Mar 29, 2024  
2016-2017 Course Catalog 
    
2016-2017 Course Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Architectural Technologies, AAS


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The Architectural Technologies program is designed to develop the proper skills and knowledge required for satisfactory entrance into the field of architectural drafting and detailing.

Graduates are employed by architects; structural, mechanical and electrical engineers; contractors, subcontractors and building equipment and material suppliers. Students visit a construction site to observe actual construction practices and architectural offices to experience their possible future work environment.

For more information about the Architectural Technologies program, please visit our website at arch.dmacc.edu.

Location: Ankeny

Selected courses offered at Urban Campus.

Students start Fall semester.

Program Entry Requirements

  1. Complete an application for admission.
  2. Satisfy the assessment requirement.
  3. Attend any required information/registration session.
  4. Submit evidence of grade “C” or above in one year of high school algebra or the equivalent (DMACC Academic Achievement Center Algebra I & II or MAT 063 ) or complete the ALEKS placement test with a minimum score of 30 or higher.
  5. Successful completion of   to satisfy prerequisite for  .

The requirement for MAT 773  can be fulfilled with evidence of a grade of “C” or above in MAT 130  or an equivalent mathematics course; and a minimum ALEKS score of 61. When students meet their math requirement this way, the additional credits to meet their graduation requirement must come from an AAS Core Social and Behavioral Science  or as approved by the program chairperson.

Graduation Requirements

To earn an Architectural Technologies AAS degree, students must complete all coursework as prescribed and maintain an overall 2.0 (C) grade point average.

Total Credits Required to Complete the Diploma - 47


Additional Courses Required to Complete the AAS degree


Semester 4


Required Course(s)


Option 3 - Select 1 Course


Option 4 - Select 1 Course


Total Credits Required to Complete the AAS Degree - 64


Fixed Costs


Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$147.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs


  Semester 1 Semester 2 Semester 3 Semester 4
Books (approximate) 200 100 100 305
Supplies 200  55  55  55

Approximate total for the AAS degree: $10,478*

*Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?


  • Prepare clear, complete and accurate working plans and detailed drawings for use in construction.
  • Prepare precise and detailed scale drawings from information provided by architects, designers, engineers and contractors.
  • Provide information concerning quality of materials to be used, their cost, and processes to be followed in production.
  • Use a variety of instruments such as scales, protractors, compasses, triangles, squares, pens, pencils and computer software and hardware.
  • Utilize understanding of engineering practices, mathematics, building materials and the physical sciences to complete the drawings.
  • Make drawings of each part shown on the layout, giving dimensions, material and other necessary information.
  • Use Computer-Aided Drafting and Building Information Modeling software.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?


  • Concentrate diligently on a project for long periods.
  • Make carefully accurate construction drawings.
  • Follow written and spoken directions.
  • Do neat, detailed work.
  • Budget time well and stay on task without supervision.
  • Demonstrate good eye-hand coordination when drawing.
  • Discuss your drawings/project, intentions, materials and assemblies intelligently and coherently.

What Else Should I Consider about this Program or Career Choice?


  • If very successful, may open business of your own, or work on a contract basis (after experience with a firm or other architectural or engineering concern).
  • Work is service-project-oriented.
  • Deadlines and accuracy are essential.
  • Variety of work opportunities.
  • Courses are designed to train the student to be an architectural drafter and will assist the designer or client.
  • Average starting salary-A.A.S. degree: $34,320 (2010-2011 Placement Report).

Nondiscrimination Policy


Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in employment, hiring practices or the provision of services, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex (including pregnancy and marital status), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability and genetic information. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Campus Provost’s office, the Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. For information about the ADA, the Section 504/ADA Coordinator may be contacted at 515-964-6857.  For Title IX questions and concerns contact 515-964-6850. (2016)

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