Program Goals:
The Computer Aided Design Certificate is intended to prepare successful graduates to apply technical knowledge and skills to develop working engineering drawings and in support of mechanical and industrial engineers and related professionals. Students gain knowledge in manufacturing materials and processes, mechanical drafting, electro-mechanical drafting, basic metallurgy, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, blueprint reading, and technical communication. Upon completion, the student will be able to use a variety of industry standard CAD programs and apply quality practices to perform as a CAD technician.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Understand the power and effectiveness of modern CAD software.
- Apply mathematical and scientific concepts to solve design problems.
- Understand the principles of product development through design.
- Communicate technical information both verbally and in written form.
- Understand the behavior of a variety of material properties as they relate to manufacturing processing.
- Apply accurate design methodology and use industry standard CAD software to improve quality and production.
- Understand and manage product variability as defined by quality systems.
Admissions Process:
Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.
Program Admissions Requirements:
Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.
- High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:
Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.
Additional Cost:
See the Program Fees page.
- Students should anticipate additional expenses for professional certification examinations.
Technical Performance Standards:
See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).
Credit for Prior Learning:
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.
- To evaluate technical prior learning credit, students should contact the Center for Career & Transfer Services.
Career Outlook:
Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 15.1302.
Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:
Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.
Additional Information:
- If successful graduates wish to continue their education, the courses required for the Computer Aided Design Certificate apply to the Manufacturing Technology associate degree.
Certifications: