Online Drafting Certificate and Diploma Programs

An online certificate program in drafting sharpens sketching and technical drawing skills, and it prepares the student to create detailed architectural, mechanical and electrical drawings. Largely based on manual drafting techniques, programs also include instruction in computer-aided drafting tools. Courses prepare graduates for drafting jobs in architecture, engineering, mechanics and design.

Online Drafting Certificate Programs Overview

Drafting students learn to visualize objects in three dimensions and translate those mental images into technical drawings. Online certificate programs are open to high-school graduates, and they generally start with measurements, scales and projections, then move on to paper- and ink-based drafting techniques. After honing traditional drafting skills, students are introduced to computer-based drafting applications.
Programs are available for several levels of drafting expertise. The typical program leading to a certificate of completion in drafting includes 21-31 credits in general drafting, computer-aided drafting and technical electives. Shorter course loads of 10-21 credits lead to certificates in drafting and design detail or in drafting assistance.

Program Information

Students can expect to complete an online drafting program in one year, but many are self-paced, and the duration may vary depending upon the amount of time per week spent in training. Some programs concentrate primarily on computer-aided drafting. Electives allow students to concentrate on specialties like electrical, electronic, civil and mechanical drafting.
Online students will need access to a computer with multimedia capabilities and a fast Internet connection. Computer-assisted drafting programs may only be offered on one specific operating system, so students should consult with their schools' distance learning departments to verify the compatibility of their current equipment.

Course and Class Information

Program fees typically include books, drafting tools, supplies and software. Self-directed courses are sequential, and once students complete the assignments and pass the exam, they are cleared to continue with the next lesson. Typical courses are outlined in the next few paragraphs.

Technical Drawing Techniques Course

Students familiarize themselves with the tools used in traditional drafting and design, creating drawings on vellum using pencils, ink, straightedges, compasses and French curves. Topics include the use of scales, different types of projections, tolerances, materials, line style conventions, annotation and dimensioning.

Size and Shape Description Course

This course presents orthographic and multi-view projections, sections, exploded views, cutaways and 3-D renderings. Using manual tools, students draw coordinate systems and create drawings of objects in three-dimensional spaces.

Architectural Drafting Course

Different applications have different requirements in drafting. For architectural drafting, students follow sketches and specifications to create site plans, floor plans and elevations to scale. Specifications for electrical diagrams, electrical schematics and plumbing drawings are also covered.

Computer-Assisted Drafting Course

Dozens of commercial computer-assisted design programs are available for engineering, construction, architecture, manufacturing, 3-D rendering, animation and simulation. Despite the differences in functionality required by each type of application, all computer-assisted drafting programs share similar shape-building capabilities and coordinate system manipulation. Students learn drawing, editing, dimensioning and object plotting skills which will be useful in many applications.

Career Outlook for Drafting Program Graduates

Drafters are needed in many industries, from architectural, engineering and construction to consumer products, electronics and technical illustration. Digital design skills can lead to non-drafting careers in a variety of disciplines.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), jobs for drafters were projected to grow by four percent from 2008 to 2018, slower than average growth for U.S. jobs (www.bls.gov). The fastest growth, a projected nine percent, was designated for architectural and civil drafters. Opportunities should be best for drafters with at least two years of postsecondary training. The median annual salary for architectural and civil drafters was $45,600 in 2009. Mechanical drafters earned $47,790, and electrical and electronics drafters earned $52,080.

Certification Information

The American Design Drafting Association (ADDA) is a professional organization that offers certification for increasing levels of drafters, from apprenticed to certified design technicians. Certifications are exam-based, valid for three years, and they may be renewed by a combination of additional training and employment in the field.
Certification is offered in four subject areas, including architectural, mechanical, civil and designer digital imaging. Certification in other areas is continuously in development. Certification is voluntary, and the ADDA has certified over 40,000 members since 1948.