Program Description

The Computer-Aided Design & 3D Modeling Certificate shows that a student is familiar with 2D, and the basic 3D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs. Students who complete this certificate are able to use AutoCAD and SketchUp to create 2D drawings and 3D models, they are also familiar with ways to modify AutoCAD to suit their drawing style, and increase productivity. A Certificate of Achievement in Computer-Aided Design & 3D Modeling is available upon successful completion of the 12-unit core.

Certificate

Merced College offers the following certificate in Drafting Technology:

Computer-Aided Design & 3D Modeling Certificate (09104.CM)

Career Opportunities

The Drafting Technology Program services several career fields. The program is divided into Architectural and Mechanical tracts. The student completing an AA degree program or certificate of completion can be employed in various businesses as a drafting technician, CAD operator, engineering assistant/technician, or home designer.  Students also learn the skills to design products that can be sold online through 3D Printing Services such as: http://i.materialise.com, http://www.shapeways.com, or http://www.sculpteo.com/en.

In order to prepare students for work, the program takes full advantage of, and provides training on Drafting Standards, 2D and 3D AutoCAD, Direct 3D modeling with SketchUp and Inventor Fusion, Parametric 3D modeling programs such as Revit, Inventor, SolidWorks, and Creo for creating models and drawings; and Rendering/Animation using 3DS Max for presentations. Many of the courses use exercises that students will likely encounter upon entering the work force.

A student who transfers to a university and earns a Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering or Industrial Technology is in high demand and qualified for a wide variety of positions in industry and government.

Drafting Lab Schedule

The drafting lab is located in the Vocational building, Rm 40.