Computer-Aided Drafting and Design, Associate of Science
Program Overview
The Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program focuses on real-world application of engineering principles. Students in the Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program will take a hands-on approach, utilizing a variety of drafting software and tools to create drawings in support of engineering projects. The program focuses on needed skills and competencies to develop the ability for the creation of two- and three-dimensional drawings, models, and designs for various engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, architectural, and civil. Through a capstone experience, students will develop an effective solution to a problem statement related to engineering systems utilizing acquired skills in computer-aided drafting and design.
Program Objectives
Graduates of the Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program are expected to attain the following objectives within a few years of graduation:
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Apply acquired technical and analytical skills as it relates to their professional positions in electrical, mechanical, architectural, civil, and related industries
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Develop engineering drawings, models and designs as applied to various engineering fields
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Pursue lifelong learning and successful professional careers
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Perform as effective team members through adequate oral and written communication skills
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Relate and exercise an educated judgment in regards to their professional and ethical responsibilities
Program Outcomes
Students in the Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program learn to use drafting software to create and visualize design concepts for product manufacturing, architectural designs, and civil infrastructure planning. They are able to apply acquired skills in design and drafting to analyze and prototype designs.
Upon completion of the Associate of Science in Computer- Aided Drafting & Design, graduates will be able to:
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Select and apply the knowledge, techniques, skills, and modern tools of the drafting discipline to a variety of engineering fields
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Create digital and physical prototypes using software tools and rapid prototyping technologies
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Perform relevant analysis on parts and assemblies by applying tools within CAD software
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Function effectively as a member or leader on a technical team
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Apply written, oral, and graphical communication in both technical and non-technical environments
In 1.5 years, through a year-round schedule, students can earn an Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design.
About Computer-Aided Drafting and Design
The Computer-Aided Drafting and Design program prepares students for design and drafting careers supporting the various engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, architectural, and civil. Graduates will apply acquired skills in computer drafting software to create engineering designs and models in support of engineering projects. Designers work with engineers to develop a comprehensive design documentation for engineering projects to include, graphical presentations, animations, prototypes and analysis of relevant parts. As an integral part of the design team, graduates play a vital role in the various stages of the design process from the conception to the final design production.
Certain positions may require background checks, drug screening, and/or security clearances, depending on the position and industry.
The curriculum provides graduates with the education and foundation needed for employment in a variety of industries in the private and public sector, including the automotive industry, aerospace industry, automation and manufacturing, architectural and civil firms. Computer-Aided Drafting and Design graduates are employed in a wide spectrum of areas, in positions such as CAD Designer, CAD Technician, Mechanical Drafter, Mechanical Designer, and Technical Illustrator.
Recommended Certifications
Certifications are not required for completion of this program; however, ECPI encourages student to obtain all appropriate certifications to increase potential job opportunities. ECPI provides students in this program with vouchers which allow the student to take certification exams at a greatly reduced cost. Available certifications for this program include AutoCAD Certified User and Inventor Certified User.
Program Outline
To receive the Associate of Science in Computer-Aided Drafting and Design, students must earn 63 semester credits. The program requires a minimum of four semesters, which is equivalent to13 months or 55 weeks of instruction. The program requirements are as follows:
Program Requirements
Core Curriculum
28 semester credit hours
| CAD104 | Rapid Prototyping and 3D Printing | 3 |
| CAD106 | Civil CAD Design | 3 |
| CAD108 | Architectural CAD Design | 3 |
| CAD110 | Building Information Management (BIM) | 3 |
| CAD112 | AutoCAD Electrical | 3 |
| EET191 | Materials Science | 3 |
| EET192 | Graphics Communication | 3 |
| EET192L | Introduction to 3-D Modeling LAB | 1 |
| MET211 | Statics | 3 |
| MET213 | Advanced 3D Modeling | 3 |
Self-Integration
7 semester credit hours
| CIS106 | Introduction to Operating Systems | 3 |
| COR191 | Career Orientation | 1 |
| FOR110 | Essentials for Success | 3 |
Arts and Sciences
19 semester credit hours
Electives
Electives
9 semester credit hours
| BUS102 | Fundamentals of Customer Service | 3 |
| BUS121 | Introduction to Business | 3 |
| EET113 | DC and AC Circuits | 3 |
| EET200 | Externship-EET III | 3 |
| EET223 | Electronic Devices and Operational Amplifiers | 3 |
| ET210 | Capstone Project | 3 |
| ET210L | Capstone Project Lab | 1 |
| MET114 | Introduction to Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) | 3 |
| MET221 | Manufacturing Processes | 3 |
| MET230 | Hydraulics and Pneumatics Systems | 3 |
| MET230L | Hydraulics and Pneumatics Systems LAB | 1 |
| MTH220 | Applied Calculus I | 3 |