Courses may include
These are some of the courses offered in this program. It is not a complete list and courses are subject to change in advance of the academic year.
Recognizing prior learning / transfer credits
If you have previous learning (course, employment, etc...) that's relevant to your program, you may be able to apply to earn credit. Not all programs are eligible. Learn about our recognizing prior learning (RPL) process.
AETE 1021 - Architecture I
This course introduces housing design in Nova Scotia and the principles of architectural representation. These principles are used to create construction drawings for a single-family residences.
AETE 1022 - Specification Writing and Contracts
This course introduces the many aspects of specification writing for residential and commercial building applications.
AETE 3014 - Architecture II
This course deals with the initial stages of planning and designing a small commercial building using standard presentation methods for the production of the working drawings. It will cover material related to the use of part 3 of the National Building Code, in the preparation of working drawings for a small commercial building design.
AETE 3015 - Architectural Estimating I
This course is intended to establish a strong foundation in general estimating techniques for residential construction with an emphasis on component identification and mathematical problem solving.
AETE 3017 - Architecture III
This course deals with the continuation of a commercial design project. Topics covered will include detailed drawing requirements for a typical set of commercial construction documents. Drawing standards and Information enabling the completion of the drawings for the commercial design project started in the previous semester. These requirements may include assessment of existing structures with respect to renovation challenges. Work will include a combination of individual and group work.
AETE 3018 - Architectural Estimating II
This course examines the fundamentals of commercial estimating and how the prices of materials are determined. Factors affecting labour productivity, equipment costs, crew rates and scheduling will be examined.
AETE 3100 - Work Experience
The work experience component provides the learner with an opportunity to apply new skills and concepts appropriate for entry-level positions within the occupation. Learners will assess their own performance and be evaluated by an industry partner. Learners will identify personal outcomes they wish to attain during the work experience and will keep a journal.
BIMT 1010 - Building Modelling Software I
The course is an introduction to building information modelling software from basic design through construction documentation. Students are introduced to the concepts of Building Information Modelling and the tools for parametric building design and Documentation.
BIMT 3010 - Building Modelling Software II
This course continues the basics of using building information modelling software. Students continue with the concepts of Building Information Modelling and the tools for parametric building design and documentation.
BIMT 3020 - Building Modelling Software III
This course continues the exploration of building information modelling as it relates to structure and site massing studies, space planning and analysis, visualization concepts such as rendering, solar studies and walkthroughs.
CADD 1010 - Computer Aided Drafting I
In this introduction to computer-aided drafting, students gain knowledge in the use of principles of computer-aided drafting software. The primary emphasis is industry-standard computer-aided drafting software. Hardware used in the computer-aided drafting environment is introduced and utilized.
CADD 1020 - Computer Aided Drafting II
This course continues the introduction to architectural drafting using industry standard software with an emphasis on applied project work. The learner takes the concepts covered in design courses and applies them to a set of residential working drawings.
CADD 3015 - Computer Aided Drafting III
This course advances the student in the production of drawings using computer drafting software. It is an introduction to advanced concepts. Learners expand their knowledge of the functions of computer-aided drafting software while applying the techniques to a term-long project.
CADD 3025 - Computer Aided Drafting IV
Learners will advance their learning using the latest version of Computer Aided Drafting software, and focus on finer drafting techniques.
CMTG 1021 - Construction Materials I
This course is designed to introduce the learner to the art of building and renovating. The course will examine the use of a variety of building materials and how they are used in conjunction with one another to perform as a complete building system. Several complete building systems will be discussed to cover such information as their historical development, a review of how the material is obtained and processed, an outline of the people and organizations that work with the material, a description of the tools and working methods, and a discussion of the role of various systems in relation to alternative systems. Learners will also be introduced to a variety of construction equipment used in the industry. The focus of this semester is on wood, light frame wood construction techniques, the exterior and interior finishes for wood light frame construction, masonry, and steel frame construction.
CMTG 1022 - Construction Practices
This course will introduce the basics of concrete technology including materials, tools and working methods, discuss the construction industry and introduce the concepts of construction project management and scheduling. Municipal zoning bylaws will also be examined.
CMTG 1023 - Construction Materials II
This course introduces the art of building and renovating. The course will examine the use of a variety of building materials and how they are used in conjunction with one another to perform as a complete building system. Several complete building systems will be discussed to cover such information as their historical development, a review of how the material is obtained and processed, an outline of the people and organizations that work with the material, a description of the tools and working methods, and a discussion of the role of various systems in relation to alternative systems. There is also an introduction to a variety of construction equipment used in the industry. The focus of this course is on concrete construction, including sitecast and precast concrete framing systems, roofing, glass and glazing, cladding, and selection of interior finishes including walls, partitions, ceilings and floors.
COMM 1245 - Technical Communications I
This course introduces students to the writing, oral presentation, critical thinking and interpersonal communications skills required of technical professionals in the workplace. The fundamentals of clear, concise writing and presenting will be reviewed and refined. Experience will be gained in organizing, writing and presenting technical information. In addition, career development skills and portfolio preparation will be discussed. There will be several opportunities, through assignments and lab work, to develop portfolio components. Students will learn how to collect appropriate work samples and documentation from other courses in the program as well as from other sources.
COMM 2245 - Technical Communications II
This course focuses on the interpersonal, written and oral technical communication skills necessary for working independently and as part of a team in a technical environment. Further skill development in written forms of technical documentation required for the workplace as well as report creation and oral presentation skills will continue to be emphasized. Team building principles, group dynamics and collaborative writing will be discussed. Students will participate in meetings and take responsibilities in a group project from its inception to completion and evaluation. Students will continue to enhance and apply their research skills and project management principles will also be introduced. Successful job interviews and the portfolio will be discussed.
DRAF 1001 - Introductory Drafting
This course will introduce the learner to the equipment, techniques and principles of modern drafting. The focus is on orthographic 2D representation and includes freehand sketching, isometric and oblique drawing.
ENGI 1002 - Structural Design I
This course teaches typical layouts, loadings and material properties associated with structural systems. Basic structural design principles will be introduced in the areas of structural steel, reinforced concrete and timber.
ENGI 1003 - Electrical Services I
This course provides the learner with the basic understanding of electrical terminology, systems and services used in the construction industry. Introduced in the course are studies of systems for electrical residential distribution, wiring practices currently used in buildings being constructed.
ENGI 1004 - Mechanical Services I
This course, will introduce the learner to the mechanical service sector as it relates to the overall construction industry. The course is designed to give broad and current coverage of indoor environmental control. Learners who successfully complete Mechanical Services I will analyze and evaluate psychrometric processes; calculate heating and cooling loads; and describe and size basic heating piping, ducting and equipment.
ENGI 1005 - Structural Design II
This course continues to focus on typical layouts and design associated with structural systems. The course will expand on learning in the areas of structural steel, reinforced concrete and timber design. Learners will prepare the structural design and drawings for a two-storey commercial building.
ENGI 1006 - Electrical Services II
This course, provides the learner with the basic understanding of electrical terminology, systems and services used in the construction industry. Introduced in the course are studies of systems for lighting, electrical distribution, wiring devices, alarm systems, control systems, and other electrical systems currently used in buildings being constructed. Lighting and emergency systems will be evaluated against national and international energy efficiency standards.
ENGI 1007 - Mechanical Services II
This course will introduce the learner to the mechanical service sector as it relates to the overall construction industry. The course is designed to give broad and current coverage of air conditioning, plumbing and fire protection. Learners who successfully complete Mechanical Services II will identify materials, equipment and designs used for air distribution, heating, cooling, plumbing, and fire protection.
ENGI 1009 - Strengths of Materials
This course covers the basics of strength of materials as required for structural design courses. Topics include simple stress, deformation and strain, centre of gravity, properties of sections, and building loads.
ENGI 1014 - Physics
This is an introductory course in physics for building science. Topics include technical measurements and vectors, translational equilibrium and friction, and application of work, energy and power.
ENGI 1115 - Engineering Problems and Statics (A)
This is a single semester course covering the basic rules and laws of statics, forces, force systems, loading and load effects.
MATH 1014 - Technical Mathematics I
This course is intended to establish or enhance a strong mathematical background with an emphasis on problem solving. (Course equivalent to MATH 1046 (College Mathematics I)).
MATH 1015 - Technical Mathematics II
This course is intended to establish or enhance a strong mathematical background with an emphasis on problem solving. (Course equivalent to MATH 1047 (College Mathematics II)).
SAFE 1000 - Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
This course offers learners basic overview of WHMIS principles and establishes a solid foundation to support workplace-specific training on the safe storage and handling of controlled/hazardous products. Upon successful completion of the course, students receive basic WHMIS certification.
SAFE 1001 - Introduction to NS OH&S Act
This course offers students an introduction to the Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) Act of Nova Scotia, which is required by any person employed in a Nova Scotia workplace. This is a generic, introductory course that provides basic knowledge of the Act for students and is considered to be the basis from which more specific training can be given.
SAFE 1020 - Safety Basics – Restricted Spaces
The learner is introduced to the basic requirements and procedures involved with working in restricted spaces. The definition and potential hazards of restricted spaces are discussed The course material is infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.
SAFE 1021 - Safety Basics – Hazard Identification
The learners are introduced to the types of hazards encountered in workplaces and the approach that should be followed when recommending and implementing appropriate controls. Two key elements of Hazard Identification are addressed: Hazard Assessment and Inspection. The Nova Scotia Occupational Health and Safety Act is discussed. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.
SAFE 1022 - Safety Basics – Working at Heights
The student is introduced to hazards and responsibilities concerned with working at heights in the workplace. Guardrails, travel restraints, roof work, fall arrest components will be discussed. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.
SAFE 1023 - Safety Basics – Lock-out Tag Out
Lock-out Tag Out introduces students to the hazards related to energized systems and procedures to ensure worker safety. Related legislation and risk management is discussed and the student is exposed to the various types of lock-out devices. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.
SAFE 1024 - Safety Basics – Respiratory Protection
This course introduces students to the potential of atmospheric hazards in the workplace and the available personal protection and control methods to maintain a safe work environment. Discussion topics include identification and testing for atmospheric hazards and workplace respiratory programs. The course material is to be infused throughout the curriculum and may be delivered in the classroom, shop or other opportunity as designed and developed by the instructor.
SURV 1001 - Surveying
This course prepares the learner to layout and control civil and building projects using surveying equipment. Learners will also be prepared to use techniques and perform the calculations associated with surveying operations.
