Rapid advances in technology have increased public expectations of their communities and the buildings constructed in them. Buildings are expected to be designed and constructed to rigorous standards of workmanship and safety while at the same time incorporating all the features that contribute to speed of erection, financial efficiency and user satisfaction. High public expectations and the dynamic nature of the industry present both a challenge and an opportunity, attractive criteria for any career. The Program Architectural and Building Technology is a comprehensive, two-year diploma program with a focus on applied learning. It combines sound theoretical knowledge with practical skills and technical training to provide job-ready competencies for immediate application upon entering the workforce. Students learn from industry-based faculty, develop extensive practical skills for rewarding careers, and graduate with an industry recognized credential in the design, development, construction, and building science sectors. Many employers seek out graduates from this program to join their companies. Students follow a fixed curriculum of common courses that includes lectures and practical applications in construction drawing, materials and methods, estimating techniques, building systems, and computer applications. Organized field trips and 'hands-on' workshops form part of the curriculum and attendance is required. Students are often able to further their education through summer jobs with architects, engineers, developers, and contractors.

Graduates of Architectural and Building Technology perform many tasks of a technological nature as part of the interdisciplinary team of professionals and tradespeople involved in the building design, construction, and management processes. Graduates have the advantage of understanding buildings from several perspectives: the architectural and structural elements; the mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems; the feasibility implications and the contractual and managerial processes. Architectural and Building Technology graduates have the following attributes. They: * Possess up-to-date skills and knowledge * Possess good organizational and time management skills * Demonstrate good work attitudes * Are qualified to perform many technical and professional tasks * Are able to work independently or cooperatively on a team * Are prepared for the multi-tasking required in the performance of a complex job Graduates may begin careers in some of the following areas of the industry: * Design and architectural firms * Building consulting * Project or construction management * Development or property management * Field engineering specialists * Specification writing * Inspections and testing * Estimating and quantity surveying * Building envelope consulting * Municipal planning and permitting departments * Provincial and federal agencies, including BC Housing Authority * Design-Build * Technical representatives for product suppliers and manufacturers * Specialty code consulting * Contractors and sub-contractors * Physical plants and facilities management departments for corporations and the educational and health sectors Apply for graduation In order to be eligible for graduation, students must complete the diploma program requirements: 1. Within five years of the start of the program for students who enter the program in first year, or 2. Within three years of the start of second year for students who enter the program directly into second year. Students who do not complete the diploma program requirements within the specified time period will be required to re-apply to the BCIT Admissions department for permission to complete the diploma program. BCIT cannot guarantee that courses taken prior to this re-application will be credited towards the current diploma.