Course Catalog

Computer Aided Design Technology - AAS

West Burlington Campus, and select courses available at the Keokuk Campus

The Computer Aided Design (CAD) program provides students with the skills necessary to create detailed product and assembly drawings, as well as architectural blueprints. Students learn the process of visualizing and developing models in two and three dimensional environments. Several software programs are introduced and used to provide students with hands-on experiences with the tools utilized in the workforce. Students will earn an OSHA 10 General Industry credential upon completion of the first semester of the program.

Students may choose between two pathways in the CAD program: Career Pathway or Transfer Pathway.

The Career Pathway provides students with the skill set needed to go directly into the industry. Students are introduced to the CAD field during their internship. Successful completion of the CAD AAS program prepares the student for their full-time career.

The Transfer Pathway provides students with the education and technical skills and hands-on training needed to transfer to a four-year university for an advanced degree.

In Fall I semester, students have the option of taking MAT-120 and MAT-134 together, or MAT-702.

Please view the technical standards for this course.

Summary Sheet

The summary sheet provides a program overview and other information.

Download the Summary Sheet.

Curriculum Sequence


Fall Semester I Course Title Credit
CAD-101 Introduction to CAD 3
DRF-113 Fundamentals of Technical Drafting 3
MFG-212 Basic Machine Theory 3
EGT-108 Principles of Engineering 3
MAT-120 College Algebra 3
Take 1 of 2 courses
MAT-134 Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry 3
MAT-702 Introduction to Math Applications 3
TOTAL CREDITS 18

Spring Semester I Course Title Credit
MFG-142 Geometric Dimensioning Tolerancing 3
CAD-277 3-D Dimensional (3-D) Modeling I 3
EGT-116 Continuous Quality Management 3
Take 1 of 2 courses
SOC-114 Conflict Resolution in the Workplace 3
SOC-115 Social Problems 3
Take 1 of 2 courses
ENG-105 Composition I 3
ENG-110 Writing for the Workplace 3
TOTAL CREDITS 15

Summer Semester Course Title Credit
Take 1 of 2 courses
ENG-106 Composition II 3
CAD-932 Internship 4
TOTAL CREDITS 3 - 4

Fall Semester II Course Title Credit
ARC-113 Architectural Drafting I 4
MFG-206 Manufacturing Processes I 3
Take 1 of 2 courses
CAD-140 Parametric Solid Modeling 3
EGT-400 PLTW - Introduction to Engineering Design 3
Take 1 of 2 courses
PHY-106 Survey of Physics 4
PHY-162 College Physics I 4
Take WBL-110 as 1 credit
WBL-110 Employability Skills 1-3
TOTAL CREDITS 15

Spring Semester II Course Title Credit
ARC-129 Residential/Light Commercial Drafting 4
CAD-248 Parametric CAD II 3
CSC-110 Introduction to Computers 3
PHI-105 Introduction to Ethics 3
TOTAL CREDITS 13

CAD-101 - Introduction to CAD

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

An introduction to computer aided design and drafting. Actual hands-on experience in designing, drawing and dimensioning using CAD micro-based CAD software. The course presents logical step-by-step instruction about the CAD commands, mode settings, drawing aids, shortcuts and other valuable characteristics of CAD. Finished copies of the students’ work will be made on a printer or plotter.

DRF-113 - Fundamentals of Technical Drafting

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

Fundamentals of drawing techniques conveyed using free hand sketching. Emphasis is placed on the ability to visualize in three dimensions, neatness, accuracy, legibility, speed and use of computer graphics in the solution of graphic problems.

MFG-212 - Basic Machine Theory

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

Introduction to basic machining processes involving drill press, lathe, mills, drills, saws, bench tools, measuring tools and grinders. Classes will cover safety, tooling, metal removal methods and different various pieces of equipment. The course will introduce the national OSHA safety standards, and upon completion of this course, students will receive the OSHA 10 General Industry card.

EGT-108 - Principles of Engineering

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

This course explores technology systems and manufacturing processes using the methodology of project-based engineering problem solving. Learning activities explore a variety of engineering disciplines and address the social and political consequences of technological change.

MAT-120 - College Algebra

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

This course is a study of rational, exponential, logarithmic and polynomial functions and relations, their graphs and related equalities. The study of the curricular functions, graphs and applications is included. This course may be taken concurrently with MAT-134.Prerequisite: MAT-092 or MAT-099 with a minimum grade of C- or meet minimum placement testing requirements.

MAT-134 - Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

The student will study degree and radian angles; apply basic geometric and trigonometric concepts to solve triangles; apply and graph trigonometric functions and their inverses to solve applied problems; verify trigonometric identities; convert paired data between rectangular and polar notation systems; apply math operations on vectors and complex numbers; graph polar equations; and analyze/graph elliptic, hyperbolic, and other conic equations. Prerequisite: MAT-120 with a minimum grade of C- or meet minimum placement test score requirements. Corequisite: This course may be taken concurrently with MAT-120.

MAT-702 - Introduction to Math Applications

Lecture: 2

Lab: 2

Credit: 3

This course is offered to students who can profit from an applied course in mathematics and will prepare students who need to develop skills for MAT-704. It is designed as an introductory level algebra course recommended for students with one year of high school algebra. Emphasis is on the building of basic algebra skills and the application of these mathematical techniques. The course studies the relationship of geometry and algebra as they apply to various fields. This course will also cover whole numbers/decimals, integers, fractions/percents, direct measurement, basic geometric concepts/relationships, linear equations and right-triangle trigonometry. Prerequisite: MAT-052 or meet minimum placement testing requirements.

MFG-142 - Geometric Dimensioning Tolerancing

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

This course introduces the student to the use of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing. It consists primarily of learning the names, meanings and applications of the symbols used on engineering drawings that include GD&T. Prerequisites: CAD-101 and DRF-113.

CAD-277 - 3-D Dimensional (3-D) Modeling I

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

This course teaches parametric solid model CAD basics. Three-dimensional parametric concepts with design intent and solid CAD models will be built and edited. This course builds on previous basic drafting skills and focuses on using parametric solid modeling design software to develop technical drawings. Topics include patterns of features, editing, adding dimensions and creating simple assemblies. Prerequisite: CAD-101.

EGT-116 - Continuous Quality Management

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

This introductory course will lead the student into the world of quality and the quality process. Students will be exposed to the basic principles of lean manufacturing and quality control inspection tools. Students will analyze the performance of a production process, formulate process adjustments or improvements and carry out the strategies for process adjustment and/or improvement.

SOC-114 - Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

Conflict Resolution in the Workplace will study conflict resolution theories and applications in the workplace. The course will provide students with the opportunity to develop their own effective interpersonal conflict resolution skills as well as skills needed to help employees resolve their conflicts with one another and the skills needed to negotiate contracts. Students will also be introduced to theories and skills needed to apply culturally sensitive principles to conflict resolution.

SOC-115 - Social Problems

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

An investigation into a selection of social problems involving alternative solutions. Topics may include drug and alcohol abuse, crime, violence, prejudice and discrimination, and human sexuality.

ENG-105 - Composition I

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

A study of the principles of writing. Emphasis on rhetoric, mechanics and development of expository patterns: narration, description illustration, comparison/contrast, classification, process and cause/effect. Required for AA and AS Degrees. Prerequisite: Meet minimum test score requirements.

ENG-110 - Writing for the Workplace

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

Writing for the Workplace prepares students for the various types of written communication required by professional employers. In this class, students learn how to write informal and formal documents and reports in the design and style of career-related communication with a focus on audience, purpose, subject and genre and how they affect our writing choices. This course also includes a review of grammar and usage skills, as well as emphasizes effective language use in real-world applications. Prerequisites: ENG-013 with a minimum grade of C-or meet minimum placement test score requirements. No Waivers.

ENG-106 - Composition II

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

A continuation of study of the principles of writing begun in ENG-105. Emphasis is placed on persuasive writing, critical analysis and the MLA research paper. Time will also be spent exploring print and electronic research sources and learning effective research strategies. Required for AA and AS Degrees. Prerequisite: ENG-105, with a minimum grade of C-.

CAD-932 - Internship

On Job Training: 16

Credit: 4

Students will engage in work experience with an approved Computer Aided Design employer. Individual student eligibility will be determined by the instructor. Placement will depend on the student's skill level and the availability of appropriate training sites. Prerequisites: CAD-101 and CAD-277 or Instructor Approval.

ARC-113 - Architectural Drafting I

Lecture: 2

Lab: 4

Credit: 4

A course designed to provide a knowledge of residential house construction and house plans. The students are required to draw architectural plans that include foundations, floor plans, electrical plans, elevations, details and perspectives. Prerequisite: CAD-101, or instructor approval.

MFG-206 - Manufacturing Processes I

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

Basic course in measurements related to manufacturing, material removal, hard mold casting, powder metallurgy, plastics and rubber, material shearing, material forming, the use and manufacture of screw threads, abrasive removal methods, automation and introduction to numerical control. Lab sections demonstrate and give hands-on experiences in reading simple blue prints, layout, measurements and machining on tool room quality machine tools. Prerequisite: MAT-702.

CAD-140 - Parametric Solid Modeling

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

This course covers the basics of creating parts, modeling utilities, creating engineering drawings and creating assemblies using solid modeling software. Prerequisities: CAD-101 and CAD-277.

EGT-400 - PLTW - Introduction to Engineering Design

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

This course uses a design development process while enriching technical and engineering problem-solving skills; students create and analyze models using specialized computer software (AutoCAD Inventor).

PHY-106 - Survey of Physics

Lecture: 3

Lab: 2

Credit: 4

This class is designed as an introduction to the basic concepts of physics. Measurement, the scientific method, motion, forces, work and energy, simple machines, temperature and heat plus electricity and magnetism will be covered. Lab will be an integral part with activities augmenting the lecture concepts.

PHY-162 - College Physics I

Lecture: 3

Lab: 2

Credit: 4

This course is designed to provide a working knowledge of physics for those who need physics but do not need the rigor of a calculus-based physics course. The topics covered will include motion, force, energy, work, power, torque, linear momentum, rotational motion, angular momentum and thermodynamics. The conservation laws will be stressed. Topics in thermodynamics are covered as time permits. Solving practical problems will be a major emphasis.  Pre-requisite:  ALEKS score of 30 or successful completion of MAT-092 with a C- or better.

WBL-110 - Employability Skills

Lecture: 1-3

Credit: 1-3

This course is designed to assist students in developing the skills necessary to obtain employment, and to learn and practice the skills and attitudes required for job success. Students will practice resume writing, job application completion and interviewing techniques. Additionally, students will practice work-place problem solving strategies and demonstrate skills required to work in a diverse environment. Prerequisite: WBL-150 is recommended.

ARC-129 - Residential/Light Commercial Drafting

Lecture: 2

Lab: 4

Credit: 4

Designing and drawing a complete set of plans, including specifications, calculations and rendering for multi-family or similar two story buildings. Emphasis will also be placed on designing an energy-efficient structure. Prerequisite: CAD-101.

CAD-248 - Parametric CAD II

Lecture: 1

Lab: 4

Credit: 3

A continuation of computer aided design (CAD) using SolidWorks software. The student will learn to create and print parametric solids as well as how to use SolidWorks to analyze objects. Prerequisite: CAD-140.

CSC-110 - Introduction to Computers

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

This course provides an introduction to computer concepts. The student will use the Windows operating system, presentation software, electronic spreadsheet software, database management software and word processing software. Microcomputer hardware and software as well as the processing concepts associated with each will be discussed. The course will also include information on file management, the Internet, virus protection and e-mail basics as applicable to the academic world as well as the business environment. Lab time outside of class is required to complete projects.

PHI-105 - Introduction to Ethics

Lecture: 3

Credit: 3

A survey of the major ethical emphases from ancient to modern times with pertinent reading in the works of representative philosophers.

Jonathan Gaddis - Associate Professor - Computer Aided Design Technology

Email: jgaddis@scciowa.edu
AAS, Southeastern Community College
BA, Iowa Wesleyan College
MBA, St. Ambrose University