College of Technology

Computer Aided Design Drafting Technology

Program Description

The Computer Aided Design Drafting Technology graduate works on many levels in the engineering and manufacturing world. On the drafting level, they create working drawings from rough sketches or layouts that have been prepared by engineers and designers. The drawings are prepared in accordance to specifications dictated by their company and recognized standards. Computers are the tools of their trade. They are competent on the latest versions of CAD and software. They are exposed to a variety of engineering disciplines including mechanical, structural, architectural, piping, electrical and power technology. They are expected to be able to make engineering computations involved with layout, dimensioning and detailing of machine and structural parts. On the design level, they calculate stresses, size members of structural components and mechanical parts, do layout work for drafters to follow, write technical reports and supervise drafting groups.

The design/drafter must be able to visualize forms and shapes from blueprints and sketches, understand and apply theoretical principles and technical knowledge, concentrate on details for long periods of time, and use independent judgement in planning work and solving problems. Design/drafters should enjoy technical work; work that involves close tolerances, sets limits and standards. The successful design/ drafter should be able to organize work rapidly, work under pressure and be willing to assume responsibility for quality work.

Certificates & Degrees

  • Computer Aided Design Drafting Technology Advanced Technical Certificate
  • Associate of Applied Science - Design Drafting Technology
  • Bachelor of Applied Science - Design Drafting Technology

Program Options & Length:

  • Program begins in August and is four semesters in length.
  • Admits 20 students each year
  • Typical classroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 days per week

Paying for College

You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.

The CADD program is ATMAE accredited

Gainful Employment

Program Information
Admissions Information: Click Here
CIP Code: 151302
Certificate: Advanced Technical Certificate - Computer Aided Design Draft

Cost of Attendance
Tuition and Fees: $14,052.50*
Books and Supplies: $1,276.00
Room and Board $6,439.50**
Total: $21,768.00**

Completion Time
Normal Program Length: 4.5 Sem.
2010-2011 Completers: 0
Number Completed in Normal Time: NR
Normal Completion Rate (from the time students enrolled at ISU): NR
Program Completion Rate (from the time students enrolled in program classes): NR

Employment Information
Jobs Related to These Programs
Occupations with each program area were identified using Department of Labor ONET Crosswalks.
Placement Rate: ***

NR On-time completion rates are not reported for programs with fewer than 10 completers in order to protect student privacy.

* Based on 2012-13 full-time, Idaho resident tuition and fee schedule.

** Based on 2012-13 double occupancy rates and 100 meal plus flex money plan.

*** Based on completer placement data from the 2010-2011 fiscal year submitted January 15, 2011 to the Idaho State Division of Professional-Technical Education (ISDPTE). Positive placement is defined by the ISDPTE as completers enrolled in the military, employed in a related training, employed in a field unrelated to training, or pursing additional education.