Updated December 2022

Like the idea of making a living in the architecture field? Not interested in spending years in university?

You’re in luck: there are a variety of architecture careers that require neither a bachelor’s nor a master’s degree. In fact, you can get started as an architectural drafter, architectural technologist, or appraiser with just a college diploma.

In this post, we walk you through the details of each of these architecture careers, including job descriptions, salaries, and training requirements.

Compare all three roles and see which path is right for you.

Updated December 2022

Interested in architecture and design? Want to learn how to create building plans and blueprints, and play a key role in the construction process?

It sounds like you're leaning toward a career in architectural drafting.

Architectural drafters use specialized software to transform an architect's concept into functional designs, drawings, and guidelines that builders can follow.

And they earn a good wage for their expertise. According to the Government of Canada Job Bank, drafting technicians in Quebec make a median salary of about $52,000. The highest-paid drafters in the province make over $74,000.

So how can you become an architectural drafter? What exactly is required to get into this field?

In this post, we take you step-by-step through everything you need to know. Find out what the role involves, how to get started, and where this career can take you.

Updated December 2022

Architects design structures for residential, commercial, and industrial use. Architectural drafters create the construction drawings needed to bring those new buildings to life. 

But sometimes drafters also consult with clients and develop design concepts. And sometimes architects do their own construction drawings.  

So what is the big difference between an architect and an architectural drafter (also known as a CAD technician)?