Course Descriptions

ARCH 101 Architectural Graphics
A foundation in the graphic methods used to plan and present buildings.  Hard line and sketching techniques will be used to develop orthographic, axonometric, pictorial, and modeled representations of buildings.  Emphasis will be placed on drawing layout, graphic communication, and visual enhancement.

ARCH 102 Architectural Digital Graphics
Introduction to the use of digital graphic media as tools of architectural design, representation and documentation.  Includes 2-D documentation and 3-D modeling and rendering techniques.

ARCH 112 Structural Materials, Systems, and Codes
Survey of properties, characteristics, limitations, selection criteria, and graphic interpretation of concrete, steel, masonry and wood used in foundation, substructure, and superstructure building systems. Includes aesthetic, performance, maintainability, and cost/benefit aspects. Introduces major building codes, material and industry standards, and utilization of manufacturer's catalogs.

ARCH 115 Interior and Exterior Finishes and Systems
Survey of properties, characteristics, limitations, selection criteria, and graphic interpretation of common interior and exterior finish materials and systems used in exterior closure, roofing, and interior construction. Includes aesthetic, performance, maintainability, and cost/benefit aspects.

ARCH 203 Architectural Documentation
Introduction to the graphic language, methods, and organizational principles of construction documents. Emphasis is placed on building materials, processes and assemblies and their graphic depiction in working drawings. Additional emphasis is placed on adaptation of standard practices to increase sustainability.  Student projects are created in digital environment following principles of standard practice in the architectural profession.

ARCH 204 Architectural Detailing
Introduction to the process of developing construction details and the assembly of materials that serves both functional and aesthetic requirements of architecture.  Emphasis is placed on product research, performance evaluation, cost/benefits studies, and sustainability. Various methods of presentation will be employed to communicate understanding of material relationships and assemblies.

ARCH 241 Design Principles
An exploration of the principles underlying architectural design such as shape; form and space; pattern and texture; scale and proportion; function and circulation; color and light; environment, context and meaning. Students will develop a design vocabulary; skills in public presentation; advanced graphic and model-making skills; and an understanding of the integration of architectural form with complementary disciplines.

ARCH 244 Architectural History 1
An investigation of the primary styles and movements in Western and non-Western architecture from the prehistoric period through Middle Ages. The course will examine cultural, architectural and technological developments during the periods of formation of civilizations, expansions of empires, and developments in religious and governmental structure.

ARCH 245 Architectural History 2
An investigation of the primary styles and movements in Western and non-Western architecture from the Renaissance through the 20th Century. The course will examine cultural, architectural, and technological developments during the periods of modernization in world history, including the Industrial and Technological revolutions.

ARCH 223 Statics and Structures
Provides an awareness of the primary structural systems including wood, concrete, and steel, and the appropriate use of each material. Basic static and strength of material principles are introduced and students are familiarized with references such as AISC Steel handbook and the ACI Code.

HVAC 337 Mechanical and Electrical Systems for Buildings
Awareness of heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems, water supply, sanitary, storm, fire protection systems, electrical distribution, lighting, and acoustical systems for buildings. Emphasis is on system integration, energy considerations and their effects on building planning, detailing, and construction. Discusses equipment, code requirements, and building applications.