Are you thinking about a career in arts and design? If you can dream it, design it and build it, the world of architectural technology is calling your name.

MCG Career College allows you to fast-track your path to success and build a fulfilling career in architectural technology. Explore diverse career options in a growing field and get career-ready with the tools for success in architectural technology.

What does an  Architectural Technologist Do?

An architectural technologist is a professional who works in the field of architecture, focusing on the technical aspects of building design and construction. Their role involves translating the design concepts created by architects into detailed technical drawings and specifications that can be used for construction.

As an architectural technologist, you will play a vital role in bringing architectural designs to life by creating detailed technical drawings and specifications for construction projects. You may work on teams for building contractors, consulting engineers, real estate developers, property management companies, schools, utility companies, government departments and more. You will act as a bridge between design and construction, making sure projects are visually beautiful while also being functional, safe and meeting all necessary regulations.

How to become an Architectural Technologist?

At MCG Career College, our Architectural Technology diploma program prepares you with the skills, knowledge and hands-on experience for success with industry recognized skills that get you career ready to work in design and architectural firms.

The flexible learning schedule which includes both in person and online delivery options allows students to work while studying. The blended learning environment ensures students can do in person practicums and workshops to further their industry knowledge.

In 95 weeks, students will experience industry simulations to sharpen their skills and work on capstone projects to create a market-ready portfolio. Students will complete courses across the industry from building design and science to construction detailing and taught by Autodesk certified instructors and will gain knowledge of how to use modelling software like SketchUp, Revit and Autodesk. The final project will be a capstone which will combine all the tools and knowledge learned in the project into a final practical and applied project.

After completing the program, as part of our mission to make communities great, all MCG Career College students will be placed in a practicum. A practicum is a workplace placement where students are matched with employers seeking to train a new graduate. Gaining real-world and hands-on experience, MCG partners across Canada help students transition into their careers.

A Day in the Life of an Architectural Technologist

Life as an architectural technologist in the industry can look different depending on your role and specialization. All roles in this field are collaborative and involve working closely in teams alongside architects, engineers, contractors and other professionals involved in the construction process to successfully complete project outcomes. Generally, architectural technologists work in a full-time, part-time or contract basis in an office environment. Some professionals may work on construction sites may be required to climb ladders and scaffolding, following safety precautions to avoid injury.

Here are the different responsibilities of an architectural technologist:

• Technical Design: Architectural technologists can focus on technical designs to ensure that building designs meet codes, regulations and standards. They work closely with architects to develop and refine design concepts into detailed plans.
• Drafting and Documentation: Architectural technologists use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create detailed drawings, plans and specifications. These documents are used as a guide for builders and contractors during the construction phase.
• Building Regulations: When it comes to building regulations, architectural technologists ensure that building designs and construction meet local building regulations, safety standards and zoning laws, keeping up-to-date with any changes in regulations and codes.
• Material Selection: Architectural technologists coordinate material selection, researching the right construction materials to choose for different projects. They consider durability, cost, and sustainability. They also coordinate with suppliers and manufacturers.
• Site Inspections: Architectural technologists often lead site inspections to manage the progress of a construction project according to guidelines and specifications. They may identify and resolve any technical issues that arise during construction.
• Cost Estimation: Every project has different specifications. Architectural technologists assist in estimating project costs, helping to ensure that the design aligns with the project budget. This involves evaluating materials, labour and other associated costs.
• Building Information Modeling (BIM): Many computer software and design tools are used to accurately complete and manage construction projects. Architectural technologists use Building Information Modeling (BIM) to create 3D models that integrate design, construction, and maintenance information to improve project flow and coordination.

The Average Salary of an Architectural Technologist

Architectural technology is a dynamic industry with above-average starting pay and overall salaries.

The average hourly wage for an architectural technologist is $38.45 per hour. The average yearly salary of an architectural technologist is $73,388.00. With additional years of experience, architectural technologists can earn an average hourly wage of $62.96 and up to $76.92 to top-paid employees.

*source: alis.alberta.ca

Funding, Loans and Scholarships for Architectural Technologists

Education is a lifelong investment towards achieving your personal and professional goals. At MCG Career College, we strive to make communities great by removing barriers and making education accessible to our community.

We offer affordable funding solutions that cover tuition fees with different financing options that are made possible through our local and national partners. We provide interest-free payment plans, assistance with student loan navigation, grants, and guidance for low-interest loan qualification.

Students can fund their education with our unique state-of-the-art volunteer program. MCG Career College is the ONLY private college in Canada to offer up to 100% tuition payment through volunteering.

Students can trade one hour of volunteering for a $25 tuition credit with any approved nonprofit organization and cover up to 100% of tuition fees.* We value community and encourage our students to give back while learning.

Whether you’re a new high school graduate, a newcomer to Canada, a landed immigrant or an established professional, MCG Career College wants to support you at every step of your journey. We are dedicated to equipping the next generation with the knowledge, tools and experience to get career-ready and build successful careers.

*Terms and conditions may apply.

How to Start the Architectural Technologist Program?

Ready to take your career to the next level? Eager to work with professionals, gain industry recognized certifications?

At MCG Career College, our top-quality Architectural Technology program, taught by industry expert instructors, is open to all students.

We have multiple intakes throughout the year and offer uniquely tailored programs with flexible schedules to accommodate all schedules.

Our program follows standard government admission requirements. Standard admissions require an Alberta High School diploma or equivalent (international diplomas are accepted) and for mature students we require applicants to be at least 18 years old with additional qualifications.

All our programs are conducted in English and students are required to meet a minimum language proficiency.

Curious about next steps? Contact our Admissions office to find out how you can get career-ready and design your future in architectural technology. For more information, we invite you to call our campus directly at 1 888 291 899, email us at info@mcgcollege.com and our Admissions website at https://mcgcollege.com/admissions/.