Recommended Educational Programs
Recommended for all Building Designers
Recommended for All Professionals
For Those Wanting a Career in Building Design
The Essentials Net-Zero and Passive House Construction Microcredential
Fundamentals of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Delivery Mode: ONLINE
This course covers the fundamentals of for zero energy/emissions and Passive House buildings, with focus on wood-frame construction. The course will help learners develop their knowledge of international, national and provincial zero energy/emissions buildings codes and standards. Students will also develop an understanding of zero energy/emissions buildings principles, science, systems, materials and cost. The course presents multiple case studies and provides a strong foundation for subsequent zero energy/emissions building courses. Key topics include: BC Energy Step Code, Net Zero, Zero Carbon and Passive House standards, operational and embodied carbon, energy efficiency performance metrics, building science, integrated design, low-TEDI and airtight enclosures, and costing. This course is offered online with live virtual lectures and self-paced learning in the BCIT Learning Hub.
Schedule: September 15 to October 13, 2022, Thursdays 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Cost: $379.08
More Information: XZEB 1001 Fundamentals of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Introduction to Residential Mechanical Systems for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
This course focuses on an integrated approach to residential HVAC mechanical equipment to meet the requirements of the national and provincial zero energy (BC Energy Step Code) and Passive House standards. The course will help learners understand the best practices from the design to verification of HVAC systems in residential projects. Through case-studies and industry experts, learners will recognize the unintended consequences of poorly selected, designed, installed, and verified systems and practices for planning, coordinating, and verifying mechanical HVAC systems to ensure project performance and owner satisfaction. Key topics include Energy Step Code and Passive House requirements; HVAC mechanical system options, costs, and performance; and best practices from design, tender, installation, and verification.
Prerequisite(s): 60% in XZEB 1001 and 60% in XZEB 1120
Schedule: June 14 to 23, 2022. This course is a 2 week course with live lectures on Tuesdays (6pm-9pm) and Thursdays (6pm-8pm). Instructional sessions are delivered through a live interactive web-lecture through online course portal (BCIT Learning Hub) by industry subject matter expert instructors.
Cost: $252.65
More Information: XZEB 1140 Introduction to Residential Mechanical Systems for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Site Supervision of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Construction
The course will help learners develop their knowledge of how to manage new construction, coordinate construction for larger and more complex buildings. Focus will be on developing understanding from a construction perspective of design details, new responsibilities and skills needed, understanding of impact of onsite decisions on final compliance and performance under the Passive House standard or the Upper Steps of the BC Energy Step Code for Part 3 and Part 9 buildings. Students will become familiar with tools and construction checklists to systematically manage relevant issues for zero energy/emissions or Passive House buildings. Key topics include the airtightness, enclosure details, thermal bridging, mechanical services, construction management, quality assurance construction checklists, and compliance documentation. The course will provide a strong foundation for subsequent XZEB 1172 Site Supervision Applied Project for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Construction. This course is offered online with live virtual lectures and self-paced learning in the BCIT Learning Hub.
Prerequisite(s): 60% in XZEB 1001 and 60% in XZEB 1120 and 60% in XZEB1146
Schedule: This course is a 5 week course with live lectures on Tuesdays (6PM-9PM). Instructional sessions are delivered through a live interactive web-lecture through online course portal (BCIT Learning Hub) by industry subject matter expert instructors.
Cost: $379.08
More Information: XZEB 1171 Site Supervision of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Construction
Airtightness and Low-TEDI Enclosures of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Delivery Mode: ONLINE
This course covers airtightness and low-TEDI enclosure construction for zero energy/emissions or Passive House buildings. The course will help learners develop their knowledge of airtightness and low thermal demand (low-TEDI) building enclosures with study of wood-frame construction. Students will develop a firm understanding of assembly details, material selection and compatibility, construction approaches, sequencing and coordination, for zero energy/emissions or Passive House buildings. Key topics include the airtightness, high R-value enclosure details, thermal bridging, assembly interfaces, windows, mechanical and electrical penetration, and embodied carbon of materials. This course is offered online with live virtual lectures and self-paced learning in the BCIT Learning Hub.
Prerequisite(s): 60% in XZEB 1001
Schedule: October 20 to December 1, 2022. This course is a 7 week course with live lectures on Thursdays (1PM-4PM). Instructional sessions are delivered through a live interactive web-lecture through online course portal (BCIT Learning Hub) by industry subject matter expert instructors. Additional independing learning is completed in the online course portal.
Cost: $505.44
More Information: XZEB 1120 Airtightness and Low-TEDI Enclosures of Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Mechanical and Electrical Essentials for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
The course covers the essentials related to mechanical and electrical design and construction in zero energy/emissions and Passive House buildings. The course will help learners understand unique mechanical and electrical considerations for Net-Zero, Net-Zero-Ready, and Passive House buildings. Key topics include common mechanical systems, energy source options, BC Energy Step Code and Passive House requirements, and integrated design. This course is offered online with live virtual lectures and self-paced learning in the BCIT Learning Hub.
Prerequisite(s): 60% in XZEB 1001 and 60% in XZEB 1120
Schedule: June 14 to June 21, 2022. This course is a 1.5 week course with live lectures on Tuesdays and Thursdays (6pm-8pm). Instructional sessions are delivered through a live interactive web-lecture through online course portal (BCIT Learning Hub) by industry subject matter expert instructors.
Cost: $126.33
More Information: XZEB 1146 Mechanical and Electrical Essentials for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Airtightness and Low-TEDI Enclosures Lab for Zero Energy/Emissions and Passive House Buildings
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON (BURNABY)
This lab course allows for hands-on practice constructing various air barrier systems and assembly details for zero energy/emissions and Passive House buildings to meet the requirements of the national and provincial zero energy (BC Energy Step Code) and Passive House standards. Students will apply their foundational understanding of zero energy/emissions building codes and standards, airtightness and low-TEDI enclosures from pre-requisite courses and work through several hands-on lab stations to build, test, or evaluate various assemblies using a range of approaches and materials. Lab activities will cover air and thermal barrier approaches and details for foundations, above and below-grade walls, roofs, interfaces, windows, balconies, penetrations, and low-embodied carbon insulation material options. This course is offered in-person at BCIT High Performance Lab with some assignments through the BCIT Learning Hub. Students should be prepared for light construction and wear steel toe footwear for lab sessions. Tools are provided onsite, but students may bring their own utility knife if desired.
Prerequisite(s): 60% in XZEB 1001 and 60% in XZEB 1120
Schedule: June 10 to June 11, 2011. CESA 1130 is mostly an in-person course, with 16 hours of course delivery from the BCIT High Performance Lab. In addition, students will have to complete 8 hours of online self-paced learning using the BCIT Learning Hub. Students will have 2 weeks after the course starts to complete their online work.
Cost: $721.98
More Information: XZEB 1130 Airtightness and Low-TEDI Enclosures Lab for Zero Energy/Emission and Passive House Buildings
Introduction to Solar Photovoltaic & Electrical Systems for Zero Energy & Passive House Homes
This introductory course focuses on integrated solar photovoltaic (PV) and electrical systems in Zero Energy or Passive House homes. The course will outline the decision-making for planning, designing, and constructing/renovating a Zero Energy home with integrated solar PV and electrical systems. It applies “lessons learned” from case studies of Zero Energy homes equipped with solar PV technology. Key topics include critical elements of a design-build process, pre-design considerations and requirements, future-proofing for new technologies and electrical circuit load capacity, equipment and monitoring options, and hand-off best practices. This course is intended to be offered fully online or in a hybrid of online live lectures and discussions. The online learning model includes live lectures and complementary self-guided learning materials in the BCIT Learning Hub.
This course isn't currently offered through BCIT Part-time Studies. Please check back next term or subscribe to receive email updates.
More Information: XZEB 1150 Introduction to Residential Integrated Solar Photovoltaic Systems for Zero Energy/Emission and Passive House Buildings
Design and Technology Courses from Pacific Design Academy
Energy Courses from CHBABC
Here are some other recommended courses.
Construction Drawings
Delivery Mode: ONLINE
The Associate Certificate in Construction Drawings program is designed to support employment opportunities in the construction industry, primarily in architectural, engineering, manufacturing and government offices. The program focuses on production of construction drawings for commercial, residential and industrial buildings.
The target audience for this associate certificate are those that are interested in entering the field of technical drafting or professionals who have experience in the construction industry and are looking for new professional development opportunities.
The Associate Certificate in Construction Drawings program is a completely online part-time studies program that will provide graduates with technical drafting skills and knowledge of structural components, in order to be able to translate technical information into clear and accurate construction drawings.
This program consists of seven courses that cover the technical aspects of developing professional construction drawings from concept sketches, design information, codes and specifications. The program provides graduates with a well-rounded set of skills and knowledge for succeeding in the construction industry.
The program will use lectures and self-guided learning as the primary method to develop the knowledge and applied skills of the learners. Learning methodologies will also include project work, virtual laboratory classes and group collaboration.
Click the link here to learn more about the Construction Drawings course at BCIT.
Architectural and Structural CADD and Graphics Technician
(Architectural Option)
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The Architectural and Structural CADD and Graphics Technician program offers two areas of specialization: Architectural CADD and Graphics Technician and Structural CADD and Graphics Technician. Applicants must indicate area of specialization on their application.
The Architectural and Structural CADD and Graphics Technician programs at BCIT offers training for a variety of applications in architecture, building construction and industrial applications. CADD (Computer-Aided Drafting and Design) is an integral part of all our drafting programs.
This specialty applies drafting, computer applications, and graphic presentation with architectural and design skills used in the preparation of architectural projects, and construction of buildings.
Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technology
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
A selection of CAD courses ranging from 2D AutoCAD to advanced 3D modeling using applications like Autodesk Inventor and SolidWorks. Some courses are available in-person and there are online options as well.
A selection of part-time studies courses will be offered that will lead to an Associate Certificate in Computer Aided Design Technology. Computer Aided Design (CAD) tools are being increasingly used in engineering and architectural fields. As well, CAD is finding applications in other areas such as facilities management and interior design.
Click here to learn more about the CAD Technology course at BCIT.
Architectural Science
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
Architectural technology is a bridge between pure design theory and construction practice. This program will broaden the knowledge and skills of the architectural technologist in areas of current interest to the building community, increase opportunities for job placement within the industry, and improve graduates' opportunities for career advancement.
The Bachelor in Architectural Science is a full-time, four-year program that delivers a broadly based, technically current curriculum on the theoretical and applied aspects of architectural science.
Click here to learn more about the Architectural Science course at BCIT.
Architectural and Building Technology (Part Time)
Delivery Mode: ONLINE & IN PERSON
This Architectural and Building Technology (ABT) certificate is offered through Part-time Studies. The program is designed to provide students with a competency skill level for working in the field of housing and small building design and construction. It is recommended to individuals who want to advance in their careers or are currently working in design/build offices for homes and small commercial projects, material suppliers and installers, estimating, and real estate marketing, property management and municipal offices.
Click here to learn more about the Architectural Science course at BCIT.
Building Science
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The Master of Engineering in Building Science degree is designed to provide students from various engineering disciplines with advanced knowledge and skills to achieve a holistic understanding of building performance through a core course component, which is composed of a fundamental technical cluster, and an applied technical cluster. Students will gain in-depth knowledge of a specialty area through focused elective technical courses or a supervised research project.
MEng students are required to select one of two pathways for the completion of the program.
Path 1: course option
Students take 10 courses: 4 core courses and 6 elective courses. For this path the Research Methods course is optional. Except for the core fundamental courses, all other courses include a research component.
Path 2: industry/research project option
Students take 7 courses plus Research Methods, and a comprehensive industry/research project. Students engage in applied research on a relevant industry problem under the supervision of a faculty member.
Click the link here to learn more about the MASc course at BCIT.
Building Engineering/Building Science
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The BCIT Building Engineering/Building Science Master of Applied Science program provides students with the capabilities to independently conduct rigorous, innovative research and publish, present, and defend those research outcomes to expert peers.
A core course component teaches advanced knowledge and skills leading to a holistic understanding of building performance. Specialized elective technical courses prepare students with in-depth knowledge to enable them to conduct research in their particular area. A well-structured research component is included in the program to enable students to develop research skills.
Students are required to complete a research methods course, conduct a literature survey, develop a research plan, write a research proposal, undertake innovative scientific research and complete a comprehensive research thesis that advances scientific knowledge. Students will conduct research independently with guidance from a thesis supervisory committee.
Click here to learn more about the Master of Engineering in Building Science course at BCIT.
Architectural and Building Technology (Full Time)
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
Architectural and Building Technology (ABT) is a comprehensive, two-year diploma program with a focus on applied learning. It combines sound theoretical knowledge with practical skills and technical training to provide job-ready competencies for immediate application upon entering the workforce. Students learn from industry-based faculty, develop extensive practical skills for rewarding careers, and graduate with an industry recognized credential in the design, development, construction, and building science sectors. Many employers seek out graduates from this program to join their companies.
Students follow a fixed curriculum of common courses that includes lectures and practical applications in construction drawing, materials and methods, estimating techniques, building systems, and computer applications. Organized field trips and ‘hands-on’ workshops form part of the curriculum and attendance is required. Students are often able to further their education through summer jobs with architects, engineers, developers, and contractors.
Diploma in Interior Design
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The Diploma in Interior Design is designed for students seeking a career in residential and commercial interior design fields.
The Diploma focuses on commercial design including hospitality, offices and retail environments. Students will study advance design theory, commercial space planning, sustainability practices, codes and barrier-free compliance, lighting, design history, advanced 2D & 3D visual communication, critical reading and writing, construction drawings, and architectural millwork. Students will gain hands-on experience in the Joinery shop to expand their understanding of millwork details and assembly. Students will achieve both a strong academic and technical foundation on completion of this program. Students learn from industry-based faculty and develop extensive practical skills for rewarding careers.
All students intending to continue to the Bachelor of Interior Design must first complete the Diploma in Interior Design.
On completion of the Certificate in Interior Design Fundamentals plus ENGL 1177 and 3.0 credits General Education electives, students who meet the entry requirements may advance to the Diploma program which is offered in both a full-time and part-time format.
The Diploma program in the part-time format is delivered during evenings and weekends to permit students to work during the day. There are some cases where students must be available on Friday afternoons for courses that require field trips. For various schedules of completion please contact the part-time studies program assistant at interior_design@bcit.ca.
Upon completion of the Diploma program, students who are eligible may continue to the Bachelor of Interior Design program.
Click the link here to learn more about the Diploma in Interior Design course at BCIT.
Bachelor of Interior Design
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The BCIT Bachelor of Interior Design is Council for Interior Design Accreditation (CIDA) Accredited!
The goal of the Bachelor of Interior Design program is to develop graduates who combine research and critical thinking to generate creative solutions that support human behavior within the interior environment. Students will work on studio projects that include healthcare environments, aging in place, multi-use designs, and public spaces. Aspects of cultural histories, socio- economics, human behavior, sustainability and global citizenship will be explored and incorporated into their design solutions. Students will expand their knowledge of related fields through discussions with building specialists in electrical, carpentry, plumbing and HVAC trades. The program includes a field study component where students will explore a location of interest for 8 - 10 days as part of the program. In addition, students will take business and communications courses to develop skills in leadership, marketing and professional written and oral communication. Students will also choose several general education electives to complete their Bachelor Degree.
Two additional options are available to students in this program: a co-op and an opportunity to study abroad for a term. These options have a limited number of openings, and interested students will need to go through an application process.
Students must complete the Diploma in Interior Design before starting the Bachelor of Interior Design.
Click here to learn more about the Bachelor of Interior Design course at BCIT.
Residential Interiors
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
BCIT’s Diploma in Residential Interiors builds on the Certificate in Interior Design Fundamentals and provides the opportunity for students to further their education in the residential field.
Upon completion of the first two terms of the Diploma in Residential Interiors, students who choose to complete the practicum and exit with an Associate Certificate in Kitchen and Bath Design will have acquired the necessary competencies in kitchen and bath design, based on the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) curriculum requirements, and will have the necessary educational requirements to write the NKBA’s AKBD exam to become an Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer.
Students that complete the courses in the third and fourth terms of the program and graduate with a Diploma in Residential Interiors will have the skills and credential needed to work beyond the kitchen and bath industries in the broader residential interiors field.
Click here to learn more about the Residential Interiors course at BCIT
Interior Design Fundamentals
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
The Interior Design Fundamentals Certificate is the first year of the Interior Design program and serves as a foundation year that introduces students to the concepts and theories of interior design, with a focus on residential spaces.
Course content includes design theory, programming, analysis, concept development, space planning, lighting, colour theory and application, design history, materials and fabrics, residential construction drawing, sustainability & responsible environmental stewardship, written and oral communication skills, and visual communication – through both freehand and computer-generated drawings.
The Interior Design Fundamentals Certificate program is offered in both a part-time and full-time format. In part-time, students register on a course-by-course basis. This allows students flexibility in the number of courses they take in any given term. There are offerings of all courses in each term, starting in January, April, and September. The full-time students follow a fixed curriculum of common courses delivered in eleven months (three terms), starting in September each year.
Upon completion of the Certificate in Interior Design Fundamentals, students wishing to proceed to the Diploma in Interior Design and Bachelor of Interior Design must complete TRPT 0011 – English, ENGL 1177 – Academic Writing, and 3.0 credits of General Education electives prior to admission into the Diploma program.
Students wishing to proceed to the Associate Certificate in Kitchen and Bath Design can do so directly after completion of the certificate but must complete TRPT 0011 – English before continuing into the Diploma in Residential Interiors.
Click here to learn more about the Interior Design Fundamentals course at BCIT.
Kitchen & Bath Design
Delivery Mode: IN PERSON
Upon completion of the first two terms of the Diploma in Residential Interiors, students who choose to complete the practicum and exit with an Associate Certificate in Kitchen and Bath Design will have acquired the necessary competencies in kitchen and bath design, based on the NKBA (National Kitchen and Bath Association) curriculum requirements, and will have the necessary educational requirements to write the NKBA’s AKBD exam to become an Associate Kitchen and Bath Designer.
Click here to learn more about the Kitchen & Bath Designer course at BCIT.