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Home Catalog Programs of Study List of Programs Design and Engineering Technology

Design & Engineering Technology

Overview

Note to Transfer Students

This program is intended to provide skills and experiences that will help students transition directly into the workforce after obtaining a certificate or a degree.  Students who may later wish to transfer to a four-year college often find that the portfolio developed in this program, and experiences gained in the workplace, can be used to aid in the transfer process.  However, the courses specific to this degree are generally not designed to meet a specific college transfer pathway. Should a student wish to pursue a plan to transfer, it is critical that they meet with an ARC counselor to select and plan the additional courses required for transfer to the specific four-year college or university in order to pursue a bachelor’s degree. Colleges vary widely in terms of the required coursework. The courses that ARC requires for an associate’s degree in this major are often different from the requirements needed for a bachelor’s degree at a specific college. It is recommended that students keep a portfolio of all design/engineering technology coursework completed at ARC to present for evaluation by four-year college program advisors.

Degrees and Certificates Offered

  • A.A. in Design Technology
  • A.S. in Engineering Technology
  • A.S. in Mechatronics
  • Design Technology Certificate
  • Engineering Technology Certificate
  • Mechatronics Certificate
  • Basic Mechatronics Certificate
  • CADD Operator - Entry Level Certificate
  • Dean Gary Aguilar
  • Department Chair Randy Schuster
  • Phone (916) 484-8588
  • Email MCT@arc.losrios.edu

Associate Degrees

A.A. in Design Technology

This degree emphasizes the knowledge and skills required for entry level success in the architectural, civil, and mechanical engineering professions. These include graphic standards and practices, technical analysis and communication, material sciences, and the design and critique processes. In addition, projects include environmental (sustainable) design, product economics, and legal considerations. Current computer technologies and various design software for three dimensional modeling and two dimensional drafting are used throughout the program. Graphic documentation and a portfolio of work are created for each course.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources 3
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD 3
DESGN 310 Graphic Analysis and Documentation 3
DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design 3
DESGN 325 Architectural Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 328 Engineering Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 331 Machine Design 2
DESGN 340 Architecture and Construction 4
DESGN 351 Surveying For Architectural Design 2
DESGN 352 Land Planning For Architectural Design 2
DESGN 360 Commercial Engineering Design and Drafting 4
DESGN 361 Commercial MEP Design 2
Total Units: 37

The Design Technology Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • solve architectural and engineering technical problems by applying design and engineering process methodologies.
  • apply the appropriate use of representational media, including study and presentation models (electronic and physical), freehand and conceptual drawing, technical documentation, and diagramming, to convey envisioned ideas at each stage of the design process.
  • organize a set of documents for land planning and site development, commercial and residential buildings, and product assemblies that include material selections, cross-referencing, code review, checklists, and coordination.
  • create design solutions that demonstrate knowledge and understanding of historical, cultural, human, aesthetic, environmental (sustainable) and social issues.
  • communicate architectural and engineering design solutions effectively through individual and cooperative group efforts including speaking, writing, presentation, and the use of various design graphics and technical software.
  • critique and analyze the success or failure of architectural and engineering design solutions developed through a formal design process.

Career Information

A student who has earned a degree in design technology is well prepared to enter the architecture or engineering field as a design technician. Design technicians are involved in all phases of the design process and duties may include the preparation of technical and presentation drawings, specifications, reports and cost estimates. Design technicians primarily work with architects, mechanical engineers, structural engineers and civil engineers.

A.S. in Engineering Technology

This degree emphasizes the knowledge and skills required for entry level success in the engineering professions. These include a basic preparation within the scientific fields including physics, mathematics, chemistry, and material sciences. These sciences are applied to technical analysis and graphic communication standards and practices. In addition, projects include environmental and sustainable design issues, product economics, and legal considerations. Current computer technologies and various analytical design and documentation software are emphasized throughout the program.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
CHEM 305 Introduction to Chemistry (5) 4 - 5
   or CHEM 310 Chemical Calculations (4)
DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources 3
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD 3
DESGN 310 Graphic Analysis and Documentation (3) 3
DESGN 328 Engineering Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 331 Machine Design 2
DESGN 340 Architecture and Construction (4) 4
   or DESGN 360 Commercial Engineering Design and Drafting (4)
DESGN 351 Surveying For Architectural Design (2) 2
DESGN 361 Commercial MEP Design 2
PHYS 310 Conceptual Physics (3) 3 - 4
   or PHYS 350 General Physics (4)
Total Units: 32 - 34

The Engineering Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • solve architectural and engineering technical problems by applying design and engineering process methodologies.
  • apply the appropriate use of representational media, including study and presentation models (electronic and physical), freehand and conceptual drawing, technical documentation, and diagramming.
  • organize a set of engineering product development documents and technical reports per industry standards.
  • research and design for engineering products that demonstrate knowledge and understanding of historical, cultural, human, aesthetic, environmental (sustainable) and social issues.
  • communicate engineering design solutions effectively through individual and cooperative group efforts including speaking, writing, presentation, and the use of various design graphics and technical software.
  • critique and analyze the success or failure of architectural and engineering design solutions developed through a formal design process

Career Information

Upon completion of this degree program the engineering technician will be prepared to go directly into the employment market as a technical assistant to engineers, or other technical employment. For every engineer, several support technicians are required. Engineering technicians are needed in the fields of manufacturing, architecture, construction, materials testing, public utilities, and many other fields.

A.S. in Mechatronics

This degree provides training in a multi-disciplinary field focusing on industrial automation. Topics include electricity, electronics, industrial motor controls, programmable logic controllers, robotics, AC/DC drives, mechanical design, and manufacturing technologies.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Degree Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
First Semester:
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
ET 302 Principles of Electricity and Electronics 4
WELD 300 Introduction to Welding 3
Other Semesters:
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD (3) 3
   or ENGR 312 Engineering Graphics (3)
ET 193 Introduction to Robotics and Sensors 4
ET 197 Introduction to Mechatronics 4
ET 253 Industrial Communication Systems Support 4
Total Units: 25

The Mechatronics Associate in Science (A.S.) degree may be obtained by completion of the required program, and either (a) the Local General Education Pattern or (b) the California General Education Transfer Curriculum (Cal-GETC), plus sufficient electives for a total of at least 60 units. See ARC graduation requirements.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • integrate the principles of mechanical, electronic, and electrical technologies into the design of mechatronic systems.
  • evaluate mechanical and electrical solutions to technological problems.
  • apply industry-appropriate design techniques to develop technical design documents from a conceptual design.
  • design robotic and machine automation systems using mechatronic principles.
  • evaluate welding projects in accordance with welding procedures and specifications.
  • contrast DC, AC, brushless, servo, and stepper motor operation.
  • create technical documentation/presentations of models from the mechanical engineering discipline in both technically correct and visually pleasing solid, orthographic, and section view formats.
  • design programmable logic controller (PLC) programs demonstrating input/output capabilities.
  • design programs for an operator interface terminal (OIT) demonstrating input/output capabilities.

Career Information

This degree prepares students for the following technical and supervisory career opportunities: industrial mechanical/electrical systems technician, food processing machine service technician, facilities systems technician, waste water systems technician, manufacturing coordinator, field service technician, and mechanical electrical machine systems installer.

Certificates of Achievement

Design Technology Certificate

This certificate emphasizes the knowledge and skills required for entry level success in the architectural, civil, and mechanical engineering professions. These include graphic standards and practices, technical analysis and communication, material sciences, and the design and critique processes. In addition, projects include environmental (sustainable) design, product economics, and legal considerations. Current computer technologies and various design software for three dimensional modeling and two dimensional drafting are used throughout the program. Graphic documentation and a portfolio of work are created for each course.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources 3
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD 3
DESGN 310 Graphic Analysis and Documentation 3
DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design 3
DESGN 325 Architectural Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 328 Engineering Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 331 Machine Design 2
DESGN 340 Architecture and Construction 4
DESGN 351 Surveying For Architectural Design 2
DESGN 352 Land Planning For Architectural Design 2
DESGN 360 Commercial Engineering Design and Drafting 4
DESGN 361 Commercial MEP Design 2
Total Units: 37

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • solve architectural and engineering technical problems by applying design and engineering process methodologies.
  • apply the appropriate use of representational media, including study and presentation models (electronic and physical), freehand and conceptual drawing, technical documentation, and diagramming, to convey envisioned ideas at each stage of the design process.
  • organize a set of documents for land planning and site development, commercial and residential buildings, and product assemblies that include material selections, cross-referencing, code review, checklists, and coordination.
  • create design solutions that demonstrate knowledge and understanding of historical, cultural, human, aesthetic, environmental (sustainable) and social issues.
  • communicate architectural and engineering design solutions effectively through individual and cooperative group efforts including speaking, writing, presentation, and the use of various design graphics and technical software.
  • critique and analyze the success or failure of architectural and engineering design solutions developed through a formal design process.

Career Information

A student who has earned a certificate in design technology is well prepared to enter the architecture or engineering field as a design technician. Design technicians are involved in all phases of the design process and duties may include the preparation of technical and presentation drawings, specifications, reports and cost estimates. Design technicians primarily work with architects, mechanical engineers, structural engineers and civil engineers.

Engineering Technology Certificate

This certificate emphasizes the knowledge and skills required for entry level success in the engineering professions. These include a basic preparation within the scientific fields including physics, mathematics, chemistry, and material sciences. These sciences are applied to technical analysis and graphic communication standards and practices. In addition, projects include environmental and sustainable design issues, product economics, and legal considerations. Current computer technologies and various analytical design and documentation software are emphasized throughout the program.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
CHEM 305 Introduction to Chemistry (5) 4 - 5
   or CHEM 310 Chemical Calculations (4)
DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources 3
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD 3
DESGN 310 Graphic Analysis and Documentation (3) 3
DESGN 328 Engineering Modeling and Design 3
DESGN 331 Machine Design 2
DESGN 340 Architecture and Construction (4) 4
   or DESGN 360 Commercial Engineering Design and Drafting (4)
DESGN 351 Surveying For Architectural Design (2) 2
DESGN 361 Commercial MEP Design 2
PHYS 310 Conceptual Physics (3) 3 - 4
   or PHYS 350 General Physics (4)
Total Units: 32 - 34

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • solve architectural and engineering technical problems by applying design and engineering process methodologies.
  • apply the appropriate use of representational media, including study and presentation models (electronic and physical), freehand and conceptual drawing, technical documentation, and diagramming.
  • organize a set of engineering product development documents and technical reports per industry standards.
  • research and design for engineering products that demonstrate knowledge and understanding of historical, cultural, human, aesthetic, environmental (sustainable) and social issues.
  • communicate engineering design solutions effectively through individual and cooperative group efforts including speaking, writing, presentation, and the use of various design graphics and technical software.
  • critique and analyze the success or failure of architectural and engineering design solutions developed through a formal design process

Career Information

Upon completion of this certificate program the engineering technician will be prepared to go directly into the employment market as a technical assistant to engineers, or other technical employment. For every engineer, several support technicians are required. Engineering technicians are needed in the fields of manufacturing, architecture, construction, materials testing, public utilities, and many other fields.

Mechatronics Certificate

This certificate provides training in a multi-disciplinary field focusing on industrial automation. Topics include electricity, electronics, industrial motor controls, programmable logic controllers, robotics, AC/DC drives, mechanical design, and manufacturing technologies.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
ET 302 Principles of Electricity and Electronics 4
WELD 300 Introduction to Welding 3
ET 197 Introduction to Mechatronics 4
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD (3) 3
   or ENGR 312 Engineering Graphics (3)
ET 193 Introduction to Robotics and Sensors 4
ET 253 Industrial Communication Systems Support 4
Total Units: 25

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • integrate the principles of mechanical, electronic, and electrical technologies into the design of mechatronic systems.
  • evaluate mechanical and electrical solutions to technological problems.
  • apply industry-appropriate design techniques to develop technical design documents from a conceptual design.
  • design robotic and machine automation systems using mechatronic principles.
  • evaluate welding projects in accordance with welding procedures and specifications.
  • contrast DC, AC, brushless, servo, and stepper motor operation.
  • create technical documentation/presentations of models from the mechanical engineering discipline in both technically correct and visually pleasing solid, orthographic, and section view formats.
  • design programmable logic controller (PLC) programs demonstrating input/output capabilities.
  • design programs for an operator interface terminal (OIT) demonstrating input/output capabilities.

Career Information

This certificate prepares students for the following career opportunities: industrial mechanical/electrical systems technician, food processing machine service technician, facilities systems technician, waste water systems technician, manufacturing coordinator, field service technician, and mechanical electrical machine systems installer.

Certificates

Basic Mechatronics Certificate

This certificate provides introductory training in the multidisciplinary field of mechatronics, which combines mechanical and electronic technologies. Topics include introductory courses in electronics, programmable logic controllers, basic CAD design, and welding.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) 3
ET 197 Introduction to Mechatronics 4
ET 302 Principles of Electricity and Electronics 4
WELD 300 Introduction to Welding 3
Total Units: 14

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • integrate the basic principles of mechanical, electronic, and electrical technologies into the design of mechatronic systems.
  • evaluate mechanical and electrical solutions to technological problems.
  • apply basic design techniques to develop technical design documents.
  • design basic robotic and machine automation systems using mechatronic principles.
  • create and evaluate welding projects in accordance with welding procedures and specifications.

Career Information

This certificate prepares students for internships and entry-level employment with local industries using mechatronic and design principles.

CADD Operator - Entry Level Certificate

This certificate emphasizes the software knowledge and technical skills required for entry level success as a Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) Drafter Intern in the architectural, civil, and mechanical engineering professions. Further courses in the Design and Engineering Technology program are often required from students without prior industry experience in order to be fully qualified for most full time computer aided drafting and design positions.

Catalog Date: August 1, 2026

Certificate Requirements
Course Code Course Title Units
DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources 3
DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) (3) 3 - 4
or [ DESGN 303 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting And Design - Drafting Tools (2)
and DESGN 304 ] Introduction To Applied Computer Aided Drafting and Design - Drafting Standards (2)
DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD 3
DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design 3
Total Units: 12 - 13

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to:

  • modify and revise redlined drawings in support of a senior drafter or an engineer.
  • perform common file management and document preparation activities in support of timely project submittals.
  • create drawings for new projects based on representative samples or templates.
  • assist in the preparation of specifications, cost estimates, and sheet sets.

Career Information

A student who has earned a CADD Operator - Entry Level certificate is well prepared to enter the architecture or engineering fields as a CADD Drafter Intern. CADD Drafter interns are involved in all phases of the design process and duties may include the preparation of technical and visualization drawings, specifications, reports and cost estimates. CADD Drafter Interns generally work in support of Senior Drafters, Designers, Architects, and Engineers.

Design Technology (DESGN) Courses

DESGN 270 Intro to Applied Drone Technology

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:8 hours LEC; 4 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Drones are widely used as data collection tools (image, thermal, laser imaging, detection, and ranging) in many industries and disciplines. This course provides an introduction to the different applications of drones in design disciplines as well as an introduction to the rules governing the use of the drones. The class includes both lecture and hands-on activities.

DESGN 271 Survey of Applied Drone Tech in Design

  • Units:0.5
  • Hours:6 hours LEC; 10 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 270 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Drones and their sensors can capture many different types of data including image, thermal, laser imaging, detection, and ranging. This course provides an opportunity to learn about the applications for different types of drones and the specific sensors that are currently applied in the architectural, civil, and mechanical design disciplines.

DESGN 295 Independent Studies in Design Technology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

DESGN 298 Work Experience in Design Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s employer. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. Dual enrollment students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students are advised to consult with the Design Technology Department faculty to review specific certificate and degree work experience requirements.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to reflect on their current skills, knowledge and abilities and explore how these are work assets and how these can be enhanced and/or developed to increase employability within the architectural and engineering field. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in associate degree level or certificate occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce, completion of Title 5 required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at an approved work site, and developing workplace skills and competencies.

During the semester, the student is required to complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units.


Students new to Work Experience will be required to engage weekly while returning participants may meet individually with the instructor as needed. All students are required to attend the first course meeting.

Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings.This course may be taken up to four times. Students are encouraged to develop new or expanded learning objectives in consultation with their employer when the course is repeated. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

DESGN 299 Experimental Offering in Design Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

DESGN 300 Introduction to Design Resources

  • Units:3
  • Hours:48 hours LEC; 18 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is a survey of the resources used in the architectural and engineering professions. It introduces construction materials and their properties and characteristics affecting construction processes. Environmental and sustainable materials, sustainable building certification, and rating systems are also covered.

DESGN 301 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD)

  • Units:3
  • Hours:34 hours LEC; 63 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: DESGN 301, DESGN 303 and DESGN 304 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; DESGN 301, DESGN 303, DESGN 304, DESGN 320 and DESGN 328 combined: maximum credit, 8 semester units)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the fundamentals of AutoCAD, a design and drafting software used to create a wide variety of technical drawings. It includes engineering layout, site and landscape drawings, as well as drawings used in architecture and interior design such as floor and space plans, elevations, and details. This course is not open to students who have completed DESGN 100.

DESGN 302 Technical Documentation with CADD

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:ENGWR 101 and ENGRD 116 with a grade of "C" or better; OR ESL 325 with a grade of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course emphasizes using various electronic graphical media software to create standardized technical documentation for architectural, civil, and mechanical applications. A wide range of methods are used to create, print and save 2D, 3D, orthographic, and isometric presentations in a wide variety of output formats using AutoCAD as the primary tool. Section views for mechanical and architectural applications are covered, as well as a variety of drawing and file management topics. This course was formerly DESGN 102.

DESGN 303 Introduction to Computer Aided Drafting And Design - Drafting Tools

  • Units:2
  • Hours:22 hours LEC; 44 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: DESGN 301, DESGN 303 and DESGN 304 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; DESGN 301, DESGN 303, DESGN 304, DESGN 320 and DESGN 328 combined: maximum credit, 8 semester units)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the fundamentals of AutoCAD, a design and drafting software used to create a wide variety of technical drawings. It includes work with drawing, editing, and presentation tools that are used to create shapes and geometry as part of the design and drafting process. This course plus DESGN 304 is equivalent to DESGN 301. This course is not open to students who have completed DESGN 100 or DESGN 301.

DESGN 304 Introduction To Applied Computer Aided Drafting and Design - Drafting Standards

  • Units:2
  • Hours:22 hours LEC; 44 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 303 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitations: DESGN 301, DESGN 303 and DESGN 304 combined: maximum credit, 1 course; DESGN 301, DESGN 303, DESGN 304, DESGN 320 and DESGN 328 combined: maximum credit, 8 semester units)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the use of fundamentals tools of computer aided drafting and design as they are applied to creating industry standard drawings for the architectural, civil, and mechanical disciplines. It includes the use of layer, style, page, and plot managers. In addition, this course covers a variety of object and sheet organization, file management, and presentation tools. Students will further develop their drawing and editing skills that were learned in DESGN 303. This course is not open to students who have completed DESGN 100 or DESGN 301.

DESGN 310 Graphic Analysis and Documentation

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the application of orthographic projection and geometric construction principles as they are used to solve technical problems. Additionally, graphical analysis is used to determine design characteristics such as strength, deflection, cost, volume, and green technology ratings. These analyses may utilize design characteristics such as forces, moments, ratios, and areas as well as distance, bearing, and grade. These characteristics are then used in the solution of engineering and architectural problems.

DESGN 320 Three Dimensional Graphics and Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: DESGN 301, DESGN 303, DESGN 304, DESGN 320 and DESGN 328 combined: maximum credit, 8 semester units)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of the design process for architecture and engineering. It includes the application of programming, environmental analysis, sustainable (green) considerations, code guidelines and restrictions, market analysis, and economic considerations on design projects. Technical design solutions with perspective graphics, mass modeling prototyping, and virtual concept computer modeling are also covered. The course also includes individual and team studio situations, presentations, and formal critiques.

DESGN 325 Architectural Modeling and Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:34 hours LEC; 63 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301 and 303 with grades of "C" or better
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the concepts and applications of three dimensional graphic design using various visualization, modeling, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) programs, such as AutoCAD, SketchUp and Revit. Topics include the procedures and techniques for producing architectural models and associated technical documentation and presentation.

DESGN 328 Engineering Modeling and Design

  • Units:3
  • Hours:36 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301 with a grade of "C" or better
  • Advisory:DESGN 320; AND eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU; UC (UC credit limitation: DESGN 301, DESGN 303, DESGN 304, DESGN 320 and DESGN 328 combined: maximum credit, 8 semester units)
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course covers the concepts and applications of three dimensional graphic design using various visualization, modeling, and Building Information Modeling (BIM) programs, such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit MEP. Topics include the procedures and techniques for producing surface models, solid models, and their associated technical documentation/presentation components as well as their application to civil engineering, mechanical engineering and green technology. This course was formerly DESGN 308.

DESGN 331 Machine Design

  • Units:2
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301, 302, 310, and 328 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course includes many common design and documentation activities for components and assemblies used in machines. Machine design commonly applies to products such as pumps, valves, power transmission devices, and motion control devices. This course also includes an introduction to production control and how that aspect of design integrates with the other design processes.

DESGN 340 Architecture and Construction

  • Units:4
  • Hours:48 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301, DESGN 302; AND either DESGN 300 or DESGN 320; AND either DESGN 325 or DESGN 328 with grades of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course is an introduction to the residential architectural design process. It covers the fundamentals of construction materials and methodology, basic code requirements, and the introduction of applied engineering concepts for light construction. It also includes the application of a predefined program, environmental analysis, sustainable design, building mass prototyping, and graphical technical documentation.

DESGN 351 Surveying For Architectural Design

  • Units:2
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 301 with a grade of "C" or better; AND either DESGN 325 or DESGN 328 or HORT 329 with grades of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course examines elementary surveying principles and basic civil design and drafting techniques. It covers the instruments, methods, and theories necessary for the measurement, documentation, and creation of architectural site plans using various CADD software packages.

DESGN 352 Land Planning For Architectural Design

  • Units:2
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Students apply social justice data in an industry standard, collaborative, and project based manner to create land planning proposals. Typical proposal documents include site layouts, site models, profiles, cut / fill volumes, and regulatory compliance analysis. Proposals also incorporate environmental and sustainable design considerations.

DESGN 360 Commercial Engineering Design and Drafting

  • Units:4
  • Hours:48 hours LEC; 72 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 302; AND either DESGN 300 or DESGN 320; AND either DESGN 325 or DESGN 328 with grades of "C" or better.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course employs exercises simulating typical design and engineering problems in commercial structures, commercial building systems, and environmental systems in buildings. Topics include the fundamentals of construction materials and methodology, and basic code requirements. Also included is an introduction of applied engineering concepts for heavy construction. Activities include review and application of program definitions, environmental analysis, sustainable design applications, and mass prototyping. Design solutions are presented by various concept drawings, physical modeling, and electronic media applications.

DESGN 361 Commercial MEP Design

  • Units:2
  • Hours:18 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:DESGN 300, 301, 302, 310, and 328 with grades of "C" or better
  • Advisory:Eligibility for ENGL C1000/C1000H (formerly ENGWR 300/480) or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course introduces commercial building system design and analysis through the study of Mechanical Electrical Plumbing (MEP) system applications. The topics include the application of basic Building Information Modeling (BIM) techniques and technical documentation to a variety of industrial and commercial building concept development projects. Plan, elevation, section and detail views are incorporated into a conceptual plan set. BIM tools are used to perform preliminary building performance analysis related to energy and water consumption.

DESGN 495 Independent Studies in Design Technology

  • Units:1 - 3
  • Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

Independent Study is an opportunity for the student to extend classroom experience in this subject, while working independently of a formal classroom situation. Independent study is an extension of work offered in a specific class in the college catalog. To be eligible for independent study, students must have completed the basic regular catalog course at American River College. They must also discuss the study with a professor in this subject and secure approval. Only one independent study for each catalog course will be allowed.

DESGN 498 Work Experience in Design Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Hours:27 - 216 hours LAB
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Enrollment Limitation:Before students can participate in the Work Experience program, Los Rios Community College District must have a signed Employer Agreement on file with the student’s employer. If the employer already has an active agreement with the district (viewable at losrios.edu/wexpemployeragreement), no further action is required. In addition, students must have a paid or unpaid internship, volunteer position, or job that aligns with their career goals and a cooperating worksite supervisor who will sign all required course documents. Dual enrollment students are not permitted to enroll in Work Experience courses. Students are advised to consult with the Design Technology Department faculty to review specific certificate and degree work experience requirements.
  • Advisory:ENGL C1000, ENGL C1000H, or ESLW 340
  • Transferable:CSU
  • General Education:Local GE L7B
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This course provides students with opportunities to reflect on their current skills, knowledge and abilities and explore how these are work assets and how these can be enhanced and/or developed to increase employability within the advanced manufacturing field or the architectural and engineering field. It is designed for students interested in work experience and/or internships in transfer-level occupational programs. Course content includes understanding the application of education to the workforce, completion of Title 5 required forms which document the student's progress and hours spent at an approved work site, and developing workplace skills and competencies.

During the semester, the student is required to complete 27 hours of related work experience for 0.5 unit. An additional 27 hours of related work experience is required for each additional 0.5 units.

Students new to Work Experience will be required to engage weekly while returning participants may meet individually with the instructor as needed. All students are required to attend the first course meeting.

Students may take up to 16 units total across all Work Experience course offerings.This course may be taken up to four times. Students are encouraged to develop new or expanded learning objectives in consultation with their employer when the course is repeated. Only one Work Experience course may be taken per semester.

DESGN 499 Experimental Offering in Design Technology

  • Units:0.5 - 4
  • Prerequisite:None.
  • Transferable:CSU
  • Catalog Date:August 1, 2026

This is the experimental courses description.

Catalog