Drafting & CAD Technology
School of Industrial & Engineering Technologies
College Avenue Labs · (570) 327-4520
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What classroom facilities are available for these programs?
- What subjects should I take in high school to prepare me for these programs?
- What if my high school grades in math, English, and/or reading were poor?
- What career opportunities can I look forward to after graduating from these programs?
- Can I transfer credits into these programs?
Q: What classroom facilities are available for these programs?
A: Penn College strives to keep abreast of the newest technology available within the instructional labs. Currently there are three labs dedicated to the major and at least four labs that we share with other majors using similar software. Equipment in these labs is upgraded approximately every two years. The rooms are equipped with the latest technology for overhead presentations. Open labs are available during the normal semester for students to work on homework and projects with available tutors.
The labs are networked, giving you the capability to access the Internet for research, access to the College Library databases, and the ability to download and upload homework assignments from/to an instructor's home page.
Currently, campus-wide, the ratio of students to computers is five to one.
[View the classroom facilities used by Drafting & CAD Technologies]
Q: What subjects should I take in high school to prepare me for these programs?
A: For the two-year Computer Aided Drafting Technology (CD) major, we recommend two years of algebra, and one year of physics or mechanics. Following a "Tech Prep" cluster high school curriculum would be a distinct advantage.
For the four-year Computer Aided Product Design (BCD) major, math, geometry, art, and science courses are recommended but not required. Drafting and CAD skills are helpful. Computer experience is desirable.
Q: What if my high school grades in math, English, and/or reading were poor?
A: For the two-year CD major, we recommend that you remediate any deficiencies prior to enrollment, such as math, English, and/or reading.
For the four-year BCD major, if you test developmental in math, English and/or reading, you are not eligible for admission into the major. You will be required to successfully remediate all deficiencies prior to admission into the major. However, you may still enroll in the CD major, and then transfer to the BCD major once all deficiencies are remediated. Since both the CD and BCD majors share a common core during the first two years, you can still complete the four-year degree without creating scheduling difficulties.
Q: What career opportunities can I look forward to after graduating from these programs?
A: Excellent prospects await the successful graduate. The reward for academic perseverance is a satisfying and challenging career in a dynamic industry. The Computer Aided Drafting industry has shown consistent growth and stability over the last decade and opportunities for successful graduates will continue to increase.
[Visit our Career Opportunities Web page for more information.]
Q: Can I transfer credits into these programs?
A: The four-year BCD major provides a unique opportunity for students enrolled in the two-year CD major to continue their education and expand job skills in the design of products and systems for industry. The first two years of both majors share a majority of the same courses, except those recommended for students going into the four-year degree. This allows you to transfer between majors without loss of credits. Furthermore, you can elect to complete the CD major and begin employment while working on course requirements for the four-year degree.
Also, students who have completed a drafting, design, CAD or other closely related associate degree major from another institution may be eligible for admission.