Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

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Building inspectors apply their expertise to preserve and secure the safety of our built environments. In PCC’s Building Inspection Technology program, we provide a diverse set of skills, enabling you to begin a career working in governmental jurisdictions or private industry.

According to the Oregon Employment Department, the demand for building inspectors in the Portland area is projected to grow over 19% through 2027.

The Building Inspection Technology Program is now open, offering the AAS Degree in Building Inspection Technology, as well as the certificate in Residential Plans Examination. For more information or availability of individual courses please contact the department advisor, at 971-722-4166.

Why choose Building Inspection Technology at PCC?

PCC offers a Building Inspection Technology (BIT) program delivered by experts in the field. Students develop and apply a basic understanding of concepts, theories, and principles of construction and codes. The certificate in Residential Plans Examination prepares students for work reviewing plans for 1- and 2-family residential projects. The AAS degree in Building Inspection Technology prepares students for both residential and commercial plan review and site inspections.

Degrees and certificates

Degrees and certificates by number of terms to complete

Award	Length	Financial aid eligible	Currently accepting students?
Associate Degree: Building Inspection Technology	2 years
Career Pathway Certificate: Residential Plans Examination	Less than 1 year

What will you learn?

Our broad and relevant curriculum includes:

• Building structures
• Building systems
• Construction materials
• Print reading
• Residential and commercial building codes
• Residential and commercial plans review
• Plan review software

With additional courses in:

• Cooperative work experience at a local city or county building department
• Interpersonal communication
• Job finding skills
• Management and supervisory development

What will you do?

Graduates may find employment in public and private code enforcement agencies, construction firms, engineering or architectural firms, and other related industries.

Please note that the Residential Plans Examination Certificate trains someone to work in a public jurisdiction as a permit inspector or a permit plans examiner and not to work as a home inspector during the buying and selling of property. For more information on home inspections, please check with the Oregon Construction Contractors Board.