CAD-Drafting Technology A.A.S.

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Turn ideas into precision drawings

Launch a career vital to industry with an A.A.S. in CAD-Drafting Technology from College of Lake County. This hands-on, career-focused program gives you the technical and creative skills employers want in architecture, engineering, construction and manufacturing.

Graduate ready to launch a new career in drafting or CAD—or advance in your current job—while keeping options open for further specialization or education. Build a strong foundation in drafting principles and 3D modeling with SolidWorks. Through labs, lectures and projects, you’ll gain practical, real-world skills, including how to:

Use AutoCAD to create complete drawing sets
Select the right drawing tools to boost efficiency
Measure and read dimensions accurately with scales

Your pathway to CAD drafting and design

Bring your ideas to life through CAD drafting and design—first in the classroom, then in your career. Collaborate on projects where you’ll design homes, plan infrastructure, and support engineering and construction teams.

With your associate degree, you can start with entry-level roles such as:

CAD technician
Drafter
Engineering technician

With more education or experience, you can advance into roles such as:

Architectural drafter
Industrial designer
Landscape architect

Get more information

Highlights

100% Online Program

This program can be completed 100% online for maximum flexibility.
Metallica Scholarships

View the available heavy metal scholarships.
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).
Career Degree

Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning an associate degree in 2 years.
Program Length: 2 Years

Finish in 2 years as a full-time student.
WIOA Program

Become eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

Prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings or drawings and topographical relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and public works. Use knowledge of building materials, engineering practices, and mathematics to complete drawings.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $43,535
  
  Median
  
  $64,006
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $98,645
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $20.93
  
  Median
  
  $30.77
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $47.42
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  0.41%
  
  Certificate
  
  0.91%
  
  Some college
  
  0.41%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  17.85%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  54.59%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  25.84%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Design and develop manufactured products, such as cars, home appliances, and children's toys. Combine artistic talent with research on product use, marketing, and materials to create the most functional and appealing product design.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $47,245
  
  Median
  
  $77,767
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $143,791
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.71
  
  Median
  
  $37.38
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $69.13
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  4.3%
  
  Certificate
  
  0.29%
  
  Some college
  
  15.23%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  12.26%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  67.92%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Develop programs to control machining or processing of materials by automatic machine tools, equipment, or systems. May also set up, operate, or maintain equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $45,739
  
  Median
  
  $65,666
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $97,987
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.99
  
  Median
  
  $31.57
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $47.10
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  32.77%
  
  Certificate
  
  31.39%
  
  Some college
  
  19.68%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  14.3%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  1.86%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $45,776
  
  Median
  
  $71,823
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $115,980
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $22.00
  
  Median
  
  $34.53
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $55.75
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  6.1%
  
  Certificate
  
  21.07%
  
  Some college
  
  6.74%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  23.56%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  40.08%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.46%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $44,331
  
  Median
  
  $67,215
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $111,693
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.31
  
  Median
  
  $32.31
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $53.69
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  Certificate
  
  7.98%
  
  Some college
  
  7.45%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  61.28%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  20.25%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  2.93%
  
  Doctorate
  
  0.13%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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complete the admission process
choose an academic program
enroll in first-semester classes
get access to helpful resources

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Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

View program in catalog

Icon Key

Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Global citizenship
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CLC 120	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.	2	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CAD 111	CAD 111 CAD Drafting Application Class Description This course is designed to introduce the student to the tools and graphical communication techniques of the CAD-drafting profession. Topics include geometric constructions, sketching, scales, multiviews, sectional views, auxiliary views, dimensioning, pictorial views, threads and fasteners, and assembly drawings. Drafting skills/knowledge are learned/gained through intensive classroom practice, discussions and demonstrations using professionally prepared materials	4	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CLC 120
Course Title	CLC 120 College Success Seminar Class Description This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
Credits	2
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 111
Course Title	CAD 111 CAD Drafting Application Class Description This course is designed to introduce the student to the tools and graphical communication techniques of the CAD-drafting profession. Topics include geometric constructions, sketching, scales, multiviews, sectional views, auxiliary views, dimensioning, pictorial views, threads and fasteners, and assembly drawings. Drafting skills/knowledge are learned/gained through intensive classroom practice, discussions and demonstrations using professionally prepared materials
Credits	4
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CAD 110	CAD 110 CAD/CAM Concepts Class Description This course will introduce the student to how computers are used in Computer Aided Design. The course will cover basic functions of Windows operating system, as well as computer hardware and software and how the operating system relates to the use of both. Extensive use of the internet will be used to download software and information. CAD software will be introduced including AutoCAD (for 2D drawings), Inventor (for 3D mechanical parts), and Revit (for 3D architectural models).	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CAD 117	CAD 117 Introduction to AutoCAD Class Description The course is designed to introduce students to the use of AutoCAD for computer-aided design and drafting. 2D drawing, modifying and dimensioning is emphasized. NOTE: Completion of CAD 110 is recommended.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CAD 170	CAD 170 Introduction to SolidWorks Class Description (Formerly CAD 173) This course is designed as an introduction to the SolidWorks Computer Aided Design software. Topics will include part creation, use of features, assembly modeling, and drawing creation. NOTE: Completion of CAD 117 or a strong working knowledge of another CAD software is recommended prior to taking this course.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
CMM 111	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.	3	Online/Virtual options available
ENG 120	ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition Class Description Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 110
Course Title	CAD 110 CAD/CAM Concepts Class Description This course will introduce the student to how computers are used in Computer Aided Design. The course will cover basic functions of Windows operating system, as well as computer hardware and software and how the operating system relates to the use of both. Extensive use of the internet will be used to download software and information. CAD software will be introduced including AutoCAD (for 2D drawings), Inventor (for 3D mechanical parts), and Revit (for 3D architectural models).
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 117
Course Title	CAD 117 Introduction to AutoCAD Class Description The course is designed to introduce students to the use of AutoCAD for computer-aided design and drafting. 2D drawing, modifying and dimensioning is emphasized. NOTE: Completion of CAD 110 is recommended.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 170
Course Title	CAD 170 Introduction to SolidWorks Class Description (Formerly CAD 173) This course is designed as an introduction to the SolidWorks Computer Aided Design software. Topics will include part creation, use of features, assembly modeling, and drawing creation. NOTE: Completion of CAD 117 or a strong working knowledge of another CAD software is recommended prior to taking this course.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CMM 111
Course Title	CMM 111 Communication Skills Class Description For students in career programs or individuals interested in improving communication skills. Acquaints students with a variety of interpersonal communication concepts and theories designed to improve communication competence. The focus is on interpersonal communication but intrapersonal communication is also addressed. Topics include the communication process and factors influencing it, cultural influences, verbal and non-verbal messages, relational maintenance, and productive conflict strategies.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ENG 120
Course Title	ENG 120 Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition Class Description Introduction to Professional & Technical Composition is an introductory college level writing course for anyone interested in learning how to develop their professional writing skills for real world applications. Students will learn how to plan, draft, compose, and revise a variety of technical and professional documents common to the workplace. Writing clearly and succinctly for a defined target audience will be emphasized, as well as developing skills in document design and multimodal composition. Projects are based on practical situations within the student’s area of study.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CAD 217	CAD 217 AutoCAD II Class Description Discussion and lab work are presented dealing with advanced drawing and dimensioning techniques, attributes, and individualized customization of AutoCAD menus and files.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CAD 211	CAD 211 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Class Description This course is a study of the current ASME Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing standard. It helps students interested in CAD advance their knowledge and skills of mechanical design/drafting operation utilizing an industrial CAD system. The emphasis is on the understanding of the principles and applications of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standard. Common practice and techniques in creating a professional mechanical drawing will also be covered.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CAD 270	CAD 270 SolidWorks II Class Description (Formerly CAD 174) This course is designed as a continuation of CAD 170 Introduction to SolidWorks. It expands the topics started in CAD 170. It also covers sheet metal part creation, basic mold design, and importing files from other CAD programs.	3	Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available
MTH 114	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 217
Course Title	CAD 217 AutoCAD II Class Description Discussion and lab work are presented dealing with advanced drawing and dimensioning techniques, attributes, and individualized customization of AutoCAD menus and files.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 211
Course Title	CAD 211 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Class Description This course is a study of the current ASME Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing standard. It helps students interested in CAD advance their knowledge and skills of mechanical design/drafting operation utilizing an industrial CAD system. The emphasis is on the understanding of the principles and applications of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing standard. Common practice and techniques in creating a professional mechanical drawing will also be covered.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 270
Course Title	CAD 270 SolidWorks II Class Description (Formerly CAD 174) This course is designed as a continuation of CAD 170 Introduction to SolidWorks. It expands the topics started in CAD 170. It also covers sheet metal part creation, basic mold design, and importing files from other CAD programs.
Credits	3
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	MTH 114
Course Title	MTH 114 Applied Mathematics Class Description This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
MET 214	MET 214 Mechanical Design and Drafting Class Description This course introduces students to the design and graphic representation of basic machine parts such as gears, cams, castings, stampings, the redesign of simple mechanisms, piping drawing, and welding representations.	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	MET 214
Course Title	MET 214 Mechanical Design and Drafting Class Description This course introduces students to the design and graphic representation of basic machine parts such as gears, cams, castings, stampings, the redesign of simple mechanisms, piping drawing, and welding representations.
Credits	3

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CAD 177	CAD 177 Civil Drafting Class Description This course will introduce students to software used in the preparation of civil and surveying drawings. Software studied includes AutoCAD and advanced applications such as Land Development Desktop and Civil 3D.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CAD 178	CAD 178 Introduction to Revit Class Description (Formerly CAD 214) This course is designed as an introduction to the Revit Computer Aided Design software. Topics will include building 3D architectural project models with walls, window, doors, floors, roofs, stairs; creating schedules; adding views and annotation to the sheets to create construction documents. NOTE: Industrial experience recommended.	3	Online/Virtual options available
ECO 110	ECO 110 Economics for Business and Industry Class Description This course is a brief survey of both microeconomic and macroeconomic principles to provide the student with the basic tools to understand current economic problems and policies. It is intended for students pursuing an AAS degree.	3	Credit for prior learning available Online/Virtual options available
SOC 121	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.	3	Credit for prior learning available Dual credit options available Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 177
Course Title	CAD 177 Civil Drafting Class Description This course will introduce students to software used in the preparation of civil and surveying drawings. Software studied includes AutoCAD and advanced applications such as Land Development Desktop and Civil 3D.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 178
Course Title	CAD 178 Introduction to Revit Class Description (Formerly CAD 214) This course is designed as an introduction to the Revit Computer Aided Design software. Topics will include building 3D architectural project models with walls, window, doors, floors, roofs, stairs; creating schedules; adding views and annotation to the sheets to create construction documents. NOTE: Industrial experience recommended.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	ECO 110
Course Title	ECO 110 Economics for Business and Industry Class Description This course is a brief survey of both microeconomic and macroeconomic principles to provide the student with the basic tools to understand current economic problems and policies. It is intended for students pursuing an AAS degree.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	SOC 121
Course Title	SOC 121 Introduction to Sociology Class Description This course introduces the basic concepts and perspectives for understanding sociology. The course examines how society influences and shapes human behavior. Topics of analysis include, but are not limited to, the development of sociology, theoretical perspectives and research methodologies, culture, social institutions, social change, and social inequality on the basis of class, gender, race and ethnicity, and sexuality.
Credits	3
Credit for prior learning available
Dual credit options available
Online/Virtual options available

Course Code	Course Title	Credits	Course Highlights
CAD 215	CAD 215 Drafting for MEP Class Description This course covers creating and presenting Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) plan sets utilizing Revit. Class focuses on MEP schematics and basic design, creating a 3D model of the MEP systems, and applying workflow strategies for the efficient use of Revit MEP.	3
CAD 277	CAD 277 Drafting for Surveyors Class Description This course covers creating and presenting plats, topographic surveys, and construction staking drawings. Class will utilize Civil 3D to create and present drawing to industry standards. Additional commands are used to help create multiple sheets and create plan sets for survey drawing.	3
CAD 278	CAD 278 Revit II Class Description This course is designed as a continuation of CAD178, Introduction to Revit. It expands the topics started in CAD178. It also covers more advanced concepts such as Conceptual Massing, Family Creation, Site and Structural Tools, Design Options, Phasing and Rendering.	3	Online/Virtual options available
CAD 287	CAD 287 Drafting for Civil Engineers Class Description This course covers creating and presenting Civil Engineering plans set and submittals. Class focuses on the use of Alignments, Profiles, Corridors, and more to create engineering plans sets and exhibits. Class touches on engineering software such as HEC-RAS, XPSWMM, and time of concentration calculations	3
CAD 290	CAD 290 Mechanical Drafting Class Description This course covers presenting, designing, and detailing mechanical drafting (Parts and Assemblies, Tooling, and GD&T). AutoCAD and Solidworks software used. Solidworks is emphasized for the creation of 3D models, fusing the art of drafting, with the science of engineering.	3	Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 215
Course Title	CAD 215 Drafting for MEP Class Description This course covers creating and presenting Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) plan sets utilizing Revit. Class focuses on MEP schematics and basic design, creating a 3D model of the MEP systems, and applying workflow strategies for the efficient use of Revit MEP.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 277
Course Title	CAD 277 Drafting for Surveyors Class Description This course covers creating and presenting plats, topographic surveys, and construction staking drawings. Class will utilize Civil 3D to create and present drawing to industry standards. Additional commands are used to help create multiple sheets and create plan sets for survey drawing.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 278
Course Title	CAD 278 Revit II Class Description This course is designed as a continuation of CAD178, Introduction to Revit. It expands the topics started in CAD178. It also covers more advanced concepts such as Conceptual Massing, Family Creation, Site and Structural Tools, Design Options, Phasing and Rendering.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 287
Course Title	CAD 287 Drafting for Civil Engineers Class Description This course covers creating and presenting Civil Engineering plans set and submittals. Class focuses on the use of Alignments, Profiles, Corridors, and more to create engineering plans sets and exhibits. Class touches on engineering software such as HEC-RAS, XPSWMM, and time of concentration calculations
Credits	3

Course Highlights
Course Code	CAD 290
Course Title	CAD 290 Mechanical Drafting Class Description This course covers presenting, designing, and detailing mechanical drafting (Parts and Assemblies, Tooling, and GD&T). AutoCAD and Solidworks software used. Solidworks is emphasized for the creation of 3D models, fusing the art of drafting, with the science of engineering.
Credits	3
Online/Virtual options available

Total Credit Hours

63

Meet your instructors

More than 1,000 full-time and part-time faculty teach at CLC. Nearly all of them have a master's degree or more.

CLC faculty teach the same materials you’d learn at a big school. They bring real-world experience into the classroom so you can gain job-ready skills and help you become the very best version of yourself.

Meet our CAD-Drafting Technology experts

Learn more about faculty at CLC

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Complete the application form to begin your program.

After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at CLC.

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Frequently asked questions

In this two-year program in Lake County, IL, you'll develop marketable skills through hands-on training with industry-standard CAD software under the guidance of experienced engineers and architects.
Key program focus areas include:
- Mechanical drafting
- Civil drafting
- Drafting for surveyors
- Revit
- SolidWorks
You'll begin with foundational courses in drafting principles and a college success seminar, then progress to computer-aided design fundamentals and AutoCAD. From there, you'll explore 3D modeling with SolidWorks while strengthening your communication and technical writing skills.
As you advance, you'll gain confidence with AutoCAD II, geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, and sophisticated 3D modeling techniques. In your final courses, you’ll explore specialties including mechanical design, architectural drafting, civil and surveying design, MEP systems, and detailed mechanical drafting—preparing you for diverse career opportunities in the field.
No! You don’t need any previous drafting or engineering experience. You’ll learn everything you need in a hands-on environment. You’ll develop drafting skills through guided practice, class discussions and demos using actual industry equipment. Each course builds on the last, helping you steadily grow your skills and confidence.

With classes capped at 16 students, you’ll get personal attention from your instructors who know you by name.
The A.A.S. in CAD Drafting Technology is 63 credit hours and takes an average of 2 years of full-time study to complete.
Yes, this program can be completed 100% online.
Attend class in the way that works best for your goals:
- Virtual live: Learn remotely in real time through live, scheduled classes held on Zoom
- Online: Work on your coursework on your own schedule with no required class times, while staying engaged in a fully online learning environment.
- In-person: Keep your degree on track with classes that meet face-to-face, providing you with opportunities to interact in person with faculty and peers.
After graduation, you can start right away as a drafter or technician with your associate degree. Opportunities span these industries and more:
- Architecture
- Aviation
- Construction
- Engineering
- Manufacturing
Explore roles such as:
- Architectural and Civil Drafter
- Commercial and Industrial Designer
- Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmer
- Electrical and Electronics Drafter
- Mechanical Drafter
The cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours. It includes in-district tuition and fees. It does not factor in the cost of books and materials. It does not account for financial aid (grants, loans, scholarships) that you may receive.
View current tuition and fees
Some courses in this program are subject to variable tuition and course fees because they provide specialized experiences, instruction or technology/equipment.
View courses with variable tuition and fees
Many opportunities exist at CLC to get financial aid. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.
Yes, you can. Save on tuition costs at CLC while completing your A.A.S. CAD-Drafting Technology degree and building a strong foundation in drafting and design, then continue to a four-year university.
Here are some transfer pathways:
- Finish your bachelor’s degree close to home: Take classes online or on the Grayslake Campus through the University Center of Lake County.
- Guaranteed transfer admission: Transfer seamlessly to 30+ four-year partners. Secure your admission during your first semester at CLC.
- Explore more transfer options: Choose from many additional colleges and universities that accept CLC credits.
Our Academic Success Advisors will help you design a personalized degree plan to ensure your credits transfer smoothly. Learn more about transfer planning.

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This associate degree is just one possible way to study CAD-Drafting Technology. Keep exploring your options—degrees, credentials and more.

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Turn ideas into precision drawings

Your pathway to CAD drafting and design

Highlights

100% Online Program

Metallica Scholarships

Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

Career Degree

Program Length: 2 Years

WIOA Program

Career Outlook

Architectural and Civil Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Commercial and Industrial Designers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Computer Numerically Controlled Tool Programmers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Electrical and Electronics Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Mechanical Drafters

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

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Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 6 Credits

Semester 2 15 Credits

Semester 3 12 Credits

Semester 4 3 Credits

Semester 5 12 Credits

Semester 6 15 Credits

Total Credit Hours

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Frequently asked questions

What skills will I learn?

Do I need CAD drafting experience to apply?

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Can I take classes online?

What jobs can I get with this A.A.S. degree?

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Can I go on to get my bachelor’s degree after earning my A.A.S. degree?

Related programs

AutoCAD Certificate

Architectural Designer Certificate

Civil Designer Certificate

Mechanical Designer Certificate

SolidWorks Certificate

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

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Visit us

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