Learn Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) and 3D Building Information Modelling (BIM) tools and techniques used in the mechanical processes for mining, energy, chemical processing, and fabrication as well as building systems and commercial development.
What you will learn
Upon successful completion of this program, graduates will be able to:
- Use drawing techniques to complete projects in orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning, auxiliary view, and machine detailing.
- Apply concepts in orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning, auxiliary view, and machine detailing.
- Employ Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) and three-dimensional (3D) modelling systems skills to produce drawings from data, designs, and/or specifications.
- Demonstrate an understanding of drafting and 3D modeling skills and conventions.
- Develop drafting, 3D Building Information Modeling (BIM) and related trade skills and knowledge.
- Apply critical thinking, team building, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Apply concepts of building construction and technology to plan and detail commercial and industrial facilities in accordance with local by-laws and the BC Building Code.
- Utilize concepts of mechanical and process technology and planning to produce drawings and 3D models of industrial facilities.
Employ mechanical engineering theories and BIM practices to prepare engineering drawings from 3D model that incorporate mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems in building structures.- Prepare a comprehensive professional portfolio.
- Perform job search skills such as preparing a résumé and cover letter.
What to expect
This course uses project based learning strategies with instructional presentations and laboratory work using current CAD and 3D BIM software used in the Mechanical engineering discipline (e.g. Autodesk Revit MEP, AutoCAD, Plant 3D and Inventor software). Students may be required to do assignments at home and lab work outside class time on both theory and individual projects. The program may be offered in face-to-face and blended (combination of face-to-face and online) formats.
Admission requirements
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level or CLB/CLBPT Listening 8, Speaking 7, Reading 8, and Writing 7
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Workplace Mathematics 11 or equivalent, or
- VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 60% Basic Algebra
Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the department after an in-person interview.
- Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into term 2.
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate graduates (granted within the last 4 years) may apply for direct entry into term 2.
For assistance with meeting the entrance requirements, please contact Advising Services to schedule an appointment with an Advisor.
Program-specific
- Grade 12 graduation or equivalent
- English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level or CLB/CLBPT Listening 8, Speaking 7, Reading 8, and Writing 7
- Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
- Workplace Mathematics 11 or equivalent, or
- VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 60% Basic Algebra
Notes:
- Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the department after an in-person interview.
- Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate graduates (granted within the last 4 years) may insert into level 2 of the program.
General
- This program is available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. See program options for international students at VCC International.
- Applicants who self-identify as Indigenous are strongly encouraged to connect with VCC’s Indigenous Education and Community Engagement team to learn more about VCC’s Indigenous Enrolment policy, application preparation/completion, program advising, and a range of other individualized services.
- Applicants must be 16 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school. (Some exceptions may apply.)
- Applicants must submit official transcripts and other documents as required by their course or program. Seats are offered to eligible applicants with completed applications, in order of application completion date (except for programs with competitive admissions). A complete application includes an application form, evidence of educational pre-requisites (e.g. transcripts), any required supporting documents (e.g. language proficiency, audition video), and the required deposit or fee payment. If you do not meet the requirements for the term applied, your application may be cancelled.
Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.
Recommended Characteristics
- Related work experience
- Excellent communication skills.
- Working knowledge of Windows OS is strongly recommended.
- Good mechanical comprehension.
- Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
- Good hand-eye coordination, ability to look at computer screen for long periods of time, to complete seated work for long periods of time, and manual dexterity for keyboard/mouse.
- Successful work habits and an ability to work well with others.
- Logical reasoning, spatial ability, and an ability to visualize objects.
- An interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, general construction and related fields.
Courses
*Program general hours
This program is offered full time during the day (approximately 3 days a week from 7:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.). Days and times are subject to change.
Prior learning assessment and recognition
Students may request formal recognition of prior learning attained through informal education, work, or other life experience, including Indigenous ways of knowing. Credits may be granted to students who are able to sufficiently demonstrate the learning outcomes of specific courses.
PLAR is available for the following courses:
- DRFT 1010 CAD Drafting Fundamentals
- DRFT 1011 CAD Drafting Applied
- DRFT 1013 Construction Mathematic
Students may complete up to 20% of program credits through PLAR. Tuition and fees may still apply to PLAR candidates.
Methods of PLAR vary by course, and may include exams, portfolios, interviews, and other evaluations.
To request PLAR, please contact the department directly. See the D.3.5 Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition Policy and Procedures for more information.
| Term One | Credits | |
|---|---|---|
| DRFT 1010 | CAD Drafting Fundamentals | 4 |
| DRFT 1011 | CAD Drafting Applied | 3 |
| DRFT 1012 | Office & Construct Site Safety | 1 |
| DRFT 1013 | Construction Mathematics | 1 |
| Credits | 9 | |
| Term Two | ||
| DRFT 1256 | Plumbing Systems for Buildings | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1257 | Electrical Systems for Buildings | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1258 | Utility Data and Setting-Up Projects | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1259 | HVAC Systems for Buildings | 3.0 |
| DRFT 1260 | Fire Suppression and Sprinkler Systems for Buildings | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1261 | Process Flow Diagrams and Tank/Pump Box Fabrication | 2.0 |
| DRFT 1262 | Pipe Components: Pipe, Fittings, Valves, Supports and Pumps | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1263 | Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams & Specifications | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1264 | Plant and Equipment Layout | 2.0 |
| DRFT 1265 | Process and Utility Piping Layout | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1266 | Piping Fabrication Isometrics | 1.0 |
| Credits | 15 | |
| Term Three | ||
| DRFT 1370 | Technical Communications | 1 |
| DRFT 1332 | Professional Preparation | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1362 | BIM Basic for Mechanical | 2.0 |
| DRFT 1363 | BIM Project for MEP | 2.0 |
| DRFT 1364 | MEP for Pipe Fabrication | 3.0 |
| DRFT 1365 | Piping BIM Project & Specification Setup | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1366 | 3D BIM Pipe, Structure, and Equipment Modeling | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1367 | 3D BIM Creating Orthographics, Isometrics, and Bills of Material | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1394 | Industrial Building Modeling | 2.0 |
| DRFT 1395 | Mechanical Equipment Modeling and Layout | 1.0 |
| DRFT 1396 | Piping Systems Modeling and Layout | 1.0 |
| Credits | 16 | |
| Total Credits | 40 | |
* This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.
Fees and other costs
*This program has additional equipment or technical requirements
| Fee description | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | 36 | |
| Tuition Tuition | 6797 |
Tuition Breakdown
1530 - Term 1
2549 - Term 2
2719 - Term 3
0 - Term 4
|
| Student union | 192 | |
| College initiative | 114 | |
| Materials | 0 | not including textbooks |
| Campus resource | 136 | |
| Laundry | 0 | |
| Tools (deposit) | 0 | |
| Coverall (deposit) | 0 | |
| Uniform (deposit) | 0 | |
| Medical & Dental | 275 | |
| U-PASS | 442 | |
| Graduation | 45 | |
| Program-specific extra fees | 0 | |
| Total |
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* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a $300 non-refundable deposit.
Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.
Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.
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TO APPLY FOR THE MECHANICAL ENGINEERING TECHNICIAN CERTIFICATE:
If you want to take the Mechanical Engineering Technician Certificate, go to EducationPlannerBC and apply for the Mechanical Engineering Technician Diploma. Once you have successfully completed term 3, you may request to exit the program and obtain a certificate.
TO REQUEST ADVANCED ENTRY INTO TERM 2:
You may be considered for advanced entry into term 2 if you have completed one of the following:
- VCC CAD Technician Short Certificate (granted within the last 4 years)
- Drafting 11 and 12 in high school (with Departmental approval)
Please submit the final transcript from your high school program to the Registrar's Office at ro@vcc.ca to be considered for advanced entry to term 2.
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