Residential Construction (RESC)

Interpret and apply graphic standards used in construction working drawings. Develop the ability to analyze and interpret drawings using accepted building techniques and material use practices. Incorporate functional residential design principles into a variety of floor plan layouts and design scenarios. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours), fall semester.

Design, install, and troubleshoot alternating current (AC) circuits used in residential construction. Plan and lay out circuits in accordance with the National Electrical Code, emphasizing safety and code compliance. Apply hands-on skills in laboratory settings to reinforce electrical theory and practical installation techniques. A set of hand tools is required for this course. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours), spring semester.

Develop foundational skills in light framing and layout techniques commonly used in residential construction. Apply these skills in laboratory settings by constructing and modifying light residential and agricultural structures. Practice accurate measurement, proper material selection, and safe building procedures throughout the course. Students are required to provide a set of hand tools. This course includes an additional lab fee. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours), fall semester.

Examine the fundamentals of platform framing and explore key concepts of balloon framing, post-and-beam construction, and manufactured housing. Analyze the advantages and limitations of contemporary building materials and methods and their impact on the construction industry. Apply knowledge in laboratory activities culminating in the development of a material take-off list for a residential structure. Prerequisite: RESC 106 or permission of instructor. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 3 laboratory hours), spring semester.

Gain comprehensive safety training for work in the construction industry. Examine OSHA standards and compliance requirements with an emphasis on hazard recognition, avoidance, control, and prevention. Participate in hands-on lockout/tagout training in the woodshop environment to reinforce safe work practices. Students who complete the required training hours and successfully pass the course earn the OSHA 30-Hour Construction Industry hard card. 3 credits (3 lecture hours), spring semester.

Complete a real-world internship to gain professional experience in the residential construction industry. Apply technical knowledge in a supervised work setting and document the occupational tasks encountered. Submit a detailed written proposal for departmental approval before beginning the internship. Upon completion, prepare a comprehensive written report describing and analyzing the work experience. Prerequisite: Approval of department staff. 1–6 credits.

Analyze the key factors involved in construction estimating, including cost of doing business, cost control, and professional presentation of estimates to clients. Use workbooks and construction calculators to prepare accurate, detailed estimates. Evaluate building materials for quality and appropriate application. Engage with industry guest speakers and participate in field trips to explore career pathways in the homebuilding industry. Prerequisite: RESC 160. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours), fall semester.

Examine the functional requirements of residential foundations and evaluate available systems used to meet those requirements. Analyze the properties and applications of concrete and masonry products in residential construction. Develop practical skills in planning, placing, and finishing concrete, and in designing, laying out, and erecting masonry structures through hands-on laboratory work. Students are required to provide a set of hand tools. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 4 laboratory hours), fall semester.

Develop foundational knowledge of the plumbing trade, including tools, terminology, applied mathematics, fluid principles, water distribution systems, and drain-waste-vent systems. Apply these concepts by installing and testing a residential plumbing system through hands-on laboratory work. Students are required to provide a set of hand tools. This course has an additional lab fee. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours), fall semester.

Develop foundational skills in the installation, maintenance, and operation of residential heating systems. Learn the basic principles of heating systems and building heat transfer. In the laboratory, assemble, commission, operate, and troubleshoot hydronic and forced air distribution systems. Prepare for and earn the NORA Bronze Certification for Liquid Heating Fuels Technicians. Students are required to provide a set of hand tools. This course has an additional lab fee. 3 credits (2 lecture hours, 2 laboratory hours), spring semester.

Integrate knowledge and skills from prior coursework to plan, manage and execute a senior-level residential construction project to gain hands-on experience in project coordination, scheduling, and decision-making. Prepare for entry-level management roles within the homebuilding industry through this applied project execution. Students are required to provide a set of hand tools. Prerequisite: Senior Residential Construction majors only. 4 credits (1 lecture hour, 6 laboratory hours), spring semester.