Overview

The Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) certificate provides the technical design skills required across several high-growth industries, including construction, manufacturing, infrastructure and product design. Using industry-standard software, you will gain hands-on experience in the fundamental mechanics of 2D drafting alongside complex 3D modeling and documentation. Throughout the program, you will build a professional portfolio and earn industry-backed credentials, verifying your ability to contribute immediately to technical and design-focused teams.

By completing this certificate, you will:

• learn the principals of technical drawing employing computer-aided drafting and traditional drafting techniques
• describe and demonstrate the process of visualization and constructing multi-view orthographic, auxiliary, isometric and section drawings
• understand the fundamental principles of 3D parametric part design, assembly design and assembly drawings using industry-leading software
• follow drafting standards while dimensioning and annotating drawing views and parts lists

Industry Credentials

This program prepares you for the two primary software used in the industry today:

• Autodesk certification is a globally recognized credential that validates your ability to use professional design software. It demonstrates real-world competency in digital design workflows and signals to employers that you are job-ready.
• AutoCAD certification focuses specifically on one of the most widely used design platforms in the world. You learn to develop technical drawings, layouts and models that meet industry standards — skills essential for transforming concepts into production-ready designs.

Career Pathways

With this certificate you can begin working right away as a:

• CAD technician/CAD designer
• Architectural drafter
• Civil engineering technician
• Mechanical drafter
• Electrical CAD designer
• Survey/civil CAD designer

With experience, you may advance your career as a:

• Mechanical or civil engineer
• Product designer
• Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordinator
• CAD manager or project designer

Future Start Dates

Admission Requirements

This is an open enrollment program. To be admitted, students must submit a free application for admission and complete the standard steps to enroll.

Plan of Study

Short-Term Certificate

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take classes online or face-to-face?

The engineering technology program has courses that must be completed face-to-face for students to learn through hands-on experience using equipment and technology.

What financial assistance is available to help me pay for college?

Learning Community

Accelerate your engineering career by joining the Engineering Learning Community. The US Department of Labor (DOL) sponsors institutions around the country to accelerate the growth of advanced manufacturing jobs. In Ohio, COTC is one of three colleges to offer this program (along with Columbus State and Marion Tech). As part of this program, you will have exclusive access to the following:

• Paid co-ops with regional employers
• Student-lead subject matter expert groups
• Employer mentors and growth opportunities
• Peer and professional tutors in engineering, math, English and physics
• English as a Second Language
• Academic advising and career services

Apply

This project was funded by a grant awarded under the Strengthening Community Colleges (SCC) grants, as implemented by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration through Columbus State Community College and its grant partners, Marion Technical College and COTC.

For more information, contact Sheila Thompson at 740.755.7129 or thompson.707@mail.cotc.edu.