CAD Certificate Program (Self-Paced)

CAD Certificate Program Overview

What You Will Learn

The CAD Certificate Program is a structured, self-paced training program designed to provide students with expertise in 2D drafting using AutoCAD while expanding their skill set with specialized tools such as Revit and SketchUp. This comprehensive program prepares students for careers in construction design by emphasizing real-world applications and project-based learning.

By completing this program, you will:

• Develop proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD) using AutoCAD.
• Learn to create, modify, and annotate 2D technical drawings.
• Understand best practices for drafting and organizing construction documents.
• Gain expertise in architectural, structural, and electrical drafting techniques.
• Explore project management strategies to optimize CAD workflows.
• Utilize industry-standard documentation techniques, including layering, annotation, and dimensioning.
• Apply CAD detailing methods to create professional-grade construction documents.
• Complete a capstone project to demonstrate mastery of CAD applications.

Benefits of the CAD Certificate Program

VDCI’s CAD Certificate Program provides a hands-on, project-based learning experience aligned with industry standards, ensuring students acquire practical skills applicable to real-world projects.

• Flexible Learning: Self-paced online coursework with expert instructor support.
• Hands-On Training: Work on practical projects that reflect industry scenarios.
• Industry-Recognized Certification: Earn a verified digital certificate upon completion.
• Access to AutoCAD Software: Utilize industry-standard tools throughout the program.
• Career Readiness: Develop technical skills applicable to architecture, engineering, and construction.

Course Lessons and Projects

Course 1: Introduction to AutoCAD

Gain foundational knowledge in AutoCAD, including drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and floor plans.

Skills Covered:

• Understanding AutoCAD’s interface and essential drafting tools.
• Drawing and modifying architectural symbols and components.
• Managing layers, text, dimensions, and plotting techniques.
• Creating and inserting blocks, and using external references.
• Mastering file management and organization for efficient workflows.

Project: Create a residential floor plan, integrating symbols, layers, and annotations.

Course 2: Intermediate AutoCAD

Learn to develop construction documents, including floor plans, roof plans, and elevations.

Skills Covered:

• Creating multi-sheet drawing sets with AutoCAD.
• Using external references to optimize project workflows.
• Implementing best practices for title blocks and annotation.
• Refining layer management and coordinate system usage.
• Applying intermediate plotting techniques for professional deliverables.

Project: Develop a complete set of construction documents for a residential project.

Course 3: AutoCAD Construction Documents I

Develop professional title block drawings and create detailed construction documentation.

Skills Covered:

• Designing and setting up title blocks and drawing labels.
• Creating multi-scale floor plans, enlarged plans, and roof plans.
• Generating and organizing building elevations for documentation.
• Integrating referenced files to streamline construction document workflows.
• Conforming to National CAD Standards for project consistency.

Project: Produce construction documents for a one-story residential project.

Course 4: AutoCAD Construction Documents II

Expand your documentation skills with building sections, wall details, and site planning.

Skills Covered:

• Developing building sections, wall sections, and detail drawings.
• Creating metes and bounds (civil) drawings.
• Refining title sheets and annotation legends.
• Managing multi-scale drawing presentations.
• Conforming construction documents to industry standards.

Project: Generate a complete set of construction documents for a large-scale project.

Course 5: CAD Detailing

Learn how to create professional construction details from scratch or by referencing existing drawings.

Skills Covered:

• Developing architectural and structural detail drawings.
• Integrating referenced files into construction documents.
• Organizing and managing multi-scale detail sheets.
• Applying CAD standards for clear, precise documentation.
• Utilizing advanced plotting and sheet layout techniques.

Project: Create a set of detailed construction sheets, including wall sections and connection details.

Course 6: CAD and Project Management

Gain skills to manage CAD projects efficiently and optimize office workflows.

Skills Covered:

• Understanding the role of a CAD project manager.
• Organizing AutoCAD user interface settings for productivity.
• Implementing National CAD Standards and office workflows.
• Managing project files and external references.
• Standardizing drawing templates and best practices for documentation.

Project: Convert an inherited CAD project to meet industry standards.

Capstone Project

Apply all acquired skills in a real-world, project-based environment.

Students will complete a comprehensive design or construction project from concept to execution, showcasing their expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp. This hands-on experience prepares students to excel in professional roles by demonstrating their ability to manage and deliver complex, detail-oriented projects.

Career Applications & Industry Relevance

• Architectural Drafter: Create professional floor plans, elevations, and construction documents.
• Structural CAD Technician: Develop structural plans and detail drawings for engineering projects.
• MEP Designer: Design mechanical, electrical, and plumbing schematics using AutoCAD.
• Construction Coordinator: Manage AutoCAD drawings for construction projects.
• BIM Modeler: Integrate AutoCAD drafting techniques into Building Information Modeling workflows.
• Facility Manager: Maintain and update as-built documentation using CAD software.

With the increasing demand for CAD professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction, graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue career opportunities that require precise technical drafting and design skills.