Free online courseSketchup for Architecture Students

Course Description

Build architectural models in SketchUp with confidence by learning the workflow habits that make student projects look professional and stay editable from start to finish. This free online course is designed for architecture students who want to move beyond simply drawing forms and instead develop a reliable process for setting up a file, controlling scale, and modeling with precision so the model remains clean as it grows in complexity.

You will learn how to set up perspective views with presentation in mind, including camera choices that help produce believable architectural scenes when exporting for graphic layout work. The course emphasizes accuracy without slowing you down, showing how to create and use guidelines to place elements correctly and how to maintain a consistent unit approach that fits architectural modeling standards.

A major focus is model organization and editability. You will practice techniques that prevent geometry from sticking together, making it easier to adjust walls, openings, and components without accidental deformation. You will also discover practical shortcuts for grouping and quicker navigation, along with isolation tools that temporarily hide the rest of the model so you can focus on the object you are editing without distraction.

To support a real studio workflow, the course connects SketchUp modeling with common CAD and presentation pipelines. You will see how to prepare a drawing for import, which file format helps ensure an efficient transfer, and why certain preparation steps save time later. You will also understand the value of SketchUp Pro compared to the browser-based version when working on architectural projects where exporting, coordination, and file handling matter. By the end, you will be equipped to model faster, present more clearly, and iterate on designs with less friction—skills that directly support studio deadlines and portfolio-ready results.