How do you become a certified architectural drafter?
Drafters generally need to complete postsecondary education in drafting. This is typically done through a 2-year associates degree from a technical institute or community college. The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) offers certification for drafters.
How long does it take to become an architectural drafter?
A certificate program in architectural drafting typically lasts about 6-12 months, while earning an associate’s degree might take 1-2 years. Building a personal portfolio while studying can be helpful when seeking an internship or employment in the field.
Where can I study architectural drafting?
10 Schools with Architectural Drafting Programs
| College/University | Location | Degrees Offered |
|---|---|---|
| Long Beach City College | Long Beach, CA | Certificate, Associate’s |
| Macomb Community College | Warren, MI | Certificate, Associate’s |
| Mesa Community College | Mesa, AZ | Certificate, Associate’s |
| Montgomery College | Rockville, MD | Certificate, Associate’s |
Can you get a degree in architectural drafting?
Architectural drafting programs are most commonly found at 2-year community colleges and technical schools. Available as both as certificate and associate’s degree programs, they often include multiple courses where students learn to use computer software programs to draft architect’s designs.
Are architectural drafters in demand?
Overall employment of drafters is projected to grow 7 percent from 2016 to 2026. However, computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) technologies allow engineers and architects to perform many tasks that used to be done by drafters, which is expected to temper demand for all drafters.
How much does an architectural drafter make?
Architectural Drafter Salary
| Annual Salary | Weekly Pay | |
|---|---|---|
| Top Earners | $63,000 | $1,211 |
| 75th Percentile | $55,000 | $1,057 |
| Average | $48,115 | $925 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,000 | $769 |
What is the difference between a drafter and architect?
The difference is mainly in education and scope. Most drafters work for architects or as part of a construction company. An architect is the visionary behind the functional design of a home. Under their supervision, draftspersons translate that vision into technical blueprints that a construction company follows.