Introduction
Program Overview
Design spaces that inspire how we live and work.
Northland’s Architectural Technology & Design A.A.S. program gives you the skills to start a career in architecture, construction, or industrial design—or transfer to a university with ease. Learn to draft blueprints, create 3D models, estimate costs, and collaborate with design teams. These hands-on skills apply across the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry.
Program at a glance
Degree Type: A.A.S.
Credits: 69
Est. Time to Complete: 2 years
Format: Face-to-face
Location: East Grand Forks
Laptop Requirement:
Optional
Discover What’s Possible
Build a better future.
High-demand opportunities with stability and growth potential; a career in the building trades sets you up for success in a field that is always in demand.
Northland Building Trades Programs
WHY CHOOSE NORTHLAND
Where Creativity Meets Career-Ready Training
Learn by doing—drafting blueprints, creating 3D models, and collaborating on real-world projects. Northland’s affordable program blends design innovation with technical expertise, preparing you for careers in architecture, construction, and industrial design or a seamless transfer to a four-year university.
Design-Focused, Career-Ready Training
- Prepare for careers across Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industries.
- Build technical and creative skills to contribute to real-world projects from day one.
- Graduate with confidence and capabilities for success in design and construction roles.
Modern Labs & Creative Spaces
- Work in updated design labs equipped with high-performance computers and large-format printers.
- Collaborate in team-focused workstations that foster creativity and innovation.
- Work in labs designed like real-world studios—so you’re job-ready from day one.
A Clear Path to a Bachelor’s Degree
- Includes Minnesota Transfer Curriculum courses for flexibility to continue your education.
- Seamless transfer options through articulation agreements with Dunwoody College of Technology and Minnesota State University Moorhead.
Career Outlook
Design Careers Are Growing Nationwide
The architecture and design industry is evolving rapidly, creating strong demand for creative problem-solvers who can shape spaces and experiences. Explore career paths, salary potential, and industry trends in this growing field.
Where Northland Grads Work
Northland graduates can work in diverse settings, including:
- Architectural Firms – Design buildings and create blueprints.
- Construction Companies – Support project planning, estimating, and on-site coordination.
- Lumberyards – Help clients design custom homes and renovations.
- Manufacturing – Help design parts, systems, and production layouts.
- Engineering Companies – Work alongside engineers to bring complex projects to life.
Career Paths & Specializations
Start as a drafter or technologist and grow into leadership roles. Common paths include:
- CAD Technician – Create detailed drawings used in building and manufacturing.
- Designer – Shape residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
- Drafter – Turn ideas into technical plans using software like AutoCAD and Revit.
- Estimator – Calculate costs and materials for construction and design projects.
- Revit Technician – Use advanced software to model projects in 3D.
- BIM Technician – Work with Building Information Modeling (BIM) to design more efficient structures.
Leadership roles such as project manager or design team lead are also attainable with experience.
Industry Outlook
Architectural technology and design careers offer stability with exciting opportunities driven by innovation and sustainability. Here’s what the future looks like for this field:
- Stable Employment: Architectural and civil drafter roles projected steady through 2032.
- Openings: About 16,200 jobs per year, mainly due to workforce replacement.
- Emerging Tech: Growth in BIM, 3D visualization, and sustainable design.
- Future-Ready Skills: Demand for digital and green building expertise.
Ready to get started?
Let’s talk about your future.
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Already a Northland Student?
Connect with your program advisor to plan your next semester, review your academic progress, or get help selecting the right courses.
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Start your future today.
Take the next step toward a smarter, more affordable future at Northland.
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