Engineers who do not wish to enter a formal program and merely need to learn how to use CAD for their jobs can subscribe to an online video tutorial such as that offered by 4D Technologies. The company presents video tutorials for the various year models of AutoCAD software along with exercise files. The student pays a subscription for a year and is allowed access to these tutorials for that time. Alternatively, he can order a CD/DVD format of the tutorials. The tutorials include how to create two-dimensional objects, complex objects, three-dimensional objects and interface customization. Students can choose from various AutoCAD specialized software, such as AutoCAD Electrical and AutoCAD Civil 3D.
If an engineer or architect wishes to gain a certificate in CAD, she can undertake a program with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College. The certificate program requires applicants to have a high school diploma with a background in algebra, mathemathics, science and industrial education. Applicants should also be able to use Word, Excel and Windows. The certificate introduces students to CAD and prepares them for a career as a CAD technician. The course credits can be applied toward a mechanical design qualification in the college. The software used in the course includes AutoCAD and Solidworks.
Students may prefer to complete a CAD course online from a college such as the College of Lake County. The course requires that students attend once a week for one hour but the remainder of the study is performed online. The course is designed for students who are unfamiliar with Windows and computer operation. The software used in the program is AutoDesk software, and students must download the software to their personal computer.
If a prospective student wishes to obtain an associate's degree in CAD, he can undertake a program such as that offered by Frederick Community College in Maryland. The Associate in Applied Science Degree prepares students for careers as architectural CAD designers or drafters. The college also offers certificate programs that can be applied as credit toward the associate's degree.