Mechanical Design and Drafting 
Certificate
Curriculum code 1220
Course Requirements                    CAD Program Web site

This program prepares students for entry-level positions in mechanical drafting and computer-assisted design (CAD). Courses cover the fundamentals of mechanical design, including industrial drafting standards, computer-assisted drafting and design, geometric tolerancing, and beginning manufacturing techniques.

This certificate program, which requires fewer credit hours to complete than an associate's degree, is intended to lead to immediate employment.

Recent high school graduates may be eligible for college credit for selected Tech Prep courses taken in high school.

If you are considering transferring to a four-year college or university to obtain a bachelor's degree using the courses from this program, make an appointment with an academic advisor to review your options. 

Nature of Work—A diverse and wide spectrum of businesses employ CAD drafters and designers, including architectural and mechanical design firms, engineering firms (civil, mechanical, etc.), graphic arts firms, construction companies, product design companies and manufacturing companies.

Related Job Title—Drafter, design drafter, computer-aided design (CAD) drafter, CAD technician.

Related Programs—Mechanical Design and Drafting/CAD A.A.S. (67 credit hours), Mechanical Design CAD Certificate (23 credit hours), 3-D CAD Certificate (20 credit hours), Architectural CAD Certificate (20 credit hours), CAD Programming/Management Certificate (18 credit hours), and Computer Animation Certificate (20 credit hours)

Employment Outlook—Employment of drafters is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through 2010. Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. The greater use of CAD equipment by drafters, architects and engineers, should limit demand for lesser-skilled drafters. Opportunities should be best for individuals who have at least two years of postsecondary training in a drafting program that provides strong technical skills, and who have considerable skill and experience using CAD systems. Employers will look for drafters with a strong background in fundamental drafting principles, a higher level of technical sophistication, and an ability to apply this knowledge to a broader range of responsibilities. Earnings for drafters vary by specialty and level of responsibility. Median hourly earnings of mechanical drafters were $18.19 in 2000.

According to MVCC's Job Listing Report ending 6/30/01, the average salary earned for full-time CAD drafters was $13.16 an hour or approximately $27,040 a year. Part-time CAD drafters earned between $8 and $25 an hour depending on experience.

For job listings and job placement assistance, contact the Job Placement Center in the Center for Contemporary Technology, T904, (708) 974-5737.