Advance your Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) skills for work in engineering firms, architecture firms, development companies, government, or private industry.
The VCC CAD & BIM Technician Diploma program is accredited with .
CAD and BIM
Attend an Information Session
Meet instructors, ask questions, and tour our facilities.
Entrance award
September intake of this full-time program is eligible for financial award.
ENTRANCE AWARDS
September intake of this full-time program is eligible for financial award.
What you will learn
Graduates of this program will develop the Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) skills gained in two specialty areas.
During their first year, they will develop skills in Architectural, Civil/Structural, Mechanical or Steel Construction Modelling with Steel Detailing. Students will further develop their skills by adding an additional specialty of Architectural, Civil/Structural, Mechanical or Steel Construction Modelling in Steel Detailing in Year 2.
Graduates will be well prepared to work as team members on a wide variety of projects, examples of which are:
- Residential housing developments, commercial buildings and institutional complexes.
- A wide variety of steel and concrete structures including schools, sports stadiums, bridges, commercial buildings and high-rise offices.
- And highway construction and subdivision development work.
- A wide variety of mechanical applications in the mining industry, chemical process plants, energy infrastructure, oil and gas, as well as mechanical systems for buildings and development work.
Graduates will apply qualifications from two disciplines to become more competitive in the job market and adaptive in the workplace.
Students receive a CAD and BIM Technician Diploma upon successful completion of the program.
These are the program's four specialty areas (students must complete two of these programs to obtain the Diploma).
Architectural Technician certificate:
- Use concepts of building construction and technology to plan and detail residential and commercial buildings in accordance with local by-laws and the BC Building Code.
- Prepare Architectural drawings of residential and commercial structures, which incorporate concrete, steel and wood.
Civil/Structural Technician certificate:
- Apply concepts of civil technology and planning to produce drawings and three dimensional models for the development of a civil site.
- Use structural engineering theories and BIM practices to prepare engineering drawings for three-dimensional models of structures, which incorporate reinforced concrete and structural steel.
Steel Construction Modelling Technician certificate:
- Utilize data from current building codes and fabrication standards to develop practical connections between components that are code-compliant and practical to fabricate and install on site.
- Use structural engineering drawings and specifications to prepare three-dimensional models of structures that utilize structural steel.
- Employ current Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and three-dimensional modelling systems as a tool to produce structural steel fabrication and arrangement drawings from data, designs and/or specifications.
Mechanical Engineer Technician certificate:
- Apply concepts of building construction and technology to plan and detail mechanical systems for commercial and industrial facilities in accordance with local by-laws and the BC Building Code.
- Utilize concepts of mechanical and process technology and planning to produce drawings and 3D models of industrial facilities.
- Employ mechanical engineering theories and BIM practices to prepare engineering drawings from 3D models that incorporate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems in building structures.
Upon successful completion of the second year of this program, students will be able to:
- Apply Integrated Design Process (IDP) to integrate people systems and practices into a process to reduce waste and optimize efficiency through all phases of design, fabrication and construction.
- Employ current Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and three-dimensional modelling systems as a tool to produce drawings from data, designs and/or specifications.
- Apply terminology and conventions used in a project design team.
- Integrate a variety of CAD models for each discipline into a complete final model using CAD drafting, 3D BIM, and related trade skills and knowledge.
- Prepare a comprehensive professional portfolio.
- Contribute as part of a multidisciplinary design team.
- Use critical thinking, team building and interpersonal communication skills to work effectively in a team environment.
- Integrate various BIM software to communicate, collaborate and cooperate with a design team.
- Apply the concepts and processes of a second discipline (either Architectural or Civil/Structural), and apply those conceptions in a 3D BIM setting.
- Apply personal reflection and critical thinking to the relation between the program's learning outcomes and the student's individualized learning.
- Communicate effectively and work collaboratively in a design team setting.
What to expect
Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion
The program is 2 years of full-time study. The Diploma is seventy (70) credits: Forty (40) credits of the first year Certificate, and thirty (30) credits of second year courses to complete the Diploma.
Candidates have up to 5 years to complete the Diploma from the start of year one.
Upon successful completion of the first year of study and the successful completion of forty (40) credits, students may choose to exit the program and receive a Certificate credential in the specialty they completed in the first year: either (i) Architectural Technician Certificate, (ii) Civil/Structural Technician Certificate, (iii) Steel Construction Modelling Technician Certificate, or (iv) Mechanical Drafting Technician Certificate.
This program uses project-based learning strategies with in-class instructional presentations, blended online delivery, and laboratory work using Autodesk, Trimble, and other software. Students are required to do assignments at home and lab work outside class time on both theory and individual projects.ÌýThe program may be offered in face-to-face and blended (combination of face-to-face and online) formats.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Studies 12 with a minimum ‘C-’ grade, or equivalent
- Workplace Mathematics 11 or equivalent
Notes:
Applicants may be eligible for advanced standing into Year 2 of the program provided they have:
- Successfully completed VCC's Architectural, Civil/Structural, Mechanical or Steel Construction Modelling Technician Certificate within the last 3 years,Ìýor
- Successfully completed a Drafting Technician Certificate (any discipline) at another institution with Department review and approval.
VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate graduates (granted within the last 3 years) may be eligible to receive credit for: DRFT 1010, DRFT 1011, DRFT 1012, DRFT 1013.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- Related work experienceÌý
- General computer skills, including working knowledge of Windows OS.Ìý
- Good mathematical and mechanical comprehension.Ìý
- Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.Ìý
- Good hand-eye coordination, ability to look at computer screen for long periods of time, Ìýand manual dexterity for keyboard/mouse.Ìý
- Successful work habits and an ability to work well with others.Ìý
- Logical reasoning, spatial ability, and an ability to visualize objects.Ìý
- An interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, general construction and related fields.
Courses *
This program is offered full time during the day (approximately 3 days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Days and times are subject to change.
This program must be completed within 5 years.
The program is 2 years of full-time study. The Diploma is seventy (70) credits: Forty (40) credits of the first year Certificate, and thirty (30) credits of second year courses to complete the Diploma.
Upon successful completion of the first year of study and the successful completion of forty (40) credits, students may choose to exit the program and receive a Certificate credential in the specialty they completed in the first year: either (i) Architectural Technician Certificate, (ii) Civil/Structural Technician Certificate, (iii) Steel Construction Modelling Technician Certificate, or (iv) Mechanical Engineering Technician Certificate.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing.ÌýApplicants who successfully completed Drafting 11 and 12 or equivalent may also apply for PLAR.ÌýCredits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.Ìý
PLAR is available for the following courses:Ìý
- DRFT 1010 CAD Drafting FundamentalsÌý
- DRFT 1011 CAD Drafting AppliedÌý
- DRFT 1012 Office and Construction Site Safety
- DRFT 1013 Construction MathematicsÌý
Students may complete up toÌý20% of programÌýcredits through PLAR. Tuition and fees may still apply to PLAR candidates.ÌýÌý
Methods of PLAR vary byÌýcourse, and may include exams, portfolios, interviews, and other evaluations.ÌýÌý
See ÌýPrior Learning Assessment and Recognition policyÌýfor more information.
*Note for international students requesting PLAR: Prior to proceeding with the PLAR request, please contactÌýÌýto learn how PLAR can impact immigration status.
Code | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
YEAR 1 | 40 | |
CORE COURSES | ||
DRFTÌý1010 | CAD Drafting Fundamentals | |
DRFTÌý1011 | CAD Drafting Applied | |
DRFTÌý1012 | Office & Construct Site Safety | |
DRFTÌý1013 | Construction Mathematics | |
SELECT YOUR 1ST SPECIALIZATION | ||
ARCHITECTURAL | ||
DRFTÌý1110 | Architectural Principles | |
DRFTÌý1115 | Residential Single Family 1 | |
DRFTÌý1200 | Residential Single Family 2 | |
DRFTÌý1201 | Residential Multi-Family | |
DRFTÌý1202 | Commercial Retail Buildings 1 | |
DRFTÌý1225 | Professional Communication | |
DRFTÌý1302 | Commercial Retail Buildings 2 | |
DRFTÌý1374 | Introduction to 3D and BIM | |
DRFTÌý1375 | Commercial Office Layouts | |
CIVIL/STRUCTURAL | ||
DRFTÌý1120 | Civil Site Layout | |
DRFTÌý1125 | Introduction to Civil 3D | |
DRFTÌý1213 | Introduction to Steel Structures | |
DRFTÌý1214 | Reinforced Concrete and Foundations | |
DRFTÌý1215 | Advanced Civil 3D | |
DRFTÌý1216 | Introduction to 3D CAD | |
DRFTÌý1225 | Professional Communication | |
DRFTÌý1286 | Engineering Statics | |
DRFTÌý1316 | Introduction to Revit Structures | |
DRFTÌý1379 | Concrete Floor Systems and Secondary Structures | |
DRFTÌý1385 | Reinforced Concrete Structural Components | |
STEEL CONSTRUCTION MODELLING | ||
DRFTÌý1130 | Steel Detailing Fundamentals | |
DRFTÌý1135 | Professional Communications for Steel Detailing | |
DRFTÌý1293 | Industrial and Commercial Basic Framing | |
DRFTÌý1295 | Detail of Inclined Components | |
DRFTÌý1296 | Miscellaneous Metals Detailing | |
DRFTÌý1380 | CAD 3D and Assemblies | |
DRFTÌý1391 | Introduction to BIM Software | |
DRFTÌý1392 | Working with BIM Software | |
DRFTÌý1393 | Heavy Structural Steel Framing | |
DRFTÌý1352 | Steel Trusses | |
MECHANICAL | ||
DRFTÌý1140 | Electrical and Plumbing Systems | |
DRFTÌý1145 | HVAC and Fire Suppression System | |
DRFTÌý1217 | Process Flow, Piping, and Instrumentation Diagrams | |
DRFTÌý1218 | Equipment Detail and Plant Layout | |
DRFTÌý1219 | Process Piping and Pipe Fabrication | |
DRFTÌý1220 | 3D Modeling Fundamentals | |
DRFTÌý1221 | Mechanical Equipment Modelling and Layout | |
DRFTÌý1225 | Professional Communication | |
DRFTÌý1324 | 3D Piping Systems Modelling | |
DRFTÌý1344 | BIM for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Projects | |
DRFTÌý1364 | Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing for Pipe Fabrication | |
YEAR 2 | 30 | |
INTEGRATED BIM PROJECT | ||
DRFTÌý2100 | Integrated BIM Project | |
SELECT YOUR 2ND SPECIALIZATION (MUST BE DIFFERENT FROM YOUR FIRST) | ||
ARCHITECTURAL | ||
DRFTÌý2110 | Advanced Architectural Principles | |
DRFTÌý2115 | Advanced Residential Single Family 1 | |
DRFTÌý2200 | Advanced Residential Single Family 2 | |
DRFTÌý2201 | Advanced Residential Multi-Family | |
DRFTÌý2107 | Capstone Project using BIM | |
CIVIL/STRUCTURAL | ||
DRFTÌý2120 | Advanced Civil Site Layout | |
DRFTÌý2125 | Advanced Introduction Civil 3D | |
DRFTÌý2213 | Advanced Introduction to Steel Structures | |
DRFTÌý2214 | Advanced Reinforced Concrete and Foundations | |
DRFTÌý2286 | Statics 1 | |
DRFTÌý2287 | Statics 2 | |
DRFTÌý2107 | Capstone Project using BIM | |
STEEL CONSTRUCTION MODELLING | ||
DRFTÌý2130 | Advanced Steel Detailing Fundamentals | |
DRFTÌý2293 | Advanced Industrial and Commercial Basic Framing | |
DRFTÌý2294 | Advanced BIM Software for Steel Detailing | |
DRFTÌý2295 | Advanced Detail of Inclined Components | |
DRFTÌý2296 | Advanced Miscellaneous Metals Detailing | |
DRFTÌý2107 | Capstone Project using BIM | |
MECHANICAL | ||
DRFTÌý2140 | Advanced Electrical and Plumbing Systems | |
DRFTÌý2145 | Advanced HVAC and Fire Suppression System | |
DRFTÌý2217 | Advanced Process Flow, Piping, and Instrumentation Diagrams | |
DRFTÌý2218 | Advanced Equipment Detail and Plant Layout | |
DRFTÌý2219 | Advanced Process Piping and Pipe Fabrication | |
DRFTÌý2107 | Capstone Project using BIM | |
Total Credits | 70 |
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Discover Open Studies
Open Studies lets you take courses from credit programs without having to be accepted into one. Based on availability, you can sample different courses, earn credits, and build new skills.
Explore your optionsFees and other costs *
This program has additional equipment or technical requirements
Tuition Deposit: 0 (0 non-refundable).
Tution deposits are payable usually within two (2) weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued.
Tuition Deposit |
0 (0 non-refundable) Tution deposits are payable usually within two (2) weeks after a Letter of Offer is issued. |
---|
Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Application fee | 36 | |
Tuition Tuition | 13265 |
Breakdown
Tuition Breakdown
6797 - 1
6468 - 2
0 - 3
0 - 4
0 - 5
|
Student union | 384 | |
College initiative | 199 | |
Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
Campus resource | 266 | |
Laundry | 0 | |
Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
550 | ||
Temporary Medical Insurance | 0 | |
U-PASS | 752 | |
Graduation | 45 | |
Program-specific extra fees | 0 | |
Total |
Need help with tuition?
Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.
* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a $300 non-refundable deposit.
Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.
Apply now
FIRST YEAR
Choose one:
- Architechtural Technican
- Civil Structure Technician
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
- Steel Construction Modelling
SECOND YEAR
Choose one:
(* your choice must be different from your first year's choice)
- Architectural Technician
- Civil Structure Technician
- Mechanical Engineering Technician
- Steel Construction Modelling
Attend an Information Session
Meet instructors, ask questions, and tour our facilities.
Entrance award
September intake of this full-time program is eligible for financial award.
ENTRANCE AWARDS
September intake of this full-time program is eligible for financial award.