Careers in Computer Aided Design

Learn how you'll use a computer aided design degree.

Should You Get a Computer Aided Design Degree?

In recent decades, computer aided design (CAD)—also known as computer aided drafting—has permeated the design and engineering fields. CAD programs twenty years ago were highly specialized tools used primarily for engineering applications, but now, computer aided design is indispensable to a variety of industries, from architecture and interior design to construction and manufacturing. If you want to be a drafter, an engineer or even an animator, a CAD degree will serve you well in your career.

find computer aided design and drafting schools

The versatility of computer aided design programs makes them ideal for a number of purposes, but one of their most frequent uses is in the field of drafting. Drafters take data, specifications and sketches provided by scientists and engineers and produce drawings that serve as a visual and technical guideline for the manufacture of products. Drafters' drawings are used in the production of everything from vehicles, machinery and electronic devices to large-scale structures like buildings, highways and water systems.

In the past, such images and diagrams were made by hand using pencil, paper and other tools. Now, computer aided drafting programs help create drawings that can be viewed on a screen, stored electronically, and even used to directly program manufacturing machinery. CAD software can be used to design everything from 2-dimensional layouts of piping or interior spaces to perfect 3-dimensional models of objects that can be manipulated from any angle.

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Jobs

A degree in computer aided design and drafting is useful in a startlingly diverse range of careers. Drafting careers are among the most common, including architectural drafting, mechanical drafting, electronics drafting and civil construction drafting. A CAD drafter is sometimes also called a CAD operator.

Architects, engineers, project managers and other professionals in manufacturing and construction can also benefit from a degree in computer aided drafting. In the design field, CAD skills are useful to interior designers and product designers as well as those who work with technical illustration and animation. Even a certificate program or 2-year associate's degree can prepare you for an entry-level position, or greatly enhance your skills and salary prospects if you're already employed in the industry.

Computer Aided Design Salaries

Earnings vary greatly for CAD degree holders depending on level of education and experience as well as geographic location and area of specialty. Sample salary ranges for 2009 from the Bureau of Labor Statistics were as follows:

Computer Aided Design Careers	Salary Range
Architectural and Civil Drafters	$29,050 – $69,610
Mechanical Drafters	$30,640 – $73,050
Electrical and Electronics Drafters	$33,140 – $80,960
Commercial and Industrial Designers	$31,810 – $95,910
Architects	$42,320 – $122,640