Drafting and Design Technology
The Drafting and Design Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree at Valencia College is a two-year program that prepares you to go directly into a specialized career as a drafting technician.
Skilled drafting technicians bring concepts and language to fruition using graphical instructions for production, and are required to work closely with engineers. Today they are required to be highly skilled and versatile, and are needed in a variety of industries including architecture, construction, surveying and manufacturing. Valencia’s program prepares you for this challenging field utilizing state-of-the-art drafting and design techniques with the latest in computer-aided drafting equipment, including 3-D printing, 3-D modeling, AutoCAD and GIS technology. With these skills, you’ll be prepared to play a vital role in the engineering process.
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PROGRAM DETAILS
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
Program Overview and Degree Requirements
Review course descriptions, important dates and deadlines and other programs details in the official college catalog.
Related Certificates
Valencia’s certificate programs can put you on the fast-track to reaching your career goals. They are designed to equip you with a specialized skill set for immediate employment or career advancement. Most can be completed in one year or less.
- Drafting – AutoCAD (15 credits)
- Drafting with specializations in: Architectural Drafting, Mechanical Drafting and Surveying Drafting (24 credits)
- Rapid Prototyping Specialist – 3-D Printing (12 credits)
Alternative Ways To Earn Credit
Alternative Ways To Earn Credit
Did you know that you may already be eligible to receive college credit toward this program? Check out these opportunities:
- Industry Certifications – Receive college credit for approved Industry Certifications
- Tech Center Programs – Receive college credit for completing an approved OCPS or TECO Tech Center program
- Career Pathways – Receive college credit for Career Pathways credits earned in high school
Program Length
62 Credits
Full-time – 2 to 3 years
Part-time – 3 to 4 years
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CAREER OUTLOOK
Learn How To
- Prepare plans and detailed drawing from rough or detailed sketches and notes for engineering or manufacturing purposes
- Use computer-assisted drafting (CADD) equipment and software for various building and construction projects
Job Outlook
Industrial growth and increasingly complex design problems associated with new products and manufacturing processes will increase the demand for drafting services. Nearly all engineering, design and manufacturing firms are potential employers. More than one-third of all drafters work in engineering and architectural services, one-third in manufacturing, and the remainder in construction and utilities.
Visit Career Coach to explore careers, salaries, job demand and related degrees.
Potential Careers
- Drafting Technician
- CADD Operator or Specialist
- Mechanical Engineering Assistant
- Drafting Designer
- Mechanical Designer
- Tooling Drafter
- Mechanical Drafter
Visit Career Coach to explore careers, salaries, job demand and related degrees.
AVERAGE SALARY RANGE
$28,000 – $35,000
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This program is designed to lead to gainful employment in a recognized occupation. For more information about our graduation rates, the median debt of students who completed the program, and other important information, please visit Valencia’s Gainful Employment website.
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