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Computer Aided Drafting Technology

Career/Program Overview

RCTC’s Computer Aided Drafting Technology major is designed to prepare students for a technical career using Computer Aided Drafting tools and techniques. CAD drafters turn concepts, ideas, and rough sketches into mechanical prints then “prototypes” or finished parts can be fabricated, designed or repaired. The curriculum primarily covers the mechanical disciplines of drafting and design. The CAD courses are taught in state-of-the-art facilities featuring the latest releases of AutoCAD and SolidWorks. Visit us at http://www.rctc.edu/program/cadtech/.

Curriculum-at-a-Glance

Depending on the program/degree option selected, coursework may include: CAD I and II, Engineering Drafting I and II, Technical Drafting I and II, Technical Illustration, Manufacturing Materials and Processes I and II, Basic and Advanced Dimensioning, Machine Design, Product Design, Welding Technology and Working Drawings & Design.

For more detailed program information, refer to RCTC’s program course requirements at http://www.rctc.edu/catalog/programs/index.html.

Program/Degree Options

RCTC offers eight different program/degree options in CAD or Mechanical Technology. Six different certificates are offered including: 3D Design Technician (10 credits), 3D Modeling Technician (12 credits), CAD Specialist (13 credits), Manufacturing Technical Specialist CAD (10 credits), CAD Technician (15 credits) and Architectural CAD Technician (10 credits). RCTC offers a 68-credit diploma and a 72-credit Associate in Applied Science degree in CAD Technology.

The 3D Design Technician certificate graduate will have the expertise necessary to obtain an advanced position using SolidWorks or other comparable solid modeling software. 3D Modeling Technicians will have the expertise in 2D and 3D software to obtain a drafting position using SolidWorks or other 3D comparable software.

Upon completion of the CAD Specialist certificate, the graduate will have the basic knowledge using Computer Aided Drafting tools and techniques.

The Manufacturing Technical Specialist CAD certificate graduate will learn basic CAD techniques and manufacturing

materials and processes. The curriculum primarily covers the mechanical disciplines of drafting and design.

The CAD Technician certificate graduate will have the background to obtain an entry-level position using Computer Aided Drafting tools and techniques. CAD Technicians duties might include: responsible for basic layouts, revising prints, and performing field checks while using AutoCAD.  

A graduate from the Architectural CAD Technician certificate program will gain background knowledge which will give them a competitive advantage when trying to obtain an entry-level position using Computer Aided Drafting tools and techniques in an architectural setting.

Program Start Date(s)

Students can start coursework for the CAD Associate in Applied Science degree and diploma or Manufacturing Technical Specialist certificate fall or spring semesters. Fall semester is preferred.

Career Opportunities/Information

According to the Occupational Employment Statistics in cooperation with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wages of mechanical drafters in the United States is $19.61 per hour. In Minnesota the median hourly wage for mechanical drafters is $19.46. In Southeastern Minnesota, mechanical drafters can anticipate a median hourly wage of $16.66.

Articulations/Accreditations

Rochester Community and Technical College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission: A Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.

For additional information on the most current list of RCTC program articulations see us at: http://www.rctc.edu/catalog/articulations/index.html

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