What is CAD Certification? - Programs & Courses

<h3 id="section---WhatExactlyIsCAD">What Exactly is CAD?</h3> <p>CAD stands for computer aided design. Developing expertise in CAD enables individuals to utilize computers for 2D and 3D design. CAD is used in a variety of industries and positions, including those in architecture, graphic design, automotive design and more. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>CAD definition</b> </td><td>Computer-aided design</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Available Certifications</b> </td><td>AutoCAD</td></tr> <tr><td><b>AutoCAD Program Length</b> </td><td>Less than 1 year</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Classes</b> </td><td>Intro to CAD, AutoCAD, Detailing, Mechanical CAD, CAD Drafting</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Careers</b> </td><td>Architectural drafters, engineering technicians, cabinet makers, and more</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatTypesOfCADProgramsAreAvailable">What Types of CAD Programs are Available?</h3> <p>The CAD programs available depend on the school offering them. Many of these programs are offered online and can be completed in less than a year. Some of the types of CAD programs available are: </p> <ul><li>CAD Drafting </li><li>AutoCAD </li><li>CAD for Mechanics </li><li>CAD for Architecture </li><li>General courses in CAD </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatIsCADCertification">What is CAD Certification?</h3> <p>The only certification available specifically for CAD is the AutoCAD Certification, which is offered by the AutoCAD software. This certification gives individuals a credential that shows they have mastered the required skills to effectively use the Audodesk AutoCAD software. The certification exam tests student knowledge on topics such as object modification, object organization, drawing and more. </p> <p>It's important to point out that other CAD programs, such as those that are more generalized, can lead to a certificate of completion from the school that also shows an individual has gained an understanding of CAD processes and topics. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatIsAnAutoCADProgram">What Is an AutoCAD Program?</h3> <p>AutoCAD certification programs offered by colleges are catered specifically to prepare students for the AutoCAD certification exam. These programs can take around 9 months to complete, depending on the school and student course load. These programs are offered online by several schools and often allow students to work at times that are convenient to them. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatClassesWillITake">What Classes Will I Take?</h3> <p>CAD classes vary by program. AutoCAD certification programs, for example, will include classes that are focused specifically on the AutoCAD software, while other CAD programs may not have entire classes dedicated to the software. Within CAD programs, students often review different computer programs that can be used for design and practice creating designs in order to develop experience with each platform. In addition, students have opportunities to utilize CAD for different types of tasks and designs, such as creating 2D objects, turning 2D objects to 3D objects, analyzing design drafts and more. Some of the classes included in CAD programs are listed below. </p> <ul><li>Detailing in CAD </li><li>Project Management in CAD </li><li>CAD in Construction </li><li>Intro to CAD </li><li>Intermediate Design </li><li>Civil Design </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatJobsCanIGetWithCADCertification">What Jobs Can I Get with CAD Certification?</h3> <p>It is important to point out that AutoCAD certification is not a general requirement, but some employers may be more inclined to hire candidates who do have that credential over those that do not. CAD program and class graduates can use their knowledge and skills in a slew of different fields, as an increasing number of industries and businesses rely on computers for design activities. Some of the careers that are available to CAD graduates are: </p> <ul><li>Architectural drafters </li><li>Electrical engineers </li><li>Industrial designers </li><li>Electrical engineering technicians </li><li>Mechanical engineering technicians </li><li>Cabinet makers</li></ul>