
- Solve technical problems related to building projects through the application of principles of building science and mathematics.
- Collaborate with and coordinate information from structural, mechanical and electrical building systems professionals.
- Contribute to the design of architectural projects.
- Contribute to the analysis, planning and preparation of site-planning documents.
- Comply with the legal and ethical requirements of an architectural technologist in the practice of building design and construction.
- Assess buildings and their interiors, and make recommendations for their repurposing and renovation.
- Ensure personal safety and contribute to the safety of others in the workplace.
- Participate in sustainable design and building practices.
- Use and evaluate current and emerging technology to support building projects.
- Assist in the planning, scheduling and monitoring of building projects.
- Apply business principles to design and building practices.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2020. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2021 and at later dates.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Architectural Studies
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4365
Email: architecturalstudies@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., room D303
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
Architectural Technology Program (T109)
Apply Now:
Domestic StudentsProgram Description
Program Overview
Architectural Technologists are key members of a project team and play a vital role in turning conceptual design ideas into technical construction documents and practical, buildable solutions. This three-year program provides you with the essential knowledge base and fundamental skills required to work as an Architectural Technologist within the many companies and sectors of the architectural and construction industry. Performing tasks of a technical nature, you will be part of a team of professionals and tradespeople involved in the building design, construction and management process.
Full Description
Learning in interactive studios with the most current equipment and software, you will develop a solid foundation of diverse and practical skills required to be involved in projects ranging from new construction to alterations and renovations in the residential, commercial and high-rise sectors of the architectural, engineering and construction industry. The Architectural Technology program prepares you to apply current practices of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction (AEC) industry, including:
- Building design
- Sustainability
- Building codes and regulations
- Building science
- Construction law and contracts
- Technical writing
- Specifications
- Cost planning
In addition to technical design skills, you will also develop and apply skills in computer-aided drafting (CAD), Building Information Modeling (BIM), 3D rendering and digital modeling. Students collaborate in teams within a simulated office environment to complete projects involving proposals, designs and construction documents for both new and existing facilities.
Note: If you enrol in the program in January, you are required to complete semester 2 in the summer (May to August) of the same year in order to continue into semester 3 in the fall.
Your Field Education Options
A co-operative work experience component in the Architectural Technology program will be available for a selected number of students. The intake for this co-op program is limited and applications are subject to approval by the School of Architectural Studies academic department.
Those who enter the program will complete semester 5 from May to August, and co-op placement will take place from September to December. The final sixth semester will be offered through a blend of in-class and online studies, allowing students to graduate in April of their final year of study. It will also allow students the opportunity to continue part-time work while completing their final semester of studies. More details are available through the department.
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Your Career
Graduates are qualified for employment in many areas of the Architectural, Engineering and Construction industry. Architectural Technologists typically hold important roles with advanced responsibilities as part of a team of professionals in the building design, project delivery and management process. There are also job opportunities with the different levels of provincial and municipal bodies and other governing authorities.
Architectural Technology graduates have the advantage of understanding buildings from multiple perspectives, such as architectural and structural elements; mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems; contractual and managerial processes. Graduates may also choose to become entrepreneurs and own architectural drafting and building design businesses.
Courses
Required Courses
Printable Curriculum Planner 2020-2021
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH1005 | Architectural Technology & Studio 1 |
| ARCH1048 | Structural Systems 1 |
| ARCH1050 | Visual Communications 1 |
| ARCH1060 | Design Fundamentals |
| CADE1012 | CAD Drawing 1 |
| COMM1007 | College English** |
| MATH1139 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 1 |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH1006 | Architectural Technology & Studio 2 |
| ARCH1013 | Building Code & Regulations 1 |
| ARCH1070 | Materials, Methods & Components 1 |
| CADE1014 | CAD Drawing 2 |
| GHUM1106 | History of Architecture |
| GSCI1022 | Building Science and Environment |
| MATH1149 | Mathematics for Arch/IDT 2 |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH1058 | Structural Systems 2 |
| ARCH2004 | Architectural Technology & Studio 3 |
| ARCH2006 | Practice Management 1 |
| ARCH2007 | Building Code & Regulations 2 |
| ARCH1109 | Building Systems – Mechanical and Electrical |
| ARCH1164 | Fundamentals of Building Science |
| CADE2001 | Digital Practices for Architecture 1 |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH2005 | Architectural Technology & Studio 4 |
| ARCH2008 | Practice Management 2 |
| ARCH2033 | Visual Communications 2 |
| ARCH2034 | Structural Systems 3 |
| ARCH2035 | Materials, Methods and Components 2 |
| CADE3001 | Digital Practices for Architecture 2 |
| COMM1113 | Professional Communications for Building Technologies |
| GNED | General Education Elective |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH2172 | Technical Report Writing |
| ARCH3007 | Architectural Technology & Studio 5 |
| ARCH3010 | Principles of Building Information Modeling |
| ARCH3021 | Structural Systems 4 |
| ARCH3070 | Materials, Methods and Components 3 |
| CADE3002 | Digital Practices for Architecture 3 |
| OPTIONS: Students Choose One | |
| ARCH 3015 | Concentrations in Digital Technologies 1 |
| ARCH3022 | Concentrations in Project Management - Planning |
| ARCH3019 | Concentrations in Architecture 1 |
| ARCH3020 | Concentrations in Building Science – New Construction |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| ARCH3008 | Architectural Technology & Studio 6 |
| ARCH3018 | Specifications and Documentation |
| ARCH3026 | Sustainable Rating Systems |
| ARCH3037 | Project Cost Estimating |
| ARCH3013 | Materials, Methods and Components 4 |
| CADE3003 | Digital Practices for Architecture 4 |
| OPTIONS: Students Choose One | |
| ARCH 3016 | Concentrations in Digital Technologies 2 |
| ARCH3039 | Concentrations in Architecture 2 |
| ARCH3040 | Concentrations in Building Science – Renovation and Retrofit |
| ARCH3042 | Concentrations in Project Management - Procurement |
**Based on the results of your placement tests, you may be required to take COMM1003 (English Skills) or CESL1003 (English Skills – ESL) before progressing to COMM1007. COMM1003/CESL1003 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit georgebrown.ca/assessment for more information.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Communicate with clients, contractors, other building professionals, and approval authorities.
- Prepare, read, interpret, and revise drawings, and other graphical representations used in building projects.
- Obtain, analyze, prepare, and revise specifications and other project documents used in design and construction.
- Prepare estimates of time, costs, and quantity, and participate in the tendering process.
- Solve technical problems related to building projects through the application of principles of building science and mathematics.
- Collaborate with and coordinate information from structural, mechanical, and electrical building systems professionals.
- Contribute to the design of architectural projects.
- Contribute to the analysis, planning, and preparation of site planning documents.
- Comply with the legal and ethical requirements of an architectural technologist in the practice of building design and construction.
- Assess buildings and their interiors, and make recommendations for their repurposing and renovation.
- Ensure personal safety and contribute to the safety of others in the workplace.
- Participate in sustainable design and building practices.
- Use and evaluate current and emerging technology to support building projects.
- Assist in the planning, scheduling, and monitoring of building projects.
- Apply business principles to design and building practices.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2019. Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2020 and at later dates.
International students: Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 Math (M or U) or Grade 12 (C or U)
** Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature Students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course Exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit georgebrown.ca/transferguide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Architectural Studies
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4365
Email: architecturalstudies@georgebrown.ca
Our office hours are 8 a.m. - 4 p.m., room D303
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 (TTY 1-877-515-5559) or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Do you have questions about this program or your career options? Join us for an on-campus Information Session. You'll have the opportunity to meet our friendly instructors and staff, ask questions and experience what it's like to be in a George Brown College classroom.
