Computer-Aided Drafting & Design

All successful projects start with a good plan. For architects, engineering designers, CAD drafters and builders, the plan comes in the form of working drawings produced by technically talented and well- trained individuals.

Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) professionals use computer systems to prepare technical drawings and plans that are used to build everything from manufactured products to buildings.

If you have a desire to express your knowledge through computer-aided design software, Midland College gives you the skills needed to make your way into this exciting field. This degree allows you to pursue careers that strike a satisfying balance between creativity, technical proficiency and attention to detail.

MC offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and certificates in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD).

The Associate of Applied Science degree in CADD will provide students with the skills to work in the drafting industry can be applied worldwide. Multiple software options are taught and available to students.

The program includes training in advanced technologies including additive manufacturing (3D printing), subtractive manufacturing (CNC milling), laser engraving, 3D scanning and more. We also offer courses in advanced software including AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, Revit, Civil 3D, Inventor, 3dsMax, Intergraph CADWorx Plant and P&ID, just to name a few.

Students receive the technical training necessary to choose a drafting/design career in the fields of architecture, construction, civil / surveying, manufacturing and engineering. This program provides a strong academic and technical base for immediate employment and the foundation for professional growth. Additionally, students learn about solid and parametric modeling using advanced computer-aided drafting and design techniques, including 2D and 3D design.

Computer graphics student using computer for design 'Outer Space' image, from Computer Graphics student's project Computer graphics student using 3D printining techn ology
     

Program Details

Click links below for details

The Paula and Jim Henry Innovations Center at Midland College is a technology learning space which allows students the opportunity to collaborate, tinker, learn, design, and make using a variety of tools and materials. An idea can be developed from conception to creation using the tools provided in the center including: 3D printing, 3D scanning, laser engraving, CNC milling, vinyl cutting, and more.

Industry Standard Software

AutoCAD, Inventor, Civil 3D, Revit Architecture, AutoCAD Architecture, 3ds Max, and Intergraph CADWorx

Equipment

3D printers, 3D scanners, laser engraver, CNC mill, vinyl cutter, vinyl heat press, HTC Vive VR system

No Purchase Necessary

Students are NOT required to purchase their own computer or software. The Midland College Computer Graphics labs are equipped with high-end computers and the same software used throughout the computer graphics industry.

'Futuristic City' image

City of Coruscant

by Sean Chaney

'Room Design' image

Architectural Project

by Steven Alexander

'Alien Invasion' image

Day 1

by Blake Moore

MC Computer Drafting Facebook Page

Marketable Skills

Pursuing a CADD degree will provide marketable skills in these areas:

  • Reading Comprehension – Reading work-related information
  • Active Listening – Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Speaking – Talking to others
  • Writing – Writing things for co-workers or customers
  • Critical Thinking – Thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
  • Complex Problem Solving – Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
  • Monitoring – Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements

Career Opportunities

Earning an AAS degree in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design leads to a variety of career opportunities in the following fields such as:

  • Architectural Drafting/Design
  • Pipe/Plant Drafting/Design
  • Mechanical Drafting/Design
  • Civil Drafting/Design
  • Survey Drafting
  • Well Planning
  • Animation Development
  • Interior Design
  • Engineering Technician

Demand

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), drafters generally complete a technical program, with an associate degree being the most common. The BLS notes there will be a 7% growth in drafter employment between 2016 and 2026. Growth does vary by specialty and region.

Apply for General Scholarships through the Financial Aid Portal

FAFSA Requirement

The student's FAFSA application must be on file with MC Financial Aid to access the Financial Aid Portal and apply for scholarships.

If the student's FAFSA application is not on file with MC Financial Aid, the student needs to complete the FAFSA application, and once processed, will have access to complete the general scholarship application.

FAFSA Information


How to Apply

  1. Complete current year FAFSA or TASFA applications
  2. Register for 6+ credit hours towards a degree or certification
  3. Minimum GPA of 2.50 or higher each semester

For additional scholarship details and deadlines, visit the General Scholarships page.

General Scholarships

Visit the course catalog for the most complete and up-to-date information.

 

Contact

Department Chair

Jaroy Roberts
Technology Center
Room 169B
(432) 685-4687
jroberts@midland.edu

Faculty

Computer-Aided Drafting & Design Faculty Contact Information

Division Office

Applied Technology

Marie Hall Academic Building
Room 176
(432) 685-4676
Building Floor Plan

MAP

 

Apply to MC Now

Thank you for choosing Midland College! If you are here to collect a few credits, take courses to transfer, or here to start a new career, we welcome you.

How to Apply