Computer Aided Product Design
Graduates will work with engineers and technicians to solve technical design problems in the development and manufacturing of products. The major will emphasize the use of new materials and manufacturing techniques, use of computer software applications, current practices in quality, productivity, manufacturing economics, and product performance. Environmental issues, safety, liability, ethics, and health issues during design and manufacturing are addressed. Special considerations associated with foreign markets and cultural constraints will be integrated into learning activities. The major will allow the designer to balance function, aesthetics, legal issues, ethical issues, manufacturing parameters, market forces, cultural variables and engineering economics to develop marketable projects and systems.
Graduates have a diverse set of skills and abilities that could prepare them for employment in the natural gas industry. Read more
Graduates of the Computer Aided Drafting Technology associate degree (CD) can transfer into the Computer Aided Product Design bachelor degree (BCD) without losing any credits.
Program Specs
- Application/Major Code: BCD – view in catalog
- School: Industrial & Engineering Technologies
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science Degree (B.S.)
About the curriculum
Classes
View the classes you will be attending in the College Catalog.
Certification Opportunities
We offer our students the opportunity to acquire AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor Certification. Learn more about Autodesk Software Certification.
After graduation
Career Opportunities
List of jobs via the College Catalog.
Earnings
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics median annual wage-and-salary wages for commercial and industrial designers were $58,230 in May 2010. The middle 50 percent earned between $43,120 and $77,430. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $33,190, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $94,270.
According to our most recent graduate survey the average starting salary for Computer Aided Product Design graduates range from approximately $40,000 to $45,000.
Industries with the highest published employment and wages for this occupation are:
| Industry | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services | 3,240 | $33.61 | $69,910 |
| Specialized Design Services | 2,930 | $31.27 | $65,050 |
| Other Miscellaneous Manufacturing | 1,700 | $26.30 | $54,700 |
| Plastics Product Manufacturing | 970 | $26.65 | $55,430 |
| Motor Vehicle Parts Manufacturing | 770 | $30.15 | $62,710 |
*Statistics reported in May 2010
Transfer Procedures
View general transfer procedures via the College Catalog.
Tools, Uniforms & Supplies
CAD Software Links and Computer Specifications
The following is a list of information that will be helpful for Computer-Aided Drafting and Product Design students interested in purchasing their own computers. Please note that purchasing a computer and the software is not a requirement.
Students in Computer-Aided Drafting and Product Design majors will be using the following CAD programs:
- AutoCAD
- Autodesk Inventor
- Solidworks
Product Design students will also be using Algor FEA software. Algor is not typically purchased by students for their personal computers.
During the majority of the semesters, we are using the most current version of each program listed.
Students can use the following link for downloading and systems requirements for all Autodesk products (Inventor, AutoCAD, etc.)
http://students.autodesk.com
Registering and downloading Autodesk
System requirements
Uniforms and tools are available for purchase through The College Store.
Clubs & Activities
SkillsUSA Champions at Work
The purpose of SkillsUSA, a National vocational student organization, is to compete in more than 80 competitions in a variety of fields. Students can compete in the Technical Drafting competition. Regular SkillsUSA activities include chapter meetings, state and national conferences, fund raising, and community and college service.
View the entire student organizations listing or Greek Life listing.
Computer-Aided Drafting Advisory Committee
Advisory committees, which act as recommending bodies to the faculty and administration, consist of in-field professionals who act as partners in the development of curriculum. Their curricular and equipment advice as well as their industry connections and internship opportunities are invaluable to our students and to the growth of our institution.
