Drafting and Design Schools in St. Louis MO

Are you passionate about drafting and design and looking for the best education in St. Louis, MO?

This article highlights top drafting and design schools in St. Louis MO, focusing on programs that offer exceptional training to launch your career.

Find out which schools stand out for their curriculum, facilities, and job placement success without wasting time on endless options.

Southwestern Illinois College – CAD Program

Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC), located in Belleville, IL, stands out for its Computer-Aided Design (CAD) program, certified by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA). This recognition ensures the curriculum meets international standards, making it ideal for future designers, drafters, architects, and illustrators.

Key Features of SWIC’s CAD Program:

• Industry Certification: SWIC is the only college in Illinois and the St. Louis Metro area certified to teach CAD by the ADDA.
• Diverse Curriculum: Courses range from basic drafting to advanced CAD, civil engineering drafting, architectural drafting, and 3D architectural CAD.
• Practical Experience: The program includes supervised internships, offering real-world exposure and hands-on training.
• Experienced Instructors: Expert instructors guide students in pursuing certificates and an Associate in Applied Science Degree in CAD.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates find positions at top organizations like Anheuser-Busch, GE-Power, Monsanto, and Ameren.
• Certification Preparation: The program prepares students to pass the ADDA Certified Drafter exam.

For more information, visit the Southwestern Illinois College CAD Program page.

State Technical College of Missouri – Drafting and Design Engineering Program

State Technical College of Missouri, located in Linn, MO, offers a Drafting and Design Engineering program that provides a robust education in several design disciplines including mechanical, architectural, civil, structural, and electrical design. This program emphasizes hands-on learning, giving students practical experience with over 50 laboratories.

Key Features of State Tech’s Drafting and Design Engineering Program:

• Comprehensive Training: Students receive education in multiple design disciplines, ensuring versatile skills.
• Hands-On Labs: Access to extensive labs, such as an automotive bay and aviation hangar, supports immersive learning.
• Heavy Equipment Operations: 40 acres dedicated to heavy equipment operations.
• 2D and 3D CAD Skills: Training in 2D and 3D CAD technologies essential for future careers.
• High Job Placement Rate: An impressive 97% job placement rate since 1995.
• Career Expo: The annual State Tech Career Expo attracts many drafting companies, providing excellent networking opportunities.

For detailed information, visit the State Technical College of Missouri – Drafting and Design Engineering Program page.

St. Charles Community College – Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) Program

St. Charles Community College (SCC), in Cottleville, MO, offers a well-rounded Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) program aimed at providing a strong foundation in CAD principles. This program spans 60 credit hours and includes both general education and specialized CAD instruction.

Key Features of SCC’s CAD Program:

• Diverse Curriculum: Incorporates general education with specialized tracks in architectural, industrial, and civil applications.
• Career Opportunities: Graduates can pursue careers in various fields like architectural drafting, automotive design, and civil drafting.
• Supportive Environment: Offers academic advising, career services, and financial aid assistance.
• Flexibility: Tailor your education to focus on specific interests and career goals.
• Dedicated Faculty: Inspiring and experienced faculty members committed to student success.
• Extensive Resources: Access to a range of campus resources to help you succeed academically and professionally.

For more insights, check out the St. Charles Community College – Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) Program page.

Ranken Technical College – Architectural Technology Program

Ranken Technical College, situated in St. Louis, MO, provides an in-depth Architectural Technology program. This program offers both two-year associate degrees and four-year bachelor degrees, emphasizing project-based learning integral to architectural education.

Key Features of Ranken’s Architectural Technology Program:

• Project-Based Learning: Students engage in major studio projects that cover residential and commercial building technology.
• Industry-Standard Software: Learn to navigate AutoCAD® and Revit® Architecture for both 2D and 3D modeling.
• Comprehensive Hardware Provision: Students receive notebook computers pre-loaded with necessary software at the start of their studies.
• Experienced Faculty: The faculty has credentials such as Master of Architecture, CMBIM Associate AIA, and Revit Architecture Certified Professional, ensuring quality education.
• High Job Placement Rate: The program boasts a 100% job placement rate for graduates, attesting to its strength and industry relevance.

This program is ideal for students aiming for a rigorous, technology-integrated, and practical education in architecture.

For more information, visit the Ranken Technical College Architectural Technology Program page.

How to Choose the Best Drafting and Design School in St. Louis

When selecting the best drafting and design school in St. Louis, consider the following criteria to ensure it aligns with your educational and career goals:

1. Curriculum Quality: Look for a curriculum that covers fundamental and advanced concepts in drafting and design. Evaluate the inclusion of hands-on learning and training on industry-standard software.
2. Facilities: The availability of state-of-the-art labs and equipment is crucial for practical learning. Schools with extensive hands-on facilities often provide better real-world preparedness.
3. Industry Connections: Schools with strong ties to industry leaders and potential employers offer better internship opportunities and higher job placement rates. Look for programs that feature career expos and networking events with industry professionals.
4. Financial Aid: Explore the financial aid options available, including scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. Adequate financial aid can help make high-quality education more accessible.
5. Reputation: Research the school’s reputation within the community and the industry. Alumni success stories, student reviews, and employer feedback provide valuable insights into the institution’s overall quality.
6. Flexibility and Support: Consider programs that offer options like part-time study, online courses, and support services such as academic advising and career counseling. A supportive educational environment is critical for student success.

By comparing these factors across different schools, you can find the best drafting and design program in St. Louis to meet your needs.

Conclusion

St. Louis presents numerous excellent options for drafting and design education. Southwestern Illinois College offers certified CAD programs with robust industry connections and hands-on experience. State Technical College of Missouri stands out with its extensive labs and high job placement rate. St. Charles Community College provides a supportive and flexible CAD program. Finally, Ranken Technical College offers comprehensive technical instruction with a high employment rate for graduates.

Explore each program based on your career goals and personal circumstances. Contact the schools directly for further information on their offerings and make an informed decision to kickstart your career in drafting and design.

The right education awaits you among these top Drafting and Design Schools in St. Louis MO.