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Design Drafting Technology Web Site

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Design Drafting Technology
Associate in Applied Science Degree

Designers translate the ideas and rough sketches of engineers and architects into drawings to communicate specific details to other engineers, architects, drafters, and technicians. Drawings are used as a basis for further research and design, for manufacturing and construction, and for documenting the engineer's concept. Designers use computers, manual drafting tools, engineering practices, reference materials, and a knowledge of materials and processes, to create complete drawings.

A successful designer is the type of person who:

• Has the ability to concentrate, conceptualize, organize, and remember details;

• Enjoys solving problems, being neat, and paying attention to details;

• Has good eye-hand coordination, an ability to visualize, and an interest in mathematics and science; and

• Works well with others in a team.

Students selecting this degree program will develop proficiency in board drafting and computer-aided drafting. Students are able to prepare drawings for manufacturing and fabrication. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and the American Society for Mechanical Engineers (ASME) drafting and design standards will be taught and reinforced as students prepare drawings in both 2D and 3D using AutoCAD, Mechanical Desktop, Cadkey, and Mastercam applications software.

Throughout this course of study, students will be required to use sketches, notes, technical literature, and personal research to complete assignments.

As a designer, you may work for:

aircraft companies
architectural firms
construction companies
design companies
electronic component manufacturers
engineering firms
governmental agencies
graphics companies
machine shops
manufacturing companies
marine industries
nuclear industries
petroleum industries

Special program notes
Here’s what Green River’s Design Drafting Technology program offers you:

• A hands-on learning experience

• Credit through high school articulation agreements

• Possible credit for prior work experience

• Participation in Cooperative Education

• Work-oriented skills required by employers

Students should check with an advisor regarding cost of equipment, time for completion, cooperative education, and articulation agreements.

The facilities for the program include a manual drafting lab with more than 40 work stations, and two computer-aided drafting labs with more than 45 work stations.

The faculty is composed of three full-time instructors, all with industry experience, and five instructors who work full time in industry and teach part time. This team brings many years of diverse industry experience to the classroom for the benefit of the Green River design student.

What is included in the program?
The Associate in Applied Science degree is divided into three areas: approximately 770 hours of training in required drafting courses; approximately 300 hours of training in required general education courses; and approximately 660 hours of training in specialized related courses.

The specialized related courses permit students to develop their own areas of emphasis in electro-mechanical, architectural, civil or structural drafting. For a more general background, the student may complete courses from each area.

How long does the program take?
If you attend full-time, you may be able to complete the Associate in Applied Science degree requirements in six quarters. If you attend part-time, completion will depend on how many credits you earn each quarter.

How much will it cost?
For a full-time student completing the program in two years, the total cost is approximately $6,000. The money will be paid each quarter as the expenses occur; you pay tuition at registration time and for books and supplies when you purchase them.

The first quarter's books and supplies are the most expensive, totaling about $275. Books and supplies for each of the remaining quarters will average $75.

Special Fees
Drafting and CADD courses have lab fees. See current class schedule for fee amounts.

Prerequisites
Complete an application to Green River Community College, complete the COMPASS assessment, and meet with an advisor.

A background in mathematics will be helpful, but courses are available for the student who needs to review or develop the necessary skills in mathematics, reading, English, and study skills.

When can new students enroll?
New students may enroll at the beginning of any quarter. Classes are offered during the day and evening to accommodate students' schedules.

Does the program transfer to four-year colleges?
In general, the design drafting classes do not transfer to four-year institutions. However, some design drafting classes have been accepted for transfer in the past. All transferability is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Please see an advisor.

Employment outlook
Design drafting is a large and fast-growing occupation; the future of the field is wide open. Computers will assist drafting procedures, but they will not replace the design drafter who has a comprehensive drafting education.

There is an excellent employment outlook. Historically, more than 90% of Green River’s design drafting program graduates have been hired in design or design-related positions.
–Based on the Design Drafting graduate records.

Salary range
With an Associate in Applied Science degree in Design Drafting, an entry-level employee can earn an hourly wage of $12 to $16.

For specific information about Design Drafting Technology, contact:

Felix Serna
Ext. 4321
fserna@greenriver.edu

Felix Serna
Ext. 4321
fserna@greenriver.edu