Best CAD Bachelor's Degrees

To best suit different interests, students may opt to add a concentration. This is not always required or offered at an institution; however, it may be beneficial. Some examples of concentrations may include:

• Mechanical Design
• Architectural/Structural
• Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing and Industrial Piping Systems
• Civil/GIS Design

Each of these areas of emphasis includes more tailored classes to the concentration. For example, a student in the architectural/structural concentration may need to take construction plans and specifications. A student in the civil/GIS track may need to take surveying and construction layout instead.

Prerequisites for a bachelor's program may vary among institutions. Generally, prospective students are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent such as a GED. Prospective students will need to send their transcripts to the institution they are applying to. These transcripts often are expected to demonstrate general knowledge in a variety of subjects. Different programs have different requirements for general knowledge. A student looking to get a bachelor's in CAD may want to take high school courses in computer science, geometry and if offered, introduction to CAD courses. High school students taking advanced placement (AP) courses or college courses may be eligible to transfer credits. Test scores from AP tests and transcripts from college courses will need to be sent to show competency and qualification for credits.

Students also may be required to submit test scores from either the ACT or SAT. Some institutions consider test scores optional, especially for non-traditional students who are applying after a gap since receiving their high school diploma or GED.

CAD programs are composed of seminars, lectures and lab courses. The exact courses offered vary on program. Despite this, students can expect to take similar courses and learn similar topics. Examples include:

• Introduction to Computer-Aided Design
• Applied Construction Practices
• 3D Modeling
• Geometry for Engineering
• Materials
• Statics

Students can also expect to take general education courses. These may include technical writing or composition courses, math courses and physical sciences like chemistry, physics or geology. Some programs may also have physical education requirements.

Bachelor's degrees take an average of four to five years. In this time, students take 120 to 130 credit hours. A large portion of the credit hours is taken up by courses required for the major area.

For most programs, 12 to 18 credits hours a semester is considered full-time. Students may accelerate their degree through taking heavier class loads and summer classes. Additionally, students may be slowed down by taking on internships during the semester, attending part-time or needing to retake courses.

Accreditation refers to standards expected of a higher education institute. Agencies, overseen by the Department of Education, are responsible for determining if an institution is providing the necessary level of quality in their programs. It's important to verify an institution's accreditation when researching programs. Without an accredited school, students may not receive an up to standard education.

Accreditation is available to search through the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP). This database allows students to confirm what agency accredited the school, if any programs are accredited beyond the institution as a whole and additional locations that are accredited.

Enrollment is a process that involves applying, registering and meeting requirements for courses.

The first step is to apply to an institution. Application forms can be readily found on the institution's website. When considering applying, it's important to check deadlines. These should be listed with the admissions portion of the institution's website. Students may also find this information by contacting the admissions team. Email addresses are searchable on most websites, as well as often listed on admissions webpages.

When applying, students will need to also provide the necessary additional materials such as ACT or SAT scores, transcripts, personal statements and letters of recommendation.

Once accepted, students will receive a student email and access to a student portal. Further steps are communicated through email and on the student portal. This includes registering for orientation, setting up housing and financial aid access. Students must also complete their FAFSA.

During orientation, students typically receive information regarding how to get around campus, meet with advisors and register for courses. Academic advisors are available to aid in students' development of a schedule and general course planning. They also serve to help students with academic goals such as recommending electives that align with a student's career goals post-graduation.

Credentials such as licenses and certifications are not always required for success in the field. Students looking to enhance their knowledge and potentially increase their employment prospects can obtain certificates and licenses.

The process of obtaining a credential involves demonstrating knowledge in the form of a multiple-choice test and sometimes hands-on testing. Additionally, there is a fee usually associated with taking the certification tests. Other costs may include taking study courses that focus on preparing students for their specific tests. However, students may avoid these courses and complete individual studying with free materials. This differs from certificate degrees which involve taking classes through a school.

One common credential that students may opt for is an Autodesk certification in AutoCAD. AutoCAD is a widely used CAD software tool. This certification lasts three years, with a retesting required for renewal.

Licenses are not required for those working in CAD. However, occupations related to CAD may require them. One example is architects. For students considering going beyond CAD, it is important to consider what licenses may be required for their chosen career.

CAD degrees offer career options that suit a wide range of interests. There is an assortment of career options and requirements available for those with a bachelor's in CAD.

Graduates from a CAD bachelor's program may find work in fields within architecture, engineering and construction. Students may opt to become a CAD technician. Students may also be interested in becoming a CAD designer. Graduates might also find work in industrial design, civil design, structural design and surveying CAD technicians.

How to Become an Industrial Designer

Industrial designers work with manufacturers to develop concepts and renderings of products including cars, toys appliances and other consumer products. Industrial designers work alongside engineers, user interface designers and sometimes clients to create CAD models of products. Those working in industrial design may also need to understand materials, user interaction and manufacturing to best complete feasible and practical designs.

Entry-level industrial designers are expected to have a bachelor's degree in industrial design, engineering, architecture or CAD. Another key to becoming an industrial designer is maintaining a portfolio of work from courses, internships or other work experiences to demonstrate their skills. A certificate in CAD may also benefit prospective employees.

The job outlook for industrial designers is anticipated to decline 4 percent from 2019 to 2029. Industrial designers earn a median salary of $71,640, according to the BLS.

How to Become a Drafter

Drafters broadly refers to those who use computer software to create designs and technical drawings. This career requires, at minimum, an associate degree but prospective employees will benefit from obtaining a bachelor's degree.

Types of drafters include architectural, civil, electrical and mechanical drafters. Drafters also are sometimes referred to as CAD operators or CAD designers. Drafters spend a majority of their time in an office working on computers using CAD software. The median annual salary for a drafter is $57,960 as of May 2020, according to the BLS. This can vary depending on which industry the drafter is working in. Since the job outlook is projected to decline by 4% from 2019 to 2029, competition in the field is anticipated. Students interested in becoming a drafter should strongly consider certificates to demonstrate proficiency in CAD and enhance their résumé.

Prospective students can focus on learning CAD in various programs. Degrees under different titles can offer the necessary skills for students interested in CAD. Degrees such as product design engineering cover CAD topics.

Bachelor's degrees are just one of the multiple degrees available for students interested in CAD. Students may find associate, master and doctoral programs that also suit their career goals and interests. Each degree type has different benefits, requirements and outcomes.

Associate Degrees in CAD

Associate degrees are shorter, flexible degree programs that allow students to get a base knowledge in their field. Associate programs are typically around 60 credits long. CAD associate programs have courses such as:

• Introduction to 3D Modeling
• Building Information Management
• Manufacturing Processes
• Statics
• CAD Design

Master's Degrees in CAD

Master's degrees span two years, on average. This two-year degree is a good choice for students looking to get an advanced degree beyond a bachelor's degree.

While finding a master's in CAD can prove to be difficult, degrees such as a Master of Industrial Design offer similar coursework such as Industrial Design studio work, Digital Technologies and Materials. Another master's program that may suit students interested in CAD is a Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering.

Having a master's allows graduates to qualify for more advanced CAD positions in engineering and management.

Doctoral Degrees in CAD

Ph.D. programs are ideal for students interested in research and academia. Students in a doctoral program must complete foundational coursework as well as multiple semesters writing a dissertation or completing a comprehensive research project.

Similar to master programs, students often focus on CAD in other programs. Applicable programs may include a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering or a Ph.D. in Systems Engineering. This program allows students to complete research and complete coursework in CAD-related fields such as engineering management. Students also can take courses such as Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing to focus their research further.

Certificates in CAD

Certificates are ideal for students who are looking to gain additional knowledge in CAD. A certificate is a short program consisting of a few classes; most can be completed in less than a year. Students can expect to take courses in Computer Programming for Engineers, Engineering Graphics, and Elements of Engineering Drawing.

Certificates benefit students from various backgrounds. It can be used to add CAD knowledge to a different, related field or for a student looking to start in CAD.

Basic certificates typically span 16 credits. Some programs offer advanced certificates that take a little longer but cover topics in greater depth and a wider range.

The cost of a bachelor's degree is an important factor for many students. Thankfully, many schools and third-party sources offer scholarships. The financial aid office can provide prospective students with information about any school-specific scholarships such as merit-based and need-based rewards. Students may also find scholarships through their high school counselors. The Student Aid office within the U.S. Department of Educations also has information on free sources to find scholarships. The U.S. Department of Labor also offers a scholarship finder that aids students in finding scholarships.

Another financing option is the Federal Work-Study program (FWS). This program provides part-time jobs to students both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. Amount earned and hours work will depend on the school's availability for work-study positions and the amount a student is approved for. Work-study positions are awarded by participating schools. To apply, students must go through the school's financial aid department.

A third, common financing option is student loans. Loans are borrowed money that a student must pay back, usually with interest. Each year, students are required to submit a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). FAFSA allows students to apply for federal aid based on a variety of factors. Loans are made available in the form of subsidized, unsubsidized and PLUS loans. Each type of federal student loan has different requirements for qualification. Students may also get private loans through banks and private student loan organizations.