BCT 320 - Introduction to CAD & BIM in Construction and Architecture

Course Description

This course provides students with a broad introduction into Computer-Aided-Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) with a focus on construction- and architecture-specific applications. By using industry-standard AEC software (such as Autodesk AutoCAD, Trimble SketchUp, and Autodesk Revit) in hands-on exercises, assignments and projects, students gain the capability to model construction projects and create and distribute industry-standard architectural drawings.

Learning Goals

• Understanding of the power and precision of computer-aided modeling and drafting
• Awareness of Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles
• Ability to construct accurate 2D geometry as well as complex 3D shapes and objects
• Ability to create 2D representations of 3D objects in plan view, elevations and sections
• Ability to assemble these drawings in industry-standard plan form and produce plotted hard copies and PDFs ready for distribution
• Awareness of architectural drafting nomenclature with a focus on industry standards

Textbook/Materials

• Mastering AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT (any recent version) / Omura, Benton / J. Wiley & Sons. A free e-book copy is available online here through the UMass library system. (You may have to log on using your OIT NetID and password.)
• Architectural Design With SketchUp / 2nd Ed. / Alexander Schreyer / John Wiley & Sons / ISBN: 978-1118978818. (Amazon, VitalSource)
• If you don’t have one yet, get an architect’s scale. You can get one from the university store.