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Bachelor of Science

Virtual Design and Construction (B.S.)

Department of Design and Construction Management
Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) bridges design and construction using Building Information Modeling (BIM), digital coordination, and construction management fundamentals. You’ll learn to turn models and project data into clear plans the field can build—reducing clashes, improving communication, and helping teams deliver projects with fewer surprises.
VDC students use BIM models to coordinate design and construction, improving constructability, communication, and project planning.
Learn More About the Virtual Design and Construction Program
Request more information about the Virtual Design and Construction program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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Virtual Design and Construction Introduction

Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) is a project team-oriented process that uses digital models and construction information to plan, coordinate, and manage building projects. Virtual design involves creating and coordinating 2D drawings and 3D models using industry software. Building Information Models (BIM) extend beyond geometry and may include the following dimensions:

  • 3D – building dimensions, materials, quantities, and assemblies
  • 4D – construction sequencing, scheduling, and risk awareness
  • 5D – model-based quantities and cost planning
  • 6D – facilities and asset information for operations and handoff

Virtual construction uses BIM information to organize, plan, and manage construction workflows. Virtual design and virtual construction are best viewed as an integrated system supporting the full project team.

Accelerated options are available for the Bachelor of Science in Virtual Design and Construction degree. See an academic advisor for more information.

Academic Advising

Highlighted Courses

Build hands-on skills in computer-aided design and BIM, then apply them to real-world construction workflows—including building systems, estimating, preconstruction coordination, construction BIM, and project management. Learn how to connect design information to field execution using industry-standard tools and collaborative, team-based processes.
Introduction to Computer Aided Design
November 07, 2025 10:30 AM
VDC 120
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Building Systems
November 03, 2025 10:20 AM
CONST 235
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Building Information Modeling II
November 07, 2025 10:28 AM
VDC 290
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Construction Estimating
November 03, 2025 10:21 AM
CONST 305
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Preconstruction Building Information Modeling
November 07, 2025 10:28 AM
VDC 310
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Construction BIM
November 03, 2025 10:24 AM
CONST 311
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Project Management
November 07, 2025 10:32 AM
CONST 380
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Architectural Design
November 07, 2025 10:33 AM
VDC 410
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4-Year Plan
See Example Class Plan
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Salary Outlook for BYUI Graduates

Explore earnings data for BYU-Idaho graduates in virtual design-related fields.

1 year

$53,421

Average Salary

5 years

$80,863

Average Salary

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This data is based on outcomes for BYU-Idaho graduates with a degree in this major, using federal Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes (PSEO) data. It reflects actual earnings and employment over time, rather than job market estimates.

Career Possibilities for Virtual Design and Construction

VDC graduates are ready to contribute quickly on real project teams. Whether at a general contractor, trade partner, design firm, or fabrication/manufacturing company, you’ll be prepared to support model-based coordination, planning, and communication that keeps projects running smoothly. Explore some of the top careers our students pursue with this degree, or discover more career options in I-Plan.

Career Options

Data Source: Industry and occupation employment and wage estimates are modeled using data from Lightcast, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, and other public sources. Figures are estimates and actual outcomes may vary by employer, experience, and location.

Dive Deeper Into Virtual Design and Construction

Explore helpful articles about this major, including career paths, skills, and opportunities. Get the insight you need to make an informed decision about your future at BYU-Idaho.

Explore Major Discovery
Career Fair - Feb 2020
Career Possibilities
How a VDC Degree Sets You Apart from Other Degrees
August 21, 2026 04:36 PM
Traditional construction and engineering degrees usually focus on building design, math, materials, and general project management.
2 Min Read
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Computer Information Technology - Feb 2023
Career Possibilities
Jobs for a Virtual Design and Construction Degree
August 21, 2026 04:37 PM
A Bachelor of Science degree in Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) mixes building design, engineering, and technology. VDC is the future of building, changing projects from paper drawings to team-based 3D computer models (BIM). Graduates are not just people who draw; they are smart tech leaders who make every part of a building project better, from the first plan to the final use.
1 Min Read
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Students in class
Industry Insights
What Is Building Information Modeling?
August 21, 2026 04:39 PM
Building Information Modeling (BIM) is a digital tool that uses 3D models to show how a building is designed and built. These models store important information about a structure, such as materials, size, costs, and how different systems fit together.
1 Min Read
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AI in Academics

At BYU-Idaho, we are strategically integrating Artificial Intelligence to enhance academic excellence and prepare our students for an evolving world.

Learn more about AI in Academics
AI in Design and Construction Management
You will learn to integrate artificial intelligence tools to automate drafting tasks and improve the accuracy of complex building models for more efficient project delivery. Our program ensures you are ready to use emerging technologies to optimize coordination and enhance communication across large scale construction teams.
Advance Knowledge, Enhancing Learning, and Developing Workforce Readiness
AI in Academics means learning to advance knowledge, enhancing learning, and developing workforce readiness through tools that support (not replace) your effort and integrity.

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Next Steps With BYU-Idaho

Learn How to Apply
Explore how to begin your academic journey at BYU-Idaho by starting your application today.
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Change Your Major
Learn how to update your academic path with simple instructions for requesting a major change.
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Learn More About the Virtual Design and Construction Program

Request more information about the Virtual Design and Construction program and discover how BYU-Idaho can help you reach your goals.

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