Ferris State > Associate Degree CAD Drafting
The CAD Drafting Degree and Tool Design Degree programs concentrate on the use of
CAD design in product drawing, dies (metal stamping), molds (plastic processes) and
jigs, fixture and gauge design. CAD drafting degree and Tool Design Students are involved
with computers throughout the program to familiarize them with CAD software and design
applications such as detailing, GD & T, general tolerancing, wire frame, surfacing,
solid modeling with parametric technology and Rapid Prototyping. Computer-aided engineering
software for mold design and mechanical applications are also used. CAD drafting student
solid models are processed and created on our rapid prototyping equipment.
Tool design is critical to the manufacturing industry. Tooling is the foundation for
product design and the manufacturing industry. CAD drafting degree students learn
to design and detail basic tooling requirements for the manufacture of products. Consideration
for safety of the tool design and manufacturing processes are also emphasized. College
degree tool design students also gain an understanding of the related areas of mathematics,
materials and machining.
Converting an abstract idea into a working design is the job of the drafter and tool
designer. The drafter/designer may be involved in drawing one of many parts of a complete
assembly, then designing the tooling-jigs, fixtures, gauges, dies, injection molds
and special machines-to produce one or all of those parts.
For the drafter/tool designer, creativity and attention to detail are essential in
production of such diverse products as automotive and aircraft components, consumer
products, medical products, electronics, food processing and special machinery.
College graduates of the CAD drafting degree and Tool Design degree programs find
immediate employment as computer-aided tool detailers, product drafters, entry-level
tool designers, CAD operators and other technical-related positions. Many students
choose to continue into B.S. programs such as Product Design Engineering Technology,
Manufacturing Engineering Technology, Plastics Engineering Technology, Business Management
or Occupational/Teacher Education.
Admission to the College of Engineering Technology is open to high school graduates
who demonstrate academic preparedness, maturity and seriousness of purpose with backgrounds
appropriate to their chosen CAD Drafting or Tool Design program of studies. Among
first-time students in our technical programs, the average high school GPA is 2.8,
and the average ACT composite score is 20.
Students entering the CAD Drafting degree and Tool Design degree program should have
a background in CAD drafting and a desire to develop and advance their tool design
skills. Admission is open to high school graduates with a minimum 2.0 GPA and a minimum
ACT math sub score of 15 (19 recommended).
The CAD Drafting degree and Tool Design degree programs at Ferris State Univerity lead to an associates degree in applied science. Graduation requires a minimum 2.0 GPA in the core CAD drafting degree classes, in the major and overall. Students must complete all general education requirements as outlined on the general education Web site.
Associates Degree CAD Drafting
Associates Degree Tool Design
College of Engineering Technology
Ferris State University
1009 Campus Drive
Big Rapids, Michigan MI (USA) 49307-2280
Phone: (231) 591-2890
About Ferris State University: College classes including our CAD Drafting degree and Tool Design degree programs,
are taught at all levels by professional teachers, not graduate assistants. College
students at Ferris State University, including our CAD Drafting degree and Tool Design
degree students, study in more than 170 different college educational programs - including
doctorate degrees, masters degrees, bachelor's degrees and associates degree programs.
Seven of the Ferris' Michigan colleges are based in Big Rapids, Michigan - Allied
Health Sciences, Arts and Sciences, College of Business, Education and Human Services,
Optometry, Pharmacy and Engineering Technology. Ferris' College of Professional and
Technological studies, and Kendall College of Art and Design are based in Grand Rapids,
Michigan. College courses and tool design courses are also offered at several Michigan
College campus sites through the Ferris State University College of Professional and
Technological Studies.
Ferris State University offers a wide variety of scholarships and financial aid. A majority of our students receive financial aid assistance. We encourage you to explore this website for more information on available scholarships and financial aid opportunities at Ferris State University. Ferris State provides all enrolled students access to a variety of academic skill-building opportunities that will assist them in their pursuit of academic excellence in a format that accommodates various learning preferences and schedules. At FSU students experience small classes with individual attention in 170 career-oriented majors leading to job placement for our graduates. FSU students also enjoy 220 student organizations for fun in a relaxed, hometown setting in the heart of Michigan's recreation area.
The group presentation, by one of our admissions recruiters, includes information on academic offerings, scholarships, housing, student life, and costs. A question and answer period follows the presentation and includes a few surprises! Lunch is provided at one of our well known dining facilities on campus. After lunch, guests may take part in a walking tour of campus led by one of our exceptional student guides. The walking tour takes approximately 1 hour.
If you would like more information on CAD Drafting Degree or would like to talk with or visit our campus in Big Rapids, Michigan contact us.
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