AAD - Architecture and Design

AAD 100 - Introduction to Architectural Design Units: 3

Discover the world of design through this engaging survey course. Explore the interconnected fields of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, and Planning, with insights into related design disciplines. Learn about the diverse types of firms and their specialties, the steps to becoming a licensed professional, career opportunities and work environments, earning potential, and the professional organizations that shape and support the industry. Whether you're considering a career in design or simply curious about the profession, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to the pathways, people, and possibilities in the design world.

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 101 - Design with Nature Units: 3

Introduces the concepts of natural systems and their influence on human activity and the living environment. Reviews the historical context and cultural adaptations and introduces the basic management and use of the natural systems. Reviews natural, biological, cultural and design management philosophies.

AAD 125 - Construction Drawings and Detailing Units: 3

This class will include the analysis of assembling and detailing for construction in the field of architecture and understanding of the reading and interpretation of representative construction prints. Techniques for the production of construction details will be discussed, demonstrated, and applied.

AAD 180 - Design Foundation I Units: 3

Investigation of the elements, principles and theories of design in three dimensions. Emphasis placed upon principles of organization, principles of visual and geometric logic, design methodology and color theory. Completion of this course satisfies 25 hours of instruction toward completing the embedded human relations curriculum requirements, in accordance with Embedded Curriculum Guidelines Option A.

Enrollment Requirements: Corequisite: AAD 181.

AAD 181 - Design Foundation I Discussion Units: 3

Discussion of the elements, principles and theories of design in three dimensions. Emphasis placed upon principles of organization, principles of visual and geometric logic, design methodology and color theory. Completion of this course satisfies 20 hours of instruction toward completing the embedded human relations curriculum requirements, in accordance with Embedded Curriculum Guidelines Option A..

Enrollment Requirements: Corequisite: AAD 180.

AAD 198 - Special Topics in AAD Units: 0.5-6

This course will explore the study of special relevant topics in the profession of design. This course includes discussion of the fields of Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or Sustainable Planning and other related design professions. Topics may include, type of education and skills necessary, the specialties of each profession, what it takes to become a licensed practitioner, and might be seen as the future of these professions.

Transferability: May not transfer towards an NSHE bachelor's degree

AAD 201 - History of the Built Environment Units: 3

This course will review the built form of architecture and urban design from various cultures and civilizations throughout history. Specific periods of study include the Ancient World, the Medieval Period, the Renaissance and Modern Times. Historical events along with developments in architecture of non-western civilizations that have shaped philosophies, cultures and civilizations will also be discussed. Satisfies TMCC Diversity requirement.

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 202 - Analysis of the Built Environment Units: 3

This course will discuss the history of architecture and city design in western and non-western civilization. The time periods to be covered will be from classical Greek, Hellenistic and Roman, through the Romanesque period, including the events and architecture of non-western civilizations happening within the same time frame. The influences that the architecture and design philosophies have had on the shaping of civilization will also be discussed. What civilization reflects through its architecture during these periods will be examined.

AAD 203 - History, Theory, and Culture - Architecture of the 20th and 21st Century Units: 3

This course offers a critical and in-depth examination of the historical forces that have shaped the built environment across time and cultures. Moving beyond chronological surveys, the course investigates the political, social, economic, and environmental contexts that influence architectural and urban development, leading to Modernity and beyond all the way to today. Students will explore how power, identity, colonialism, technology, and architectural theory are inscribed in buildings, landscapes, and urban infrastructures. Emphasis is placed on historical approaches, contemporary perspectives, and the evolving methods of developing the built environment.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 201

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 223 - Graphic Software for Arch, Const, Dsgnr, Planners Units: 3

Students will explore a variety of digital design and graphic software applications commonly used in the architecture profession and essential to the design studio environment. The course covers both 2D and 3D tools frequently employed in professional architectural practice. Emphasis is placed on understanding the appropriate application of each software, recognizing that architects utilize a diverse range of digital tools daily to support different phases of the design process.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAE 180. Corequisite: AAE 280

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 230 - Design with Climate Units: 3

This course will prepare the student with the basic knowledge in the following areas of solar design history, solar procession, climatological data for Reno and northern Nevada, energy reflection, transmission and absorption, heat transfer, heat storage, types of collector systems and their sizing as it relates to architecture.

AAD 232 - Bioclimatic Design Units: 3

This course introduces the principles of bioclimatic design as a foundational component in the future of the built environment. Emphasizing both ecological conservation and design resiliency, the course prepares students with essential knowledge of natural, biological, and cultural approaches to sustainable design with emphasis paid to specific conditions found here in high desert and alpine geographies. In the context of architectural design, students will explore site-sensitive strategies including the study of climatic conditions, solar orientation, climatological data, energy transmission and reflection, heat transfer and storage, passive cooling techniques, and preliminary applications assisting with energy and carbon modelling.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 100

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 256 - Introduction to Land Use Planning Units: 3

This course introduces students to the evolution and application of contemporary land use planning in the United States, emphasizing the four primary tools of development regulation: comprehensive planning, zoning, subdivision regulation, and capital improvement programming.

AAD 261 - Introduction to Topo Form and Design Technology Units: 3

This course introduces students to the understanding and applying of technical, graphical and computational exercises in site design and topographical shaping. Introduction to sustainable site design and best management practices.

AAD 265 - Computer Applications in Architecture I Units: 3

Advanced work in computer-aided drafting and design. Includes development of speed, three dimensional visualization, and the understanding of contemporary digital software used in the professional office environment.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Instructor permission required

AAD 268 - 3-D Presentation Graphics Units: 3

Intermediate and advanced work in digital 3D visualization applications for workflow and exploration through experimentation methods that facilitate design communication using 3D modeling and rendering techniques. This course facilitates the development of three-dimensional visualization for student studio projects and digital software used in the professional office environment.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 223

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 282 - Fundamentals of Architecture Design II Units: 3

Discussion of the elements, principles and theories of design. Emphasis is placed upon integration of design principles to urban landscapes, buildings, interiors, furnishings and environmental graphic applications.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Instructor permission required.

AAD 299 - Architectural Design Transition Camp Units: 12

This class is an intensive introduction to various design processes from concept to schematic design development. Beginning level graphic and architectural design standards for persons entering third year Architecture Program, including construction drawing and details, material and methods, literacy, design thinking strategies and aesthetic awareness. Introduction to digital programs, development of basic design, modeling and communication skills.

AAD 325 - Construction Documentation Units: 3

This course focuses on the analysis of architectural assembly and detailing for construction, emphasizing the interpretation and accurate reading/rendering of construction documentation such as plan views, elevations, cross-sections, and detail drawings. Students will study drawing conventions and industry standards, applying these through hands-on exercises to develop proficiency in architectural documentation and communication critical to successful project execution.

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 350 - Design Studio I Units: 6

This course is the first true architectural design studio in the curriculum with a focus on building tectonics including the introduction of integrating structural principles, material properties, and building systems into the design process. Students will investigate how the assembly and articulation of building components inform spatial and formal outcomes. Emphasis is placed on precedent analysis, basic code compliance, site-responsive design strategies, and concept development. Learning experiences are enhanced through required field trips and critique sessions, some of which may occur outside scheduled class hours and at the student's expense.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAE 283

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 351 - Design Studio II Units: 6

This architectural design studio builds upon foundational tectonic concepts covered in AAD 350. It focuses on the sophisticated integration of structural systems, advanced material technologies, and building performance criteria within the design process. Students will engage in the exploration and articulation of complex architectural assemblies, developing comprehensive design solutions that address nuanced spatial, formal, and environmental challenges. The course emphasizes in-depth precedent analysis, code compliance, and innovative, site-responsive design strategies tailored to complex programmatic demands. Enhanced by field studies and critical review sessions, this studio cultivates the analytical, creative, and technical competencies essential for professional architectural practice.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 350.

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 410 - Professional Practice for B. Arch. I Units: 3

This course introduces students to the professional standards, roles, and responsibilities of architects within contemporary architectural practice. Emphasis is placed on professional ethics, the architect's range of tasks, applicable regulations, business and staff management, contract specifications, and building planning. The course also explores pathways to licensure in the United States, career opportunities that leverage architectural skills and knowledge, and other key aspects of professional practice, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the architect's function in the built environment.

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 413 - Professional Practice For B. Arch. II Units: 3

This advanced architectural professional practice course builds upon foundational knowledge from AAD 410, including the architect's roles, responsibilities, ethical standards, and professional "standard of care." Students will engage with complex professional scenarios involving advanced project management, contractual and regulatory compliance, integrated business and staff leadership, and strategic design planning. The course emphasizes critical analysis of real-world practice challenges, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the application of best practices in professional decision-making. Additionally, students will explore emerging career pathways in architecture and examine the evolving scope of professional practice within a global, technologically integrated context.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 410

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 416 - Professional Practice for B. Arch. III Units: 3

This class furthers the exploration of innovative practices and design thinking models. Additionally, the understanding of working relations with allied consultants and sub-consultants such as Civil, MEP, and structural engineering, utilizing tools such as BIM, construction documents, scheduling, and contracts, is strengthened.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 413 Professional Practice for B.Arch. II

AAD 452 - Integrated Design Studio I Units: 6

An advanced studio that challenges students to engage with complex, large-scale architectural and urban design projects through the lens of regional identity and place-making. Focusing on the unique cultural, sociopolitical, and geographical conditions of Northern Nevada and California, students will investigate how history, environment, and community values can shape the built environment. The course emphasizes integrative design thinking of architectural form, urban systems, and regional context while addressing issues such as resource stewardship and resilience in the face of environmental change.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 351

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 453 - Integrated Design Studio II Units: 6

This advanced architectural and urban design studio challenges students to conceive complex, large-scale projects that embody regional identity and place-making principles. Building on the skills developed in AAD 452, students will analyze sociopolitical, cultural, and geographical conditions unique to Northern Nevada and California, while also applying these insights at more focused architectural scales. The studio emphasizes integrative design, exploring the interplay between architectural form, structural and environmental systems, urban and regional context, and ecological conditions. Students will develop design solutions that thoughtfully balance these factors while addressing critical considerations such as resource stewardship, resilience to environmental change, and social equity. Through in-depth study, precedent analysis, and iterative design development, students will refine the analytical, conceptual, and technical skills necessary for advanced professional practice.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 452

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 455 - Thesis Design Studio I Units: 6

This is the first of a two-term architectural thesis studio, providing students with the opportunity to undertake an independent, research-driven design project. Serving as the terminal project for students at the TMCC School of Architecture, the studio interfaces with other required courses over the full academic year. In this first term, conducted in close collaboration with AAD 480, emphasis is placed on developing a rigorous conceptual framework, research methodology, and design agenda to guide the thesis throughout the year. Students engage in in-depth site analysis, precedent studies, and exploration of programmatic, social, cultural, and environmental factors relevant to their project. Through iterative design development, critical review sessions, and faculty mentorship, students refine their analytical, conceptual, and technical skills while establishing a coherent and ambitious vision for their thesis. The studio fosters the integration of architectural theory, practice, and innovation in preparation for AAD 485, where students will focus on design development, prototyping, and project realization.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 453. Co-requisite: AAD 480.

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 461 - Urban Theory and Design I Units: 3

This course examines the fundamentals of urban design theory and explores their application in neighborhood and community-scale design. Students will survey major historical and contemporary trends in urban design, while also engaging with emerging theories that address the future drivers of change shaping the development, organization, and functioning of urban regions. Through critical analysis and applied design exercises, students will develop a foundational understanding of the principles guiding contemporary urban design practice.

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 462 - Urban Theory and Design II Units: 3

This advanced urban design course builds upon the foundational knowledge of community-scale design introduced in AAD 461, exploring complex, multi-scalar urban concepts. Students will engage with large-scale urban systems, regional planning strategies, and emerging frameworks that respond to contemporary social, environmental, and technological drivers of change. Emphasis is placed on evaluating historical context, cultural identity, and environmental responsiveness in shaping urban form and function. Through in-depth analysis and iterative design development, students will synthesize theory and practice to generate innovative, contextually responsive urban design solutions that address pressing issues in contemporary urban design and development.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 461

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 475 - Thesis (Integration) Units: 3

This course offers advanced instruction in architectural graphics, visual communication, and representation techniques to support the second-term architectural thesis studio (AAD 485). Emphasis is placed on developing sophisticated visual and digital skills necessary to convey complex design ideas, iterative development, and final thesis outcomes. Students will explore a range of communication techniques, including architectural drawing, diagramming, 3D modeling, rendering, and animation, utilizing contemporary digital presentation platforms. The course also addresses graphical layout, curation, and strategies for effectively presenting design work to professional audiences. In close coordination with AAD 485, students apply these skills to produce coherent, high-quality visual documentation that enhances and complements their thesis projects.

Enrollment Requirements: Co-requisite: AAD 485

Term Offered: Spring

AAD 480 - Thesis (Research) Units: 3

This course provides structured support for students undertaking the first-term architectural thesis studio (AAD 455) by emphasizing research methodologies, critical inquiry, and analytical rigor. Students will explore strategies for identifying, framing, and investigating architectural research questions, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods relevant to their area of study. The course emphasizes the development of a robust research framework that informs design decisions, guiding students toward evidence-based, contextually responsive, and innovative thesis projects. Through lectures, discussions, and faculty mentorship, students will acquire the tools to document, analyze, and synthesize research findings in support of their independent thesis projects.

Enrollment Requirements: Co-requisite: AAD 455

Term Offered: Fall

AAD 485 - Thesis Design Studio II Units: 6

This is the second of a two-term architectural thesis studio. Building upon the independent, research-driven design project initiated in AAD 455, students advance their work by further developing the conceptual framework, research methodology, and design agenda established in the first term. The course emphasizes comprehensive design development, prototyping, and realization of the thesis project. Students focus on the integration of concept, spatial form, structural systems, environmental performance, materiality, and construction techniques, while continuing to address programmatic, social, cultural, and environmental considerations. In close collaboration with AAD 475, and through iterative design refinement, critical reviews, and faculty mentorship, students produce comprehensive, well-documented design solutions that demonstrate mastery of architectural thinking, technical proficiency, and creative innovation. The studio culminates in a formal thesis presentation and defense, synthesizing the analytical, conceptual, and technical work completed over the two-term sequence.

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: AAD 455. Co-requisite: AAD 475.

Term Offered: Spring