Drafting and Design Schools in Lowell MA

Looking to jumpstart your career in drafting and design?

Finding the right school is crucial. This guide highlights the top drafting and design schools in Lowell, MA.

Discover where you can gain the skills and credentials to thrive in this dynamic field.

UMass Lowell – MTEC 2000

Understanding CAD is crucial in drafting and design, and UMass Lowell offers an excellent starting point with their MTEC 2000 course. This introductory course focuses on Computer-Aided Design (CAD), specifically using AutoCAD to create basic shapes and multi-view drawings.

• Project-Oriented Learning: The course is designed to be highly interactive, allowing you to engage deeply with graphic design projects.
• Beginner-Friendly: No prior experience with CAD programs is required, making it accessible to anyone wishing to enter the field.
• Online Flexibility: Offered online during the summer semester, you have the freedom to learn at your own pace.
• Affordability: Tuition is competitively priced at $1140, plus an additional $30 per semester registration fee.

This course is part of several programs at UMass Lowell, including the A.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology, B.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Certificate in Manufacturing Technology, and Certificate in Computer Assisted Manufacturing.

For more information, visit the UMass Lowell – MTEC 2000 course page.

Greater Lowell Technical High School – Computer Aided Drafting Design

For high school students, Greater Lowell Technical High School offers a Computer Aided Drafting Design (CADD) program that prepares you for entry-level drafting positions.

• Comprehensive Drawing Techniques: The program covers mechanical, civil, industrial, 3D, and residential architectural drawings.
• Advanced Software Training: Gain hands-on experience with software like AutoCAD, Architectural Desktop, Mechanical Desktop, Inventor, and SolidWorks.
• Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can pursue careers as CADD Drafters, Architectural Drafters, Mechanical Drafters, and more.

The CADD program’s strong focus on practical training with state-of-the-art CAD equipment makes it an excellent choice for aspiring professionals in the drafting and design field.

Discover more about the program at Greater Lowell Technical High School – Computer Aided Drafting Design.

UMass Lowell – Certificate in Computer Assisted Manufacturing

Designed for those with basic drawing experience, the Certificate in Computer Assisted Manufacturing at UMass Lowell enhances your knowledge with cutting-edge CAD software applications.

• Core Courses: The program includes fundamental courses such as MTEC.2000 Computer Aided Drafting using AutoCAD®, MTEC.4800 Computer Aided Design using Autodesk Inventor™, MTEC.4840 Introduction to Pro/ENGINEER, and MTEC.4850 Introduction to SolidWorks.
• Flexible Learning: Offered entirely online, this certificate allows you to manage your studies alongside professional responsibilities.
• Affordability and Accessibility: UMass Lowell offers competitive tuition rates, making it more affordable than many private institutions.

Completing this certification can also contribute to earning a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology.

For detailed information, visit the UMass Lowell – Certificate in Computer Assisted Manufacturing page.

Lowell Institute School at Massachusetts Institute of Technology – Certificate of Drafting Technology

The Certificate of Drafting Technology program at the Lowell Institute School of MIT provides an in-depth education in drafting and design.

• Diverse Curriculum: The program spans mechanical, electrical, architectural, printed circuit, AUTOCAD, graphic arts, and web design.
• Alumni Endorsement: Graduates like Brenda Horsman Michienzi, with over 41 years of industry experience, attest to the program’s practical applications.
• Hands-On Training: Engage in practical projects that reinforce your learning with real-world applications.

Being part of MIT, this program gives you access to top-tier faculty and comprehensive resources, ensuring a quality education.

Explore more about this certification at MIT – Certificate of Drafting Technology.

UMass Lowell – Art & Design Program

At UMass Lowell, the Art & Design Program offers a wide range of opportunities for those interested in drafting and design.

• Diverse Courses: Majors and minors are available in graphic design, illustration, animation, and industrial design.
• Experienced Faculty: Learn from knowledgeable faculty who bring industry and academic experience to the classroom.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Access to design studios, computer labs, and specialized equipment enhances your learning experience.

This program ensures a blend of creative and technical skills, making you well-prepared for a successful career in drafting and design.

For more details, visit the UMass Lowell – Art & Design Program page.

Middlesex Community College – CAD Program

Middlesex Community College offers a well-rounded CAD program that provides an excellent foundation in mechanical, electrical, and architectural drafting. Their focus on hands-on training and up-to-date software prepares you for various drafting careers.

• Modern Software: You’ll work with AutoCAD, Inventor, SolidWorks, Architectural Desktop, Revit, and PADS-PCB.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: The state-of-the-art CAD labs facilitate 2D and 3D drawing, solid model creation, and animation.
• Versatile Career Paths: Graduates go on to roles in mechanical design, printed circuit design, manufacturing, and architectural design.

The comprehensive approach ensures you’re well-prepared to enter the workforce or further your education with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or engineering technology.

Explore more at Middlesex Community College – CAD Program.

Northern Essex Community College – CAD Design Internship Program

The CAD Design Internship Program at Northern Essex Community College is a remarkable initiative for students looking to gain practical experience.

• Real-World Experience: Founded by alumnus Jonathan Aguilar, this program gives you hands-on CAD experience at CADSPARC, a 3D CAD design startup.
• Comprehensive Exposure: Over the 10-week program, you’ll delve into engineering science, finance, marketing, and 3D design technologies.
• Cutting-Edge Techniques: You’ll learn to operate and maintain 3D printing equipment and collaborate on impactful projects.

This internship is open to students from NECC and other local colleges, making it an excellent opportunity to develop practical skills and industry readiness.

For more information, visit Northern Essex Community College – CAD Design Internship Program.

MassBay Community College – Computer-Aided Design Program

MassBay Community College provides a robust Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program that covers mechanical, electrical, and architectural fields.

• Hands-On Projects: Engage with software like AutoCAD, Pro/ENGINEER, SolidWorks, and MS Project, and utilize a 3D printer in the Wellesley engineering lab.
• Practical Applications: Students have worked on innovative projects, such as designing and creating a functional prosthetic hand.
• Career and Education Pathways: Graduates typically find roles as detailers, drafters, or CAD operators and continue their education at institutions like Boston University and UMass Lowell.

This program is designed to equip you with essential skills for a successful career in technology and science fields.

Learn more at MassBay Community College – Computer-Aided Design Program.

How to Choose the Right Drafting and Design School

Selecting the best drafting and design school requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the program meets your educational and career goals.

1. Accreditation: Ensure that the school is accredited by a recognized body in design and engineering to guarantee a standard of quality education.
2. Curriculum: Look for a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential skills, technologies, and software. Specializations or electives can help tailor your education to specific career goals.
3. Faculty Expertise: Research the qualifications and industry experience of the faculty. Professors with real-world experience can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.
4. Internship Opportunities: Programs with strong industry connections can offer internships that provide meaningful work experiences and boost employability.
5. Facilities and Resources: Access to up-to-date technology, software, and state-of-the-art labs and equipment is crucial for skill development and practical learning.
6. Support for Career Goals: Evaluate if the program offers career services, job placement programs, and alumni networks to support your career aspirations.
7. Cost and Financial Aid: Consider tuition costs, available financial aid, and whether the program fits your financial situation and lifestyle.

By evaluating these factors, you can choose a drafting and design school that aligns with your career goals and provides a solid educational foundation.

Conclusion

Finding the right drafting and design school can significantly impact your career. Whether you choose UMass Lowell, Greater Lowell Technical High School, Middlesex Community College, Northern Essex Community College, or MassBay Community College, the programs in Lowell, MA, offer a wealth of opportunities to develop your skills and advance in this dynamic field.

For detailed information and to make an informed decision, explore the links and visit the school websites to start your journey in drafting and design today.