Program Code: 729
The Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CAD) Technology program has three different options for students seeking to obtain a degree or choosing to develop or update their technical skills. Those working toward the degree program have a choice between two degree options. The Architectural Drafting and Design Technology specialization prepares students for work in architectural, engineering, and design firms. The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree concentrates on mechanical drafting and design and prepares students for employment in the fields of mechanical and machine design, structural, manufacturing, civil engineering, marine design, and construction. The third option, for those seeking only to acquire or hone their technical skills, is the 33-credit Certificate in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design Technology which primarily consists of technical courses. Students who already have a degree frequently see this Certificate as an excellent choice.
The Associate of Applied Science degree is offered at the Portsmouth and Virginia Beach campuses and focuses on preparing students to work successfully in computer-aided design and related computer-aided manufacturing operations (CAD/CAM). Graduates typically find employment in the fields of mechanical and machine design, structural design, manufacturing, civil engineering, marine design, construction, and related areas. Using Autodesk software, students learn to prepare working drawings reflecting national and international standards, practices, and procedures. Additionally, students learn to prepare engineering drawings supporting mechanical engineering and design utilizing welding details, industrial piping, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, electrical schematics, sheet metal developments, and solid modeling.
Under formal articulation agreements, students may transfer course work to a baccalaureate degree program in an engineering technology area. Students planning on pursuing a baccalaureate degree should meet with the program head in his/her academic plan and consult the receiving institution’s catalog and transfer guide.
In addition to preparing students to move directly into business and industry and providing for college transfer opportunities upon graduation, the CAD program is designed to work in partnership with local business and industry to meet their educational and training needs.
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