Residential Design Certificate

This state-recognized curriculum credential introduces students to sustainable design concepts and strategies for anyone interested in residential design. Students will develop an understanding of the built environment and how building science and sustainability are incorporated into design considerations for high-performance buildings and energy efficiency.

Specific Requirements

Courses requiring a grade of “C” or better: ARC, BPR, CST, DFT, and SST

Semester 1
Semester 2

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
ARC-112		4
This course introduces construction materials and their methodologies. Topics include construction terminology, materials and their properties, manufacturing processes, construction techniques, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to detail construction assemblies and identify construction materials and properties. View course details for Construction Materials and Methods ‌‌
BPR-130		3
This course covers the interpretation of prints and specifications that are associated with design and construction projects. Topics include interpretation of documents for foundations, floor plans, elevations, and related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to read and interpret construction prints and documents. View course details for Print Reading-Construction ‌‌
CST-150		3
This course introduces concepts and techniques for the design and interaction of the mechanical systems of high-performance buildings. Topics include building envelope, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), indoor air quality, lighting, plumbing and electrical. Upon completion, students should be able to understand building system's interaction and performance. View course details for Building Science ‌‌

Course Code	Course	Credit Hours	Link to course details
DFT-151		3
This course introduces CAD software as a drawing tool. Topics include drawing, editing, file management, and plotting. Upon completion, students should be able to produce and plot a CAD drawing. View course details for CAD I ‌‌
SST-140		3
This course is designed to introduce the student to sustainable building design and construction principles and practices. Topics include sustainable building rating systems and certifications, energy efficiency, indoor environmental quality, sustainable building materials and water use. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the principles and practices of sustainable building design and construction. View course details for Green Bldg & Design Concepts ‌‌

Total Credit Hours Required:

Curriculum is based on the 2024-2025 catalog.

Alumni with this credential could apply for work in an architect firm or residential design business, or a construction job site as a carpenter. Students looking for more in-depth architectural drafting & design should also consider pairing with the Architecture/BIM Certificate in the Computer-Aided Drafting programs at A-B Tech.

CAD Drafter's average compensation in Asheville, NC is $23/hour.

We partner with local industry & sustainability advocate groups which provides our students & alumni great opportunities for networking and employment with business members.