2006-07 Catalog Archive (Archived July 31, 2006)
One College Avenue, Williamsport PA 17701 · (570) 326-3761 or (800) 367-9222
Course Descriptions
BCT102
Construction Safety and Equipment
This course is designed to give the student a working knowledge of auxiliary equipment and systems used to perform construction work. Various types of scaffold will be erected. The operation of moving equipment, power generating equipment, and powered fastening systems will be reviewed. Personal safety issues along with issues specific to individual pieces of construction equipment will be addressed. OSHA requirements/guidelines specific to the construction industry will be thoroughly reviewed. 2 Credits (2 Lecture - 0 Lab)
BCT103
Construction Hand and Power Tools
This course is designed to give the student a working knowledge of hand and power tools typically used to perform construction work. Emphasis is placed on the development of skills needed to effectively perform layout, measurement, cutting, fastening, and finishing operations. Maintenance of tools and equipment will be thoroughly addressed. Safe use of hand and power tools will be stressed. Emerging tool technology will be explored. 1 Credit (0 Lecture - 3 Lab)
BCT109
Framing Principles
The purpose of this course is to provide the knowledge and skills of framing techniques in residential and light commercial construction. Basic principles and skills used in hand and machine woodworking operations will be emphasized. 4 Credits (2 Lecture - 6 Lab)
Corequisite(s): BCT102 and BCT103.
BCT110
Site Preparation and Layout
Introduction to site preparation and layout of structures. The use of the builder's level rods, tapes and surveying equipment. Triangle calculations, differential leveling and erection of batter boards and markers are included in this course. 2 Credits (1 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Fall Only.
BCT117
Construction Materials and Applications I
The purpose of this course is to provide students with knowledge of residential building techniques and materials. Students will study specific erection and fabrication techniques, construction materials, and their uses. Course also will focus on traditional as well as prefabricated and/or pre-manufactured methods and materials. This course will provide the technical knowledge base for those students who will manage the residential building process. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Fall Only.
BCT118
Construction Materials and Applications II
Students will acquire knowledge about commercial and residential finish materials and light commercial structural materials, building systems, and assembly methods. The focus of this course is to provide students with a technical knowledge base necessary to manage and direct the building process for light commercial buildings and projects. Building types studied will include pre-engineered steel and tilt-up concrete and composite types consisting of masonry, steel and/or wood modular systems. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT117. Spring Only.
BCT119
Blueprint Reading and Specifications
Techniques in reading and interpreting blueprints and specifications. Instruction in reading plan views, elevations, and details typical of working drawings. Understanding and using basic construction drawings to determine the methods and materials of light construction. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
BCT127
Roof Framing and Exterior Finishing
In this course various types of roofs are studied including parts of a roof system, layout terms, rafter sizes, rafter layout, and the use of a framing square. Roof framing principles and applications will be emphasized, including gable, hip, and intersecting roof designs. Construction of a roof will be performed. Other objectives include developing skills in the selection and installation of siding and roofing materials, windows, exterior doors, garage doors, and cornice work. 5 Credits (2 Lecture - 9 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT109. Spring Only.
BCT128
Building Materials Applications
A hands-on class in which students working in teams will physically build various projects in order to gain an understanding of the characteristics of typical construction materials used in residential and light commercial construction. Students may schedule this course by also scheduling the corequisite or obtaining permission of the instructor. 2 Credits (1 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Corequisite(s): ACH120 or ACH128. Spring Only.
BCT234
Masonry Principles
Introduction to masonry construction materials and methods, this course stresses the terms and definitions, methods and construction practices related to concrete block and brick construction. Other information presented includes the different types of mortar mixes, their strengths and uses, reinforcement of masonry walls, cleaning, weather protection for masonry, and estimating masonry supplies and materials. 5 Credits (2 Lecture - 9 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT102 and BCT103. Fall Only.
BCT238
Concrete Construction
This course addresses the principles of concrete design including water/cement ratios, proportions of ingredients, reinforced concrete, concrete footers and walls, finishing with hand and power trowel equipment, and proper methods of curing and testing concrete. 3 Credits (1 Lecture - 6 Lab)
Corequisite(s): BCT102 and BCT103.
BCT255
Construction Estimating
This course presents techniques for standard construction estimating procedures from take-off to bid. The course includes excavation, concrete, steel, masonry, carpentry, alteration work, mechanical work, electrical work, and general conditions. Included in the course is an analysis of the Uniform Building Code, FHA, local, city, county, and state codes. The following topics will be introduced: preparation of the typical contract, insurance, documentation, bonds and formal bidding, and inspection techniques. Applications will consist of utilizing all acquired knowledge for presentation of an actual estimate. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT117 and BCT119 or BCT118 and BCT127 or ACH120 and ACH230. Spring Only.
BCT256
Residential Construction Planning, Scheduling, and Management
This course will provide students with the fundamental skills necessary to plan and schedule the entire residential construction process. Students will learn to mix and match available resources in the most efficient combinations to complete projects on time and within budget. Also included will be an examination of construction management practices as applied by the residential building contractor, including the interrelationship between architects, sub-contractors, and others in the labor force that involve the contractor. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Corequisite(s): BCT255. Spring Only.
BCT257
Interior Finish and Trim
Principles and methods of interior carpentry and finishing. Includes the installation of interior trim, doors, stair building, and cabinetry. Also included is modern finishing materials: drywall, plaster, tile, paneling, wallpaper, flooring, carpet, and ceiling treatments. 5 Credits (2 Lecture - 9 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT109.
BCT258
Computer Applications for Construction
An introduction to the use of the microcomputer for construction applications. Basic design, construction estimating, project management, word processing, spreadsheets, database, and construction related business software will be used and evaluated in the course. Basic DOS functions, computer equipment, keyboard, and other related software for the construction field will be included. 4 Credits (2 Lecture - 6 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): CSC104 or CSC110.
BCT260
Introduction to Electrical and Mechanical Systems
This course is designed to provide an introduction to the electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems used in residential and light commercial buildings. Emphasis is placed on the advantages and disadvantages of various systems, and how their design and installation integrates into the management of the building process. Particular attention is given to the contractor's viewpoint and the soliciting and managing of mechanical and electrical sub-contractors. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Fall Only.
BCT300
Residential Management I
This course introduces the student to the soft skills required to manage a residential business or project. The student will develop a business plan for a residential builder. Topics include modes of communication, feasibility studies, sales, marketing, advertising, insurance issues, conflict resolution, warranty issues, and customer relations. This course is a writing enriched course, formal and informal writing will be emphasized in this course. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ENL111 and MGT115. (Writing Enriched)
BCT310
Residential Management II
This course emphasizes the cost control systems used in residential construction. Topics include construction loans and mortgages, residential bids and contracts, penalty and incentive provisions, profits, overhead and cash flow. Emphasis will be placed on business organization and cost engineering tasks, including database management and software applications. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ACC112 and BCT300 and MTH180 or ACC113 and BCT300 and MTH180. Corequisite(s): ACC210.
BCT311
Construction Safety Management
This course introduces the construction safety management process. The topics include the criteria for reviewing project safety and how to improve safety on the job. The course will include the preparation and implementation of a project safety manual, safety administration, program development, and federal and state regulations. (Formerly BCM110) 2 Credits (2 Lecture - 0 Lab)
BCT320
Design and Build/Plan Modification Issues
Development of skills is required to successfully manage change during the construction process. These skills include the use of software programs to modify and transmit drawings and specifications. Both CAD and sketch/edit software will be applied. Emphasis will lie in solving real world design modifications encountered by managers of residential construction. Issues related to operating a residential Design & Build construction company will be examined. Consideration will also be given to writing and modifying specifications to satisfy specific job needs. 3 Credits (2 Lecture - 3 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): ACH115 and CSC110.
BCT330
Residential Building Systems
This course will provide the technical information pertaining to current building systems used in the residential construction industry. Topics will include the integration of manufactured components, innovative and alternative foundation options, the modular housing industry, site built framing techniques using the latest in pre-engineered products, steel framing, and traditional log and post-beam construction. Practical examples and current information from sources such as the National Association of Home Builders will be utilized to reinforce the student's awareness of all the various building systems available to builders today. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
BCT410
Advanced Residential Estimating and Scheduling
This course enhances basic estimating and scheduling skills from previous coursework. The course presents the residential construction costing process that follows quantity take-offs, including bidding analysis, productivity assessments and resource allocations. Job sequencing and scheduling as related to the total cost controls will be discussed. Various software applications will be utilized in this course. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT255 and BCT310.
BCT420
Advanced Mechanical Systems
This course emphasizes the importance of electrical and mechanical systems in the total homebuilding package. Students will learn to assess customer needs, market trends, and emerging technologies in electrical and mechanical systems to complete the homebuilding process. Emphasis will be placed on utilizing planning, scheduling, bidding, and managerial skills from other coursework to develop a complete electrical and mechanical package for today's homebuyers. Particular attention will be given to energy conservation, and environmental and safety issues as they relate to electrical and mechanical systems. 2 Credits (2 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT330.
BCT430
Contemporary Issues in Residential Construction
This course will enlighten the student to the constant changing dynamics of the residential construction industry and the effect on both the consumers and the providers within the industry. The intent of this course is to provide the student with current, contemporary issues of culture, politics, economics, environment, and demographics that are affecting the residential building industry. 3 Credits (3 Lecture - 0 Lab)
Prerequisite(s): BCT330. (Science, Technology and Society)
BCT495C
Senior Co-op Experience
This course allows students to apply various skills acquired in previous courses to solve real world residential construction problems. Activities may include library and field research, data analysis, report writing, presentation of the final project, or approved co-op experience. Topics may include, but are not limited to entrepreneurship, residential management field practices, estimating and scheduling, and cost control. Completion of this course by a co-op experience with a residential construction employer, with approval of a faculty adviser, is strongly encouraged. 3 Credits (0 Lecture - 15 Lab)