Computer-Aided Design Technology, AAS

Program Details

Semester 1

Fall 1

• CAD 151 - CAD Graphics I Credits: 6
• ENG 105 - Composition I Credits: 3
• MAT 772 - Applied Math Credits: 3
• SDV 108 - The College Experience Credits: 1
• 3 Credits of AAS Social and Behavioral Sciences and Humanities course with prefix HUM or PSY Credits: 3

Semester 2

Spring 1

• CAD 152 - CAD Graphics II Credits: 6
• CAD 182 - SolidWorks CAD I Credits: 3
• CAD 242 - Manufacturing Interfaces Credits: 3
• MAT 773 - Applied Math II Credits: 3

Semester 3

Fall 2

• CAD 153 - CAD Applications I Credits: 3
• CAD 215 - Mechanical Systems Credits: 3
• CAD 240 - Applied Materials & Processes Credits: 3
• CAD 246 - Parametric CAD I Credits: 3
• CAD 252 - Design Project I Credits: 4

Semester 4

Spring 2

• CAD 154 - CAD Applications II Credits: 3
• CAD 248 - Parametric CAD II Credits: 3
• CAD 254 - Design Project II Credits: 5
• BCA 212 - Intro Computer Business Appl Credits: 3
• Select 3 Credits from Option 1 Credits: 3

Total Credits Required to Complete this AAS Degree - 64*

Fixed Costs

Tuition……………………………………………………………………………………..$193.00 per credit

The costs for each program are estimates and subject to change.

Varied Costs

Approximate total for the program: $13,663**

**Program entry requirements are not included in the total approximate cost.

What Kind of Work Will You Do?

• Prepare a variety of product engineering models and drawings, including detail drawings, assembly drawings, and layout drawings in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional realms. Prepare three-dimensional prints (prototypes).
• Design new products or modify existing products.
• Identify industry standards (ASME/ANSI, ISO, etc.). Work with industry codes.
• Operate computers, printers, and rapid-prototyping equipment, and use a variety of CAD and computer software.
• Use computer-aided drafting (CAD) software to create models, assemblies, drawings and analyze models.
• Students gain practical experience that is applicable to design and drafting, through field trips and exposure to manufacturing processes.

What Skills and Abilities Will You Need?

• Visualize in two and three dimensions.
• Self-motivation to start a project and self-discipline to carry it out.
• Adapt to various CAD software, drafting systems and work environments.
• Understand and work in an engineering office.
• Learn to apply math skills up through trigonometry.
• Visualize parts separately and how they fit together.
• Willingness to learn and use your imagination.

What Else Should I Consider about this Degree program?

• Computer-Aided Design and Drafting is projected as a growth field through the year 2015 and beyond.
• Computer experience is now a minimum requirement for many occupations.
• Graduates with minimal experience can start their own business with little capital investment.
• Average starting salary-A.A.S. degree $55,550 (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)

Program Competencies

1. ​Perform geometric constructions necessary for drawing creation
2. Differentiate between line types, text styles, fonts, drawing types and apply industry drawing standards
3. Communicate with others using computer applications, technical sketches, drawing notes, and verbal presentation
4. Demonstrate workplace skills of note taking, problem solving, research, interpersonal relationships and leadership
5. Operate a variety of equipment related to design and manufacturing such as plotters, 3D printers, CNC equipment, and CMM
6. Identify manufacturing processes, materials, and GD&T. Including their effect on a part, assembly, and the drawing setup
7. Evaluate various fastening systems and the application in assemblies
8. Produce detail, casting, assembly, sub-assembly, and weldment drawings. Including supporting documentation such as BOM, ECR, ECO, etc.
9. Create special applications such as sheet metal development, flat pattern calculations, kinematic diagrams/calculations, allowances, etc.
10. Construct parts and assemblies in two and three dimensional applications
11. Prepare a final design project with all supporting documents

AY2025

Nondiscrimination Statement

Des Moines Area Community College shall not engage in nor allow discrimination covered by law against any person, group or organization. This includes in its programs, activities, employment practices, or hiring practices, and harassment or discrimination based on race, color, national origin, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information (in employment) and actual or potential parental, family or marital status. Veteran status in educational programs, activities, employment practices, or admission procedures is also included to the extent covered by law. Lack of English language proficiency will not be a barrier to admission and participation in career and technical education programs.

Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against may file a complaint through the College Discrimination Complaint Procedure. Complaint forms may be obtained from the Executive Campus Dean’s office, the Executive Academic Deans’ office, the Judicial Officer, or the EEO/AA Officer, Human Resources. ADA questions and concerns may be directed to the Section 504/ADA Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 6, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6857, dso@dmacc.edu. Title IX questions and concerns may be directed to the Title IX Coordinator at 2006 S. Ankeny Blvd, Bldg 1, Ankeny, IA 50023, phone 515/964-6216, Title9@dmacc.edu. Questions or complaints about this policy may be directed to the Director of the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, John C. Kluczysnki Federal Building, 230 S. Dearborn Street, 37th Floor, Chicago, IL 60604-7204, phone 312/730-1560, fax 312/730-1576, TDD 800-877-8339 Email OCR.Chicago@ed.gov.

DMACC offers career and technical programs in the following areas of study:
Agriculture, Natural and Environmental Science
Architecture, Engineering, and Construction
Arts, Design, and Visual Communication
Business, Management, and Marketing
Education, Public, and Human Services
Health Science
Hospitality and Culinary
Information Technology
Manufacturing
Transportation & Logistics

Entrance requirements for specific programs can be found at Academic Pathway website.₍₂₀₂₄₎