Architectural Technology
You have an eye for design and are observant, creative, technical, and organized. Put your skills to use by earning an Associate of Applied Science in architectural technology at Central Piedmont. You can also earn certificates with specializations in residential architectural technology, sustainability, or Computer Assisted Design/Building Information Modeling. Apply today to begin your journey in the field of architecture.
What You Will Learn
In our Architectural Technology program, you will practice architectural drawing techniques with computed-aided drafting (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) to develop design plans for various structures. You will learn industry terminology and become familiar with construction materials and construction and deconstruction processes. You will study environmental and legal regulations and analyze sustainable design practices in building. In training, you will conduct research to locate building codes and bidding information for residential and commercial settings. You will participate in project and contract management, construction oversight, and contract negotiating. You will develop your skills to communicate well with architects, creatives, drafters, surveyors, construction teams, and clients. Upon completion of the program, you will:
- flex your creativity by bringing your designs to life and learning how to solve problems innovatively
- acquire the knowledge and skill to produce a set of architectural construction drawings that meet basic industry standards and communicate design intent through drawing
- demonstrate an understanding of how construction drawings are organized, laid out, and coordinated
- learn to craft construction drawings through both manual drafting techniques and computer technology using computer aided drafting/design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software
Completing an architectural technology degree at Central Piedmont will prepare you for career opportunities in architecture, engineering, construction, residential design, and trades. You can also work in housing associations, facility management, commercial companies, and government as an architectural technologist/technician. Graduates enter the workforce with a strong skill set and diverse portfolio, ready to pursue licensure or continue their studies.
Contact the program chair with any questions.
Why Choose Central Piedmont
Architectural Technology at Central Piedmont is an award-winning program with outstanding facilities using the latest software and hardware. Our exceptional and highly qualified faculty are here to help you succeed. As members of the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), we encourage students to join this student-led organization to further develop the skills necessary to enter the workforce through leadership, design, and service to the community. Our program is also affiliated with the Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture, which offers students the opportunity to attend conferences and compete in design competitions.
Real World Education
At Central Piedmont, your education goes beyond what you learn in class. We offer numerous opportunities for you to enhance your learning — and to make friends, network, and pursue your passions — through clubs and organizations, sports, events and activities, leadership opportunities, job experience, volunteer experiences, visual and performing arts, and even international experiences.
Architectural Technology Careers and Average Salaries
Completing an architectural technology degree at Central Piedmont will prepare you for careers in architectural, engineering, construction, residential design, and trade professions, such as a drafting/CAD technician/designer. A drafting/CAD technician (also often referred to as a designer), works under the supervision of an architect or engineer to produce drawings and documents from which buildings are constructed. A successful technician will have a working knowledge of construction materials and techniques as well as both hand and computer drawing abilities. You can also work in housing associations, facility management, commercial companies, and government as an architectural technologist/technician. Visit Career Coach for detailed architectural technology career opportunities, salary information, and job openings.
Career CoachThe Details
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Program Options
Associate of Applied Science Degrees
Central Piedmont offers two Associate in Applied Science degree pathways in architecture, and students can choose the program that will meet their career goals. Our A40100 degree offers a design and technical education for those wanting to pursue employment in the architectural field. Our A40100T degree offers students the opportunity to apply to UNC Charlotte’s School of Architecture. For more information, please consult the academic catalog using the links below:
- Associate in Applied Science in architectural technology (A40100)
- Associate in Applied Science in architectural technology-UNC Charlotte transfer track (A40100T)
In addition, students can visit UNC Charlotte’s website for further details on completing a four year degree as a transfer student. If you intend to transfer, make sure to contact the institution’s transfer office to understand which credits you have earned till be applied to a bachelor’s degree.
Central Piedmont’s Transfer Resource Center can provide information on opportunities to transfer associate degree credit to UNC Charlotte and other four-year institutions.
Academic Certificates
Certificates are shorter, more focused credentials offered as stand-alone credentials or stackable toward your degree. Learn more about our Architectural Technology certificates in the Course Catalog.
Visiting Students
If you wish to transfer architectural technology course credit back to your home institution, explore how to enroll at Central Piedmont as a visiting student.
College and Career Readiness
If you are looking for programs to gain the knowledge or skills necessary to finish a high school degree or to get a job, visit Central Piedmont's College and Career Readiness.
College Credit for High School Students
Visit Career and College Promise to learn about opportunities for high school students to earn college credit at Central Piedmont.
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Architectural Technology Program Requirements and Recommended Course Sequences
Program Requirements
For detailed information on architectural technology program options, courses, eligibility, and requirements, visit the Central Piedmont Community College catalog.
There is a good chance that credit hours completed at other colleges/universities can be applied towards a Central Piedmont degree. Students transferring in credit from other colleges or universities must have a transcript sent directly from that institution to the Central Piedmont student records office. Additionally, in order for transcripts to be evaluated, the Request for Transcript Evaluation form must be filed. For questions concerning the transcript evaluation process, contact the Central Piedmont records office.
Course Sequences
Course sequences show the classes you should take each semester to finish your degree and graduate in a timely manner. For example, if you take the appropriate course load (number of credits) each semester based on the recommended course sequences, you would complete your Associate in Applied Science degree in two years.
Recommended Course Sequences
Contact your advisor for help planning your courses.
If you have any questions about transferring credits to another institution, visit the Transfer Resource Center webpage.
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Locations and Course Delivery Methods
In-person classes are held each semester on two of Central Piedmont’s campuses. This includes sections in our hands-on architecture studios. In addition, we offer many courses online.
Campus Locations
Course Delivery Methods
- Classroom/Lab
- Combined (Classroom/Lab and Online)
- Online
In addition to our flexible studio classrooms, we have computer labs with the latest drafting and design software applications and labs with state of the art equipment including large format plotters, 3D printers, scanners, and laser cutting machines. We also have access to a large scale woodshop on Harper Campus.
Students at Central Piedmont may take general education courses on any of our campuses as well as online. As always, speak with your advisor if you have questions about locations and course delivery.
Courses available and their schedules can change each semester. Make sure to check the architectural technology program options, courses, eligibility, and requirements in the catalog each semester for the most up-to-date information.
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Costs and Aid
Central Piedmont provides real-world, affordable, hands-on education and career training. Learn how much it costs to attend Central Piedmont. Financial aid and scholarships are available.
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Related Programs
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Continuing Education
Central Piedmont's continuing education provides non-degree courses and programs for job skills and career training, certificates, professional licensure, and personal enrichment. Day, evening, weekend, and online opportunities are available.
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Admitted Students: Find Your Advisor
If you are currently enrolled and taking classes, log in to MyConnect to find your assigned academic advisor.
If you do not have an advisor, you can:
- visit the advising office at the campus nearest you, or
- send an email to the advising office