Computer Aided Design
Associate Degree, Certificate, Specialized Diploma

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Why Study Computer Aided Design at NCC?

Start to cultivate or refine your skills using Computer Aided Design (CAD) through three degree, certificate and diploma options at Northampton Community College. Enthusiastic professors lead these Bethlehem campus-based programs in small classes, and you have the choice to study full time, part time, online and in person.

 

Over 90% Job Placement Rate

NCC graduates find remarkable career success. In this program, you gain substantial practice as a hands-on learner using industry-standard design and drafting software. Graduate ready for entry-level jobs and in a strong position to advance your career.

 

Online Course Options

Take advantage of flexible learning opportunities at NCC. Specially designed for students and adult learners with ongoing family and work commitments, 75% of our CAD courses are available online.


What You’ll Learn

Prepare for career success by gaining experience using the latest software and technology, including digital manufacturing, 3D printing and work breakdown structure (WBS). You can also engage in problem-solving activities along with design projects and presentations on your own and with teammates.

These crucial experiences in making necessary changes to designs, models and drawings prepare you for your future responsibilities in a variety of professional contexts.



Program Details

Semesters: 4

Credits: 63

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem

Program Overview:

The Associate in Applied Science in Computer Aided Design prepares you for your first steps into the profession or equips you to stay competitive if you already work within the field. Develop skills in parametric modeling, digital manufacturing and areas related to CAD like trigonometry, physics and communication.

Semesters: 3

Credits: 43

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem

Program Overview:

Level up your professional skills in this flexible one-year CAD certificate program in Bethlehem, PA. Gain key proficiencies in engineering graphics, manufacturing processes, parametric modeling and digital manufacturing.

Semesters: 2

Credits: 31

College Catalog: View Curriculum

Program Map: Download PDF

Locations: Bethlehem

Program Overview:

Learn fundamental skills in information technology, mathematics, manufacturing design processes and parametric modeling. The Computer Aided Design Specialized Diploma prepares you for entry-level roles in just one year—and you can apply your credits from the Specialized Diploma to another CAD program at NCC if you choose to advance your credentials in the future.



Stackable Degree Options

Our stackable CAD certificate programs allow you to easily advance your career at a low cost. Credits from the Specialized Diploma are transferable to the Certificate and Associate’s degrees, and you can build on the Certificate by transferring your credits to the Associate’s degree as well.

Study at your own pace as a full-time or part-time student, and choose between online and on-campus options for many of your CAD courses.

Future Career Paths

Computer Aided Design training prepares you to work as a drafter or pursue further opportunities in areas related to aerospace, architecture, engineering, fire protection and process piping. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, drafters earn a median annual salary over $60,000.

There are many professional opportunities around Northampton’s campus. Local employers—including ABEC, Inc.; Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.; C.F. Martin Guitar & Co. Inc.; DME; FC Architects, Inc.; Flowserve; Harsco Industrial; Patterson-Kelley; Lutron; Turner Construction Company; Unicast Company and Victaulic—hire our graduates for positions like:

  • CAD Designer
  • CAD Operator
  • CAD Draftsperson
  • Mechanical Designer
  • CAD Technician
  • CAD Detailer
  • Technical Illustrator

Need Help Deciding?

Not sure if this is the right program for you? Take advantage of the resources we have available for students to help hone in on what path to pursue.


Connect with an Academic Advisor Contact a Career Counselor

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Next Steps

With 120+ high-quality programs at a highly affordable cost, you can build specialized skills to advance in your career path — fast. And with flexible class formats and convenient locations, it's never been easier to join us.