Computer-Aided Drafting & Design

Are you drawn to technology and design? Our computer-aided drafting and design program prepares you for a career making detailed, accurate production drawings for a wide variety of industries. At FRCC, you can select a two-year degree or a specialized certificate that can be completed in two semesters. Choose the path that works best for you and get the support you need to start the next step in your career.

Why Study Computer-Aided Drafting & Design at Front Range Community College?

Computer-aided design (CAD) is an essential skill for drafting and design professionals. Our CAD program provides you with the design and drafting skills you'll need as a civil, architectural or mechanical drafter.

You can choose from our two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree or a variety of shorter-term, specialized certificates in:

  • Basic computer-aided drafting and design
  • Sketchup
  • Revit
  • Solidworks
  • 3D printing and 3D scanning

Whether you choose to pursue a degree or a certificate, our CAD classes ensure you’re comfortable applying the theoretical knowledge of the industry to the latest tools and technologies.

Earn Your Bachelor's Degree from FRCC

Student working in CAD classWith our newest bachelor’s degree—the Business for Creative Industries BAS—students with associate degrees in creative fields can start and finish their bachelor’s degree at FRCC without having to transfer to a university.

Learn about this Program

 

 

Degree Details

AAS in Computer-Aided Drafting

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 60 credits (4 semesters)

With this degree, you'll be ready to enter the workforce as a skilled CAD technician. You'll graduate with advanced CAD skills by training on the most current CAD software. Additionally, you'll complete 2D and 3D projects with an emphasis on the unique needs of small- to mid-sized companies seeking employees with advanced and specialized computer-aided drafting skills.

View Program Details

Certificate Options

Basic Computer-Aided Drafting & Design Certificate

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 12 credits (1 semester)

In this certificate program, you'll explore CAD print reading, 2D and 3D modeling software skills and techniques using the latest release of AutoCAD software and Sketchup.

View Program Details

Sketchup Certificate

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 6 credits (2 semesters)

This certificate program prepares you to become proficient in the use of CAD software with a focus on 3D modeling and renderings using Sketchup software skills and techniques.

View Program Details

Revit Certificate

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 6 credits (2 semesters)

To complete this certificate, you need prior architectural design skills or related industry work experience. You'll explore Revit software and become proficient in the advanced use of CAD software as one of the leading building information modeling (BIM) tools in the architectural engineering construction industry.

View Program Details

Solidworks Certificate

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 6 credits (2 semesters)

To complete this certificate, you need prior mechanical engineering design skills or related industry work experience. This certificate prepares you to become proficient in the advanced use of Solidworks CAD software as one of the leading parametric solid modelers in the mechanical engineering and manufacturing industry.

View Program Details

3D Printing and 3D Scanning Certificate

Program Location: Larimer, Westminster

Total Credits: 13 credits (2 semesters)

This certificate prepares you to be proficient in the use of 3D printing and 3D scanning software and technology using advanced CAD modeling software specific to the industry of your choice.

View Program Details

Transfer Options

Our faculty has worked closely with the University of Colorado-Boulder and Colorado State University to ensure that several CAD classes will transfer. As always, work closely with your academic advisor to determine the program that is best for you.

Careers & Outcomes

Your degree or certificate in computer-aided drafting can help you land a job in an in-demand field.