Certificate Programs

Design Computing

Design Computing at the BAC encompasses a variety of technology and resources that can enhance your current capabilities, introduce you to a new program, and ultimately expand your options as a designer. A range of courses at the Boston Architectural College provides the opportunity to develop your skills in design computing. The BAC offers courses in the following programs:

  • ArchiCAD
  • AutoCAD
  • AutoDesk Revit
  • FormZ
  • Laser Assisted Model Making
  • Photoshop
  • Rhino
  • Sketchup
  • 3D Studio Max

Courses may be taken individually, or applied to the Design Computing Certificate Program.

Design Computing Certificate
The Certificate Program in Design Computing allows students to build expertise in computer-based design technologies, and learn skills relevant to the evolving trends of current day design practices. Graduates of this certificate are equipped with the latest software applications and knowledge for use in the design technology work environment. Through flexible course selections, students concentrate their education on one of the following areas of specialization:

  • [CAD] Computer-Aided Drafting & Design
  • [BIM] Building Information Modeling
  • [ADV] Architectural Design Visualization
  • [PH] Photography
  • [GIT] Graphic and Imaging Technologies
  • [PPD] Publication and Portfolio Design

[CAD] COMPUTER-AIDED DRAFTING & DESIGN

Minimum of 3 courses from the list below, and 2 courses from any other Design Computing area

AutoCAD I / 2D Drafting
Course Number: VS655
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and familiarity with drafting techniques.

This introductory course in computer-aided drafting presents the basic concepts and operation of AutoCAD. Hands-on instruction emphasizes two-dimensional computer-aided concepts and conventions and documentation production.

AutoCAD II / 2D Drafting
Course Number: VS656
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: AutoCAD level I course or equivalent work experience.

Intended for individuals who already have a basic knowledge of AutoCAD, this drafting-focused course builds office-oriented skills in 2D drafting and is intended to further develop the beginner's skills toward proficiency.

AutoCAD I / 3D Design
Course Number: VS755
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and familiarity with drafting techniques.

This introductory course in computer-aided design presents the basic concepts and operation of AutoCAD. Hands-on instruction emphasizes conceptual design development, three-dimensional design, and modeling.

AutoCAD II/3D Design
Course Number: VS657
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: AutoCAD level I course or equivalent work experience with permission of instructor.

This design-focused course will help students build on a basic knowledge of AutoCAD to develop computer-based, three-dimensional architectural models. All types of 3D modeling techniques, from wire frame through solids modeling, will be covered. Students will also learn techniques for organizing their drawings for optimal speed and rendering efficiency.

FormZ I: 3D Modeling and Rendering Version 6
Course Number: VS665
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Computer literacy.

This course introduces students to a modeling environment, explores the capabilities of designing in 3D, and covers the necessary aspects of rendering these creations through the design process.

Rhino I/ 3D Design
Course Number: VS635
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Working knowledge of two-dimensional AutoCAD commands and operations, as well as familiarity with the terminology associated with three-dimensional concepts and construction.

Rhino is among the most influential software to emerge in the community of academic and professional architectural practice. Due to its efficiency and economy of performance, it is currently in use by numerous design firms small and large. With roots in marine engineering, the target output is digital model construction. The relative strength of Rhino lies in its close command-line relationship with the AutoCAD interface widely in use in the architectural and design industry. This allows the flattened world of two-dimensional construction drawings to be realized in three-dimensional form. Utilizing a minimal number of guide poly-lines, students will construct digital models that range from relatively simple to complex. The mathematical concepts of lofting, sweeping, cutting, splitting, and Boolean operations will be addressed as well as methods of curve construction such as slicing, sectioning, and continuous contours.

SketchUp I / 3D Modeling & Illustration
Course Number: VS650
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer skills.

SketchUp is an easy-to-learn yet extraordinary tool for developing 3D models and illustrations, from the conceptual stages of simple designs to complex and sophisticated projects. The course will introduce the application and follow a project-based learning approach, focusing on 3D form creation, modification and communication.

Laser-Assisted Model Making
Course Number: VS270
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: CAD 2D or 3D, or equivalent experience.

Students will use the BAC's laser cutter facility to develop CAD-based layouts that can be cut or etched into materials such as mat board, Plexiglas, and wood. The laser cutter is accurate to 1/1000th inch; the course will emphasize using that accuracy to raise the standards and expectations for architectural models. Basic model-making techniques will be covered, and students will be encouraged to develop new techniques that explore the capabilities of the laser cutter.

[BIM]  BUILDING INFORMATION MODELING / COMPUTER-AIDED ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN

Choose 1 of the courses from the list below, 2 from CAD, and 2 from ADV

ArchiCAD / 2D and 3D Design Representation
Course Number: VS664
3.0 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer skills and familiarity with drafting techniques.

This course introduces the concept of Building Information Modeling (BIM) with ArchiCAD 10 at its core. From within the BIM framework, students will learn and master the use of building components, navigate through the actively linked views of the building (plans, sections, elevations, details, perspective views, renderings), compose a design presentation, and document a project for constructability/construction.

At the start of the course students will be challenged with modeling several complete building examples. Each project will emphasize, with increasing complexity, a BIM methodology for generating competent models for design explorations and for presentation. The course will culminate with the modeling and documentation of an approved project of the student’s choice.

Revit Architecture / 2D and 3D Representation
Course Number: VS630
3.0 Credits
Prerequisites: Freehand Drawing and basic computer literacy.

This course will offer an introduction to modeling, detailing, and documentation using Autodesk Revit. Students will be guided through a series of exercises and small projects that will cover the fundamental basics of parametric modeling from design through detailing and photorealistic rendering.

[ADV] ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN VISUALIZATION

Minimum of 3 courses from the list below, and 2 courses from any other Design Computing area

3ds max I / Modeling and Rendering
Course Number: VS658
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: CAD 2D or 3D, or equivalent experience.

This software system generates photo-realistic architectural renderings and simulated walk-throughs and is widely used for motion picture special effects. Techniques of lighting, creating atmospheric effects, placing cameras, choosing materials and material properties for photo-realistic rendering will be covered, as will aspects of model and camera motion.

3ds max II / Rendering and Animation
Course Number: VS659
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: 3ds max I/ Modeling and Rendering

This software system generates photo-realistic architectural renderings and simulated walk-throughs and is widely used for motion picture special effects. Techniques of lighting, creating atmospheric effects, placing cameras, choosing materials, and material properties for photo-realistic rendering will be covered, as will aspects of model and camera motion.

FormZ II/ Advanced Modeling and Rendering Version 6
Course Number: VS667
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: FormZ I.

This is a second-level course for individuals with a basic knowledge of formZ, picking up from where formZ I/3D Modeling and Rendering leaves off. The course will experiment with different features of the formZ modeling package for architectural design, and will present the more advanced topics for 3D modeling, lighting, texturing and rendering. The course will emphasize tips, tricks and techniques that help achieve high-quality models and representations.

SketchUp II / Documentation and Presentation Version 5
Course Number: VS651
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: SketchUp I.

This is a second-level course for individuals with a basic knowledge of SketchUp, picking up from where SketchUp I/3D Modeling and Illustration leaves off. The course will experiment with the more advanced features of the modeling package for architectural design, and will present more advanced topics including rendering, animation, and exporting to other software applications for presentation. The course will emphasize tips, tricks, and techniques that help achieve high-quality models and representations. Students are required to use their own work from studio or previous CAD classes as the project basis for their modeling and rendering assignments.

[PH]    PHOTOGRAPHY

Minimum of 3 courses from the list below, and 2 from any other Design Computing area

Architectural Photography
Course Number: VS679
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Digital Photography and experience in Photoshop.

This advanced photography course is intended for students who wish to develop their skills and understanding of the techniques and issues involved in photographing buildings and interiors. Lecture portions will introduce the work of various architectural photographers to build an understanding of the issues and complexities of photographing the built environment. Students will develop their photographic skills using conventional 35mm, 4x5, and digital cameras. Some class meetings will take place off-site for location shots.

Digital Photography
Course Number: VS677
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Computer literacy. Experience with traditional film cameras useful but not required.

This course introduces students to the use of digital cameras and Adobe Photoshop. Students will start with photography basics and then learn techniques of digital image acquisition and manipulation. Students will explore Adobe Photoshop as digital darkroom with the ability to manipulate and fine-tune images in much the same manner that one would do in a "wet" darkroom.

Intermediate Photography
Course Number: VS678
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Photoshop I.

Students will develop their photographic skills through a series of assignments executed in the field, in the darkroom and using computer software. Classroom instruction will be oriented toward development and critical review of composition skills and technique. Lecture and readings will introduce the fine art and history of photography. Some class sessions may meet at off-site facilities to be announced at the first class.

On-site Photography
Course Number: VS375
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Digital Photography or equivalent experience.

Students will explore photography in the field of design as a means of documenting, understanding and explaining the built environment. Projects may include photographing historic buildings, construction sites, and public and privates spaces, both interiors and exteriors. Some class meetings will involve field trips, and some local travel will be necessary to complete photography assignments.

[GIT]   GRAPHIC & IMAGING TECHNOLOGIES

Minimum of 2 courses from the list below, 2 from PPD, and 1 from any other Design Computing area

Photoshop: Digital Image Editing & Critique I
Course Number: VS129
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy.

This course is an introduction to digital image editing using Adobe Photoshop. Beginning with basic techniques such as using the toolbox, making and saving selections, retouching photos and applying color. The class will then move into layers, masks, copying and pasting, and digital montages. There will be a basic demonstration on scanning artwork, negatives and slides, and using digital cameras in the photo studio.

Photoshop: Digital Imaging Editing and Critique II
Course Number: VS139
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Photoshop I or equivalent experience.

Topics will include advanced methods of scanning, printing, manipulating images, using digital cameras and lighting, and importing and exporting images to and from Photoshop. Students will be encouraged to experiment technically and aesthetically.

Photoshop: Electronic Imaging for Designers
Course Number: VS149
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy.

This is an introductory course in Adobe Photoshop oriented toward the professional needs of architects and interior designers. Students will learn to use electronic image editing to improve photographs, create photomontages, and merge CAD and photographic elements to create architectural renderings. The course begins with basic techniques such as using the toolbox, making and saving selections, retouching photos, and applying color, then moves on to layers, masks, digital montages, and scanning.

[PPD]  PUBLICATION AND PORTFOLIO DESIGN

Minimum of 3 courses from the list below, and 2 from any other Design Computing area

Design and the Internet
Course Number: VS675
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Computer literacy. Modest exposure to Web browsing and email is useful, but not required. Students who have already created a website will probably not benefit from this course, and should instead take more advanced offerings.

Many new opportunities are emerging for web-literate designers, from web-based marketing and interactive portfolios to the creation of Internet-based virtual architectural environments. This course aims to bring designers up to speed on both the fundamentals and the unique design-related opportunities that are emerging. The course culminates with a term project in which students design a personal website.

Desktop Publishing
Course Number: VS127
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy.

This course introduces the fundamentals of using QuarkXPress in the publishing and graphic design industry. Students will learn how to integrate images created in applications such as Photoshop and Illustrator, and will explore graphic design and print production principles, scanning, and electronic file preparation.

Effective Web Design
Course Number: VS688
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Computer and Internet literacy.

Students will develop a fully functional, well-designed website that can be used to promote themselves or their businesses effectively through the medium of the Web. Students will incorporate current web design concepts, multimedia, and usability methodologies in producing websites that are aesthetically pleasing, easy to maintain, and meet the needs of the target audience.

Electronic Portfolio
Course Number: VS272
1.5 Credits
Prerequisites: Basic computer literacy. Familiarity with Photoshop or QuarkXPress is useful but not required.

Students will develop their editorial, production and design skills by creating their own portfolios on the computer. QuarkXPress, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator will be drawn upon to create a layout that shows off student work in creative and effective ways.

Five classes are required to complete the certificate: Students take a combination of required classes in their chosen Area of Specialization, plus electives from other areas. For specific requirements in each Area of Specialization, access a PDF of the Design Computing Curriculum under Related Links in the column to the right.

Basic computer skills are a requirement to begin the certificate. For the CAD area of specialization, students with no drafting background should take Orthogonal Drawing as a prerequisite. Consult the BAC Continuing Education Catalog or the online course schedule for detailed course descriptions, prerequisites and tuition information.

For more information, contact us at ce@the-bac.edu or use the Request Information link. For course availability for the current semester, use the CE Course Schedule link.