Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Drafting and Design Schools in Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Metairie, New Orleans, and Shreveport.
Ready to launch your career in drafting and design?
Louisiana offers exceptional schools to get you started.
This guide highlights Louisiana’s top Drafting and Design Schools, detailing programs, costs, and job prospects to help you make an informed choice.
Dive in to find the perfect school that aligns with your goals and sets you up for success in the drafting industry.
Louisiana Delta Community College – Associate of Applied Technology in Drafting and Design Technology
Louisiana Delta Community College offers an Associate of Applied Technology in Drafting and Design Technology program designed to prepare you for a successful career in drafting. This two-year technical program focuses on imparting key skills that are essential in various drafting fields, such as mechanical, piping, structural, civil, electrical, architectural, and manufacturing.
- Hands-on Experience: The program emphasizes both manual and computer-aided drafting (CAD), providing you with the practical skills needed to excel in the industry.
- Accredited Program: The program is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE), ensuring that you receive a quality education aligned with industry standards.
- Local Industry Partnerships: The college partners with local companies like Ford, Bacon and Davis, R-S-H Engineering, Steel Fabricators, and Mott MacDonald to offer real-world experience.
Course topics include geometric construction, applied mathematics, and dimensioning skills, ensuring you can produce industry-standard drawings. Additionally, students can pursue a Technical Diploma for targeted training in specific areas of drafting.
Central Louisiana Technical Community College – Drafting and Design Technology Program
Central Louisiana Technical Community College (CLTCC) provides a Drafting and Design Technology program to equip you with the skills needed for a successful drafting career. This two-year program offers an associate degree and certificates for foundational knowledge.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers mechanical drafting and design, architectural drafting, parametric modeling, building information modeling, civil drafting, and structural detailing.
- Graduation Requirements: To graduate, you need to maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 throughout the program.
- Equal Opportunity: CLTCC adheres strictly to equal opportunity policies, ensuring a fair and inclusive learning environment.
Typically, the program is completed in four semesters for full-time students, costing approximately $9,888 if finished on time. With a balanced approach to theoretical knowledge and practical applications, you will be well-prepared for the workforce upon graduation.
Fletcher Technical Community College – Drafting and Design Technology Program
Fletcher Technical Community College offers a Drafting and Design Technology Program designed to train you in creating technical drawings and plans. This program is comprehensive, covering a wide range of drafting disciplines such as architectural, civil, manufacturing, piping, and structural design.
- Diverse Curriculum: You will learn both manual skills and computer-aided drafting techniques, preparing you for roles as Drafters and CADD technicians.
- Multiple Credentials: The program offers credentials such as CTS-Engineering Aide, CTS-Entry Level Drafter, TD-Drafting and Design Technician, and AAS-Drafting and Design Technology.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students gain hands-on experience with up-to-date CAD software, directly applicable to real-world scenarios.
Located at the Schriever Campus, this program ensures that you will be proficient in using CAD software to create technical drawings. Detailed program costs and hours are available upon request from the college.
South Louisiana Community College – Drafting and Design Technology Program
South Louisiana Community College offers a Drafting and Design Technology program that provides you with the necessary skills for drafting success. The program offers hands-on training in manual and computer-aided drafting, preparing you for various professional fields.
- Comprehensive Education: The curriculum covers architectural, mechanical, electrical, civil, pipe, and manufacturing drafting.
- Degrees and Diplomas: You can earn an Associate of Applied Science degree in four semesters or a Technical Diploma, with courses including Manual Drafting, Computer-Aided Design, Industrial Drafting, and Architectural Drafting.
- Experienced Faculty: The program ensures that you achieve technical proficiency with a high accuracy rate, guided by seasoned faculty members.
This hands-on approach, combined with practical training, ensures you are well-prepared for the job market, with expected salaries ranging from $69,450 to $75,290.
Northshore Technical Community College – Drafting and Design Technology
Northshore Technical Community College’s Drafting and Design Technology program offers a career-focused education in drafting. The program covers a range of skills, from creating free-hand sketches to using 3D software for animated models.
- Multiple Exit Points: The program offers certificates and degrees, including a Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) in Drafting and Design Technician and an Associate of General Studies (AGS).
- Comprehensive Coursework: Courses include Drafting Fundamentals, AutoCAD, Technical Drafting, Revit for Architecture, Architectural Drafting, Mechanical Design, Parametric Modeling, and Pipe Drafting, totaling 30 credit hours for the CTS and 60 for the AGS.
- State-of-the-Art Software: Training is provided using industry-standard applications like AutoCAD and Revit, ensuring your skills are up-to-date with market demands.
Located at the Lacombe Campus, the program is known for its affordability and practical training focus. Requirements include a GPA of 2.0 or higher and a “C” grade or above in all coursework for successful completion.
By exploring these programs, you gain valuable insights into what each school offers. Whether you’re looking for hands-on experience, accredited programs, or industry-standard training, these drafting and design schools in Louisiana can set you on the right career path.
Baton Rouge Community College – Drafting and Design Technology Program
Baton Rouge Community College’s Drafting and Design Technology program is an excellent option for those looking to gain comprehensive skills in drafting, whether for immediate employment or further academic pursuits. This two-year course provides multiple exit points:
- Technical Competency in Engineering Aide I: Offers foundational skills in drafting applications.
- Certificate of Technical Studies in Engineering Aide II: Builds on initial competencies to cover more advanced topics.
- Technical Diploma in Drafting and Design Technician: Provides deeper knowledge and specialized training for advanced drafting roles.
Key Features:
- Graduating students are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or better, ensuring that the program maintains academic rigor.
- The college offers job placement assistance to help graduates enter the workforce.
- The program is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring you receive quality education and industry relevance.
If you’re considering a career in drafting, this program equips you with practical and academic skills to meet industry demands.
Delgado Community College – Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD)
At Delgado Community College, the Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) program prepares you for a dynamic career in design and drafting, utilizing cutting-edge technology and software.
- Accredited Programs: Both certificate and associate degree options accredited by ATMAE (Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering) ensure high education standards.
- Software Proficiency: Gain expertise in industry-standard tools including Autodesk AutoCAD, Inventor, and Revit.
- Flexible Learning: Choose between an Associate of Applied Science degree or a Certificate of Technical Studies in CADD, allowing you to customize your educational pathway based on your career goals.
Key Benefits:
- Quality education that balances technical skills with real-world applications.
- Curriculum designed to cover extensive fields from architectural design to construction technology.
- Option to take industry-based certification exams, boosting your employability.
Delgado Community College stands out for its flexibility and focus on preparing students for immediate employment in the drafting and design industry.
Southeastern Louisiana University – Bachelor of Science in Drafting Design Concentration
Southeastern Louisiana University’s Bachelor of Science in Drafting Design offers a comprehensive curriculum tailored to prepare you for a successful career in industrial technology.
- Diverse Coursework: The program includes engineering drafting, computer-assisted design, and specialized courses such as IT 111 Engineering Drafting with CAD, DDT 113 Architectural Drafting, IT 215 3D Rendering, and DDT 211 Piping Drafting.
- Hands-On Experience: Emphasizes practical application, with students undertaking real-world projects, thereby building robust professional portfolios.
- Balanced Curriculum: Alongside core drafting courses, the program incorporates general education to provide a holistic learning experience.
What to Expect:
- A rigorous program that spans 120 credit hours, ensuring a thorough education in drafting and design.
- Accreditation by SACSCOC, guaranteeing recognized and quality education.
- Part of the University of Louisiana System, providing a robust academic network and resources.
By choosing Southeastern Louisiana University, you’re investing in a comprehensive education that blends theory and practice to make you employment ready.
ITI Technical College – Drafting & Design Technology Program
The Drafting & Design Technology Program at ITI Technical College in Baton Rouge is specifically designed to prepare you for the drafting industry through a detailed 24-month program.
- Specializations Offered: Choose from piping, civil/structural, architectural, or instrumentation/electrical drafting to tailor your education to your career aspirations.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses range from practical mathematics to advanced drafting and CAD skills, ensuring you are well-equipped technically.
- Hands-On Training: Includes freehand sketching, Multiview drawings, and dimensioning techniques.
Program Highlights:
- Financial aid options are available for qualifying students, making this program accessible.
- The curriculum is designed to help graduates immediately enter the workforce, prepared for roles like architectural engineer and civil engineer.
- Technical writing courses ensure you are skilled in workplace communication, a crucial aspect of drafting roles.
ITI Technical College offers a focused and practical learning path for those intent on entering the drafting field quickly and effectively.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Drafting and Design School in Louisiana
When selecting the best drafting and design school in Louisiana, it’s crucial to consider various factors to ensure the program meets your career aspirations and personal needs.
- Accreditation: Ensure that the programs you’re considering are accredited by reputable bodies like ATMAE or SACSCOC. Accreditation validates the quality and relevance of the education provided.
- Curriculum: Look for programs that offer a balanced curriculum combining both theoretical knowledge and hands-on practice. The courses should cover a broad spectrum of drafting fields such as mechanical, architectural, civil, and electrical drafting.
- Affordability: Understand the tuition fees and the availability of financial aid or scholarships. Community colleges often offer competitive tuition rates compared to universities.
- Location: Consider the proximity of the school to your home to minimize commute times and enhance convenience.
- Faculty Expertise: Research the credentials and industry experience of the instructors. Experienced faculty can offer invaluable industry insights and practical knowledge.
- Job Placement Rates: Investigate the school’s success in placing graduates in drafting roles. High job placement rates often indicate robust industry connections and effective internship programs.
- Facilities and Technology: Modern facilities equipped with the latest CAD software are crucial for gaining relevant skills that meet market demands.
- Specializations: If you have a specific interest, like piping or architectural drafting, ensure the program offers targeted courses and specializations in that area.
Evaluating these factors can help you choose a drafting and design school in Louisiana that aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.
Drafting and Design Schools By State
Conclusion and Next Steps
Selecting the right path in drafting and design is pivotal for your future career. This article covered top drafting and design schools in Louisiana by highlighting their unique features, program specifics, and what makes them stand out. Remember to consider factors like accreditation, curriculum, affordability, and job placement rates when making your decision.
Begin your journey towards an exciting and fulfilling career in drafting and design by choosing a program that best matches your aspirations. Reach out to the schools for more detailed information and take the first step in your professional journey today!