Computer Aided Design

Student leaning on table in engineering computer lab

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Department: Computer Aided Design

Program Type: Business and Information Technology

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Overview

Are you interested in engineering, product design, civil engineering, or manufacturing? A degree or certificate in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) from Elgin Community College (ECC) can help you turn your creativity and technical skills into a rewarding career.

At ECC, you’ll learn how to:

  • Combine traditional technical drawing techniques with the latest CAD software and simulation tools.
  • Design, model, and analyze products using AutoCAD and 3D modeling applications.
  • Apply engineering design principles to real-world manufacturing and product development projects.
  • Gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software and prototyping equipment.

Prepare for Immediate Employment

The rise of 3D printing, automation, and artificial intelligence is transforming the design industry and creating new opportunities for CAD professionals with advanced technical skills. By gaining hands-on experience with modern tools and design software at ECC, you’ll be ready to succeed in this evolving and exciting field. Refer to Career Coach to learn more about related professions and compensation.

Plan of Study and Course Descriptions

Review the ECC catalog for details about the computer-aided design plan of study and course descriptions.

Associates of Applied Science

Basic Vocational Certificates

What is Computer-Aided Design?

Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is a cutting-edge technology that engineers, designers, and technicians use to create, test, and refine product designs with precision and efficiency. CAD professionals transform concepts into detailed plans ready for production using AutoCAD software, 3D modeling tools, and rapid prototyping machines.

Who uses CAD?

CAD software is used heavily in architecture, arts, and engineering projects. 

Professionals who use CAD tools include:

  • Architects and engineers
  • City and urban planners
  • Graphic and animation designers
  • Drafters and product designers
  • Industrial and manufacturing designers
  • Interior, exterior, and fashion designers
  • Game and multimedia developers

CAD tools tailored to specific industries include:

  • AutoCAD (Autodesk)
  • SolidWorks
  • CREO (PTC)
  • MicroStation (Bentley Systems)
  • Vectorworks
  • Onshape
  • Solid Edge
  • Catia
  • CorelCAD
  • OpenSCAD
  • Altium Designer

Strong Job Outlook for CAD Professionals

Career opportunities in computer-aided design (CAD) continue to grow as more industries adopt advanced drafting and modeling software. CAD professionals are in demand across architecture, engineering, construction, manufacturing, and the automotive industry.

After earning your CAD certification, you can pursue design technician, drafter, product designer, or CAD specialist roles. According to industry projections, there are an estimated 18,900 job openings each year over the next decade for CAD-related positions.

Advance Your Skills with ECC’s CREO Certificate

ECC’s new CREO Certificate helps you take your design skills to the next level. Using Creo Parametric, a powerful and user-friendly 3D CAD software, you’ll learn advanced solid modeling techniques used in modern product design and manufacturing. The program simplifies the design process and gives you hands-on experience with tools that streamline every stage of product development—from concept and modeling to final production.

Refer to CREO for detailed information.

Student Story

Military veteran Leo Cooksey pursued a new career in engineering after sustaining injuries that limited his ability to perform some tasks. Leo received hands-on training at Elgin Community College, completed certificates in AutoCAD and Computer-Aided Design, and secured an internship where he thrives.

Blaze your own path to success with ECC.

Earning an Associate of Applied Science degree and a basic certificate in Computer-Aided Design can set your career in motion.

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Contact

Admissions & Recruitment

Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu

Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm

*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689

Contact

Career and Technical Education Programs

Building O, Room O125
847-214-7900
mtcinquiries@elgin.edu