Applied Construction Technology
40 courses · College of the Desert · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026
ACT 020 Introduction to Construction Technology
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 36, Lab Hours: 54
- Advisory
- RDG 061 & MATH 060 or MATH 065.
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with in-depth analysis of the organization and structure of the construction industry and the many career choices the industry offers. The course emphasizes green construction practices, jobsite safety, practical knowledge of tool and equipment use, basic construction math, basic rigging techniques, and communication as well as employability skills. Guest speakers and site visits provide students a wide view of the expectations of entry-level work, wages, benefits, and work place culture. (Equivalent to CM 020.)
ACT 021 Site Preparation and Layout
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 9, Lab Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course provides the understanding and skills necessary to complete the initial stages of building construction. General topics include project site clearance, reading and implementing the information from the Precise Grading Plan, concept of cutting and filling, and site layout. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 022 Concrete & Formwork
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 9, Lab Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course introduces the significance of concrete as a building material. Topics include the properties of cement, composition of concrete, reinforcement materials, and the various types of forms needed for each particular footing. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 023 Framing Carpentry
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 162
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course provides the understanding of framing systems and the practical framing techniques used to construct the floor, walls, and roof of a simple structure. Topics include the fundamentals of wood, lumber, fasteners, adhesives, layout, assembly, bracing, sheathing, and truss identification. In addition to learning vocabulary associated with framing, students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 024 Roofing Applications
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 54
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course introduces the application of typical roof materials on different types of residential and light commercial structures. Safety procedures are emphasized as preparation for roofing application is demonstrated. Topics include roofing tools and proper roof ventilation. Some of the roof materials discussed include composite shingles, shakes, metal roofing, slate and tile, single ply roofing and foam application. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 025 Thermal & Moisture Protection
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 9, Lab Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course covers the fundamentals of thermal insulation and vapor barriers for building structures, including topics such as requirements and characteristics of certain insulation and waterproofing. Hands-on application and proper installation of these materials are demonstrated by certified installers.
ACT 026 Drywall Installation & Finish
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 9, Lab Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course introduces the proper installation, types of application and the various finishes applied on gypsum board. Some of the topics covered include the tools, fasteners and materials used in the covering of the framed interior of a building. Other topics include soundproofing, estimating and problems that occur in drywall finishes for both new and remodeling projects. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 027 Exterior Finish
- Units
- 1
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 9, Lab Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course covers the wide variety of siding materials used to finish the exterior of houses and some commercial buildings. Proper handling and installation for various materials such as wood, brick, vinyl, metal and stucco are demonstrated by industry professionals as well as by the students in a practical lab or actual project site.
ACT 028 Finish Carpentry
- Units
- 4
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 162
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course focuses on the variety of applications that occur within the interior of a building during the final stages nearing completion. Topics such as safety, door and window installation, door hardware, trims and molding, tools for installation, and cabinet installation are covered. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 029 Masonry Fundamentals
- Units
- 2
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 54
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course explores masonry and its history as one of the oldest trades and method of construction. In addition, basic materials, tools, and techniques used by masons are discussedand demonstrated along with safety precautions exercised around a jobsite. The many types of masonry units are covered as well as the important role of mortar, and the concept of modularity and layout of masonry units. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 030 Plumbing Fundamentals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 108
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course is an introduction to the mechanics of plumbing including the design, installation, and maintenance of drain, waste, and vent systems in buildings in addition to significant code and health issues, violations, and consequences related to those systems. Methods of measuring, cutting, and joining different materials and schedules of plastic and copper piping are covered along with the peripheral types of fittings and valves used in plumbing. Installation of water heaters, gas piping, and finish fixtures are also demonstrated. Safety procedures are emphasized as students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 031 Electrical Fundamentals
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- Lecture Hours: 18, Lab Hours: 108
- Prerequisite
- ACT 020 or CM 020.
This course is an introduction to residential wiring and grounding, and covers the installation of panels, switches, receptacles, lighting, and other outlets. In addition, load calculations are used to size the electrical service for dwellings. Safety procedures are emphasized as students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 095A Applied Construction Technology Work Experience
- Units
- 1-5
- Hours
- Lab Hours: 270
- Transfers to
- CSU
This work experience course of supervised employment provides students the opportunity to connect academics to applied experiential learning in the workplace. It assists students in developing transferable employability skills, career awareness, learning industry culture, competencies and norms, and developing professional networks that support career mobility. To enroll, students must have a job or internship placement in a part-time or full-time capacity. Credit may be accrued at the rate of one to five (1-5) units per semester based on the student's ability to meet the hours required per unit enrolled. Students must work 54 hours per unit earned. This Work Experience course is available to students whose job or internship placement is directly related to Applied Construction Technology.
ACT 320 Construction Safety
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 9
This course provides students with in-depth analysis of the organization and structure of the construction industry, a basic knowledge of construction safety issues and the practices and procedures required to ensure safety on the job site.
ACT 320A Construction Tools & Equipment
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
This course provides students with an overview of the construction industry; in-depth practical knowledge of tools and equipment used in the construction industry, basic rigging techniques, and communication. Guest speakers and site visits provide students a wide view of the expectations of entry-level work, wages, benefits, and work place culture.
ACT 320B Construction Math Concepts
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
This course provides students with basic construction math skills.
ACT 320C Construction Careers & Employability Skills
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 18
This course provides students with in-depth analysis of the organization and structure of the construction industry and the many career choices the industry offers. The course emphasizes communication as well as employability skills. Guest speakers and site visits provide students a wide view of the expectations of entry-level work, wages, benefits, and work place culture.
ACT 320D Construction & the Environment
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 9
This course emphasizes green construction practices and the impact of construction on the environment.
ACT 321 Site Preparation & Layout Essentials
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 9
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320A & ACT 320B.
This course provides the understanding and skills necessary to complete the initial stages of building construction. General topics include project site clearance, reading and implementing the information from the Precise Grading Plan, concept of cutting and filling, and site layout.
ACT 321A Site Preparation & Layout Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 321 or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides a practical lab or an actual project site where students apply the building construction site planning knowledge learned in ACT 321. General topics include project site clearance, reading and implementing the information from the Precise Grading Plan, concept of cutting and filling, and site layout.
ACT 322 Concrete & Formwork
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320.
This course introduces the significance of concrete as a building material. Topics include the properties of cement, composition of concrete, reinforcement materials, and the various types of forms needed for each particular footing. Students also participate in a practical lab or an actual project site.
ACT 323 Construction Framing Essentials
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 18
This course provides the understanding of framing systems and the practical framing techniques used to construct the floor, walls, and roof of a simple structure. Topics include the fundamentals of wood, lumber, fasteners, adhesives, layout, assembly, bracing, sheathing, and truss identification.
ACT 323A Construction Framing - Walls Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 24
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320A and ACT 323 or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides the practical lab required to demonstrate understanding of framing systems and the practical framing techniques used to construct the walls of a simple structure. Topics include the fundamentals of wood, lumber, fasteners, adhesives, layout, assembly, bracing, sheathing, and truss identification. Students will demonstrate appropriate use of tools and equipment and awareness of construction safety issues.
ACT 323B Construction Framing - Floors Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 24
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320A and ACT 323 or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides the practical lab required to demonstrate understanding of framing systems and the practical framing techniques used to construct the floor of a simple structure. Topics include the fundamentals of wood, lumber, fasteners, adhesives, layout, assembly, bracing, sheathing, and truss identification. Students will demonstrate appropriate use of tools and equipment and awareness of construction safety issues.
ACT 323C Const Framing - Ceilings & Roofs Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 24
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320A and ACT 323 or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides the practical lab required to demonstrate understanding of framing systems and the practical framing techniques used to construct the ceiling and roof of a simple structure. Topics include the fundamentals of wood, lumber, fasteners, adhesives, layout, assembly, bracing, sheathing, and truss identification. Students will demonstrate appropriate use of tools and equipment and awareness of construction safety issues.
ACT 324 Roofing Applications
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 18
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320.
This course introduces the application of typical roof materials on different types of residential and light commercial structures. Safety procedures are emphasized as preparation for roofing application is demonstrated. Topics include roofing tools and proper roof ventilation. Some of the roof materials discussed include composite shingles, shakes, metal roofing, slate and tile, single ply roofing and foam application. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 324A Roofing Applications Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 54
- Prerequisite
- ACT 324 or concurrent enrollment.
Practical lab to demonstrate the application of typical roof materials on different types of residential and light commercial structures. Safety procedures are emphasized as preparation for roofing application is demonstrated. Topics include roofing tools and proper roof ventilation. Some of the roof materials discussed include composite shingles, shakes, metal roofing, slate and tile, single-ply roofing and foam application. Students participate in a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 325 Thermal & Moisture Protection
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 or concurrent enrollment.
This course covers the fundamentals of thermal insulation and vapor barriers for building structures, including topics such as requirements and characteristics of certain insulation and waterproofing. Hands-on application and proper installation of these materials are demonstrated by certified installers.
ACT 326 Drywall Installation & Finish
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 or concurrent enrollment.
This course introduces the proper installation, types of application and the various finishes applied on gypsum board. Some of the topics covered include the tools, fasteners and materials used in the covering of the framed interior of a building. Other topics include soundproofing, estimating and problems that occur in drywall finishes for both new and remodeling projects. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 327 Exterior Finish
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 or concurrent enrollment.
This course covers the wide variety of siding materials used to finish the exterior of houses and some commercial buildings. Proper handling and installation for various materials such as wood, brick, vinyl, metal and stucco are demonstrated by industry professionals as well as by the students in a practical lab or actual project site.
ACT 328 Finish Carpentry Fundamentals
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 9
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 or concurrent enrollment.
This course focuses on the variety of applications that occur within the interior of a building during the final stages nearing completion. Topics such as safety, door and window installation, door hardware, trims and molding, tools for installation, and cabinet installation are covered. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 328A Finish Carpentry - Doors and Windows Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 & ACT 320B or concurrent enrollment.
Practical lab that focuses on safety, door and window installation, door and window trims and door and window hardware options. Students are introduced to a variety of options for materials tools and installation procedures and participate in a practical lab or on site project under the close supervision of a qualified instructor.
ACT 328B Finish Carpentry - Moldings and Trims Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 and ACT 320B or concurrent enrollment.
Practical lab that focuses on safety, molding and trim hardware, procedures and installation. Students are introduced to a variety of options for materials, tools and installation procedures and participate in a practical lab or on site project under the close supervision of a qualified instructor.
ACT 328C Finish Carpentry - Cabinets Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 27
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 and ACT 320B or concurrent enrollment.
Practical lab that focuses on safety, cabinet selection measurement, installation and trim. Students are introduced to a variety of options for materials, tools and installation procedures and participate in a practical lab or on site project under the close supervision of a qualified instructor.
ACT 329 Masonry Fundamentals
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 ACT 321 and ACT 321A or concurrent enrollment.
This course explores masonry and its history as one of the oldest trades and methods of construction. In addition, basic materials, tools, and techniques used by masons are discussed and demonstrated along with safety precautions exercised around a jobsite. The many types of masonry units are covered as well as the important role of mortar, and the concept of modularity and layout of masonry units. Students participate in Service Learning by way of a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 329A Masonry Fundamentals Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 36
- Prerequisite
- ACT 329 or concurrent enrollment.
This course provides lab practice for the use of masonry as a method of construction. Basic materials, tools, and techniques used by masons are discussed and demonstrated along with safety precautions exercised around a jobsite. The many types of masonry units are covered as well as the important role of mortar, and the concept of modularity and layout of masonry units. Students participate in a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 330 Plumbing Fundamentals
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 18
- Prerequisite
- ACT 320 ACT 321 and ACT 321A or concurrent enrollment.
This course is an introduction to the mechanics of plumbing including the design, installation, and maintenance of drain, waste, and vent systems in buildings in addition to significant code and health issues, violations, and consequences related to those systems. Methods of measuring, cutting, and joining different materials and schedules of plastic and copper piping are covered along with the peripheral types of fittings and valves used in plumbing. Installation of water heaters, gas piping, and finish fixtures are also demonstrated. Safety procedures are emphasized.
ACT 330A Plumbing Fundamentals Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 48
- Prerequisite
- ACT 330 or concurrent enrollment.
This course is a lab for demonstration of the skills learned in ACT 330 Plumbing Fundamentals. Students are introduced to the mechanics of plumbing including the design, installation, and maintenance of drain, waste, and vent systems in buildings in addition to significant code and health issues, violations, and consequences related to those systems. Methods of measuring, cutting, and joining different materials and schedules of plastic and copper piping are covered along with the peripheral types of fittings and valves used in plumbing. Installation of water heaters, gas piping, and finish fixtures are also demonstrated. Safety procedures are emphasized as students participate in a practical lab or an actual project site under close supervision of trade professionals.
ACT 331 Electrical Fundamentals
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 18
- Advisory
- ACT 320A.
This course is an introduction to residential wiring and grounding, and covers the installation of panels, switches, receptacles, lighting, and other outlets. In addition, load calculations are used to size the electrical service for dwellings. Safety procedures are emphasized.
ACT 331A Electrical Fundamentals Lab
- Units
- 0
- Hours
- Noncredit Hours: 48
- Prerequisite
- ACT 331 or concurrent enrollment.
Practical lab demonstrate understanding of the residential wiring and grounding, and covers the installation of panels, switches, receptacles, lighting, and other outlets. In addition, load calculations are used to size the electrical service for dwellings. Safety procedures are emphasized as students participate in lab and job site electrical installations.