Program Overview

Introduction to the 2D/3D CAD Certificate Program

The 2D/3D CAD non-credit certificate program at Penn State was created by individuals with years of experience in AutoCAD and SolidWorks. This program is designed for architects, drafters, engineers, technicians, or anyone desiring formal training in computer-aided design.

Program Requirements

To receive the non-credit 2D/3D CAD Certificate, participants must successfully complete the two required courses, maintain at least a "C" average, and pass a final project/examination given during the last session of each course.

Career Potential

AutoCAD and SolidWorks are commonly requested skills throughout Northeast, PA, specifically in manufacturing companies. While a portion of the positions require an Engineering Bachelor’s degree plus AutoCAD and/or SolidWorks; other positions including Drafter, Engineering Technician and Commercial and Industrial Designers are also needed.

Online CAD Course Offerings

The program includes two online courses:

• 2D with AutoCAD – CSE 5450: This course provides an introduction to AutoCAD, including CAD tools, basic draw commands, basic edit commands, layers, CAD construction techniques, creating text, block and drawing import options, dimensions, crosshatching, grips, introduction to layouts, and plotting basics.
• 3D with SolidWorks – CSE 5451: This hands-on computer-aided drafting course introduces participants to SolidWorks, including parametric modeling, solid geometry concepts, feature design tree, geometric relations and construction tools, the BORN construction technique, part drawings and associate functionality, reference geometry and auxiliary views, symmetrical features in design, assembly modeling, and more.

Course Details

• 2D with AutoCAD – CSE 5450:
  • Dates: April 2, 2026 - April 30, 2026
  • Times: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • Location: Online Instructor-led training via Zoom
  • Cost: $925
  • Course Textbook: AutoCAD 2025: Essentials (Mixed Units) ISBN-/ISBN-13
• 3D with SolidWorks – CSE 5451:
  • Dates: September 29, 2025 to December 15, 2025
  • Times: Mondays, 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
  • Location: Online Instructor-led training via Zoom
  • Cost: $925

Program Overview

The 2D/3D CAD Certificate Program at Penn State is designed to provide participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the field of computer-aided design. With its comprehensive curriculum and experienced instructors, this program is an excellent choice for those looking to advance their careers or start a new one in this exciting field.