Computer Aided Drafting and Design Technology,
with a Concentration in Architectural Technology,
Associate of Applied Science
Overview
The Associate of Applied Science in Computer Aided Drafting and Design Technology, Concentration in Architectural Technology at Laredo College prepares students to transform design concepts into precise technical drawings and 3D models used in the architecture and construction industries. This program blends drafting and CAD expertise with architectural principles, giving students the knowledge and practical skills needed for success in residential, commercial, and civil design environments.
Students will gain experience in:
- Technical drawing and CAD fundamentals – from 2D drafting to advanced 3D modeling
- Architectural drafting for residential and commercial applications
- Civil and topographical drafting for site and infrastructure projects
- Architectural materials, codes, and contract documentation
- Illustration, visualization, and presentation techniques
Hands-on training with industry-standard CAD software prepares students to produce accurate, detailed drawings that meet professional standards. The program culminates in a capstone project and a cooperative education experience, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
Graduates are prepared for careers such as Architectural Drafter, CAD Technician, Civil Drafter, or Design Assistant, with opportunities in architectural firms, engineering firms, construction companies, and government agencies.
Information
The AAS in CADD – Architectural Technology Concentration is a 60-credit-hour program that combines technical coursework with general education requirements to build a well-rounded skill set. Students complete progressive drafting and design courses, advancing from introductory technical drawing to specialized architectural drafting, solid modeling, and advanced CAD.
Key areas covered include:
- Residential and commercial architectural drafting
- Civil and topographical drafting techniques
- CAD software and 3D modeling applications
- Building codes, specifications, and construction methods
- Professional presentation and illustration skills
Program Details:
- Credits: 60
- Capstone: DFTG 2332 Advanced Computer-Aided Drafting consolidates skills in the final semester
- Cooperative Education: On-the-job training through DFTG 2281 Cooperative Education
- Prerequisites: None (grade of “C” or better required in all drafting/design courses)
For More Information:
Students interested in this program may contact the Computer Sciences & Technology Department at Laredo College for advising and enrollment assistance:
- Email: cst@laredo.edu
- Phone: 956.721.5317
Plan of Study
| Recommended Course Sequence | Semesters Offered | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Semester 1 | ||
| DFTG 1305 - Introduction to Technical Drawing | Fall | 3 |
| DFTG 1309 - Basic Computer Aided Drafting | Fall | 3 |
| DFTG 1310 - Specialized Basic Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) | Fall | 3 |
| DFTG 1330 - Civil Drafting I | Fall | 3 |
| 12 Hours | ||
| Semester 2 | ||
| DFTG 2321 - Topographical Drafting | Spring | 3 |
| ARCE 1321 - Architectural Illustration | Spring | 3 |
| DFTG 2340 - Solid Modeling/Design | Spring | 3 |
| ARCE 1342 - Codes, Specifications and Contract Documents | Spring | 3 |
| 12 Hours | ||
| Third Semester | ||
| DFTG 2312 - Technical Illustration and Presentation | Fall, Spring, SS | 3 |
| MATH X3XX - Mathematics Elective (CORE) 1 | Fall, Spring, SS | 2 |
| 6 Hours | ||
| Fourth Semester | ||
| ARCE 1303 - Architectural Materials and Methods of Construction | Fall | 3 |
| DFTG 1317 - Architectural Drafting-Residential | Fall | 3 |
| DFTG 2328 - Architectural Drafting-Commercial | Fall | 3 |
| ENGL 1301 - Composition I | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| SPCH X3XX - Component Area Option Elective (CORE) | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| Fifth Semester | ||
| DFTG 1492 - Special Topics in Architectural Drafting and Architectural CAD/CADD | Spring | 4 |
| DFTG 2281 - Cooperative Education - Drafting and Design Technology/Technician General | Spring | 2 |
| DFTG 2332 - Advanced Computer-Aided Drafting CAPSTONE 2 | Spring | 3 |
| XXXX X3XX - Language, Philosophy and Culture/Creative Arts Elective (CORE) | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| XXXX X3XX - American History/Government/Political Science/Social and Behavioral Science Elective (CORE) | Fall, Spring | 3 |
| 15 Hours | ||
| AAS DEGREE MINIMUM: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS/PATHWAY TOTAL: 60 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS | ||
Note: All computer Aided Drafting and Design courses require a grade of "C" or better.
1Preferred: MATH 1314 College Algebra or MATH 1316 Plane Trigonometry
2Capstone Experience: DFTG 2332 Advanced Computer-Aided Drafting CAPSTONE is a course taught in the last semester. The learning experiences in this course result in a consolidation of a student's educational programmatic experience.