Computer Aided Design (CAD)

Most architectural and engineering firms today produce drawings using Computer Aided Drafting (CAD). Very few firms continue to use manual drafting methods for the creation of construction or working drawings. Consequently, the Architecture program at Columbus State Community College places heavy emphasis upon the use of CAD within its curriculum.

However, it is still important that the student understand manual drafting practices and techniques in order to properly duplicate the same processes utilizing the computer. It is therefore essential that the student, as a prerequisite, complete the introductory course in manual drafting, ARCH 110. (Note:  ARCH 110 may be waived for those individuals who have prior manual drafting experience. Please contact one of the Architecture program advisors if you wish to receive a waiver for this course.) 

AutoCAD and MicroStation are the two most are the two most popular CAD drafting programs available. the Architecture program provides coursework in both programs.

The following courses provide direct instruction in the use of AutoCAD.

      ARCH 112 - Construction Drafting - CAD I

      ARCH 113 - Architectural Drafting - CAD II

      ARCH 114 - Architectural Drafting - CAD III

The following course provided direct institution in the use of MicroStation.

      ARCH 115 - MicroStation CAD Drafting

The following courses provide instruction in the creation of architectural working drawings using AutoCAD as the drafting tool.

      ARCH 263 - Working Drawing I

      ARCH 264 - Working Drawings II

The following course provides instruction in the creation of structural drawings using AutoCAD as the drafting tool.

      ARCH 237 - Structures, Steel and Concrete

Three-Dimensional Visualization   

The use of computers to create realistic three-dimensional models of buildings is growing rapidly. Form-Z is a 3D modeling and rendering program currently in use by many architectural firms today.

The following course provides direct instruction in the use of Form-Z. 

     ARCH 262 - Presentation Drawings

Future Plans

Additional coursework in the Three-Dimensional Visualization area is currently in development. We plan to offer more extensive courses in the use of Form-Z and to create new courses using software programs such as 3D Studio and Lightscape. Please keep in touch if you have an interest in this rapidly growing area of the profession. Notices will be posted as development progresses.

For further information, please contact the Construction Sciences Department by email at construct@cscc.edu or call (614) 287-5030.