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    TAFE NSW Course

    National code: CPP40121 | CRICOS Code: 108532H

    Certificate IV in Residential Drafting

    Apply online How to apply

    OverviewAbout this course

    The Certificate IV in Residential Drafting teaches you practical skills for working effectively in a building design environment. In this exciting course, you’ll grow your confidence using popular building design technologies with help from TAFE NSW’s highly experienced teaching staff. This includes using computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce drawings and compliant documentation, using building information modelling (BIM) capable software, and creating digital 3-D models of building designs. During this course, you will also benefit from simulated work environments where you can practise your new skills and develop your portfolio of work to take into the industry.Graduates of this course can go on to draftsperson roles or pursue further study to become an accredited building designer.

    OutcomesWhat you'll gain

    Learn new skills

    Through a mix of theory and practical coursework, learn to: 

    • Use CAD (computer-aided design) software like Revit and ArchiCAD to support building designers and architects in producing drawings for Class 1 and 10 building designs
    • Identify appropriate construction methods and materials
    • Apply compliance, planning and building requirements for building design documentation
    • Review and apply National Construction Code (NCC) compliance regulations around building and construction in various settings
    • Sketch and annotate structural components

    Gain practical experience

    Build your experience and get practical skills in:

    • Working independently and collaborating in a team environment
    • Adapting to outdoor work at different sites
    • Using CAD(computer-aided design) software to produce drawings for building design projects
    • Preparing Class 1 and 10 building drawings for planning and approval
    • Identifying appropriate construction methods and risk assessments for Class 1 and Class 10 buildings
    • Sketching and annotating structural details

    Develop your professional confidence

    Develop the qualities you need to get ahead in this industry:

    • The ability to work on your own and thrive in a team
    • Adaptability to work outdoors and at different sites
    • A commitment to high quality work
    • Confidence and proficiency in running CAD (computer-aided design)
    • Strong visual spatial skills

    Career pathways

    This qualification could help you prepare for roles like:

    • Draftsperson (supporting building designers and architects)

    SuitabilityInternational entry requirements

    At TAFE NSW each course has entry requirements. These help us to make sure that your course choice is right for you and help determine your suitability for a course. We want you to be confident in your decision and successful in your studies.

    Fees and locationsStarting dates, course fees and locations

    As an international student, you can choose from a range of different courses, offered at various locations. Experience vibrant spaces, libraries, cafes and gyms, as well as places to make friends and socialise with other students.

    Additional costs

    Additional costs for uniforms, equipment, textbooks and materials (if applicable) range from $300 - $1,000 AUD per course.

    Structure and unitsWhat you will study

    At the start of your course, you will receive your timetable. You will need to study all core units and a range of additional units.


    To achieve this qualification, competency must be demonstrated in 10 units of competency, consisting of 7 core and 3 elective units. Electives are to be chosen as follows: all three units from the electives listed below, or two units from the electives listed below, plus one unit selected from: the CPP50921 Diploma of Building Design qualification, or any current level 4 qualification or accredited course provided it contributes to a valid, industry-supported vocational outcome and does not duplicate the outcome of another unit used to achieve this qualification.

    Core units are the required units that you must complete.

    • Work effectively in a building design environmentCPPBDN4101

    • Analyse building design drawingsCPPBDN4102

    • Use CAD software to produce drawings for building design projectsCPPBDN4103

    • Apply compliance requirements to Class 1 and 10 building design documentationCPPBDN4104

    • Prepare drawings for planning and building approval for Class 1 and 10 buildingsCPPBDN4105

    • Investigate materials for construction of Class 1 and 10 buildingsCPPBDN4106

    • Investigate construction methods for Class 1 and 10 buildingsCPPBDN4107

    PathwaysContinue your studies

    At TAFE NSW, you can develop your skills or build your expertise by studying a single course. You can also continue your studies with one of the following pathway options:


    Vocational study pathway

    Enrol in a range of TAFE NSW courses designed to help you kick-start your career and education goals. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW degree pathway

    From certificates to diplomas, to a TAFE NSW degree, continue your studies with us to help build your success. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    TAFE NSW - university partnership pathways

    TAFE NSW has partnerships with a number of Australian universities. These universities offer guaranteed entry and credit transfer to eligible students. How much credit you are eligible for varies depending on the course and university you choose. You can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    Other university pathways

    You may gain entry to another university using your TAFE NSW qualifications. Acceptance and the amount of credit transfer may vary depending on the university and course studies. Check your credit eligibility.


    Keep learning with TAFE NSW

    Build your expertise with a TAFE NSW architecture study pathway:

    You are able to package two or more TAFE NSW courses together. This means you can plan your studies to achieve your career goals. When you apply for a TAFE NSW vocational pathway, you can apply for a Student Visa that will cover the duration of your study.


    ServicesCampus facilities and support services

    TAFE NSW provides support services across all campus locations. Whatever your needs or circumstances, we have the resources, counselling and facilities to support you while you are studying.

    You’ll also receive access to CAD software such as ArchiCAD, Revit and Lumion.

    We offer a range of support services including: 

    • TAFE NSW Disability Support Service 
    • TAFE NSW Language, Literacy, and Numeracy (LLN) support  
    • TAFE NSW Careers, Counselling, and Pathways Service  
    • Smarthinking – online access to a tutor 
    • LinkedIn Learning – an online resource that offers innovative courses and tutorials to improve your personal and professional skills

    We're here to help

    If you have more questions about your course choice or study plans contact us today.

    Contact TAFE NSW International