Online AutoCAD Drafting Classes

Diploma, certificate and degree programs offer online AutoCAD training courses for novices and professionals. Read on to learn about classes designed to augment traditional drafting skills via computer-aided systems.

Overview of Online AutoCAD Drafting Courses

AutoCAD software allows users to create technically complex 2- and 3-dimensional drawings via computer-aided drafting (CAD) techniques. Online classes are offered as part of diploma and certificate programs in AutoCAD technology. Degree-granting programs feature online AutoCAD courses as part of architecture, design and construction-related university majors. Several industries, such as mechanical and civil engineering, interior design, architecture and facilities planning utilize AutoCAD. Graduates commonly work as designers in fields ranging from civil drafting to architectural or electronics drafting.

Course Requirements

Students need access to a computer and the Internet, with a browser capacity that supports recent versions of Firefox or Explorer. Courses may necessitate access to media-viewing software. Most schools provide AutoCAD software; occasionally, programs require students to independently purchase versions of AutoCAD. An active e-mail account is necessary to correspond with fellow students and instructors. Students may need to purchase textbooks via a school's website.
When these courses utilize online learning platforms such as Blackboard, students submit assignments on a prearranged schedule, which means that course timetables typically follow university academic calendars. Classes may also be offered via asynchronous format; in these cases, students submit assignments and take exams on their own time line. Exams may be taken online.

List of Online AutoCAD Courses

Introductory AutoCAD Course

These courses offer sketch and design training via AutoCAD. Essential AutoCAD functions are covered, including setting up and editing drawings, dimensioning, plotting and layering.

Advanced AutoCAD Course

This class expands on basic AutoCAD functions and introduces solid modeling topics, parametric design and parametric rendering. Students explore ways to customize AutoCAD software products to support independent and special-needs projects.

Programming for AutoCAD Course

Students use Visual Basic to generate and assemble AutoCAD databases. Course content includes fundamental functions of ActiveX Data Objects, which students use to link desktop databases to AutoCAD.

AutoCAD and Interior Design Course

Classes present the functions of AutoCAD that are often used by students of interior design. Participants learn to plot floor, lighting and electrical plans, to produce drawings with unconventional angles and to generate drawing plots that feature multiple scales. Content includes layering, dimensioning, blocks and display commands.