Online Architectural Drafting Schools and Colleges: How to Choose

Architectural drafters create blueprint drawings of building structures. Drafters work with architects and designers to create highly detailed and accurate blueprints on computer-aided design software (CAD).

Architectural drafters must have a thorough knowledge of CAD and be familiar with the professional standards of drafting. Architecture firms look for architectural drafters who hold an associate's or bachelor's degree in drafting, and any program a student is looking at needs to be accredited. Degrees are usually offered on campus as part of drafting or architecture programs accredited by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). However, there are a limited number of technical schools that offer an online associate's degree in architectural drafting.

Prospective students should look for schools that will prepare them for licensure. Although a professional license is not required to work as a drafter, obtaining a license does demonstrate your knowledge of professional standards in the field. An associate's degree program accredited by ADDA will fulfill many of the requirements for a professional license in drafting.

Students enrolled in the online drafting program can expect a hybrid program format. This type of program combines online learning with on-campus classroom experience. Students usually complete core requirements in liberal arts and general education courses online and participate in studio courses on campus. Since the most important aspect of working as an architectural drafter requires familiarity with computer-aided drafting programs, students can expect to spend a significant amount of time in studio drafting courses.

In order to participate in online programs, students must be aware that they need high-speed Internet access to accommodate the transmission of large media files like video, live streaming and course materials. Students must also have access to a webcam and a number of desktop office programs such as Excel, Microsoft Word, WinZip and Acrobat Reader.

The online associate's degree in architectural drafting is a 2-year degree that requires students to take liberal arts courses and core courses in architectural drafting, materials and methods. Students can learn additional skills in construction scheduling, project estimating, sales and accounting. Graduates from the program can also transfer the credits to fulfill requirements for a 4-year degree in architectural drafting or architecture.

Show me popular schools

View the original article here