Turn Technical Ideas into Reality with a CAD Certificate
St. Louis Community College's computer aided design (CAD) certificate of specialization (CS) prepares you for careers as a CAD technician or drafter by building skills in technical drawing, design software and 3D modeling. You’ll learn how to interpret technical information, apply professional drafting standards and create detailed designs used in today’s industries.
The program includes instruction in industry-standard software such as AutoCAD, Revit and SolidWorks while helping you develop skills used in engineering, manufacturing, architecture and construction. Graduates are prepared for entry-level opportunities with engineering firms, manufacturing companies, architecture offices and construction organizations in St. Louis and beyond.
What is Computer Aided Design at St. Louis Community College?
Computer aided design uses specialized software to create precise digital models, technical drawings and design plans used across industries such as manufacturing, engineering, architecture and construction. CAD professionals help turn concepts into detailed designs that guide the development of products, equipment, buildings and systems.
STLCC’s CAD certificate program helps you develop the technical skills needed to create professional drawings, interpret design information and work with industry-standard software. You’ll learn how to:
- Create detailed drawings and three-dimensional models for visualization, prototyping and manufacturing.
- Apply professional drafting standards and industry best practices.
- Read and interpret mechanical and electrical drawings used in a variety of industries.
- Organize CAD files, manage project data and improve design workflows.
- Use AutoCAD and explore additional design software, including Revit, SolidWorks and Inventor.
The program builds a strong foundation for careers in drafting, design, engineering support and advanced manufacturing while preparing you to use the tools and techniques employers rely on every day.
What Can You do with a CAD Certificate?
A computer aided design certificate from STLCC prepares you for entry-level roles as a CAD operator, CAD technician or drafter. You’ll use design software to create technical drawings, 2D and 3D models and detailed plans while supporting engineers, architects, designers and other professionals.
CAD skills are valuable across a variety of industries. In architecture and construction, CAD professionals create building plans, structural details and site layouts. In manufacturing and product design, they develop machine parts, components and assembly drawings. Medical device companies use CAD designers to help create products such as implants, surgical tools and equipment. Additional opportunities are available in areas like landscape architecture, dental technology and equipment design, where CAD is used to develop outdoor spaces, dental devices, tools and industrial systems.
With experience and continued skill development, CAD training can lead to career opportunities in design, engineering support and advanced manufacturing fields.
CS in Computer Aided Design
- Degree offered: Certificate of specialization
- Locations: Florissant Valley
- Hours to complete: 16
- Program contact name: Carl Fischer
- Program contact email: cfischer@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $127 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Testimonials
"CAD classes offered at STLCC helped me in the industry by teaching me the industry
standard. CAD is a very important aspect of manufacturing because it allows you to
design and view things in different ways in the real world."
- Andrew Collier, engineering technician at Hydromat, Inc.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Computer Aided Design Program
Graduate with Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save over $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third lower than other local institutions. Plus we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
Build Skills You Need with Stackable Credentials
Stackable credentials help students level up career opportunities without investing a large amount of time and resources. Students can stack or assemble a series of traditional and nontraditional credentials including degrees, certificates, apprenticeships and more. Get a maximum return on your investment with options that match your goals.
Ramp Up High Wage Skills
STLCC offers career-focused programs for high-wage, high-skill and in-demand jobs. STLCC provides opportunities for college transfers, career development and workforce training. Certificate programs can establish you in a new career in as few as 12 weeks.
Schedules Built For Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers.
STLCC. What's your reason?