Architecture - Construction Engineering Technology
(Optional Co-op)

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Courses - September 2025

Level 1

Course details

Principles of Architectural Graphics and Design
ARCH1100

Description:

This course introduces the student to the architectural graphic conventions employed in the production of design and construction drawings and discusses the student's role of the Designer in society. It leads the student through the process of understanding construction drawings, design problem solving, effective development and communication of a design idea, and recognition the built environment has on society. As a vehicle of learning, various drawing exercises as well as a small scale residential oriented architectural design problem will be the focus.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Building Information Modeling I
ARCH1185

Description: In this course the student will be introduced to the concept of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and will use BIM software to create an intelligent 3 Dimensional Information Model of a multi-storey building.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Statics
CIVL1080

Description: This course applies the mathematics of trigonometry and vectors to the analysis of statically determinant building structures. Students utilize Newtonian physics and the mechanics of rigid bodies to develop the concepts of static equilibrium and the free body diagram. These are used to analyze two-dimensional structural building elements, and their connections. The structural elements are idealized as simple beams, frames, cantilevered beams and trusses carrying point, uniformly distributed and linearly varying loads.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Conestoga 101
CON0101

Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities.
  • Hours: 1
  • Credits: 0
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Construction Materials I
CONS1860

Description:

The course is an introduction to some of the basic materials and techniques that are used in the construction of buildings. There is also a strong construction site safety component. Students will learn about earthworks, concrete, masonry & steel and will be introduced to foundation and shoring systems, beams, columns, and floor systems.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Mathematics I
MATH1085

Description: This course provides an extensive review and reinforces some of the topics taken by students in high school. Its purpose is to ensure that the student has a fluent background in algebra and trigonometry in order to succeed in subsequent work in engineering technology. The material covered includes fundamental arithmetic and algebraic operations, geometry, trigonometry, vectors, and the solution of systems of linear equations by algebraic methods. This course helps students to develop essential employability skills by using examples and problems relating to the engineering technology field.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Surveying I
SURV1020

Description: This course introduces the student to land surveying as it applies to the building construction industry. Student teams learn to use the surveyor's level, transit and tape to measure field conditions. Teams record this data then take this information and produce drawings of profiles, contours and boundary surveys. The Total Station Survey instrument is introduced.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 2

Course details

Construction Drawings (Residential)
ARCH2035

Description:

In this course the student is introduced to light wood frame construction by exploring construction techniques for a single family residential house. Each student will produce a partial set of Construction Drawings for a single family house from a specific presentation design provided.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1100 AND ARCH1185
  • CoRequisites:

Building Information Modeling II
ARCH2105

Description: This course builds on the concepts learned in Building Information Modeling I by developing a 3 Dimensional Information Model that will be used to create construction documents, as well as coordinate the multiple disciplines involved in industrial, commercial and institutional projects. The student will also explore the use of visualization software to create photo-realistic presentation graphics of the building model.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1185
  • CoRequisites:

Co-op and Career Preparation
CEPR1020

Description: This series of modules will prepare students for job searching for their co-op work terms with the guidance of a Coop Advisor. Students will familiarize themselves with the co-operative education policies and procedures and will learn the expectations, rules, and regulations that apply in the workplace regarding social, organizational, ethical, and safety issues while developing an awareness of self-reflective practices. Students will reflect on their skills, attitudes, and expectations and examine available opportunities in the workplace. Successful completion of these modules is a requirement for co-op eligibility.
  • Hours: 14
  • Credits: 1
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Mechanics of Materials
CIVL2135

Description:

This course introduces the concept of mechanical stress and strain in materials. Students utilize the theory of mechanics to determine the stress and strain caused by load, failure capacities and deformations of axially loaded structural elements and bending members. The mechanical behaviour of materials, material failure mechanisms and structural stability are explored with consideration of Limit States Design.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CIVL1080 OR CIVL1110 OR PHYS1041
  • CoRequisites:

Building Code I
CODE1130

Description:

This course introduces students to the Laws and Regulations governing the construction of buildings in Ontario. Students will explore the legal requirements contained in the Building Code Act as well as the intent, organization, and application of the Ontario Building Code. Emphasis is given to the roles and responsibilities of design and construction professionals as well as understanding the building permit process (application requirements, plan review and site inspections). The course will also introduce students to the technical construction and energy efficiency requirements in the Ontario Building Code for new houses (Parts 9 and 12 of Division B). Students will become competent in the use and application of the Ontario Building Code by analyzing house drawings for code compliance.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

College Reading & Writing Skills
COMM1085

Description: This course introduces students to the reading, writing, and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse a variety of texts and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising to produce writing that meets the expectations of selected audiences and purposes. The course prepares students for college-level writing tasks, research, and documentation by asking them to produce clear, informed, and purposeful documents relevant to both academic and professional contexts.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Construction Materials II
CONS1870

Description:

The course is a continuation of Construction Materials 1. Students will continue to be introduced to basic materials and more advanced techniques that are used in the construction of buildings. The focus is on advanced footing systems, concrete, structural steel, masonry, wall cladding, low slope roofing, openings, fire & sound separations.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Mathematics II (Construction)
MATH1140

Description: This course is a continuation of Mathematics 1. Students study a variety of algebraic techniques for solving problems in architecture and construction applications. It includes the following topics: ratio and variation, equations of straight and curved lines, methods for area calculations, polar coordinates, properties of geometric sections found in the construction industry, measures of central tendency and the use and creation of Excel spreadsheets.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 3

Course details

Co-op Work Term I (Construction)
COOP1070

Description: This co-op work term will provide students with college-approved work experience in an authentic, professionally relevant work environment. Students will be provided the opportunity to connect theory and practice by leveraging their academic training to develop a broad base of vocational skills. The practical applications of this work term will promote students’ awareness of key concepts and terminology in their field, cultivate their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, encourage their development of professional autonomy and collaboration, and enhance their capacity to analyze and reflect on their demonstrated abilities in the workplace.
  • Hours: 420
  • Credits: 14
  • Pre-Requisites: CDEV1020 OR CEPR1020
  • CoRequisites:

Level 4

Course details

Construction Drawings (Small Commercial)
ARCH1030

Description: In this course, the student expands their knowledge of Construction Drawings by exploring construction techniques for small commercial structures. Emphasis is placed on detailing specific building elements and building systems as they relate to masonry construction. A partial set of Construction Drawings is prepared for a small commercial building.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH2030 OR ARCH2035
  • CoRequisites:

Architectural Design I
ARCH2040

Description: This course requires the student to develop a design solution for a small industrial/commercial building incorporating sustainable and responsible design practices. It takes the student through the various stages of the design process in order to gain an understanding for the complexities of developing a project on a specific site, to suit a detailed and specific set of owner requirements, and to meet defined construction and cost constraints. The student must research, analyze and bring together the major building components into a coordinated and complete set of design drawings, renderings, and a virtual or physical model.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1100 AND ARCH1185
  • CoRequisites: ARCH1030

Structural Design (Steel)
CIVL2200

Description: This course explores the use of structural steel in building framing. Students calculate the structural capacities of steel components. Students apply the principles of economical framing to design framing and prepare framing drawings.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CIVL1080 OR CIVL1110 AND CIVL2130 OR CIVL2135
  • CoRequisites:

Building Code II
CODE2050

Description:

This course focuses on the technical construction and energy efficiency requirements in the Ontario Building Code for new small commercial buildings (Parts 9 and 12 of Division B). Students will be introduced to principles of fire and life safety commonly incorporated into single and multi-use commercial buildings. Emphasis is given to passive fire protection, spatial separation, egress and exiting in buildings. This course will also introduce students to mezzanine, health/washroom, and barrier-free requirements that are applicable to both small and large buildings. Students will become competent in the use and application of the Ontario Building Code by analyzing small commercial drawings for code compliance.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Building Science
CONS1175

Description:

This course explores concepts in physics utilized in the construction industry and introduces the student into the field of Building Sciences. The student is further introduced to specific studies of the building enclosure, psychrometrics, heat transfer, fire, and sound and building science . These topics form the basis for later technical study in the program. Emphasis is placed on integrating the knowledge of physical scientific concepts with their application to practical construction problems and to applicable building code requirements.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Building Services I
CONS2040

Description: This course introduces residential plumbing systems, including water heaters and water treatment. Students complete the design of a water supply and DWV system for a single-storey residential home. Heat loss and heat gain calculations for residential buildings are conducted for sizing of heating/cooling equipment and HRAI (Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute) certification for Residential Heat Gain/Loss may be attained. Septic system design requirements and procedures are studied and sample layouts completed in compliance with Part 8 of the Ontario Building Code.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Estimating I
CONS2050

Description: This course introduces the students to cost estimating as it relates to the building construction industry. The students are introduced to the estimating profession. Estimating fundamentals and skills are gained through completing various detailed quantity take-off’s of a residential building.
  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Level 5

Course details

Construction Drawings (Multi-Use)
ARCH2050

Description:

This course is designed to familiarize the student with the nature of light industrial construction utilizing a structural steel skeleton with an insulated steel wall assembly. The student will take the design developed in the Architectural Design I course and develop the building systems and details required to construct the building on a specific site. The student will organize this information and present it in clear and concise manner in the form of a set of construction drawings.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1030 AND ARCH2040
  • CoRequisites:

Building Information Modeling III
ARCH2120

Description:

This course will enhance the student’s knowledge of Building Information Modeling by introducing more advanced modeling techniques including the creation and management of component families, advanced schedules, shared parameters, and solid modeling. In addition, the student will explore the design and placement of mechanical and electrical systems in a 3-dimensional building model.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1185
  • CoRequisites:

Structural Design (Concrete)
CIVL2190

Description: This course explores the materials and construction practices utilized by the concrete construction industry. The student is introduced to the principles of structural design of plain and reinforced concrete elements including footings, foundation walls and piers, slabs and beams. The student learns accepted practice and the code requirements of concrete materials, mix design, and construction methods and procedures. The preparation of shop drawings and bar lists is discussed.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CIVL1080 OR CIVL1110 AND CIVL2130 OR CIVL2135
  • CoRequisites:

Building Code III
CODE2060

Description:

This course focuses on the technical construction and energy efficiency requirements in the Ontario Building Code for new large commercial and multi-residential buildings (Parts 3 and 12 of Division B). Students will be introduced to the unique and challenging fire and life safety concerns found in larger, taller, and more complex buildings. Emphasis is given to advanced active fire protection systems such as fire alarms, automatic sprinkler systems, standpipe systems, and smoke control systems. This course will also introduce students to the technical requirements for a change of use or renovation in an existing building (Parts 10 and 11 of Division B). Students will become competent in the use and application of the Ontario Building Code by analyzing large multi-residential drawings and renovation drawings for code compliance.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: CODE2050
  • CoRequisites:

Building Services II
CONS2030

Description: This course examines HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) systems for residential and small commercial buildings. Principles of air movement are introduced and used to design efficient duct systems for heating, cooling and ventilation. The effect of building design, orientation, shading, etc. on the overall systems is analyzed. Certification for HRAI (Heating, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Institute) – Air System Design (Residential) and ASHRAE student membership may be attained. Mechanical equipment such as high efficiency furnaces, air conditioners and domestic water heaters is also studied.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CONS2040
  • CoRequisites:

Estimating II
CONS3020

Description:

This course builds upon skills learned in Estimating I.

The student will participate as a team member, while using Bluebeam and Excel software to complete a detailed cost estimate for masonry and rough carpentry work, relevant to a commercial building project.

Students will apply pricing for material, labour & equipment, specific to masonry and rough carpentry work product.

Students will learn to manipulate units of material pricing and to develop labour unit pricing.

  • Hours: 28
  • Credits: 2
  • Pre-Requisites: CONS2050
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 6

Course details

Co-op Work Term II (Construction)
COOP2060

Description: This co-op work term will provide students with college-approved work experience in an authentic, professionally relevant work environment. Students will be provided the opportunity to connect theory and practice by leveraging their academic training to develop a broad base of vocational skills. The practical applications of this work term will promote students’ awareness of key concepts and terminology in their field, cultivate their problem-solving and decision-making capabilities, encourage their development of professional autonomy and collaboration, and enhance their capacity to analyze and reflect on their demonstrated abilities in the workplace.
  • Hours: 420
  • Credits: 14
  • Pre-Requisites: CDEV1020 OR CEPR1020
  • CoRequisites:

Level 7

Course details

Construction Drawings (Detailing and Analysis)
ARCH3020

Description: In this course, the student will analyze and develop details for a series of critical issues related to design development & construction documentation.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH2050
  • CoRequisites:

Architectural Team Design
ARCH3035

Description: The student participates in a team to develop a Design/Build proposal for a multi-storey building. The project is taken through the stages of research, analysis and synthesis to develop a rational, coordinated and complete design solution incorporating green and sustainable initiatives suitable for this building type. Professional quality drawings and renderings, together with detailed and sound justification and analysis, will be developed to represent the design solution which will subsequently be presented in a public forum.
  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH1185 AND ARCH2040 AND ARCH2050
  • CoRequisites: ARCH3020

Building Performance Studies
ARCH3050

Description: This course presents a comprehensive study of the building enclosure and its reaction to the Environment in the Canadian climate. Further concepts in moisture, heat and air management are explored. A technical report is prepared on a typical building envelope problem(s), which identifies the causes, provides a technical analysis and makes practical recommendations for repairs. Findings of the report are also presented in-class.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CONS1170 OR CONS1175
  • CoRequisites:

Estimating III
CONS3035

Description: This course will see the student work in a team, in competition with other student teams from the program, to prepare and close a competitive bid for a medium sized construction project. The teams will work under simulated bid closing conditions. This course includes a thorough review of the project tender documents, contractor bonding, insurance requirements, project scheduling and resulting costs and premiums. Students will be introduced to the roles of project manager and site-superintendent and how they are interlinked with the estimator. The estimating, project manager and site superintendent professions will be promoted. Students will learn and prepare a preliminary estimate for a commercial building.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CONS3020
  • CoRequisites:

Building Services III
CONS3040

Description:

This course initially introduces the students to Site Servicing and how the building is serviced. Students will examine Building Systems such as water supply, DWV (drain/waste/Vent) components and design fundamentals using Part 7 of the Ontario Building Code. Requirements and calculations for storm water drainage is also analyzed. Plumbing Design considerations and sample designs are carried out for commercial buildings. Elevator systems are introduced in the context of options available.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CONS2030
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical Design I
ELEC3105

Description:

This course initially investigates electrical power from generation to utilization (building systems). The student is introduced to the basics of electrical theory and its laws such as, Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Laws. Practical applications of this theory are applied to conductors, resistors (loads), series circuits, parallel circuits and series-parallel circuits. A basic familiarization of the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC) is practised. Students will calculate service sizing for residential and non-residential buildings and occupancies. Various applications of conductors, cables, conduits and raceways are discussed relative to pertinent code rules. Grounding and bonding requirements are discussed with respect to safety and the CEC. Students will complete an electrical design package (power distribution and general power) for a commercial building.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Level 8

Course details

Team Project Documentation
ARCH3045

Description:

In this course the student works as part of a team to develop a set of construction documents for a project designed in Architectural Team Design. The student must cooperate in the production of Architectural and Structural construction drawings as well as engineering notes and an outline specification for the project.

  • Hours: 56
  • Credits: 4
  • Pre-Requisites: ARCH3020 AND ARCH3030 OR ARCH3035
  • CoRequisites:

Building Environment Design
ARCH3070

Description:

HVAC systems and associated design principles are applied to the building industry, with special attention to sustainable development strategies. Large central station air-conditioning systems and their individual components are examined with respect to suitability, performance and related energy criteria, including air stream mixing for dehumidification, cooling and ventilation. Hot water heating systems (hydronic) are analyzed and designs completed for typical buildings. Geothermal heat pumps and closed-loop, water source commercial heat pump systems are designed for specific building applications along with representative capital and operating costs.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Structural Design (Wood)
CIVL2150

Description: This course introduces the student to wood building technology. Utilizing the CSA wood design code, students proceed to design timber structural members including stud walls, beams, columns and trusses.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: CIVL1080 OR CIVL1110 AND CIVL2130 OR CIVL2135
  • CoRequisites:

Contracts And Specifications
CONS2020

Description:

This is an introduction to contract law and a detailed analysis of the function of written specifications as part of contract documents. Students will gain experience using project specifications to extract and record construction information.

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Construction Management
CONS3050

Description:

This course introduces students to the separate roles of Construction Management. Students will examine the roles and responsibilities of a Construction Manager, Site Superintendent & Estimator. Topics will include planning, scheduling, budgeting, and control of construction projects. Soft skills related to effective leadership, communication and negotiation will be emphasized. Students will examine the Occupational Health & Safety Act and Regulation 213/91 Construction Projects

  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites:
  • CoRequisites:

Electrical Design II
ELEC3110

Description: This course builds on the knowledge gained in Electrical Design 1. The student is introduced to the concept of Alternating Current (AC) in single phase and 3 phase connections. Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Laws are applied to AC circuits containing resistance, inductance and capacitance. Power factor and its correction are discussed and calculated. The basic theory of transformers, motors and other common electrical devices is investigated and applied to the Canadian Electrical Code (CEC). The basics of designing a complete electrical system including Fire alarm/Exiting for a commercial building are discussed relative to the CEC. The student applies this knowledge when designing the electrical system for a commercial building. The course then investigates lighting systems, lighting sources in exterior and interior applications. An emphasis is placed on lighting levels and quality of light.
  • Hours: 42
  • Credits: 3
  • Pre-Requisites: ELEC3100 OR ELEC3105
  • CoRequisites: ARCH3040 OR ARCH3045
Electives: General Education
Student must pass 1 Course(s), selected in the Student Portal from available course options

Program outcomes

  1. Develop and use strategies to enhance professional growth and ongoing learning in the construction engineering field.
  2. Comply with workplace health and safety practices and procedures in accordance with current legislation and regulations.
  3. Complete duties and assist in monitoring that work is performed in compliance with contractual obligations, applicable laws, standards, bylaws, codes and ethical practices in the construction engineering field.
  4. Promote and carry out sustainability practices in accordance with contract documents, industry standards and environmental legislative requirements.
  5. Facilitate the collaboration and interaction among project stakeholders to support construction engineering projects.
  6. Collect, process, analyze and coordinate technical data to produce written and graphical project-related documents.
  7. Coordinate and facilitate the collecting, processing, interpreting and application of survey/geomatics and layout information to implement construction projects.
  8. Select and use industry-specific electronic and digital technologies to support the design and construction of projects.
  9. Analyze and solve technical problems related to the design and implementation of construction projects by applying engineering concepts, technical, mathematics and building science.
  10. Schedule, coordinate and monitor the progression of construction projects by applying principles of construction project management.
  11. Prepare estimates of time, cost, quality and quantity, tenders and bids.
  12. Perform, coordinate and facilitate quality control testing and monitoring of equipment, materials and methods involved in the implementation and

    completion of construction projects.

  13. Apply teamwork, leadership, supervision and interpersonal skills when working individually or within multidisciplinary teams to complete work on construction projects.