Learn Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and Building Information Modelling (BIM) software and techniques to create 3D models and drawings used in developing infrastructure such as roads, bridges, schools, stadiums, high rises, and commercial buildings.
What you will learn
- Technical drafting software: AutoCAD, Autodesk, Tekla Structures
- Drafting terminology, conventions, and annotation
- Drawing from data, designs, and/or specifications
- Technical mathematics
- Construction site safety
- 3D and building information modelling (BIM)
- Orthographic projection
- Sectioning and dimensioning
- Auxiliary view
- Machine detailing
- Canadian building codes and steel construction standards
- Structural steel fabrication and arrangement
- On-site installation
- Bolting and welding
- Structural steel square framing
- Metal guardrails, handrails, platforms, and flooring
- Trusses and truss geometry
- Structural stress and load reversal
- Critical thinking
- Team building
- Interpersonal communication
- Technical communications
- Portfolio development
- Résumés and application letters
- Job-search skills and interviews
What to expect
- 10 months of full-time study
- Classes Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.
- Project-based learning
- Presentations
- Laboratory work
- Homework
- Theory
- Individual projects
- Theory examinations
- Practical/drawing assessments
- Opportunity to advance into a CAD and BIM Technician diploma program*
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level or CLB/CLBPT Listening 8, Speaking 7, Reading 8, and Writing 7
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 11 or equivalent, or
- VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 72% Basic Algebra
Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the Department
- Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into term 2
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate graduates may apply for direct entry into term 2
For assistance with meeting the entrance requirements, please contact Advising Services to schedule an appointment with an Advisor.
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level or CLB/CLBPT Listening 8, Speaking 7, Reading 8, and Writing 7
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Apprenticeship and Workplace Math 11 or equivalent, or
- VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 72% Basic Algebra
Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the Department
- Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.
- Applicants who have met the above requirements and completed Drafting 11 and 12 in high school can apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.
- VCC CAD Short Certificate graduates may insert into level 2 of the program.
- For assistance with meeting the entrance requirements, please contact Advising Services to schedule an appointment with an Advisor.
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 educational documents as required by their course or program.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free in academic upgrading, university transfer or English as a Second Language (ESL) Courses.
Recommended Characteristics
- Working knowledge of Windows OS is strongly recommended.
- Good mathematical and mechanical comprehension.
- Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
- Good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- An ability to work well with others.
- Logical reasoning and an ability to visualize objects.
- Interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, general construction and related fields.
Courses
*Program general hours
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 3 years.
| Term One | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| DRFT?1010 | CAD Drafting Fundamentals | 4 |
| DRFT?1011 | CAD Drafting Applied | 3 |
| DRFT?1012 | Office & Construct Site Safety | 1 |
| DRFT?1013 | Construction Mathematics | 1 |
| ? | Credits | 9 |
| Term Two | ||
| DRFT?1290 | Struct Steel Fab Codes & Stand | 1 |
| DRFT?1291 | Introduction to Steel Detail | 1 |
| DRFT?1292 | Structural Bolting & Welding | 1 |
| DRFT?1293 | Indust & Comm Basic Framing | 4 |
| DRFT?1294 | Connection & Layout Geometry | 2 |
| DRFT?1295 | Detail of Inclined Components | 4 |
| DRFT?1296 | Miscellaneous Metals Detailing | 2 |
| ? | Credits | 15 |
| Term Three | ||
| DRFT?1380 | CAD 3D and Assemblies | 2 |
| DRFT?1391 | Introduction to BIM Software | 3 |
| DRFT?1392 | Working with BIM Software | 3 |
| DRFT?1370 | Technical Communications | 1 |
| DRFT?1393 | Heavy Structural Steel Framing | 4.5 |
| DRFT?1326 | Job Search Skills | 0.5 |
| DRFT?1352 | Steel Trusses | 2 |
| ? | Credits | 16 |
| ? | Total Credits | 40 |
This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.
* 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.
Fees and other costs
*Please check the CAD and BIM minimum computer requirements for remote learning.
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 35 | |
| Tuition | 6533 |
Tuition Breakdown
1470 - Level 1
2450 - Level 2
2614 - Level 3
0 - Level 4
|
| Student union | 160 | |
| College initiative | 110 | |
| Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 131 | |
| Laundry | 0 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical & Dental | 275 | |
| U-PASS | 434 | |
| Graduation | 40 | |
| 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
TO APPLY FOR THE STEEL CONSTRUCTION MODELLING TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE:
If you want to take the Steel Construction Modelling Technician Certificate, go to EducationPlannerBC and apply for the Steel Construction Modelling Technician Diploma. Once you have successfully completed term 3, you may request to exit the program and obtain a certificate.
TO REQUEST ADVANCED ENTRY INTO TERM 2:
You may be considered for advanced entry into term 2 if you have completed one of the following:
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate (granted within the last 4 years)
- Drafting 11 and 12 in high school (with Departmental approval)
Please submit the final transcript from your high school program to the Registrar's Office at ro@vcc.ca to be considered for advanced entry to term 2.
Get started
Contact us
- Call 604.871.7000, option 2
† Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey
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