Form dictates function. Loyalist students gain an understanding of how physical space can influence behaviour, and the role of architecture in culture. The program combines lab work, classroom instruction, and major building projects in a studio setting. Students work independently and in teams to plan new construction and renovation projects. Graduates have extensive knowledge of construction materials and building codes; computer-assisted drafting (CAD) and 3-D modelling; and effective oral, written and graphic communication skills. Independent design projects give students the opportunity to exercise creativity and analytical skills. Students determine a structure’s physical needs, and design solutions that creatively address the use of space, costs, construction methods, zoning and the environment. Then they bring their concepts to life, creating a 3-D scale model of their designs. In their graduating year, Technology students use 3-D modelling software to design a public facility in a local community. This comprehensive project ranges from preliminary studies to schematics, landscape and interior design, cost estimates and written specifications, construction detailing, and production of a technical report. Students also submit a presentation to an advisory committee comprised of faculty and industry leaders. A one-month placement provides practical work experience. Many students graduate into a job.

Architectural Technicians and Technologists are designers and project managers in architectural and consulting firms, working with architects, interior designers, engineers, landscape architects and urban planners. They also work as project coordinators and estimators in construction firms, as technical and sales representatives for manufacturers, and as municipal zoning and building plans examiners and inspectors. Entrepreneurship skills also prepare graduates for self-employment. Graduates of the two-year program meet the academic requirements established by the Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists (OACETT) for professional certification as Certified Technicians (C.Tech.) – graduates of the three-year program meet requirements for Applied Science Technologists (A.Sc.T.) or Certified Engineering Technologists (C.E.T.) certification. Graduates certified as an OACETT A.Sc.T. or C.E.T. may join the Ontario Association for Applied Architectural Sciences (OAAAS) and pursue qualification as a member of the Ontario Association of Architects as a Licensed Technologist OAA.