What you will study
Through the Drafting degree’s innovative curriculum, you'll dive into real-world projects
and gain practical experience in the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC)
and manufacturing industries. As a Mechanical Design major, you can design and 3D
model your own product or machine part and then 3D print it.
In addition to a broad foundation of knowledge in all design and drafting disciplines,
you will study the following mechanical design technologies:
- Computer Aided Design
- Product Design
- Machine Design
- MEP Design
- Structural Design
- 3D Modeling
- 3D Printing
- Detailing
Excellence in Design and Drafting Technology
- Nationally accredited by the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering (ATMAE)
- A Most Popular College for Drafting and Design Engineering Technology (College Factual, 2022)
- #1 Best CAD/CADD Drafting &/or Design Technology Schools in Missouri (College Factual, 2023)
- A Best School for Bachelor’s Students to Study CAD/CADD Drafting &/or Design Technology in the United States (College Factual, 2023)
- A Top-Ranked Drafting & Design Engineering Technology Bachelor’s Degree Schools in the United States (College Factual, 2023)
Unique learning opportunities in Mechanical CADD
At the University of Central Missouri, we understand that well-rounded, qualified
design and drafting professionals require more than classroom learning alone. That’s
why we also offer experiential learning opportunities to boost your undergraduate
education, such as:
- Internships: Gain valuable hands-on job experience and bridge the gap between the academic world
and the working world through a wide variety of opportunities.
- Industry partners: Collaborate with individuals with leadership positions at global and national engineering
firms. In addition to providing continuous support, our industry partners participate
in our annual advisory board meetings and offer career opportunities in the Mechanical
CADD degree program.
- Student organizations: Join one of two student organizations for Design and Drafting Technology majors: the
American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) and the Design and Drafting Student Association
(DDSA). These organizations offer leadership opportunities, learning experiences and
a supportive environment to network with fellow students, faculty and industry professionals
in the construction, engineering and architectural drafting fields.
- Study Abroad: Among the many opportunities available to UCM students, including CADD students,
is the Study Abroad program. Each year a growing number of Honors College students
study abroad, taking classes and often pursuing research and creative projects in
their areas of academic interest and expertise in countries such as Europe, Asia,
Central America, Australia and Africa.
What can you do with a degree in Design and Drafting Technology from UCM?
With a degree in Mechanical Design Technology, you can pursue diverse careers as mechanical
designers, CADD technicians, product design development engineers and more. From creating
detailed design specifications to utilizing cutting-edge mechanical CAD software,
this program opens doors to various industries and exciting opportunities in mechanical
design and engineering.
The need for engineering, construction and architectural drafting and design program
graduates has grown in recent years. Employers in the Kansas City area, throughout
Missouri and across the United States actively recruit our Mechanical CADD and Civil
and Architectural CADD majors. In fact, the current job placement rate for UCM CADD
graduates is 100%.
Learn more about computer-aided design and drafting jobs
Use the interactive tool below to explore projected outlooks in the field of design
and drafting. Discover what salary potential you will look like with a product design
degree.
Financial assistance options for your Design and Drafting Technology degree
At the University of Central Missouri, we understand the importance of supporting
students in their pursuit of academic excellence. That's why we offer a range of scholarships
specifically tailored to students enrolled in the Design and Drafting Technology,
Mechanical Design program, including:
- Anthony & Sarah Taylor Scholarship
- Bill & Anne Downs Scholarship
- Department of Graphics Imaging Technology Scholarship
- Department of Industrial Technology Scholarship
- Drafting Student Scholarship
- Jacob M. Cunningham Scholarship
- Kingsville Stahl Scholarship
- Taiwan Commemorative Scholarship
You can learn more about program-specific scholarships at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
Join the club
Design and Drafting Technology students are strongly encouraged to become members
of student organizations.
The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) and/or the Design Drafting Student
Association (DDSA) are esteemed organizations that provide enriching activities, networking
opportunities and leadership prospects that enhance students' academic experience
and foster valuable connections with industry professionals.
Meet Brittany Kallenberger, ‘17, ‘21
Mechanical Engineering Technician, Black & Veatch Corporation
“The professors at UCM care about their students and know how to help them understand
the material. I was given countless opportunities, from going to the capitol for Missouri
STEM Day to going to Huntsville, AL to race a Human Rover at the NASA space center.
There are also hands-on learning and real-life examples that are always being provided
in class or lab. The program is hard to beat!”
Meet Our Faculty
Established experts in their fields
In the Mechanical CADD program, you'll receive a top-notch education from dedicated
and experienced full-time faculty members who offer personalized program guidance
to align your studies with your career goals. Benefit from a supportive learning environment
with small classroom sizes, allowing UCM professors to truly understand your needs
and provide individual attention throughout your academic journey.
Faculty Profiles
Experiential Learning
Mechanical design opportunities using the latest technology
As a UCM design and drafting technology student, you’ll apply your knowledge to real-world
situations. Our students have the opportunity to interview industry professionals,
survey customer needs, design new solutions and 3D prototypes, write a report and
present collaboratively with their peers.
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Transfer students majoring in Design and Drafting Technology
Transferring to the University of Central Missouri for your bachelor’s degree in Design
and Drafting Technology has many professional advantages.
- A bachelor’s degree is required for many management-level drafting and design jobs
and future career advancements.
- A Design and Drafting degree can potentially help you land a higher starting salary.
A project lead designer often earns an annual salary of $70,000 or more.
- The current job placement rate for UCM Mechanical CADD graduates is 100% in recent
years.
- UCM offers in-state tuition for surrounding and nearby states.
Accredited by
The Association of Technology, Management, &
Applied Engineering (ATMAE)
Click HERE for more information.
