Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online

Self-paced online training with expert support Package of 3 courses

Gain a thorough understanding of blueprint reading and construction cost estimating to navigate both residential and commercial projects. Learn to interpret construction documents for construction projects, from single-family homes to mixed-use commercial buildings. Students will also learn the purposes for construction estimating, the estimating tools used and the skills required for construction estimating.

$837 50 clock hours 5 weeks Start anytime

This course includes

  • 50 hours of project-based training from experts
  • 3 course modules & 217 training videos
  • Answers from real instructors
  • 1-on-1 bonus training
  • Verified digital certificate of completion
  • Learn at an accredited institution

Our online, instructor-led Blueprint Reading classes are taught by a licensed architect who creates construction documents for commercial, government and residential projects -- and has received project documentation awards from the American Institute of Architects.

Our Estimating class is taught by a certified, professional construction cost estimator who is the past-President of the American Society of Professional Estimators.

Start at the very beginning, learn about Drawing Scale in classes that are thorough and detailed. Learn how blueprint drawings are organized and how information is referenced throughout a set of construction blueprint drawings. Review architectural and engineering blueprint drawings, as well as Project specifications.

Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the construction drawings and a quantity-takeoff cost estimate. Analyze the components of a cost estimate and learn how a quantity-takeoff cost estimate is created. Master an understanding of quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs and pricing estimated quantities. Recognize the need for thoroughness and attention to detail when preparing cost estimates.

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Courses & Videos in This Package

Download Syllabus PDF

Unit 1 10 Hours

Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online

Taught by a licensed architect, this Residential Blueprint Reading Course is designed to provide you with a thorough understanding of how to interpret and analyze residential construction blueprints. This comprehensive, instructor-led course is ideal for beginners looking to gain essential skills for a career in construction, as well as for seasoned professionals seeking to improve their ability to collaborate on residential projects. You will explore the fundamental elements of blueprint reading, including architectural symbols, abbreviations, and scales. The course also dives into key components such as floor plans, elevations, sections, and details, ensuring learners gain a complete understanding of how to visualize and execute residential structures based on design documents. Through a structured, hands-on approach, you will work with real-world examples and residential project plans to reinforce their learning. This residential blueprint reading course is also available in Spanish. 

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the drawings included in a set of Construction Documents (blueprints).
  • Analyze different drawings and see how scale is presented throughout a set of Construction Documents.
  • Evaluate the similarities between all sets of blueprint construction documents submitted for building permits.
  • Recognize the need for consistency in presenting information in all types of Construction Documents in this online blueprint reading course.
Video Training Preview
Topic 1: Blueprint Reading Basics
Topic 2: Title Sheet & Floor Plans
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Schedules
Topic 4: Wall Sections & Details
Topic 5: Structural Drawings
Topic 6: Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing
Topic 7: Title Sheet
Topic 8: Architectural Site Plans
Topic 9: Floor Plans
Topic 10: Building Sections & Elevations
Topic 11: Interior Elevations & Roof Plan
Topic 12: Details, Schedules & Electrical

Unit 2 20 Hours

Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online

This Commercial Blueprint Reading course is designed to provide students with the foundational skills and insights necessary to efficiently interpret and analyze commercial construction drawings. Whether you're a professional in the construction industry or an aspiring student, this course will enhance your ability to read and understand blueprints, empowering you to communicate effectively and contribute to various stages of the construction process. Learn from a licensed architect how to read blueprint drawings for a mixed-use commercial project that includes hotel, retail, and parking. This commercial blueprint reading course is also available in Spanish. 

  • Blueprint Essentials: Gain a comprehensive understanding of architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical plans as applied to  Mixed-Use Commercial construction project.
  • Industry Standards: Learn to read and interpret symbols, notations, and technical details in accordance with industry standards. Evaluate the similarities between all sets of construction documents submitted for building permits.
  • Hands-On Learning: Work with real-world construction drawings and documents to build practical skills.
  • Application of Knowledge: Understand how blueprints are used to estimate costs, plan projects, and ensure on-site accuracy during construction.


Video Training Preview
Lesson 1: Foundation Walls and Basement Columns
Topic 2: Cover Sheet & Floor Plan
Topic 3: Elevations, Sections & Wall Types
Topic 4: Enlarged Drawings & Occupancy/Egress
Topic 5: Interior Design & Civil
Topic 6: Structural
Topic 7: Mechanical
Topic 8: Electrical
Topic 9: Plumbing
Topic 10: Technology & Project Specifications

Unit 3 20 Hours

Construction Estimating Course Online

Taught by a professional construction estimator, this Construction Estimating Course will show you the purposes of construction estimating, the estimating tools used, and the skills required for construction estimating. You will go over quantity takeoffs and how to determine prices based on estimated quantities. The course wraps up discussing cost estimate proposals and what is included and excluded when creating an estimate. Estimating is a core competency for professionals across the construction industry, from contractors to project managers. This course is ideal for individuals seeking to enhance their professional expertise in construction project management, aspiring estimators, or those transitioning into a construction-focused career. By the end of the course, students will have the confidence and technical ability to create comprehensive cost estimates that align with professional industry standards. Learn from experienced professionals and prepare to advance in the dynamic field of construction.

  • Understand the fundamentals of construction estimating for residential and commercial projects.
  • Learn to interpret architectural and structural plans to extract relevant cost-related data.
  • Master different types of estimates, such as conceptual, preliminary, and detailed estimating.
  • Gain insight into quantity surveying, estimating takeoffs, labor costs, equipment costs, and contingency planning.
  • Explore industry-standard tools and software used for creating precise cost estimations.
  • Develop problem-solving skills to analyze discrepancies and mitigate cost overruns effectively.
Video Training Preview
Topic 1: Introduction - Learning Objectives - What is Estimating?
Topic 2: Definitions & Abbreviations
Topic 3: Units of Measure
Topic 4: The Takeoff
Topic 5: Pricing Resources
Topic 6: Cost Categories
Topic 7: The Estimate
Topic 8: Project Considerations
Topic 9: Validation
Topic 10: Estimate Cover Sheet, Recap & Instructor Thoughts
set of printed construction documents
student learning civil 3d on computer
male student at computer workstation taking revit course
female student with phone

Related Courses: Compare to Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online

These related courses share skills and topics with Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online. Select up to two and tap Compare selected courses to view a side-by-side comparison.

  • Blueprint Reading Course Online
    30 hours $558

    Develop fundamental blueprint reading skills for residential and commercial construction projects through hands-on, real-world learning experiences.

  • Construction Estimating Course Online
    20 hours $329

    Learn the fundamentals of construction estimating, including types of estimates, quantity takeoffs, pricing strategies, and cost estimate proposals.

  • Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online
    10 hours $279

    Learn the fundamentals of blueprint reading for residential construction, from understanding drawing types to interpreting complex construction documents, to gain a solid foundation for your career in the construction industry.

  • Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online
    20 hours $329

    Gain the skills to read construction blueprints for mixed-use commercial projects, including hotels, retail spaces, and parking, with an emphasis on interrelationships between drawings and how 3D models simplify construction documents.

Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online Overview

What You Will Learn

The Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online is a structured, self-paced training program designed to provide in-depth knowledge of construction document interpretation and cost estimation. Whether you are working on residential, commercial, or mixed-use projects, this course equips you with the essential skills to read blueprints, analyze specifications, and develop accurate cost estimates. Through hands-on, project-based training, students gain expertise in construction drawings, material takeoffs, and cost evaluation methodologies.

By completing this course, you will:

  • Learn how to read and interpret construction blueprints for various project types
  • Understand drawing organization, architectural symbols, and annotations
  • Gain expertise in construction cost estimation, including quantity takeoffs and pricing strategies
  • Develop a strong foundation in structural, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing (MEP) drawings
  • Identify and analyze project specifications for improved construction planning
  • Understand the relationship between blueprint drawings and cost estimation
  • Earn a verified digital certificate upon successful completion

Benefits of the Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online

This course is designed to help students build practical skills in blueprint reading and construction estimating through structured, real-world training

  • Self-Paced Learning with Instructor Support: Progress at your own speed while receiving guidance from industry professionals
  • Expert-Led Training: Learn from a licensed architect and a professional cost estimator with extensive real-world experience
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Gain hands-on training in residential and commercial blueprint reading and construction cost estimation
  • Real-World Projects: Work on actual construction documents and cost estimation exercises
  • One-on-One Instructor Support: Receive feedback and guidance tailored to your learning journey
  • Industry-Recognized Certification: Earn a digital certificate to showcase your expertise
  • Practical Application for Career Growth: Develop skills that translate directly to construction management, drafting, and estimating

Course Lessons and Projects

Course 1: Blueprint Reading for Residential Construction

Gain foundational knowledge in blueprint reading, focusing on residential construction projects

  • Understand how residential construction blueprints are structured
  • Interpret floor plans, elevations, sections, and schedules
  • Develop skills in reading structural and MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing) drawings
  • Analyze construction notes, dimensions, and materials

Project: Analyze a residential blueprint set and develop a floor plan sketch

Course 2: Blueprint Reading for Commercial Construction

Expand your skills to read and analyze commercial construction blueprints

  • Understand the organization of commercial blueprint sets
  • Interpret structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) drawings in commercial projects
  • Analyze foundation plans, elevations, sections, and occupancy requirements
  • Navigate construction specifications and general project notes

Project: Review and analyze a commercial blueprint set, ensuring accuracy in structural layouts and MEP coordination

Course 3: Construction Estimating

Learn how to create detailed and accurate construction cost estimates

  • Understand cost estimation principles and their role in project planning
  • Conduct quantity takeoffs for materials, labor, and equipment
  • Develop proficiency in pricing strategies and cost breakdowns
  • Explore the tools and spreadsheets used in construction estimating

Project: Create a detailed quantity takeoff and cost estimate using real-world blueprint data

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is designed for individuals who need to develop expertise in blueprint reading and construction estimating, whether for professional development or career transition. It is ideal for those who:

  • Work in or are entering the construction industry and need structured training in blueprint interpretation
  • Regularly review or interact with construction drawings and require a better understanding of blueprint details
  • Need to develop cost estimation skills to improve project planning and budgeting
  • Collaborate with architects, engineers, or contractors and want to strengthen their knowledge of construction documents
  • Are looking to enhance technical skills for professional growth in fields related to construction, design, or project management

Career Applications & Industry Relevance

The skills developed in this course are highly applicable to various roles in construction, architecture, and engineering. Professionals who understand blueprint reading and cost estimation have a competitive edge in roles such as:

  • Construction Estimators: Develop accurate project cost estimates
  • Project Managers: Oversee blueprint interpretation and cost management
  • General Contractors: Ensure project execution aligns with construction plans
  • Architectural Drafters: Create and analyze construction documents
  • MEP Specialists: Interpret mechanical, electrical, and plumbing blueprints
  • Building Inspectors: Review construction plans for compliance

As blueprint reading and construction estimating remain essential skills in the construction industry, professionals with technical expertise will continue to be in high demand. This course equips students with practical knowledge that directly translates to career advancement.

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