In Computer Aided Drafting, or CAD, you utilize computers to design many different documents for use in construction and engineering. This article looks at what you can find in a typical associate degree program, including the different drafting courses and the fields in which you can use your degree.
Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) Associate Degree Profile
In a computer aided drafting associate degree program, you will learn how to use powerful computer applications to create blueprints, schematics and similar documents for use in the production of a variety of different products and structures. Typically you will specialize in one area of drafting, such as architectural drafting, mechanical drafting, or other area. You will learn how to use powerful computer applications to create highly detailed and useful drawings for a variety of purposes. You will also specialize in a certain area of drafting, such as architectural or civil drafting.
<table border="1"><tr><td><b>Degree Specialties</b></td><td>Architectural, civil drafting</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Common Courses</b></td><td>AutoCAD, 3-D drafting, structural drafting, commercial drafting</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Career Possibilities</b></td><td>Aeronautical drafter, civil drafter, electrical drafter, mechanical drafter</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Median Salary (2020)</b></td><td>$57,960 (<i>for drafters</i>)*</td></tr>
<tr><td><b>Job Outlook (2019-2029)</b></td><td>-4% (<i>for all drafters</i>)*</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---WhatKindsOfCoursesWillITake">What Kinds of Courses Will I Take?</h3><p>Typical classes for a computer aided drafting associate degree might include some of the following:
</p><ul><li>AutoCAD
</li><li>3-D computer drafting
</li><li>Structural drafting
</li><li>Commercial drafting
</li></ul><h3 id="section---WhereCanIUseMyDegree">Where Can I Use My Degree?</h3><p>Those who graduate from a computer aided drafting program usually do so in order to pursue a drafting career. There are, however, a number of different drafting specialties. These include:
</p><ul><li>Aeronautical Drafters
</li><li>Architectural Drafters
</li><li>Civil Drafters
</li><li>Electrical Drafters
</li><li>Mechanical Drafters
</li></ul><h3 id="section---HowDoesTheJobMarketLook">How Does the Job Market Look?</h3><p>The BLS reports that the best options for professional drafters will be available to those who have a 2-year degree and extensive experience with CAD technology. The overall employment of drafters is expected to decline, and any growth should be greatest in the field of electrical and electronics drafting. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median annual income for drafters in May 2020 was $57,960.</p>
