In Kirkwood's CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology program, you'll have access to cutting-edge computer design programs and will even have the chance to design and test real products.
Through classroom and immersive lab experiences, you'll learn engineering fundamentals and the means of conveying design intent from drawing layouts and symbols through geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
Kirkwood is the affordable option! We offer more than $3 million in scholarships every year.
Students in this program may be eligible for tuition assistance through the Kibbie Grant or Last Dollar Scholarship.
Graduates of the CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology program will be able to:
A one-hour program conference is required prior to acceptance to the program. You'll learn more about the program, specific admissions requirements and have the opportunity to have questions answered by program faculty and staff.
Anyone interested in CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology can complete a program conference in two ways:
Video Program Conference
A program conference can be completed by watching the following video and following the steps outlined.
In-Person Program Conference
Those who prefer an in-person program conference may schedule one by emailing kristie.mckibben@kirkwood.edu
School Year: 2023–24
Program Entry Semester: Fall
| Fall | Spring | Summer | Fall | Spring | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours per Semester | 14 | 17 | 9 | 18 | 19 | 77 |
| In-State Tuition | $2,940 | $3,570 | $1,890 | $3,780 | $3,990 | $16,170 |
| Technology Fee per Semester | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $50 | $250 |
| Clinical Expenses (mileage, lodging, screenings, etc.) | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Conferences/Seminars | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Course Resources (textbooks, software, etc.) | $530 | $298 | $110 | $522 | $616.69 | $2,076.69 |
| Course/Section Fees | $10 | $40 | $150 | $85 | $0 | $285 |
| Laptop (required devices) | $1,150 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $1,150 |
| Testing Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Third Party Credentials | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Tool Sets | $15 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $15 |
| Uniforms | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Other | $50 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $4,745 | $3,958 | $2,200 | $4,437 | $4,656.69 | $19,996.69 |
Costs provided are estimated and based on the following current tuition rates: $210 (In-State), $281 (Out-of-State), $400 (International).
To get into the CAD/MET program, you must complete the following, in addition to Kirkwood’s steps to become a student:
The program conference can be completed by watching the video conference and following the steps outlined.
Students can transfer credits from this program to the University of Northern Iowa or William Penn University and work toward a B.S. in manufacturing or industrial technology.
Computer Aided Design (CAD) - Certificate
CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology Diploma*
The CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions as mechanical engineering technicians and provides skills for those already in the field to gain advancement to designer status.
Industry-standard CAD software is taught during all four semesters of this two-year A.A.S. program to enhance employment opportunities. Competency in engineering fundamentals is built through courses in statics, strength of materials, kinematics, hydraulics, dynamics, and machine design.
Sample classes in this program include:
Potential career opportunities include:
Provides quality technical training and skills aligned to industry needs that involves applying engineering concepts and the use of Computer Aided Design software.