Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Drafting and Design Schools in Minneapolis, Rochester, and St. Paul.
Are you looking for the perfect school to kickstart your drafting and design career in Minnesota?
This guide highlights the top Drafting and Design Schools in Minnesota, helping you find the best program to suit your goals and interests.
From mechanical drafting to architectural design, discover a range of excellent options tailored to your needs.
Anoka Technical College – Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Mechanical Drafting & Design Technology
Providing a solid technical foundation, Anoka Technical College offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Mechanical Drafting & Design Technology. This program includes:
- Credit Requirement: A 69-credit program to ensure comprehensive learning.
- Skill Development: Training in mechanical drafting, design, detailing, and industrial materials.
- Hands-on Learning: Access to a state-of-the-art computer-aided drafting lab.
- Career Opportunities: Prepares you for careers in manufacturing, engineering firms, and electro-mechanical companies.
- Career Advancement: Potential roles include supervisory positions or assistant engineers.
Anoka Technical College offers supplementary programs to further your specialization in fields such as the Mechanical CAD Drafter diploma and Mechanical CAD Operator certificate.
For more information about Anoka Technical College, visit their program page.
M State – Architectural Drafting and Design
M State stands out with its Architectural Drafting and Design program, tailored to equip you with the necessary skills for a dynamic career in the construction industry.
- Degree Options: Offers a 72-credit AAS degree or a 36-credit diploma.
- Software Training: Proficiency in CAD software and Revit building design software.
- Applied Learning: Engage in internships with commercial design-build companies.
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Continuously updated by an industry advisory board.
- Skill Development: Learn to assess building conditions, calculate material quantities, and produce architectural drawings.
Graduates of M State are in demand by architectural firms, engineering firms, contractors, and manufacturers.
For further details, check out M State’s Architectural Drafting and Design program.
Ridgewater College – Computer Aided Drafting and Design Program
Ridgewater College offers a Computer Aided Drafting and Design program delivered online for maximum flexibility.
- Comprehensive Coverage: Blueprint reading, geometric dimensioning, tolerancing, and manufacturing processes.
- Software Proficiency: Master industry-standard software like AutoCAD, Creo, and MasterCAM.
- Small Class Sizes: Personalized attention with access to modern equipment, including 3D printers.
- Industry Partnerships: Facilitates internships and employment.
- National Recognition: Ranked the #2 Best Online Associate Degree program.
Ridgewater’s program maintains a strong focus on hands-on learning and career readiness, boasting a 100% job placement rate from 2013-2016.
Explore more about Ridgewater College’s program offerings.
Dakota County Technical College – Architectural Drafting Certificate
Dakota County Technical College provides an Architectural Drafting Certificate program designed to impart essential architectural technology skills.
- Curriculum Focus: Residential and commercial building methods, materials, and AutoCAD and AutoDesk Revit software.
- Sustainability: Emphasis on green building practices.
- Program Duration: Complete the certificate program in two semesters.
- Practical Learning: Hands-on drafting exercises.
Although the program is not eligible for financial aid, careful planning of the course schedule is advised.
For more insights into this program, visit Dakota County Technical College’s website.
Minnesota State College Southeast – Computer Aided Design (CAD) Drafting Technologies
With an emphasis on practical experience, Minnesota State College Southeast’s CAD Drafting Technologies program prepares you for various CAD-related careers.
- Software Expertise: Learn AutoCAD and Solidworks.
- Skill Acquisition: Cover blueprint reading, manufacturing processes, and mold design.
- Practical Projects: Engage in design projects that provide real-world experience.
- Flexible Learning: Offers online coursework and knowledgeable instructors.
The program boasts impressive placement rates, preparing graduates for roles like mechanical designers and CAD technicians.
For more details, explore Minnesota State College Southeast’s program information.
Hennepin Technical College – Architectural Technology Program
Hennepin Technical College’s Architectural Technology program is ideal for those seeking careers in architectural drafting and design.
- Technological Training: Utilizes CAD, BIM, and 3D rendering technologies.
- Sustainability: Emphasizes sustainable building practices with endorsements from Minnesota GreenStar and the U.S. Green Building Council.
- Industry Input: Curriculum shaped by industry advisory board feedback.
- Education Pathways: Offers articulation agreements with universities for further education.
- Flexible Scheduling: Provides evening and online classes for your convenience.
This well-rounded program ensures you are prepared for the modern demands of architectural technology careers.
Learn more about Hennepin Technical College’s Architectural Technology program.
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Dunwoody College of Technology – Engineering Drafting and Design
Dunwoody College of Technology offers an Engineering Drafting and Design program tailored to equip you with hands-on projects and essential industry skills.
- Hands-On Projects: Engage in hands-on projects using 3D modeling software like SolidWorks.
- Collaboration: Work with real manufacturing materials and processes.
- Certification: Earn credentials like the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) certification.
- State-of-the-Art Labs: Access to advanced laboratories and equipment.
- Career Roles: Prepare for positions such as design drafters or engineering technicians.
- Education Pathways: Direct transfer to Dunwoody’s Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering Technology.
To learn more about Dunwoody College’s Engineering Drafting and Design program, visit their website.
Minnesota State College Southeast – CAD Drafting Technologies
Offering an Associate of Applied Science degree and a diploma in CAD Drafting Technologies, Minnesota State College Southeast aims to make you proficient in industry-standard software.
- Software Proficiency: Training in SolidWorks and AutoCAD.
- Flexible Learning: Options for online coursework.
- Successful Outcomes: 100% employment rate for graduates.
- Career Readiness: Graduates prepared for roles like mechanical designers and CAD technicians.
For more detailed information on Minnesota State College Southeast’s CAD Drafting Technologies, visit their program page.
St. Cloud Technical and Community College – Computer-Aided Mechanical Design
St. Cloud Technical and Community College (SCTCC) offers a strong foundation in Computer-Aided Mechanical Design through its robust program options.
- Degree Options: Offers an AAS degree and a shorter diploma.
- Skill Development: Extensive training in 2D and 3D CAD software, product design, and manufacturing processes.
- Hands-On Learning: Emphasis on practical experience using advanced equipment.
- Career Support: Extensive support services, including internships and job placement.
- Job Readiness: Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in the engineering field.
To explore SCTCC’s Computer-Aided Mechanical Design program further, visit their website.
Century College – Engineering CAD Technology Program
Century College offers an engaging and flexible Engineering CAD Technology program suited for those aspiring to careers in mechanical drafting and engineering assistance.
- Learning Options: Blend of in-class and online learning.
- Practical Skills: Focus on creating engineering drawings and designing components.
- Software Mastery: Training in mechanical drafting standards and prototype creation.
- Affordability: Funded tuition rates by the State of Minnesota with financial aid available.
- Career Preparation: Graduates readiness for careers as mechanical drafters and engineering assistants.
For more about Century College’s Engineering CAD Technology, navigate their program page.
How to Choose the Best Drafting and Design School in Minnesota
When selecting a drafting and design school, consider these crucial factors to help you make a well-informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited to guarantee a quality education and better job prospects.
- Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers essential skills and up-to-date technologies relevant to your career goals.
- Location: Consider the school’s proximity to industry hubs in Minnesota and how this might impact internships and job opportunities.
- Cost: Evaluate tuition fees and available financial aid to fit within your budget.
- Career Support Services: Look for services like internships, job placement rates, and industry connections, which can significantly boost employment opportunities post-graduation.
- Flexibility: Check for part-time study options or online course offerings to accommodate other commitments.
- Campus Visit: If possible, visit the campus to gauge the environment and speak with advisors and current students to get a feel for the community.
Drafting and Design Schools By State
Making the Best Choice for Your Drafting and Design Education
To summarize, selecting the right drafting and design school involves evaluating aspects such as accreditation, curriculum, location, cost, and career support services. To take the first step towards your drafting and design career, explore the websites of the schools mentioned above and apply to the program that best aligns with your goals and needs.