# Structural Blueprint Reading Course Online

100% online with live support and industry-recognized certificate

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/courses/structural-blueprint-reading-course>

## Overview

This course focuses on teaching students how to read and interpret structural blueprints used in professional construction environments. Students begin by building a strong foundation in structural assemblies and understanding why structural blueprint reading is essential to construction projects. Early lessons emphasize General Notes and Inspection Requirements, helping students learn how these sections impact planning, procurement, and field installation.

As the course progresses, students examine key structural components, including foundations, footings, slabs on grade, and steel systems. Instruction covers how to identify and interpret common symbols, abbreviations, schedules, and callouts related to concrete, rebar, and structural steel. The course concludes with a detailed review of structural details and sections, reinforcing how to interpret steel connections, material intersections, and critical construction information found in structural drawings.

## What you'll learn

- Interpret structural blueprints and understand their role in construction projects
- Read and apply General Notes and Inspection Requirements in structural plans
- Identify and interpret foundations, footings, and slab-on-grade information
- Recognize symbols and abbreviations related to concrete, rebar, and structural steel
- Interpret steel beams, steel joists, metal decking, and associated assemblies
- Analyze structural details and sections, including weld symbols, bolt schedules, and rebar layouts

## Prerequisites

This course has a recommended prerequisite. You will need previous experience with Commercial Blueprint Reading or to have taken our [Commercial Blueprint Reading Course Online](https://vdci.edu/courses/blueprint-reading-course-commercial-construction).

## Instructors

### Luis Hernandez — Instructor

Luis has a Bachelor of Architecture Degree from the University of Southern California and over 10 years of professional AEC industry experience. He has made extensive use of AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit and Photoshop in his work, and is happiest when helping others achieve success. He’s an avid traveler who has run 10 marathons and enjoys reading, yoga, camping, volunteering and attending music festivals all over the world.

### David Nguyen — Instructor

David is the AEC Software Specialist at VDCI, with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and an Associate’s degree of science in Drafting and General Design from ITT Technical Institute. A San Diego native with over 12 years working in the Design Industry and construction industry, David brings his construction and design expertise to help all students achieve their goals in the field. Outside of his professional life, David loves attending concerts, festivals, playing his guitar and restoring and repairing all types of vehicles.

**Credentials:**

- OSHA 30 hr. Construction Safety Certified
- Construction Software: SketchUp, Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Fusion, REVIT)
- Mechanical Software: PTC CREO Parametric, Solidworks, MasterCAM

### Matt F. — Instructor

Matt F. is a well-rounded construction professional with a diverse background of construction industry experience. Matt has strong experience working on major commercial and residential construction projects, overseeing projects from pre-construction through to closeout. He also has a deep knowledge of the construction technology space, having hands-on experience with many of the major players in the construction technology landscape. Matt loves sharing his industry knowledge with others and continuing to learn about the newest trends in construction technology.

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $329