Architecture

Interested high school students should complete a year of geometry, two years of algebra and two years in art-related areas (drawing, sculpture, photography or related areas). Mechanical drafting or Computer Assisted Design is also advantageous.

Students are required to satisfy placement at the time of admission. Students identified as needing developmental coursework must satisfactorily complete the appropriate English and mathematics courses prior to enrolling in courses required by the degree program.

All general education requirements necessary for graduation are met through the courses in the program as indicated above. Students who wish to take courses that differ from the general education courses indicated above must complete a course substitution request form. To access the form, login to the MyCCP portal, and in the Student tab, under Electronic Forms, click on the Records and Registration Forms link, then choose Request For Course Substitution Of Graduation Requirement link. A more detailed explanation of the College's general education requirements is also available.

To qualify for the A. A. degree in Architecture, a student must complete a minimum of 64 credits as prescribed, attain a minimum grade point average of 2.0 ("C" average) and earn a "C" or higher in all ADC and ART courses.

The curriculum and faculty are dedicated to providing each student with strong design skills and technical experiences early in his or her education. In the Architecture program, the design studio is the focus. It is here that design fundamentals are acquired, and technical, historical and theoretical concepts are synthesized and applied. Students increase their spatial visualization capabilities and are guided in developing a design process and a personal creative vision. At the same time, they learn to work as part of a design team. The design projects are organized to build aesthetic understanding, technical abilities, sensitivity to human needs and awareness of the social consequences of design decisions.

At the College, the study of architecture reflects the diverse and evolving roles and responsibilities of the design professional. The program provides a broad liberal arts education, drawing upon art, science, humanities, social science, and the history of architecture and interior design. This is the vital foundation that leads to the ability to design buildings that are functional, lasting and beautiful.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

• Creatively solve specific design problems related to the fundamentals of architectural design in the built environment with the use of critical thinking, analysis, research, 2-D and 3-D formal ordering systems, and visual perception throughout the design process.
• Communicate effectively individually or as a member of a team:
  • Orally
  • Written
  • In design drawings utilizing freehand drawing, manual and computer drafting
  • By producing three-dimensional analog models and computer modeling.
• Describe the fundamentals of common construction materials and methods, their use in building components and assemblies, and their environmental impact.
• Explain the complex interaction of people, place, historical / cultural / environmental / technological contexts in architecture.