Drafting and Design Schools in Portland OR

Not in Portland? Check out our lists of Drafting and Design Schools in Bend, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro, Salem, and across Oregon.

Considering a career in drafting and design? Looking for the best schools in Portland, OR to turn your passion into a profession?

This article highlights the top Drafting and Design Schools in Portland OR, offering insights into program quality, faculty expertise, and career prospects.

Get ready to make an informed choice for your future.

Portland Community College – Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) Program

Portland Community College (PCC) offers a Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD) program that equips you for a career in mechanical design and drafting. This program is tailored for those aiming for high earning potentials in the industry, with wages for professionals in Portland ranging from $20.07 to $49.12 per hour, according to the Oregon Employment Department.

Key Features of the PCC CADD Program:

Focused Learning Experience: Small class sizes and dedicated instructors ensure personalized attention.
Industry Insight: An advisory committee of industry leaders offers guidance and keeps the curriculum aligned with market demands.
Certification: The curriculum is certified by the American Design and Drafting Association, ensuring you gain industry-recognized skills.
Flexible Learning Options: Choose from multiple certificates and degrees like the Certificate in Computer Aided Design and Drafting or the Certificate in Technical Designer, which can be completed in under a year.

Skills You Will Learn:

3-D Modeling
Mechanical Reasoning
Computer-Aided Drafting
Freehand Sketching
Design Optimization

Software Proficiency:

AutoCAD
Inventor
SolidWorks
Fusion 360

Job Prospects:

Graduates from PCC’s CADD program find employment with renowned organizations such as:

A-DEC
CH2M Hill
City of Portland
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Freightliner Corporation

With a projected job growth of nearly 14% by 2027, the CADD professionals trained at PCC are well-positioned for success.

University of Oregon – College of Design

The College of Design at the University of Oregon offers a rich array of programs in architecture, planning, art, and design. It stands out for its commitment to equity and community engagement, led by experts like Assistant Professor John Arroyo.

Key Elements of the College of Design:

Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The College brings together practitioners and scholars from diverse fields, including social sciences, engineering, and biology.
Comprehensive Education: Graduate and undergraduate programs cover departments such as Architecture & Environment and Planning, Public Policy and Management.
Financial Support: Over 110 scholarships are available to support you financially and encourage academic excellence.
Equity and Inclusion Initiatives: Programs like Unlearning Racist Design and Building Just Futures focus on creating a more equitable design practice.

Facilities and Resources:

State-of-the-Art Facilities: The College provides modern technology and tools to support creative endeavors.
Exhibitions and Events: Opportunities to showcase your work, such as the Touch Grass Advanced Photography Student Exhibition, are a cornerstone of the learning experience.
Career Development: Various resources, including career prep courses and internship resources, help students explore diverse career paths.

The College of Design emphasizes environmental sustainability and equity, making it a unique choice for those looking to make a positive impact in the design field.

Portland Community College – Architectural Design and Drafting Program

Portland Community College’s (PCC) Architectural Design and Drafting program offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree focusing on residential and small commercial buildings. Experienced faculty impart essential skills in CAD, design, and building systems.

Program Highlights:

Comprehensive Skill Development: Learn computer-aided drawing, 3D modeling, residential design, building systems, and structural design.
Practical Training: Gain hands-on experience in developing architectural drawings and 3D models using industry-standard software.

Skills You Will Master:

Structural Design and Calculations
Construction Drawings
Free-Hand Drawing and Rendering

Career Opportunities:

PCC graduates find jobs with firms like:

ArciForm
Ankrom Moisan Architects
City of Portland
Power Engineering

Important Note:

This program is not a transfer program. If you plan to pursue a degree in architecture, consult a general advisor for transfer degree information. The focus is on quick entry into the workforce, with excellent job prospects in the architectural design and construction industry.

Lane Community College – Drafting Program

Lane Community College offers a Drafting program aimed at preparing you for a successful career in drafting and design. This program blends hands-on training with a solid theoretical foundation.

Unique Features of Lane’s Drafting Program:

Industry-Standard Software: Learn tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Revit, commonly used in the industry.
Flexible Pathways Certificates: Earn certificates in Drafting for Commercial Construction, Manufacturing, and Residential Construction alongside your degree.
Internship Opportunities: Gain work experience through Cooperative Education internships, with many students securing paid positions at their internship sites.

Core Competencies:

Two-Dimensional and Three-Dimensional Drawings
Drawing Standards, Dimensions, and Tolerances
Practical Experience in Electrical Circuits and Hydraulic Systems

Cost and Financial Aid:

Program Duration: Approximately two years for a full-time student.
Cost: Around $19,221, with financial aid and scholarships available.

Career Pathways:

Graduates have found employment in:

Mechanical Drafting
Architectural Drafting
Manufacturing Drafting

Many students continue their education in engineering, industrial design, or architecture, paving the way for even broader career opportunities.

These schools offer robust programs that prioritize hands-on training, industry connections, and software proficiency. Each program is designed to equip you with the skills necessary for a thriving career in drafting and design. Choose the one that aligns best with your career goals and start your journey today!

Linn-Benton Community College – Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD) Program

Linn-Benton Community College’s (LBCC) Computer Aided Drafting & Design (CADD) Program in Albany, Oregon, is dedicated to transforming ideas into reality. This program sets a strong foundation by starting with hand-drafting and sketching before moving to industry-standard software.

Unique Features of LBCC’s CADD Program:

Project-Based Learning: Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on projects.
State-of-the-Art Facilities: Equipped with cutting-edge computers, 3D printers, CNC machines, and laser cutters/engravers.
Industry-Experienced Instructors: Instructors provide practical, real-world insights and prepare students for the corporate environment.

Core Skills Developed:

Hand-Drafting and Sketching
3D Printing
CNC Programming
Laser Cutting & Engraving

Educational Pathways:

Applicants receive clear steps to follow, detailed resource access, and multiple payment options. LBCC also offers additional support services like advising, career counseling, and accessibility accommodations.

Software Training:

Learning to use high-demand industry software is a critical part of LBCC’s curriculum, providing students with a robust skill set. Industry software taught includes:

AutoCAD
SolidWorks

With a strong focus on both practical and theoretical instruction, LBCC’s CADD program offers tailored training for aspiring designers and drafters.

Clackamas Community College – Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) Certificate

Clackamas Community College’s Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) Certificate program helps you build the skills necessary for diverse industries like manufacturing, construction, and architecture.

Key Aspects of the CAD Certificate Program:

Skill Development: Learn multiple drafting approaches and technologies, from sketching to advanced software.
Career-Focused Curriculum: Courses cover Sketching & Problem Solving, Computer-Aided Drafting I, SolidWorks, Fusion, and Inventor Fundamentals I.
Comprehensive Learning: Topics include creating CAD models, modeling CNC machining processes, and developing construction documents.
Professional Software Proficiency: Gain expertise in:

Career Opportunities:

With the CAD certificate, you are prepared for roles such as CAD technician, drafter, architectural drafter, and mechanical drafter. The program can be completed within six months with a total of 24 credits. It allows flexibility for further education through transfer course options if you decide to pursue advanced degrees.

Institutional Support and Inclusivity:

Clackamas Community College is committed to inclusivity and provides essential student support services such as counseling and childcare. The institution ensures a non-discriminatory environment, creating a supportive space for all students.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Drafting and Design School

Selecting the right drafting and design school is crucial to your future success. Here are ten essential factors to consider:

Curriculum: Ensure the program offers a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Faculty Expertise: Look for experienced instructors with industry backgrounds for valuable insights.
Facilities and Resources: Top-notch technology, modern software, and tools support effective learning.
Industry Connections: Evaluate the school’s ties with local businesses for networking and job placement opportunities.
Job Placement Rates: Research the program’s job placement statistics to gauge success in securing employment for graduates.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Availability of financial support can ease the burden of tuition costs.
Class Size: Smaller classes provide more personalized learning and better interaction with faculty.
Accreditation: Accreditation by recognized professional bodies ensures the program meets industry standards.
Student Support Services: Access to advising, career counseling, tutoring, and mental health resources is vital.
Flexibility: Programs offering part-time schedules, evening classes, or online courses can accommodate your other commitments.

Making an informed decision in selecting a drafting and design school will pave the way for your success in this field. Carefully weigh each of these factors to find the program that aligns best with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.

Conclusion on Finding the Best Drafting and Design School in Portland OR

In Portland, OR, there are several excellent drafting and design schools to choose from, each offering unique programs tailored to different interests and career paths. By carefully considering factors such as curriculum, faculty expertise, facilities, industry connections, and support services, you can find the right school to meet your needs.

These programs not only provide the necessary technical skills but also foster a creative and supportive learning environment. Explore your options, evaluate what best suits your professional goals, and take that crucial step towards building a rewarding career in drafting and design.

For more information on the schools mentioned, visit their respective links to learn more and begin your journey:

With this guide, you are now equipped to make an informed decision. Best wishes on your journey to becoming a successful professional in the field of drafting and design!