Architecture

Integrating Design and Technology

Architecture is the art and science of designing and constructing the built environment while balancing social, political, economic, technical, and aesthetic requirements with human needs. Although building design is the primary focus of this program of study, knowledge about how people impact their surroundings, and manage resources during construction is also of major importance. Architects rely on an understanding of a diversity of subjects including mathematics, physics, design, graphics, engineering, architectural history, visual art, social sciences, and humanities.

Program Awards

Our Architecture programs are included in the Arts, Communication, Design, and Media field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program Map
Architecture, Associate in Science Degree: Transfer Preparation	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Architecture Technology, Associate in Science Degree: Career/Technical	Chula Vista	# Semesters
Architecture Technology, Certificates of Achievement	Chula Vista	# Semesters

Common Careers

Below is a sample of the career options available to architecture majors. A few of these require an associate degree, some require a bachelor’s degree, and most require a graduate-level degree: architect, urban planner, environmental researcher, architectural technician, vocational teacher, college instructor, landscape architect or technician, building contractor, construction supervisor, CAD specialist, architectural engineer, construction manager, drafting technician, and the allied professions such as business, marketing, and interior design.

The average annual salary in this field is $76,390 for occupations like Architectural and Civil Drafters.

Typical Duties

• Working with Computers
  Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
• Drafting, Laying Out, and Specifying Technical Devices, Parts, and Equipment
  Providing documentation, detailed instructions, drawings, or specifications to tell others about how devices, parts, equipment, or structures are to be fabricated, constructed, assembled, modified, maintained, or used.
• Getting Information
  Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
• Evaluating Information to Determine Compliance with Standards
  Using relevant information and individual judgment to determine whether events or processes comply with laws, regulations, or standards.
• Making Decisions and Solving Problems
  Analyzing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
• Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates
  Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
• Thinking Creatively
  Developing, designing, or creating new applications, ideas, relationships, systems, or products, including artistic contributions.
• Updating and Using Relevant Knowledge
  Keeping up-to-date technically and applying new knowledge to your job.
• Documenting/Recording Information
  Entering, transcribing, recording, storing, or maintaining information in written or electronic/magnetic form.
• Organizing, Planning, and Prioritizing Work
  Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish your work.
• Processing Information
  Compiling, coding, categorizing, calculating, tabulating, auditing, or verifying information or data.
• Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events
  Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
• Analyzing Data or Information 
  Identifying the underlying principles, reasons, or facts of information by breaking down information or data into separate parts.
• Communicating with People Outside the Organization
  Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
• Estimating the Quantifiable Characteristics of Products, Events, or Information
  Estimating sizes, distances, and quantities; or determining time, costs, resources, or materials needed to perform a work activity.
• Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships
  Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
• Scheduling Work and Activities
  Scheduling events, programs, and activities, as well as the work of others.
• Monitoring Processes, Materials, or Surroundings
  Monitoring and reviewing information from materials, events, or the environment, to detect or assess problems.
• Interpreting the Meaning of Information for Others
  Translating or explaining what information means and how it can be used.
• Providing Consultation and Advice to Others
  Providing guidance and expert advice to management or other groups on technical, systems-, or process-related topics.