Blueprint Reading Course Online

Self-paced online training with expert support Package of 2 courses

Learn how to read a set of construction blueprints for residential and commercial construction projects through hands-on, real-world learning experiences.

$558 30 clock hours 3 weeks Start anytime

This Course Includes:

  • 30 hours of project-based training from experts
  • 2 course modules & 154 training videos
  • Answers from real instructors
  • 1-on-1 bonus training
  • Verified digital certificate of completion
  • Learn at an accredited institution

This Blueprint Reading Course is taught by a licensed architect. Starting at the very beginning, you will learn about drawing types, scale, and the interrelationships between drawings and how project information is conveyed in a set of construction documents. We will walk through the set of architectural and engineering construction documents. We will also review the project specifications for the mixed-use project.

This course is designed to help trades professionals, journey people, drafters, designers, and architectural & engineering interns, but many other people in the construction industry can benefit professionally by learning how to read a set of blueprints, also known as construction documents (CDs). By the conclusion of this class, you will be able to walk yourself through a set of construction documents.

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Courses & Videos in This Package

Download Syllabus PDF

Unit 1 10 Hours

Residential Blueprint Reading Course Online

This is an online blueprint reading class for residential construction projects. Learn from a licensed architect about drawing types, scale and about the relationships between drawings.

  • 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 Document in this online blueprint reading course.

So what is blueprint reading and why is it necessary in the construction industry? Many people in the construction industry can benefit professionally by learning how to read a set of blueprints, also known as construction documents (CDs). “Blueprint” is the historic name for construction documents. Contractors build the design and follow the drawings included in the set of “blueprints.”

The blueprint reading class is 100% online and references a real-world project. VDCI encourages strong online engagement, participation in group discussion forums, and connecting with your instructor and classmates. Join us in the VDCI Student Lounge, where our current students and alumni share information about the industry and help one another.

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 is an online blueprint reading course for commercial projects. Learn from a licensed architect how to read blueprint drawings for a mixed-use commercial project that includes hotel, retail and parking.

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the inter-relationship between the drawings included in a set of Construction Documents (blueprints) for a Mixed-Use Commercial project.
  • Analyze different drawings and see how information is referenced throughout a set of Construction Documents.
  • Evaluate the similarities between all sets of construction documents submitted for building permits.
  • Recognize the need for consistency in presenting information in all types of Construction Documents.
  • Gain experience understanding how 3D model presentations within a set of construction documents make the construction documents easier to understand the project.

So what is blueprint reading and why is it necessary in the construction industry? Many people in the construction industry can benefit professionally by learning how to read a set of blueprints, also known as construction documents (CDs). “Blueprint” is the historic name for construction documents. Contractors build the design and follow the drawings included in the set of “blueprints.”

The blueprint reading course is 100% online. VDCI encourages strong online engagement, participation in group discussion forums, and connecting with your instructor and classmates. Join us in the VDCI Student Lounge, where our current students and alumni share information about the industry and help one another.

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

Highly Reviewed by Our Alumni

From our hands-on training style to world-class instructors and custom-crafted curriculum, we deliver results our alumni are proud of.

Blueprint Reading Course Online is rated 5.0 stars

in the past 24 months

My experience with the Blueprint reading courses was truly enlightening! I had several "aha" moments as what was previously gibberish to me became a language.

Glenda Martin

This course has been instrumental in moving me to the next step in my career that will serve as the basis for my ultimate career goal.

Brittany Tyrrell

Every member of the staff that I have interacted with has been very friendly, and helpful. I'm in metal fabrication, and use blueprints on a daily basis. I learned so much more information about blueprints that has helped me.

Jeremy Pirtle

The training helped me boost my project management skills and give me an edge in the field.

Ethan Getchell

It helped my career a lot by helping me understand and to better communicate with others. I had plenty of time to train and understand the course.

Jose Ordonez

I really enjoyed how informative the course was. It was very clear the instructor was quite knowledgeable.

Samuel Eli

It has helped me immensely when working with architects and engineers in my sales career. Knowing and understanding my way around blueprints has helped me in sales when communicating about specifics on a project.

Steven Negahbani

The training has helped me to understand how to read commercial blueprints in my day to day job. I use the skills I've learned everyday to easily dissect blueprints quickly and efficiently.

Lisa Bromberg

The commercial side was definitely more challenging for me, but I learned a lot and am so glad I took these courses!

Dawn Wright

I agree it got easier as I completed each lesson. I also work with residential and commercial drawings for my everyday job. I had one project the other day that was almost 70 pages, but after taking this course I was able to understand how the page numbers were aligned. I also knew what the symbols meant and was able to find detail on page 72 right away. Before taking this class, I was overwhelmed and didn't know how to begin reading the drawings.

Lisa Bromberg

Easy to understand and follow along.

Alisha Barrueta-Digesti

This course was very informative to me and definitely helped broaden my knowledge of how blueprints are interpreted. I enjoyed learning the different types of callouts and symbols associated with a blueprint and how its used.

Andrea Reyes

I think the content was good, and taught the subject matter effectively. I learned a lot and I'd take it again.

Billy Middleton

Just thankful for this type of courses and the accessibilty. Thank you!

Hector O. Fernandez Paz

The instructor was amazing! He explained everything perfectly and it was easy to follow along.

Assul Ruiz

Overall, it was an informative course for me. Learning the language of blueprints was fun.

Khalid Khan

Will help with my job moving forward. Lot's of great material!

Tom Howard

I'm a marketing guy and had never read a blueprint before. I am grateful my employer encouraged me to take this excellent course, as it will help me succeed in my new career in window and door sales. The instructor responded promptly to an issue I had. Overall, I was very impressed!

Ken Lukaska

I was personally struggling with reading blueprints but now i better understand them and what's going on in the detail.

Dylan Blickemstaff

I think that this course is perfectly designed and really is helpful for people who are planning to be or are already in the construction industry.

Noe Mata

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 Course Online

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

  • Blueprint Reading & Construction Estimating Course Online
    50 hours $837

    Gain a thorough understanding of blueprint reading and construction cost estimating to navigate both residential and commercial projects. Learn to interpret construction documents and develop cost estimates for construction projects, from single-family homes to mixed-use commercial buildings.

  • 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.

  • Construction Course Online
    70 hours $1,524

    Gain a thorough understanding of the building construction process, from initial site work to final system installations. Learn the essential skills to navigate every phase of construction and prepare students for careers in the construction industry.

Blueprint Reading Fundamentals Course Overview

What You Will Learn

The Blueprint Reading Course is a structured, self-paced training program designed to equip students with the skills needed to accurately interpret residential and commercial construction drawings. This hands-on course covers blueprint interpretation, architectural symbols, drawing scales, and technical documentation, ensuring students develop a deep understanding of how construction projects are designed and executed.

By completing this program, you will:

  • Gain a strong understanding of construction document organization and how different drawing types relate to one another
  • Learn to interpret blueprint symbols, legends, and notations to extract essential project details
  • Analyze title sheets, site plans, floor plans, elevations, and structural drawings for residential and commercial buildings
  • Master reading MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) layouts, understanding how these systems interact within a structure
  • Study construction details, sections, and schedules, ensuring complete comprehension of material selection and assembly
  • Develop proficiency in navigating multi-page drawing sets for complex building projects
  • Recognize the role of blueprints in permit approvals, contractor coordination, and project management
  • Apply blueprint reading skills through real-world residential and commercial project exercises

Benefits of the Blueprint Reading Course

The Blueprint Reading Course provides structured, industry-aligned training for individuals looking to enhance their understanding of construction documents.

  • Flexible, Self-Paced Learning: Access course materials anytime, allowing you to study at your convenience
  • Expert-Led Training: Learn from a licensed architect with hands-on construction and design experience
  • Real-World Blueprint Interpretation: Work directly with actual residential and commercial construction documents
  • Comprehensive Project-Based Learning: Apply blueprint reading skills to hands-on exercises and quizzes
  • Personalized Instructor Support: Receive guidance from industry professionals through one-on-one mentoring
  • Professional Documentation Proficiency: Develop confidence in reading, analyzing, and interpreting construction blueprints
  • Digital Certificate: Earn a recognized credential that validates your expertise

Course Lessons and Projects

Course 1: Blueprint Reading for Residential Construction

Learn to interpret and analyze blueprint sets used in residential building projects, including single-family homes and small-scale multi-family developments.

Skills Covered:

  • Identifying drawing types, symbols, and standard blueprint conventions
  • Understanding floor plans, elevations, sections, and wall details
  • Analyzing structural drawings, including foundation, framing, and roof plans
  • Interpreting residential mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) layouts
  • Recognizing dimensional consistency and material specifications in residential construction

Project: Walk through a real residential construction blueprint set, identifying key architectural, structural, and MEP components

Course 2: Blueprint Reading for Commercial Construction

Expand your blueprint reading expertise by exploring commercial building plans, including mixed-use and multi-story developments.

Skills Covered:

  • Navigating cover sheets, title pages, and project specification documents
  • Interpreting commercial building floor plans, sections, and elevation drawings
  • Understanding structural systems for large-scale projects, including load-bearing walls, columns, and trusses
  • Evaluating commercial MEP system layouts and how they integrate into the building framework
  • Recognizing egress, occupancy classification, and accessibility compliance requirements

Project: Analyze a seven-story commercial project, reviewing architectural, structural, and MEP documents for construction feasibility

Who Should Take This Course?

This course is designed for individuals looking to develop blueprint reading skills applicable to residential and commercial construction projects. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to refine your expertise, this program provides structured, real-world training to help you achieve your professional goals.

  • You work in construction or a related industry and need to interpret blueprints effectively for project coordination
  • You are transitioning into architecture, engineering, or construction management and need a solid foundation in reading technical drawings
  • You are a contractor, tradesperson, or field supervisor looking to improve your ability to navigate blueprint sets on the job
  • You work in real estate, property development, or inspections and want to strengthen your understanding of construction documentation
  • You have encountered blueprints before but struggle with deciphering details such as sections, elevations, and MEP systems
  • You need a structured training program to build confidence in blueprint reading and apply these skills to professional projects
  • You’re a self-taught learner seeking expert guidance and practical exercises to reinforce blueprint comprehension

This course provides industry-standard training to help participants become proficient in blueprint interpretation and construction document navigation, ensuring they are well-prepared to apply these skills in real-world settings.

Industry Demand & Career Outlook

Blueprint reading is a critical skill in the construction, architecture, and engineering industries, as professionals across these fields rely on accurate interpretation of construction documents to bring projects to life.

Key Applications of Blueprint Reading Expertise

  • Pre-Construction Planning: Accurately interpret site plans, structural layouts, and zoning regulations
  • Architectural & Engineering Collaboration: Improve workflow efficiency by coordinating between different design and construction disciplines
  • Construction Execution: Ensure trades, contractors, and site managers have a clear understanding of project requirements
  • Project Estimation & Bidding: Analyze construction drawings for material takeoffs, cost estimation, and contract proposals
  • Building Inspections & Code Compliance: Verify building plans align with regulations, accessibility standards, and safety codes

How Blueprint Reading Skills Improve Career Prospects

  • Enhances Job Opportunities: Professionals with blueprint reading expertise are in high demand across construction, design, and development sectors
  • Improves Field Efficiency: The ability to quickly interpret plans helps ensure smooth project execution and minimizes costly errors
  • Expands Skill Set for Career Advancement: Understanding how architectural, structural, and MEP plans work together enhances job performance in engineering, construction, and management roles
  • Strengthens Communication Across Teams: Mastering blueprint interpretation allows for clearer coordination between project managers, engineers, contractors, and field workers

Blueprint reading is an essential skill in today’s construction and design landscape, and professionals who master this ability gain a competitive edge in their field. This program provides practical training and expert-led guidance, helping students develop the confidence needed to read, analyze, and apply blueprint reading skills in real-world residential and commercial construction projects.

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