What you will study
UCM’s Design and Drafting Technology degree encompasses architecture, building information
modeling (BIM), civil 3D modeling and site development, structural design and detailing,
manufacturing and mechanical, electrical and plumbing/piping systems (MEP). Develop
a strong foundation in diverse design and drafting disciplines while exploring cutting-edge
technologies, ensuring you're primed for a career using civil engineering CAD software
and more.
Design and Drafting majors can expect to gain an understanding in a broad range of
topics, while having a focus on civil engineering and architectural design technology.
You will study the following CADD technologies:
- Architectural Design
- Building Information Modeling (BIM)
- CADD Applications
- Civil Engineering Design
- MEP Design
- Structural Design
- 3D Modeling
- 3D Printing
- Creating Construction Drawings
- 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 Design and Drafting Technology
While enrolled in the Design and Drafting degree program you have the chance to participate
in unique learning opportunities that will enhance your experience and education.
These experiential learning opportunities ensure you will become a well-rounded computer-aided
design professional.
- Internships: Use technical skills learned through coursework while gaining hands-on job experience
that is unreplicable in the classroom.
- Industry partners: Interact with leading global and national engineering firms. These industry partners
offer sustained support, actively participating in our annual advisory board meetings
and extending potential career opportunities for CADD majors.
- Student organizations: Join one of two student organizations: the American Institute of Building Design (AIBD)
and the Design and Drafting Student Association (DDSA). Both organizations offer leadership
positions, learning experiences and networking opportunities.
- 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?
As a CADD graduate, you'll possess the expertise to thrive in diverse roles, from
technical problem-solving to team leadership, while effectively communicating in various
environments. UCM’s Civil & Architectural Design Technology Option of CADD instills
a strong sense of professional and ethical responsibility, emphasizing your design
solutions' societal and global impact.
In recent years, the need for graduates with a degree in computer-aided design has
grown. Additionally, UCM’s Design and Drafting majors have experienced a 100% job
placement rate within six months of graduation.
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 have in your CADD position.
Financial assistance options for your Design and Drafting Technology degree
The University of Central Missouri offers numerous scholarships to support your educational
journey. UCM even has a selection of scholarships specially created for students pursuing
a degree in computer-aided design, 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
Learn more about scholarships you may qualify for at the UCM Scholarship Finder.
Join a student organization
We encourage our students to participate in UCM CADD student organizations.
The American Institute of Building Design (AIBD) and/or the Design Drafting Student
Association (DDSA) are national organizations that provide UCM students the opportunity
to gain leadership qualities, trade skills and networking events.
Mike Waggoner
Civil/Structural Proposal Lead Designer at Black & Veatch
UCM's CADD program not only provided me with the education and skills needed for a
successful career in the engineering field but it also provided access to engineering
firms in the area, and the knowledge gained is highly sought after in the industry.
Even now, 18 years later, I recruit UCM CADD graduates for the same reason. The program
instills a solid understanding of the fundamentals of any career field their students
should choose.
Meet Our Faculty
Experts dedicated to education
Professors in the Design and Drafting Technology program are experienced professionals
who bring their own specialties to the courses. UCM’s faculty members are dedicated
to providing a supportive learning environment.
Faculty Profiles
leftright
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.
