Career Opportunities

Graduates may work as architectural technicians, designers, estimators, detailers, model builders, illustrators, product representatives, and specification writers in the public and private sector. Employment is also available in related industries such as building engineering, construction, code enforcement, materials manufacturing, and residential design/build contracting.

Recommended High School Subjects

Two years of algebra and trigonometry, one year of physics, four years of oral and written communications courses, and one year of computer skills. Students are encouraged to gain exposure to architectural and construction-related trade skills in courses such as CAD/drafting, art/drawing, design, carpentry, HVAC, and electrical, but these courses are not required for admission to the program.

Special Equipment Needs

Laptop Computer Required

• 64-bit Windows 11 or higher (recommended).
• Multi-core Intel Core i7 or i9 CPU running at 2.5 GHZ or higher (recommended).
• 32+ GB RAM (required).
• 1+ TB M.2 NVMe Drive (recommended).
• Dedicated 8+ GB graphics card (required).
• Video Display Resolution 1920 x 1080 (could be higher, but will impact Lumion® performance).
• Laptop must include a webcam and microphone (required).
• Laptop must include a wireless network card (required).
• Broadband Internet connection when working off campus.
• Additional plug-ins for software may be required (Information Technology Services Service Desk available for assistance).
• Multi-year support plan including accidental damage protection (recommended).
• The specifications above are based on requirements for Revit ® 2022 “Performance” system recommendations and Lumion® 12 system requirements. Please review those sites to ensure your laptop meets the requirements.
• *Apple computers and Chromebooks are prohibited.

Remediation Strategies

All incoming students must meet placement requirements in math. Students are expected to remediate any deficiencies as explained in the College Catalog (see https://www.pct.edu/catalog/admissions-policy).

Transfer Procedures

In addition to the transfer standards established by the College, students seeking transfer credit from another institution for architecture program courses may be asked to submit examples of coursework to the architecture department head. Determination by the department head as to whether transfer credit is given will be based on alignment of the transfer course with Penn College course content.

Program Goals

• demonstrate technical expertise and problem-solving ability through the use of effective data analysis, appropriate tools and digital media, and standard mathematical computations (Critical Thinking).
• interpret architectural drawings and related documents, and communicate ideas and solutions using appropriate architectural vocabulary (Critical Thinking).
• describe the stages of the architectural design process, and the phases of a typical building project (Design).
• develop design solutions for small and medium-sized projects which demonstrate a knowledge of architectural history, building materials, and building systems (Design).
• present architectural designs and concepts using various means, as appropriate (Representation).
• analyze the aesthetic, economic, and environmental impacts of various building materials, building systems, and methods of construction (Building Systems).
• demonstrate an understanding of the choices that promote occupant health and well-being (Sustainability).
• integrate the various applications of construction materials, systems, and methods used in the building industry (Integration).
• describe the career options and job titles of those who work within architecture and related disciplines, the importance of working in teams, and the relationships between the various stakeholders (Professional Practice).