The Architecture program at College of DuPage provides students with the artistic, technical, technological and theoretical expertise necessary for careers and further education in architecture and related fields.
Depending on your goals and interests, students can choose between a number of degree and certificate programs that will enable them to pursue careers and upgrade skills in a variety of disciplines. In addition, the program includes pre-architecture programs that offer affordable tracks toward earning advanced degrees from four-year professional architecture programs.
Determine Your Path
Architecture unites art and science to create aesthetically pleasing structures that are also economical, functional and safe. From hospitals, libraries and schools, to businesses, hotels and residential homes, architects are responsible for the places in which we live, work, learn, meet, play, shop, govern, eat and worship.
Rising populations and increasing emphasis on green buildings and sustainable design, as well as exciting trends such as bio-mimicry and modular design, ensure that architects and construction professionals will be in demand by an industry that is diverse, exciting and fulfilling.
Whether you are preparing for a career in architecture, planning to transfer to a four-year institution or updating your skills, College of DuPage has the right program for you. We offer:
- Dedicated instructors with years of practical industry experience, certification and licensing.
- Instruction in top-notch facilities and on cutting-edge equipment.
- Flexible schedules with day, evening and online learning.
- Practical, hands-on experience as well as classroom-based studies.
- Affordable programs that get you on the fast track to success without breaking the bank.
- Articulated transfer agreements provide students an affordable educational option with seamless transfer to prestigious universities. Industry recognition and involvement that demonstrates and advances the rigor and relevancy of the program.
Architectural Technology-CADD, Associate in Applied Science
The Architectural Technology Associate in Applied Science degree program is designed to prepare students for immediate entry into careers involving drafting and documentation of buildings and other structures. The curriculum includes basic and advanced coursework in architecture, architectural design and drafting, building materials, codes and contracts, computer-aided drafting, computer modeling, detailing and documentation, physics, precalculus and specifications, as well as electrical, mechanical, plumbing and structural systems.
Students are required to complete 67 credits of coursework, which includes 52 credits in core requirements, 6 credits in approved elective classes and 9 credits in general education classes.
Architectural Rendering
The Architectural Rendering certificate program provides students with knowledge and skills in preparing professional architectural presentations in a variety of media. This is useful for professionals looking to upgrade skills, or as a supplement to one of the other degrees or certificates.
Students are required to complete 18 credits of coursework that includes classes in architectural design communication and presentation, computer-aided drafting, computer modeling, digital photography and painting.
Architectural Technology
The Architectural Technology certificate program prepares students for entry-level positions as drafters in architectural or construction firms.
Students in this program are required to complete 32 credits of coursework that includes classes in architectural drafting, building materials, codes and contracts, computer-aided drafting, construction estimating, detailing and documentation, and specifications, as well as electrical, mechanical, plumbing and structural systems.
COD Stories
"I enjoy solving complex problems and working with my hands, and I wanted a career where I could make a difference. Architecture, particularly health care architecture, allowed me to realize those goals.” - Brian Henks
Brian's COD StoryCOD Stories
“A community college is just that: a community. Every class I attended at COD, architecture or not, had professors who were engaged and interested in seeing me succeed." - Michael Rivera
Michael's COD StoryCOD Stories
“My architecture professors at COD gave me great love and appreciation for architecture. I am confident in the education I received at COD and that it will help me after I transfer.” - Monica Basili
Monica's COD StoryCOD Stories
“I learned so much from my two years at COD, not only about architecture but also about myself. COD pushed me to my limits, challenged me academically and allowed to me grow as a person." - Julia Suriano
Julia's COD StoryCOD Stories
“Going to COD was a great decision and I have not looked back once. I would urge anyone contemplating the architecture path to seriously consider College of DuPage.” - Akash Mattu
Akash's COD StoryGet Started Today
The first step to getting started in architectural technology is to apply for admission.
Academic and Career Pathways give you a roadmap to achieving your career goals. Follow a pathway based on your degree that outlines which classes you need to take and when so you graduate on time or move on to the next phase in your career.
- Architectural Rendering, Certificate
- Architectural Technology, Certificate
- Architectural Technology-CADD, Associate in Applied Science
Learn whether a degree or certificate would best suit your educational goals by contacting Jane Ostergaard, the Chair of the Architecture and Construction Management Program, at osterg@cod.edu.
Architectural Technology-CADD Program graduates will:
- Be able to apply creative problem solving skills to architectural problem solving as demonstrated by the
- Demonstrate knowledge of architectural and construction practices in the documentation of architectural problems
- Demonstrate knowledge of architectural technology and construction materials and methods in the solution of architectural problems as a steward of the environment.
- Be able to utilize freehand drawing, architectural graphics, software, and model building skills in the solution and documentation of architectural projects.
- Be able to identify appropriate techniques and technology to use in the solution and documentation of architectural projects.
- Be able to utilize technology as a tool in a wide range of documentation, presentation and analysis applications, using CADD, 3-D visualization and rendering, electronic image composition, editing software and other appropriate technology.
- Be able to identify, formulate, and effectively communicate the critical issues involved in the solution of architectural problems
Architecture Summer Build Project
Hear how architecture students spent seven weeks designing and constructing a pavilion on campus.
Career Information
Explore careers based on your interest, location and salary range or view top occupations by income.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit the architecture and construction management frequently asked questions to find out if pre-architecture, construction management, or architecture technology is right for you.
