Architecture
18 courses · Palomar College · 2026-2027 Catalog
Classes: Fall 2026 · Spring 2027
ARCH 105 Basic Architectural Drafting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
An introduction to architectural hand drafting and sketching including graphic delineation, lettering, construction theory, construction details, and building codes as related to the development of working drawings for residential design.
ARCH 120 Architectural History
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
An overview of the architectural history of Egyptian, Mesopotamia, Aegean and Greek, Roman and Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic, and the Renaissance and Baroque periods. Pictorial representation and visual studies of these structures will be taught through sketching and student presentation.
ARCH 121 Multicultural Architectural History
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A comparative study of the architecture of cultures outside the Western main-stream including Pre-Columbian America, India and Southeast Asia, China and Japan, Russia and Eastern Europe; and the Moslem Empires. Special emphasis on the cultural forces and conditions which shaped and evolved the architecture. Pictorial representation and visual studies of these structures will be taught through sketching and student presentation.
ARCH 122 History of Architectural Theory
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 3.00 hours lecture
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A study and analysis of the concepts and philosophies that have influenced or been the basis of architectural form from the Classical period to the present. The analysis will include the use of drawing and model-building tools to gain an understanding of these principles applied to specific structures throughout history.
ARCH 135 Architectural Materials and Methods of Construction
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
A hands-on study of the physical samples of building construction, field visits, and permit processing of projects.
ARCH 145 Designing for Communication and Presentation
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
A drawing, sketching and design exploration of complex architectural modeling including theory, principles and techniques of pictorial drawing, perspective projection, obliques, isometrics, shades, shadows and color. Presentation by hand sketching, AutoCAD, Photoshop and Sketchup tools will be used.
ARCH 150 Beginning Computer Aided Drafting
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 1.50 hours lecture, 4.50 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
An introduction to beginning computer aided drafting for architecture and interior design applications using Windows based AutoCAD software and IBM compatible computers. Beginning techniques in the operation of CAD software, design processes and editing techniques, storage and retrieval of drawings, professional presentation and plotting techniques.
ARCH 160 Environmental Architecture and Design
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
Introduction to the theory and application of bio-climate adaptive architectural design in small scale buildings. Includes effective energy use, solar geometry, environmental measurements, heat flow, heat transfer, and thermal masses. Emphasis on design and construction principles for lighting, passive shading, heating, cooling and ventilating envelope load-dominated buildings.
ARCH 196 Special Problems in Architecture
- Units
- 1-3
- Hours
- 3.00-9.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Designed to enrich the student's experience within the Architecture program and is of a research or special project nature. Content to be determined by the need of the student under signed contract with the instructor.
ARCH 197 Architecture Topics
- Units
- 0.5-4
- Hours
- 0.50-4.00 hours lecture, 1.50-12.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Topics in Architecture. See class schedule for specific topic covered. Course title will designate subject.
ARCH 202 Introduction to Revit Architecture
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Preparation of basic 3D architectural information models and BIM. Manipulation for preparation of individual architectural working drawings, including: dimensioned floor plans, building sections, elevations, etc. using Revit software.
ARCH 204 Advanced Revit
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- ARCH 202
- Transfers to
- CSU
Advanced applications of Revit software to build complex "Building Information Models" (BIM), including structural frames and beams, preparation of schedules, architectural and structural details, HVAC component integration and renderings.
ARCH 206 Advanced Visualization in Design
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Prerequisite
- ARCH 202
- Transfers to
- CSU
This advanced course explores cutting-edge visualization tools and generative design processes used in the architecture and construction industries. Students will engage with complex software platforms to produce high-quality architectural renderings and simulations. Emphasis will be placed on integrating artificial intelligence into the design workflow, including AI-assisted prompting and iterative development. The course also introduces students to visualization tools used in construction management, offering a broader understanding of how design translates into real-world execution. Through hands-on projects and industry-relevant applications, students will enhance their ability to communicate design intent and innovate within evolving digital environments. This course focuses on advanced techniques in the use of 3D software for architectural visualization and design. Students will develop skills in producing high-quality renderings, animations, and digital walkthroughs that effectively communicate architectural intent. The curriculum includes case studies of significant architectural works from around the globe, with an emphasis on construction methodologies and the cultural contexts that shape various building typologies. Instruction will be delivered through both collaborative group sessions and individualized guidance. Students are expected to develop original design concepts that reflect their personal aesthetic and integrate insights from multicultural architectural research, using advanced 3D tools to bring their ideas to life.
ARCH 215 Design Studio IA
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of architectural design and construction through the study of building codes, zoning, and professional practice. Emphasis is placed on residential design, including feasibility studies, site planning, program development, and digital modeling. Students will progress from case studies and massing studies to complete design documentation, integrating code compliance, construction methodology, and presentation skills. The course culminates in a final project that demonstrates a comprehensive, code-informed design solution.
ARCH 216 Design Studio IB
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU, UC
This course introduces students to building codes, construction types, and the role of regulatory authorities in shaping multi-family architectural design. Emphasis is placed on Type IV and V construction for zoning, accessibility standards (ADA), and professional practices. Through feasibility studies, diagramming, adjacency and massing exercises, and project documentation, students integrate technical standards with design intent. The course culminates in a final presentation demonstrating code compliance, sustainable practices, and professional-level communication.
ARCH 217 Design Studio IIA
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
Development of architectural design through program analysis, context and site analysis and properties of materials. Development of soft skills and presentation skills culminating in a juried review.
ARCH 218 Design Studio IIB
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 2.00 hours lecture, 3.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
This course provides students with an in-depth exploration of Type I and Type II construction methods as applied to the design and documentation of an educational facility. Emphasis is placed on the study and application of the California Building Code (CBC), including accessibility standards outlined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and requirements for fire separations and wall assemblies. Students will develop a comprehensive design project for an educational program, focusing on feasibility studies, site planning, and code compliance.
ARCH 295 Architectural Internship
- Units
- 3
- Hours
- 10.00 hours lab
- Transfers to
- CSU
An architectural internship familiarizes you with the day-to-day operations of an architectural firm. You'll get an around-the-clock view of the office, with your duties ranging from assisting in aspects of architectural design to making client presentations and working with a construction team. You may also assist with general logistics and research rules pertaining to design and construction.