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Architectural Technology
Program Number: 106141
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 66 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: 100% In Person
Area of Study: Architecture and Engineering
Estimated Program Cost: $11,932.42
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Program Overview
As a student in Madison College's Architectural Technology program, you will:
- Develop the skills to enter the architectural field or transfer into a bachelor's degree program in architecture
- Build experience working with architectural engineering and construction teams to address challenges in the building industry
- Learn to draw, animate, draft, model, render and create architectural plans
- Train with the most current technical software, tools and methods
- Learn 2D and 3D software skills, including 3D modeling, animation and rendering
- Understand building materials, construction methods, building codes, site design and structural analysis
- Practice client relations, including cost estimation and presentation skills
- Learn architectural design history
- Develop plans, specifications, and assess compliance with regulations and codes
- Learn from instructors who work in the field
Program Details
Students in the Architectural Technology program can attend full or part time.
Architectural Technology program classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.
Careers in Architectural Technology
Madison Area Technical College Architectural Technology program graduates are prepared to work in:
- Architecture
- Structural Engineering
- Urban Planning
- Construction
- Landscape Design
- Interior Design
- Building Inspection
- Building Estimating
- Facilities Management
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Program Courses
Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester.
Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.
First Semester10-614-100Introduction to Architecture
This course is for any student wishing to better perceive and understand the built environment around them and the architecture profession’s influence on that. Through lectures, discussions, videos, and student projects, the course will provide an overview of the fundamental elements of architecture including design, history, terminology, sustainable design, urban design, and landscape architecture.3 credits10-614-121Construction Materials - Architectural Technology
Architects are expected to be thoughtful and skillful with material selection. This course will help the learner acquire a basic conceptual framework and vocabulary of the materials, assemblies, and tectonic systems of a building’s structure, enclosure, and interior by understanding their properties, manufacture, and application both in design and construction contexts.3 credits10-614-128Architectural Software 1
Architectural Software 1 introduces learners to basic architectural drawing conventions and construction documentation. Using the industry standard 2D AutoCAD drafting software, students create plans, sections, and elevations for simple design projects using proper orthographic projection drawing techniques.4 credits10-614-129Architectural Studio 1
Architectural Studio 1 introduces students to foundational architectural design - thinking, principles, and techniques. Through lectures, technology, and conceptual design projects, students will become familiar with the architectural design process, complex spatial design, brainstorming, architectural tectonics, and visualization.4 credits10-804-107College Mathematics
This course is designed to review and develop fundamental concepts of mathematics pertinent to the areas of: 1) arithmetic and algebra; 2) geometry and trigonometry; and 3) probability and statistics. Special emphasis is placed on problem solving, critical thinking and logical reasoning, making connections, and using calculators. Topics include performing arithmetic operations and simplifying algebraic expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities in one variable, solving proportions and incorporating percent applications, manipulating formulas, solving and graphing systems of linear equations and inequalities in two variables, finding areas and volumes of geometric figures, applying similar and congruent triangles, converting measurements within and between U.S. and metric systems, applying Pythagorean Theorem, solving right and oblique triangles, calculating probabilities, organizing data and interpreting charts, calculating central and spread measures, and summarizing and analyzing data.3 creditsSecond Semester10-614-106Architectural Building Codes
Emphasis is placed on the study of the commercial building code currently adopted by Wisconsin (International Building Code) and the parameters it places on the design of buildings. Learners will become familiar with using the code as a means of protecting the health, safety, and welfare of the public and will acquire a general knowledge of other codes and standards used in the design of commercial and residential architecture.3 credits10-614-131Architectural Professional Practice
This course will examine the organization and conduct of a design/construction practice and one’s place in it. Learners will investigate topics including seeking and gaining employment, laws of practice and licensure, project estimating, project delivery methods, contracts and legal issues, professional ethics, project manuals, and construction contract administration.3 credits10-614-127Architectural Software 2
Architectural Software 2 introduces students to Autodesk Revit, the leading BIM technology used in the architectural industry. Explore the BIM modeling concepts and learn various commands and techniques for creating 3D parametric BIM models that incorporate both architectural and structural components. Learn how to generate different views, such as site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules, and renderings. Course uses a tutorial-based approach, allowing students to learn the software step-by-step. Students design an architectural project using Revit and generate a design-development level construction document set.4 credits10-614-130Architectural Studio 2
This course continues development of students’ design thinking. Deliverables and graphics focus on proper production of architectural construction documents using AutoCAD and SketchUp. Students create, document, and present simple design projects as a framework to achieve outcomes.4 credits10-801-195Written Communication
Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.3 creditsThird Semester10-614-103Architectural Software 3
In Architectural Software 3, students will primarily use Revit to continue to develop proficiency in the skills and techniques introduced in Architectural Software 2. New concepts include: conceptual massing, family creation, parametric model design, scheduling, worksharing, and project management.3 credits10-614-109Architectural Building Structures
This class introduces the student to a variety of structural systems. The student will gain the basic knowledge to calculate the sizes of structural members including steel, wood, and masonry. This is a project-based course which mainly uses Revit and Sketchup. Students are expected to have basic experience with these softwares before beginning the class.3 credits10-614-123Architectural Studio 3
Learners will be introduced to design issues related to architectural systems as a determinant of form by engaging in design projects of varying length and complexity. Students will analyze and design structural and mechanical systems, as well as plumbing, electrical, and data systems, highlighting their impacts on building functionality, human occupation and comfort, sustainability, and spatial organization.4 credits10-614-154Site Design
This class introduces design issues of the site a building occupies including the importance of community and culture and how they inform the development of land. We will explore building massing and site analysis as they relate to the urban context; learn about vehicular and pedestrian circulation, zoning analysis, contour manipulation; and discuss basic plant material selections. Working in teams and giving in-class presentations is also emphasized.3 credits10-801-197Technical Reporting
Prepare and present written, oral, and visual communication products, including instructions, proposals, informal and formal reports. Produce clear, usable communication by incorporating information design principles, arranging content to satisfy diverse audience needs, and presenting visuals for various contexts. Designed as an advanced course to develop collaborative communication practices, information literacy skills, and ethically responsible professional communication strategies.3 creditsFourth Semester10-614-101Architectural Theory 1
A survey and examination of key underlying design tenets, theory, and philosophies Active participation is required in classroom dialogue addressing social, cultural, and behavioral factors of architectural design. Students create and present physical models to share their understanding of theoretical design principles.2 credits10-614-104Architectural Software 4
Architectural Software 4 focuses on interesting technologies that are relatively new to the profession of architecture. Such programs and technologies include Blender, Enscape, advanced rendering techniques, augmented reality, and virtual reality.3 credits10-614-107Architectural Building Detailing
This course provides an in-depth study of materials and building assemblies as it pertains to accepted practices in architectural detailing and design. Emphasis will be placed on detailing techniques commonly found in commercial construction. Topics included are masonry, steel, and concrete construction.3 credits10-614-145Architectural Studio 4
This course covers the basic skills used in the building design process. It is considered a capstone design studio which integrates skills gained in your first three semesters. We usually work with community-based organizations, which may include projects for various nonprofit organizations. The student is introduced to building, siting and massing, program analysis, building circulation, space flow diagrams, adjacency studies, and building context.4 credits10-809-172Introduction to Diversity Studies
This course introduces the study of diversity from a local to a global perspective using a holistic, interdisciplinary approach that encourages exploration and prepares students to work in a diverse environment. The course introduces basic diversity concepts, examines the impact of bias and power differentials among groups, explores the use of culturally responsive communication strategies, and compares forces that shape diversity in an international context.3 credits10-809-199Psychology of Human Relations
This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.3 credits -
How to Apply
Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College, or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and then complete the International Admission Process.
Apply Now – Limited Seats Available!
This program has limited capacity and may reach maximum enrollment quickly. Applying early gives you the best chance of securing a spot.
- Program capacity: 50 spots each Fall and 10 spots each Spring
- Estimated Wait Time: 0-1 semester
Submitting your application now ensures you're considered as soon as space becomes available. If the program reaches capacity, a waiting list will be used to manage additional qualified applicants.
Learn more in the After You Apply section on this page.
Application Dates
Spring 2027
- Application open
- Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027
Fall 2027
- Application available on October 15, 2026
- Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027
Admission Requirements
All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.
1. Admission Application
The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.
2. Education Completion
Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:
- High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
- GED/HSED completion
- College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
- Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
- At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
- The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
- Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
- Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript
All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.
3. Residency Requirement
Per Wisconsin Statute TCS-10 because this program has a limited capacity:
- Non-district state residents
- May only be considered after January 1 for the upcoming fall term
- *Minnesota residents are considered non-district state residents for admission purposes
- Out-of-state residents (except Minnesota residents*) are offered a place in the program after district and state residents, if there are still spots available. Acceptance into the program is on hold until a month before the semester begins to determine if there is space in the program. Out-of-state residents are not eligible for admission to a program that has a waiting list.
Additional Notes
Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a program or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the program.
Questions?
Contact the Enrollment Center at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
Get Started!
Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Architectural Technology career.
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After You Apply
This program uses a waiting list to manage program admission due to capacity limitations and high program demand. This means there are typically more applicants than there are open seats in the program.
A waiting list helps us manage applications in a way that is fair and transparent.
- Students on the waiting list receive priority in future terms based on the date they complete all application requirements.
- Priority does not guarantee a spot in the program.
- You may remain on the waiting list if you continue to follow the steps to notify Madison College of your continued interest.
Learn more about waiting lists and Admission to Programs with Limited Capacity.
Questions?
Contact Enrollment Services at enrollmentservices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.
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Transfer Opportunities
UW System Schools
This articulation agreement between UW-Milwaukee and Madison College allows the opportunity for Madison College students who have earned the Associate Degree in Architectural Technology with a minimum 2.50 GPA, to receive guaranteed admission and be awarded a minimum of 68 credits upon entry to University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and the Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and BS Architectural Studies (BSAS) at a junior level standing.The terms of the B.S in Leadership & Org Studies agreement are limited to students who complete selective A.A.S or A.A.A. degrees and are admitted to the Organizational Studies emphasis at UW-Oshkosh. Students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higherWisconsin Private Schools
Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.Completion of an A.A.S. Degree at Madison College after 2018, and meeting admission requirements for the Rader School of Business (RSOB) at the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) can earn a B.B.A degree in Technical Sales at MSOE.Out-of-State Schools
Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree. -
Career Outcomes
MATC Architectural Technology program graduates are prepared to:
- Demonstrate Computer Aided Design (CAD) skills using industry-standard software commensurate with an Architectural Engineering Construction (AEC) project
- Interpret construction drawings and specifications
- Demonstrate basic knowledge and understanding of building codes and their applications to ensure the health, safety and welfare of the building occupants
- Communicate technical/design information clearly and professionally to peers, supervisors and clients
- Draw commonly accepted architectural details and sections for various materials
- Apply math skills commensurate with performing basic design and structural calculations and material take offs
- Apply general computer skills: word processing, spreadsheets, file management and other programs as applied to architectural work
- Work as a team member by demonstrating good communication and listening skills, cooperation and providing a supportive environment
- Apply a working knowledge of structural, heating, plumbing, electrical and other mechanical systems within a building
- Communicate clearly and professionally in both written and oral communications to peers, supervisors and clients, using positive interpersonal skills including but not limited to, empathy, active listening and flexibility
- Demonstrate an understanding of sustainable building philosophy and an ability to apply a working knowledge of sustainable building considerations and techniques to an AEC project
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Graduate Summary
Graduate Report Summary Overview
2023 2024 2025 Number of Program Graduates 19 21 26 Number of Surveys Sent 19 21 26 Number of Surveys Returned 11 11 13 Percent of Surveys Returned Available for Employment 10 10 10 Percent Available for Employment 90.9% 90.9% 76.9% Not in Labor Market Percent Not in Labor Market 9.1% 9.1% 23.1% Available for Employment
2023 2024 2025 Graduates Employed 10 8 9 Percent of Graduates Employed 100.0% 80.0% 90.0% Employed in Related Occupation 9 7 8 Percent Employed in Related Occupation 90.0% 87.5% 88.9% Employed in Unrelated Occupation 1 1 1 Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation 10.0% 12.5% 11.1% Employed - No Response 0 0 0 Percent Employed - No Response 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Seeking Employment 0 2 1 Percent Seeking Employment 0.0% 20.0% 10.0% Reaction To Training at Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4) 3.6 3.7 3.6 Number of Satisfaction Responses 11 11 13 Very Satisfied (4) 7 8 9 Percent Very Satisfied 63.6% 72.7% 69.2% Satisfied (3) 4 3 3 Percent Satisfied 36.4% 27.3% 23.1% Unsatisfied (2) 0 0 1 Percent Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 7.7% Very Unsatisfied (1) Percent Very Unsatisfied 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Primary Reason for Attending Madison College
2023 2024 2025 Number of Primary Reason Responses 11 11 13 Preparation for Getting a Job 8 6 4 Percent Preparation for Getting a Job 72.7% 54.5% 30.8% Career Change 1 5 2 Percent Career Change 9.1% 45.5% 15.4% Improvement of Existing Skills 0 0 1 Percent Improvement of Existing Skills 0.0% 0.0% 7.7% Preparation for Further Education 2 0 2 Percent Preparation for Further Education 18.2% 0.0% 15.4% Personal Interest 0 0 4 Percent Personal Interest 0.0% 0.0% 30.8% Other 0 0 0 Percent Other 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% When Employment was Obtained
2023 2024 2025 Number of When Employment Obtained Responses 10 8 9 Before Enrollment 0 0 0 Percent Before Enrollment 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% While Attending the College 8 2 4 Percent While Attending the College 80.0% 25.0% 44.4% After Training at the College 2 6 5 Percent After Training at the College 20.0% 75.0% 55.6% Location of Employment (related and unrelated)
2023 2024 2025 Number of Employment Location Responses 10 8 9 In College District 6 7 6 Percent In College District 60.0% 87.5% 66.7% In Wisconsin, Not in District 3 1 3 Percent of In Wisconsin 30.0% 12.5% 33.3% Outside of Wisconsin 1 0 0 Percent Outside Wisconsin 10.0% 0.0% 0.0% Employer Location Unknown 0 0 0 Percent Location Unknown 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% Salary Trend 2023 2024 2025 Full Time Employment (Related Job) Full Time Salary Count 7 5 7 Average Monthly Wage $4,412 $4,448 $4,298 Average Hourly Wage $25.65 $25.86 $24.99 Average Work Hours per Week 40.4 40.0 44.3 Part Time Employment (Related Job) Part Time Salary Count 1 1 1 Average Hourly Wage $22.00 $24.00 $26.25 Average Work Hours per Week 17.0 30.0 32.0 -
Graduate Employers
Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025 Employer(s) Job Title City* State** Positions Coyle Carpets One Kitchen & Bath Designer Dashiell Corp CAD Technician Fitchburg Design Engineers Electrical Technician Middleton Drexel Building Supply Residential Designer Columbus Jewell Homes Residential Designer Muskego Knotte & Bruce Architects Associate Architect Middleton Nickles Electric Coordinator Strand Associates Inc CAD Technician Milwaukee * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.
** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.
*** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu