Turn Technical Ideas into Reality with a CAD Certificate
The computer aided design (CAD) certificate at STLCC trains you to become a skilled CAD operator. You'll learn to interpret technical data, apply professional drafting techniques and master industry-standard CAD software to create precise drawings and 3D models.
This specialized training follows real-world industrial practices, preparing you for CAD drafting jobs in engineering firms, manufacturing companies, architecture offices and construction organizations across St. Louis and beyond.
What is Computer Aided Design at St. Louis Community College?
Computer aided design uses software to create detailed, precise digital models and technical drawings. CAD technology powers the design process in multiple high-demand industries.
STLCC's CAD certificate program will teach you how to:
- Create 2D technical drawings and 3D models: Produce accurate professional drawings that communicate design specifications, and build three-dimensional models for visualization, prototyping and manufacturing.
- Meet industry standards: Learn to produce work that complies with professional drafting conventions and best practices.
- Interpret technical drawings: Read and understand mechanical and electrical drawings used across different industries.
- Manage CAD files and design properties: Incorporate and extract data from CAD files, organize project files efficiently and streamline your workflow.
- Master CAD software: Build proficiency in AutoCAD and explore solid modeling software including Revit, SolidWorks and Inventor.
What Can You do with a Computer Aided Design Certificate?
A CAD certificate qualifies you for CAD operator, technician or drafter positions. You'll create technical drawings, 2D and 3D models, and construction plans while working alongside engineers, architects and designers across various industries.
CAD designers work in:
- Architecture and construction: Creating building plans, structural details and site layouts.
- Manufacturing and product design: Drafting machine parts, components and assembly drawings.
- Medical device companies: Designing implants, surgical tools and medical equipment.
- Landscape architecture: Planning outdoor spaces, hardscaping and irrigation systems.
- Dental labs: Creating custom crowns, bridges and orthodontic devices.
- Equipment design: Developing tools, machinery and industrial equipment.
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 $122 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?