2017-18 AcademicCatalog - 16

architectural technology (ARCH)
ARCH 106 (3 credits)
Fundamentals of Architectural Design

Serves as an introduction to architectural drafting. Focuses
on communication of design concepts and instructions to
builders. Investigation and analysis of drawings and other
means to communicate architecture. Exploration and
development of an individual's communication of ideas and
thoughts by means of graphic representation.

ARCH 111 (3 credits)
Materials of Construction

Presents fundamental aspects of the design profession.
Involves the application and technology of materials. An
appreciation of the limits and the potential of materials is
fundamental to well-executed designs. Investigation and
analysis of actual materials and their application as a means
to give form and substance to creative ideas.

ARCH 116 (3 credits)
Residential Details

Research of specific building elements necessary for
construction. Application of knowledge and creativity in
the development of details. Typical and standard details
applicable to residential construction. Learning how to
communicate with the construction crew. Involves sketch
details and drafted details. Also requires drawings and
exercises showing typical details and drafting skills.

ARCH 122 (2 credits)
Autodesk® Architecture®

Intensive introduction to CAD including computer literacy,
hardware, software, input, output, printing, introductory
computer drafting skills, and completion of specific drawing
exercises. Instruction is based on current Autodesk®
Architecture® (the industry standard software program).
Use of CAD to draw architectural elements such as floor
plans, lighting, furniture, wall treatments, and other related
elements.
Co-requisite: ARCH 123

ARCH 123 (2 credits)
Building Information Modeling (BIM)

Course teaches students to design and construct using
building information modeling (BIM) methodology. BIM
employs the concept of parametric modeling by assigning
information to three-dimensional objects and automatically
updating building components as the model changes
or evolves. Using BIM, students generate orthographic
drawings and supporting documentation, which may
include specifications, schedules, cost management,
etc. BIM provides continuous and immediate feedback
for students. Through this course, students will become
competent in using BIM as a new and efficient way for
multi-disciplines to work collaboratively. The software
used for this course is Autodesk® Revit®.
Co-requisite: ARCH 122
16 * Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology

ARCH 156 (2 credits)
Specifications, Estimating, and Contracts

Introduction to three important aspects of architectural
technology: Construction specifications, estimating,
and design services contracts. Students learn about
the differences between residential, commercial, and
federal specifications. The basics of cost estimating for
construction is also incorporated, along with simple cost
estimates using calculators and computers. Students learn
about the provisions that make up typical design services
and construction contracts, the legal language, the link
between contracts, government regulations, and working
drawings.

ARCH 161 (4 credits)
Working Drawings

Students design their own houses in this capstone course,
creating a complete set of working drawings including site
plans, floor plans, elevations, building sections, wall sections,
details, and schedules. Students prepare preliminary
presentation drawings; create a presentation model and a
structural model; and prepare a full set of working drawings.
CAD is used to prepare all drawings.

ARCH 166 (2 credits)
Rendering and Illustrations

Students learn how to use perspective, color, shadow,
and computer-aided animation and rendering to illustrate
architectural design. Work in this course builds on skills
explored in previous courses.
Prerequisite: ARCH 106

ARCH 172 (3 credits)
Advanced Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD)

An intensive follow-up to ARCH 122 and 123, this course
uses AutoCAD® for efficient production of architectural
drawings. Completes the development of a solid foundation
of CAD skills designed to give students appropriate entrylevel CAD skills.
Prerequisites: ARCH 122 and ARCH 123 (minimum grade of
"D" in both)

ARCH 206 (4 credits)
Advanced Methods and Materials of Construction

Detailed investigation of commercial construction systems
with a more in-depth review of construction materials
than introduced in the first year. Materials considered in a
systems approach, including floor, wall, roof, glazing, and
finish systems. Selected criteria of cost, installation, longterm material performance, limitations, and whole-building
integration are identified for individual materials.
Prerequisite: ARCH 161

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of 2017-18 AcademicCatalog