Portland Community College
community_college
Portland Community College

Portland Community College

Empowering Architectural Designers and Drafters for Residential and Small Commercial Buildings.

70 NW Couch St, Portland, OR 97209, USA

About Portland Community College

Portland Community College's Architectural Design and Drafting program offers the only two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree of its kind in Oregon. It provides comprehensive training in essential architectural design and drafting skills, with a focus on residential and small commercial building projects. The curriculum integrates computer-aided drafting (CAD) and 3D modeling using industry-standard software such as Revit and AutoCAD, alongside studies in building systems, construction codes, structural design, and traditional free-hand rendering. This project-oriented program is designed to prepare graduates for direct entry into the workforce, qualifying them for positions with architectural firms, engineering firms, and design/build companies. Students benefit from the guidance of experienced faculty with extensive industry backgrounds and access to classrooms equipped with professional-grade computers, printers, and scanners. While not a transfer program for a four-year architecture degree, it offers a robust foundation for a career in drafting and design. The program emphasizes problem-solving and detailed drawing, reflecting a deadline-driven studio culture.
Program NameDetails
Architectural Design and Drafting
Associate of Applied Science Degree

This program develops design and technical skills for the residential and commercial building design industry, offering career paths in design and drafting with various firms. Graduates can pursue jobs with residential designers, construction firms, interior designers, engineers, architects, architectural product manufacturers, city, county, state and federal drafting departments and corporate drafting departments.

2 years
English
Please consult PCC website for current tuition fees.
Deadline: Students can begin the program any term during the year.
Architectural Design and Drafting - Residential Option
Associate of Applied Science Degree

This program focuses on residential design, helping students develop the design and technical skills needed in the residential building design industry. Note: The Architectural Design and Drafting-Residential Option is not accepting students for 2025-2026.

2 years
English
Please consult PCC website for current tuition fees.
Deadline: Students can begin the program any term during the year.

Performance & Metrics

Institutional Stats
0
Students
0
Faculty
0
Alumni
2
Programs
Accreditations & Affiliations
Portland Community College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The Architectural Design and Drafting program itself is not accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as it is an Associate of Applied Science degree program and not a professional degree program (Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture) leading to architectural licensure.
Admissions
Deadlines
Students can begin the program any term during the year.
Requirements
No application process or prerequisites for introductory first-term classes. New students must take college placement exams for math, reading, and writing prior to program advising and registration.

Portland Community College Academic FAQ

Portland Community College is Empowering Architectural Designers and Drafters for Residential and Small Commercial Buildings.

Applicants are typically required to submit: No application process or prerequisites for introductory first-term classes. New students must take college placement exams for math, reading, and writing prior to program advising and registration..

Portland Community College provides a comprehensive curriculum including: Architectural Design and Drafting, Architectural Design and Drafting - Residential Option.

Portland Community College is situated in Portland, United States, offering a vibrant context for architectural study.

Yes, Portland Community College holds accreditations from: Portland Community College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. The Architectural Design and Drafting program itself is not accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) as it is an Associate of Applied Science degree program and not a professional degree program (Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or Doctor of Architecture) leading to architectural licensure..