Diploma Program
This program can be offered at the campus(es) below. Please contact the campus of your choosing for program availability and delivery methods.
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Median Wage
$32 /hour
*Jobbank.gc.ca; 2024;
In the 100% Online Computer-Aided Design and Drafting diploma program, you’ll learn Computer-Aided Design (CAD) applications for architecture, engineering, construction, civil infrastructure, and product design. You will also focus on the fundamentals of drawing and drafting while building knowledge in the technical areas of mathematics, computing, and communication.
In addition to the fundamentals, you'll use the software applications to create a variety of designs and drawings that can be utilized in the real world.
This program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of British Columbia. CDI College is designated by the Education Quality Assurance (EQA).
Fundamentals of Computers
This course presents an introductory look at Windows 10 and its interface, tools and features. You will learn about the fundamentals of navigating and personalizing the interface, organizing files and folders, using electronic mail, protecting a computer and searching for information. This course relies heavily on practical hands-on activities that allow you to learn the concepts by practicing them on a regular basis.
Drafting and Design I: Fundamentals
This course introduces basic drafting concepts and applies them to specific architectural, engineering, and construction problems. The information is taught by presenting information and reinforcing skills with practice exercises. The course focuses on gaining a solid understanding of all basic drafting techniques found in the construction industry for both residential and commercial structures. Students will learn the considerations and requirements for planning and designing the various spaces in residential structures. CAD applications are provided where appropriate
Drafting and Design II: Floor Plans and Elevations
This course continues the study of the design and drafting concepts introduced in the Drafting and Design I course. The information is taught by presenting information and reinforcing skills with practice exercises. The course focuses on gaining a solid understanding of drafting techniques applicable to the different types of floor plan and elevation drawings. Students will learn the considerations and requirements for planning and designing the various plans and drawings such as Site development plans, Floor plans, elevations, Sectional drawings, detail drawings, cabinetry plans. Students will also learn to present their drawings and plans with pictorial drawings and renderings. CAD applications are provided where appropriate.
Drafting and Design III: Construction Drawings
This course continues the study of the design and drafting concepts. The information is taught by presenting information and reinforcing skills with practice exercises. In this course, the students will gain a solid understanding of drafting techniques, plans and drawings applicable to construction projects. Students will learn the principles of construction and explore foundation systems, wood framing systems, masonry and concrete building systems, steel and reinforced concrete applications. Students will then apply the knowledge to the production of drawings, plans and elevations of Floor framing systems, Wall framing systems, Roof farming systems as well as electrical and plumbing designs and drawings CAD applications are provided where appropriate.
Technical Mathematics
This course enhances the math skills of students studying the field of drafting with presentation of a comprehensive overview of contemporary drafting problems, CAD drawings, and industry applications and practices. Students are provided with a variety of integrated math problems and CAD operations in order to facilitate critical thinking, problem solving, and basic mathematics literacy. Real-world applications are used to cover a range of skills and levels of difficulty in order to give students the skills they need to succeed in the field of drafting.
Technical Communication
This course prepares students for any workplace writing situation, framing the work of technical communications in the context of today’s highly collaborative, rapidly evolving digital practices. Also included are samples of documents driven by social media and the latest tools and technologies to ensure students work with the kinds of processes and products they will encounter on the job.
Office Skills
The daily routines of a modern business office are examined, and the skills necessary to assist in the smooth operation of the office are presented in this course. A variety of presentation methods may be used including lecture, discussion, role plays, case studies and work simulations.
AutoCAD I: 2D Essentials
Pre-requisite: Experience in drafting and design. This course teaches all of AutoCAD’s 2D commands and features required to produce two-dimensional drawings using AutoCAD software. Topics include AutoCAD’s interface, command syntax, AutoCAD theory, layers, selecting objects, inserting objects, correcting errors, object snap, zooming, panning, measuring objects, text, editing objects, line types, manipulating objects, hatching, blocks, dimensioning, reference files, Design Center, polylines, line weights, layouts, and plotting.
AutoCAD II: Advanced 2D
Prerequisite: CAD1100 – AutoCAD I: 2D Essentials Students are taught AutoCAD’s advanced features and commands that are not covered in CAD1100. It helps AutoCAD operators to work smarter and become more productive. Topics include file extensions, profiles, search paths, system variables, command aliases, scripts, dynamic input, grips, dynamic blocks, layer states, layer filters and groups, attributes, tables, data extraction, workspaces, customizing toolbars, customizing pull-down menus, macros, dashboard panels, tool palettes, fields, advanced text, annotation, templates, and advanced layouts.
AutoCAD III: 3D Modelling
Prerequisite: CAD1110 – AutoCAD II: Advanced 2D This course teaches all of AutoCAD’s 3D commands and features required to produce three-dimensional wireframe, surfaced, and solid models. Topics include viewing the model, World and User Coordinate systems, creating and editing 3D wireframe models, creating and editing 3D surface models, creating and editing solid models, 3D faces and meshes, filleting, chamfering, regions, mass properties, sectioning, slicing, shading, and creating dimensioned 2D layout drawings from solid models.
Projects and Simulations: AutoCAD
One of the most important qualities for a new draftsperson or computer-aided design and drafting user is the formation of strong practical skills using AutoCAD applications. The purpose of this course is to build on the training provided in AutoCAD, both in 2D and 3D, with extensive practice through exercises and real-world simulations and working on projects related to architectural, electro-mechanical, and mechanical applications similar to workplace scenarios.
Portfolio Development
This course is intended for students to prepare a portfolio of drawings for presentation purposes and aimed to present to potential employers. Students will use drafting and CAD software to print a set of drawings exhibiting their abilities in using drafting tools and the CAD software used in this program.
CADD Practice Education
This six-week practicum allows students to practise what they have learned in the program in real-life settings such as engineering, design, and construction businesses. This time allows students to apply theory and skills learned while also observing professional in practice.
Career & Employment Strategies
In addition to learning career-oriented skills, students learn how to get a job in their chosen profession. Our Employment Services department will assist the graduate in resume writing, as well as preparing for job interviews. Our staff is sensitive to current job market trends and the needs of employers in each local market.
Our graduates receive guidance and training to use career tools that help job seekers build a better resume and cover letter, manage an online portfolio, hone interviewing skills, and develop a personal brand online.
Students will have the use of a computer lab which has unlimited Internet access, as well as job search resources. Facilitators will also be made available to advise on job finding resources, interview skills and techniques and to carry out mock interviews.
This course also looks at the planning, preparation, execution, and follow-up stages of an interview:
Admission
Benefits of this program
Employment Opportunities
Admission
Benefits of this program
Employment Opportunities
Gain a distinct advantage by earning industry-recognized certifications that validate your expertise and skills in key areas such as digital marketing, project management, and CRM. Our program prepares you to succeed, whether you're advancing, switching careers, or starting your own business. Invest in yourself and join a community of certified professionals shaping the digital economy.
Our extensive network and reputation for excellence ensure that graduates are in high demand in today's competitive job market. Prepare to excel in sought-after roles with renowned companies and unlock limitless career opportunities. Elevate your career trajectory and secure your future with our program tailored to meet the demands of industry leaders.
My teacher has experience in the field, which makes a big difference when it comes to teaching us important skills for the job. He is very helpful with preparing us for the industry.
Sabrina B.
Art and Design Graduate
The staff are very kind, understanding and encouraging. It is an enlightening experience.
Richard B.
Art and Design Graduate
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