Architectural Engineering Technology

Overview

Architectural engineering technology programs prepare people to help architects and engineers design buildings.

Architectural engineering technology programs prepare people to help architects and engineers. Students learn to study building sites and build models. They also learn to draw plans and write reports.

Architectural engineering technology programs include topics such as:

Architectural design
Design testing procedures
Building site analysis
Model building and computer graphics
Engineering drawing
Structural systems testing and mechanics
Test equipment operation and maintenance
Report writing

Schools

Many community colleges and technical schools offer certificate and associate degree programs in architectural engineering technology. A certificate program usually takes a year of full-time study. An associate degree program at a community college usually takes two years of full-time study to complete.

Several colleges and universities offer bachelor’s degrees in architectural engineering technology. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

See schools that offer this program.

Related Educational Programs

Related Careers

Careers Directly Related to this Program of Study

Engineering Technicians

Other Careers Related to this Program of Study

Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science and Programming
English Composition
Physics
Trigonometry

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

An associate degree program in this field typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Architectural Design
Architectural Detailing
Architectural Graphics
Building Electrical/Mechanical Systems
Computer-Aided Drafting
Construction Materials and Methods
Contracts and Specifications
Elementary Structures
Estimating
Materials Testing
Physics
Pre-Calculus
Statistics
Strength of Materials

A bachelor's degree program often assumes that you have studied pre-calculus while in high school. It typically includes the other courses listed above, plus the following:

Applied Differential and Integral Calculus
Architectural Theory
Building Environmental Control Systems
Building Codes
Concrete, Steel, and Wood Structures Design
Planning and Scheduling

Things to Know

Many jobs in this field require a lot of writing and clear communication. Taking writing and speaking courses will develop your communication skills.

With a bachelor's degree in an engineering technology, you may be able to work either as an engineer or as a technologist. Your options depend on what state you live in and whether your state requires a license.

If you want a license, you usually need a bachelor's degree from an engineering technology program recognized by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. You also need several years of work experience and must pass an exam.

Certifications are also available from the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies.