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 provides first-year students with the core skills required for architectural communication. The focus on drafting fundamentals and drawing coordination builds the technical foundation necessary for subsequent documentation courses. Producing a coordinated set of working drawings for a single-family residence allows students to apply these principles in a practical, industry-aligned format.
AETE 1024 - Drawing Production
This course introduces foundational skills and standards required for architectural drawing and communication. The course includes standards for drawing techniques, including orthographic and isometric sketching, and the principles of scaled representation. The course also focuses on industry-standard architectural documentation, exploring drawing conventions, symbology, annotation practices, and the development of coordinated drawing packages.
AETE 1026 - Engineering Mechanics and Statics
Students explore the fundamental principles of engineering mechanics with a focus on vectors, statics, and force systems. The course covers topics such as vector operations, equilibrium, axial loading, truss analysis, and shear force and bending moment calculations. Students apply mathematical and analytical methods to solve structural problems commonly encountered in engineering and construction. This course aligns with industry standards to prepare students for advanced engineering design studies.
AETE 1028 - Mathematics I
Students build a strong foundation in the mathematical principles used to solve technical problems, including algebra, geometry, trigonometry, vectors, and systems of equations. The course introduces operations with exponents, radicals, fractions, units, logarithms, and scientific notation, along with methods for solving quadratic, exponential, and trigonometric applications. Students apply these skills to technical scenarios by working with right and oblique triangles, vector components, linear systems, and equations involving ratio, proportion, and variation. This training supports the mathematical competencies required for success in technical and applied fields.
AETE 1032 - Building Science I
This course introduces the principles of building science as they apply to light wood-frame construction. Emphasis is placed on understanding how buildings perform as integrated systems, with careful attention to energy efficiency, moisture management, thermal performance, and durability. Students will examine how materials, assemblies, and detailing choices influence overall building performance and occupant comfort and explore key residential construction components including foundations, framing systems, building envelopes, insulation and air barriers, vapour control, roofing systems, and interior/exterior finishes. The course will highlight best practices for detailing to reduce building failures, improve resilience, and support sustainable design.
AETE 1033 - Building Science II
This course builds on foundational building science principles with a deeper exploration of how building enclosures perform as integrated systems. Topics include the behaviour of heat, air, and moisture in more advanced assemblies with an emphasis on identifying performance issues and designing durable and efficient solutions.
AETE 1036 - Mechanics of Materials
Students learn the principles of material mechanics and structural analysis, focusing on properties of sections and load behavior. The course covers concepts such as center of gravity, centroid, moment of inertia, section modulus, polar moment of inertia, and radius of gyration for various shapes and composite bodies. Students also calculate simple and flexural stresses, strains, and deformations in wood, steel, and concrete, applying Hooke’s Law and related material properties. The course aligns with the National Building Code of Canada for determining building loads and load transfer within structural systems.
AETE 1040 - Surveying and Civil Drawings
Students learn the fundamental skills of construction surveying by using measuring tapes, automatic levels, and rods to collect accurate field data in both imperial and metric units. The course covers setting up and testing surveying instruments, determining elevations, producing contour plans, profiles, and cross-sections, and performing calculations based on real-world site conditions. Students also complete closed loop surveys and closed angle traverses, record field notes to industry standards, and adjust survey data to meet geometric and accuracy requirements. This training reflects current surveying practices used in construction planning, site assessment, and field documentation.
AETE 3014 - Architecture II
This course focuses on the structural planning and layout of small commercial buildings, emphasizing the building envelope and its components. Students will apply principles from Part 3 of the National Building Code (NBC) to develop working drawings that reflect structural considerations, material selection, and building assembly. The course prepares students to produce technically accurate drawings that support construction and building performance.
AETE 3017 - Architecture III
Students advance the development of a small commercial building project with an emphasis on technical coordination and construction documentation. The course focuses on integrating structural systems, building envelope assemblies, and code compliance into a complete set of working drawings. Students refine building sections and details, address renovation challenges, and apply technical judgment to ensure documentation meets professional and regulatory standards.
AETE 3020 - Architectural Estimating
Students learn to calculate material quantity takeoffs for construction projects using architectural drawings and digital models. The course introduces the use of estimating databases to assign material, labour, and equipment costs, as well as spreadsheet tools for producing detailed direct-cost estimates. Students also calculate work durations and develop construction schedules to create Gantt charts. This training aligns with industry practices for preparing accurate cost estimates and project schedules that support effective design and construction planning.
AETE 3022 - Contract Administration
Students examine the principles and practices of contract administration in commercial construction. The course reviews project delivery methods, the tendering process, and the roles and responsibilities throughout project execution. Emphasis is placed on professional obligations, communication protocols, and decision-making from contract award to closeout. Students work with key documents such as addenda, change orders, site instructions, progress reports, and payment certifications to understand how effective contract administration ensures successful and compliant projects.
AETE 3024 - Specification Writing
Construction drawings are not complete without building specifications. Specifications are a key part of the documentation package. This course teaches you how to write specifications for building applications. You learn to use MasterFormat Divisions for architectural and structural components and write specifications for construction materials and installation based on established standards. Throughout the course, you practice writing clear, concise specifications following Construction Specifications Institute/Construction Specifications Canada (CSI/CSC) guidelines.
AETE 3026 - Sustainability Practices
Students learn to evaluate the environmental impacts of building components by developing comparative life cycle assessments (LCAs) and reviewing sustainability documentation from manufacturers. The course introduces methods for sourcing and interpreting Environmental Product Declarations, Health Product Declarations, and sustainability data to support informed material selection. Students apply these skills by calculating recycled, rapidly renewable, and regionally sourced material contributions, demonstrating compliance with recognized building sustainability rating systems, and preparing visuals and reports for client-focused presentations. This training reflects current industry practices in sustainable design, building performance evaluation, and evidence-based material decision-making.
AETE 3028 - Mechanical Services
Students develop foundational skills in fluid behavior, mechanical system design, and the interpretation of technical documentation used in building systems. The course introduces core concepts such as fluid properties, load calculations, system sizing, manufacturer data analysis, and the function of major mechanical services in residential and commercial construction. Students apply these concepts through practical tasks, including fluid-based calculations and the production of coordinated mechanical drawings suitable for construction documentation. Training aligns with current industry practices, codes, and manufacturer standards relevant to mechanical building systems.
AETE 3040 - Electrical Services
Students learn to interpret the graphic symbols, terminology, and documentation used in electrical design and construction. The course introduces core concepts in electrical services, lighting design, power distribution, manufacturer data interpretation, renewable energy systems, and the regulatory frameworks that guide electrical installations. Students apply these concepts by analyzing lighting and power requirements, developing coordinated electrical layouts, and producing clear construction-ready drawings for commercial projects. Training aligns with the National Building Code (NBC), Canadian Electrical Code (CEC), National Energy Code of Canada for Buildings (NECB), Illuminating Engineering Society (IES), and relevant sustainability frameworks such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED).
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
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of Building Information Modeling (BIM) using industry-standard software. Students learn to create and modify basic building components such as walls, floors, roofs, doors, and windows, and work with software tools and commands. The course covers developing 3D components with dynamic data and creating elements that can be viewed in both 2D and 3D perspectives. Content aligns with current practices and standards in architectural design and construction technology.
BIMT 1020 - Building Modelling Software II
This course introduces students to advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) techniques for residential and commercial design. Students apply BIM tools and commands to create and modify 2D and 3D models, including foundations, floors, walls, doors, windows, and roofs. The course also covers modeling detail lines, views, legends, schedules, annotations, and grids to meet industry expectations. Content aligns with current architectural and construction standards for design documentation and modeling practices.
BIMT 3010 - Building Modelling Software III
Students build on foundational Building Information Modeling (BIM) software knowledge to support the development and coordination of commercial building information models within a collaborative project environment. Students apply advanced Revit workflows to manage shared, cloud-based models, integrate linked external models, and support ongoing architectural design development. Emphasis is placed on model organization, coordination, and documentation practices that align with professional BIM standards and interdisciplinary collaboration.
BIMT 3020 - Building Modelling Software IV
This course advances students’ use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) through focused exploration of advanced Revit tools and workflows. Emphasis is placed on custom content creation, model refinement, phasing strategies, and advanced visualization techniques. Students apply BIM methods to analyze, enhance, and communicate building information through parametric families, detailed model development, and high-quality visual outputs. The course gives students the tools to align their learning with professional BIM practices for managing complexity, change, and presentation in advanced design contexts.
CADD 1010 - Computer Aided Drafting I
Students learn the foundational tools and workflows of computer-aided drafting to create accurate 2D drawings using industry-standard software. The course introduces methods for constructing and editing geometry, applying precision tools, and organizing drawing information through layers, blocks, properties, and templates. Students also prepare professional-quality drawings by adding annotation, managing layouts and viewports, and configuring plot settings to industry standards. This training supports the development of clear, accurate, and well-formatted digital drawings used across architectural, engineering, and construction fields.
CADD 1020 - Computer Aided Drafting II
Students learn to create professional residential construction drawings using computer-aided drafting software that meets industry standards and course guidelines. The course covers the development and revision of Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) drawings, the creation of reusable content such as templates, layers, annotation styles, and dynamic blocks, and the organization of architectural information for efficient workflow. Students also learn to publish drawings electronically by preparing layouts, using sheet set tools, and producing multi-page PDFs. This training aligns with industry expectations for accurate, well-organized, and digitally delivered architectural documentation.
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.
ENGI 1002 - Structural Design I
Students learn the principles of structural systems and material design for steel, concrete, and wood construction. The course covers load determination, tributary areas, and application of building codes, including Limit States Design and the National Building Code of Canada. Students develop skills in selecting structural elements, performing basic design calculations, and applying material properties to ensure safe and efficient construction. Emphasis is placed on practical design solutions for beams, columns, decks, and joists in commercial and residential projects.
ENGI 1005 - Structural Design II
Students develop skills in structural layout and design for steel, concrete, and wood systems using accepted engineering principles and Canadian design standards. The course emphasizes creating CAD drawings for framing plans, foundations, and structural details based on architectural plans for multi-storey buildings. Students perform load analysis and design calculations in accordance with CSA S16.1 (Steel Structures), CSA A23.3 (Concrete Structures), and CSA O86 (Wood Design), preparing detailed design briefs and drawings for beams, columns, footings, and connections. This course aligns with industry standards to prepare students for professional practice in structural design and documentation.
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 1019 - Safety and Sustainability Basics
This course provides an overview of your rights and responsibilities as a student, as well as those in the workplace under the NS Occupational Health and Safety Act. Topics such as duties and precautions, accident reporting, as well as personal and campus safety and sustainability initiatives will be explored.
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.
