Computer-Aided Drafting
Certificate of Achievement Design · MiraCosta College · 2026-2027 Catalog
This certificate provides a solid foundation in computer-aided drafting (CAD). In addition to the common core of required courses, students choose an area of emphasis (architecture, engineering, or landscape) and complete all the courses from that emphasis. Completion of this program prepares students for entry level support positions in a variety of local industries or for continuing their education. Typical job titles of students completing this certificate include drafter, CAD operator, AutoCAD technician, and architectural and civil drafter.
This certificate consists of 18 units of required core courses and 6-7 units of elective courses from one area of emphasis: architecture, engineering, or landscape. Students should select an emphasis area and complete both courses in that emphasis.
Program Student Learning Outcome
Upon completion of this program, the student will be able to design and create graphical representations of the built environment based on industry standards.
Course Requirements
| Course | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required courses: | ||
| DESN 101 | Computer-Aided Design and Drafting | 4 |
| DESN 110 | Graphics Communication | 3 |
| DESN 201 | Advanced AutoCAD Computer-Aided Design and Drafting | 3 |
| DESN 203 | Solid Modeling | 3 |
| DESN 204 | Modeling, Prototyping, and Manufacturing | 3 |
| DESN 286 | Professional Certification Preparation | 1 |
| DESN 290 | Portfolio and Presentation | 1 |
| orDESN 292 | Internship Studies | |
| orDESN 299 | Occupational Work Experience Education | |
| Select an area of emphasis in either Architecture, Engineering or Landscape from below: | 4-6 | |
| Emphasis in Architecture (6 units): | ||
| DESN 102 | Architectural Drawing | |
| DESN 207 | Revit Building Information Modeling | |
| Emphasis in Engineering (4 units): | ||
| DESN 111 | Engineering Design Graphics | |
| Emphasis in Landscape (6 units): | ||
| HORT 127 | Landscape Design | |
| HORT 220 | Computer-Aided Landscape Design Applications | |
| Total Units | 22-24 | |