Best AutoCAD Classes Philadelphia, PA: Find Courses & Onsite Training

AutoCAD Certification Program Learn The Skills Guarantee™

Learn basic through advanced AutoCAD skills and become an Autodesk Certificated Professional in this program.

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- $2,499
- 54 hours
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Noble Desktop AutoCAD Masterclass

Master AutoCAD with this comprehensive masterclass, offering hands-on training from experts in NYC or live online, covering beginner, intermediate, and advanced skills to provide you with a thorough understanding of this leading CAD software. Whether starting from scratch or aiming to enhance your existing skills, this course equips you with the knowledge and practical experience needed to excel in AutoCAD, from basic drawing commands to advanced customization and productivity tools.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $1,495
- 48 Hours
- Weekdays, Evenings, or Weekends
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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Noble Desktop AutoCAD Bootcamp

Join the AutoCAD Bootcamp for hands-on training from experts, where you'll master fundamental technical drawing skills and advance to creating 2D drawings using AutoCAD, catering to beginners and covering basic functionalities to intermediate drafting techniques. This comprehensive bootcamp combines beginner and intermediate classes at a discounted rate, starting with basic drawing techniques and progressing to more advanced tools for creating and editing drawings in AutoCAD, with a note that the course is tailored for PC users.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $949
- 30 Hours
- Weekdays, Evenings, or Weekends
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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Virtual Design & Construction Institute AutoCAD Certification Course (Self-Paced)

The AutoCAD Professional Bundle is designed to advance your CAD skills and prepare you for Autodesk Certification. Through five expert-led courses, you’ll master professional workflows, explore the AutoCAD User Interface, and create detailed construction document sets with immersive, project-based training.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $2,595
- 15 Weeks
- See provider
- Beginner
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Virtual Design & Construction Institute CAD Certificate Program (Self-Paced)

The CAD Certificate Program provides training in 2D drafting design using AutoCAD, preparing students to create professional construction documents and solve design challenges. This flexible, online program includes opportunities to specialize in Revit Fundamentals or SketchUp, ensuring a versatile skill set for a career in construction design.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $5,320
- 8 Months
- See provider
- Beginner
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NYIM Training Beginner AutoCAD

In this beginner AutoCAD class, participants will learn basic drawing and modifying techniques for drafting and technical drawing. Basic methods of printing and plotting layouts and sheets, working between model space and paper space, and how to scale drawings through viewports will all be covered. Students will master techniques for inserting blocks, making text, dimensioning drawings, and working with layers and templates. Tuition includes hands-on training, a free retake, and a course manual. The course offers flexible scheduling available online or in NYC.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $599
- 18 Hours
- Weekdays
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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NYC Career Centers AutoCAD Bootcamp

In this five-day 40-hour AutoCAD Bootcamp, students with little to no prior knowledge of AutoCAD will learn the foundational skills needed to feel comfortable creating fantastic drawings and designs. This comprehensive course is split into Beginner AutoCAD and Intermediate AutoCAD. In the beginner section, students will learn how to get started with AutoCAD, basic drawing and editing commands, how to make changes to a drawing, discover object types, using text and layouts, and much more. In the intermediate section, students will take their skills to the next level and learn about positioning, working with blocks, creating templates and advanced layouts, annotation styles, and more. Students will also be able to reinforce what they learn in this course by completing numerous projects interspersed through the bootcamp. This course also offers a free retake to allow students to revisit any concepts needing to be refreshed and walk away with a much stronger grasp of the material.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $949
- 30 Hours
- Weekdays
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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NYC Career Centers AutoCAD in a Day

In this 8-hour introductory AutoCad course, students with no prior CAD knowledge will learn all the foundational skills needed to begin creating fantastic drawings and designs. This course covers a range of topics, including getting started with AutoCAD, entering commands, the basics for using drawing commands, how to create simple drawings, tracking, and how to modify a drawing. This course also offers a free retake to allow students to revisit any concepts needing to be refreshed and walk away with a much stronger grasp of the material.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $325
- 6 Hours
- Weekdays
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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NYC Career Centers Beginner AutoCAD

In this 3-day Beginner AutoCad course, students with no prior CAD knowledge will learn all the foundational skills needed to begin creating fantastic 2D drawings and designs. This course covers a range of topics, including getting started with AutoCAD, basic drawing and editing commands, drawing templates, object types, inserting blocks, layouts, printing best practices, incorporating text, and much more. Students will be able to reinforce what they learn with numerous projects interspersed throughout the course. This course also offers a free retake to allow students to revisit any concepts needing to be refreshed and walk away with a much stronger grasp of the material.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $599
- 18 Hours
- Weekdays
- Beginner
- Free Retake
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NYC Career Centers Intermediate AutoCAD

In this 2-day Intermediate AutoCad course, students with basic CAD knowledge will learn how to design and draw more rapidly and more efficiently with CAD. This course covers a range of intermediate topics, including working effectively with AutoCAD, accurate positioning, parametric drawing, working with blocks, creating templates, advanced layouts, external references, and more. Students will be able to reinforce what they learn with numerous projects interspersed throughout the course. This course also offers a free retake to allow students to revisit any concepts needing to be refreshed and walk away with a much stronger grasp of the material.

Available live online (virtual training) from anywhere
- $449
- 12 Hours
- Weekdays
- Intermediate
- Free Retake
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Key Insights

AutoCAD is extensively utilized by professionals such as Architects, Engineers, Graphic Designers, City Planners, and Project Managers for creating technically accurate drawings, visualizing structural details, and conducting precise design simulations and calculations.

Training in AutoCAD covers crucial skills, including mastering drawing and editing commands like ERASE, COPY, MOVE, and ROTATE, working effectively with reusable CAD blocks, creating templates for standardizing designs, and using layering techniques for improved organization and workflow management.

AutoCAD’s collaborative capabilities, cloud storage integration for file accessibility, and recent adoption of building information modeling (BIM) features underscore its continuing evolution and versatility across various industries and personal projects.

Learn More About Philadelphia AutoCAD Courses

What is AutoCAD?

AutoCAD is a commercial 2D and 3D software application that was created by Autodesk Inc. for computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting tasks. This product was initially released on the market in 1982 for use on Macs or Windows systems. It was the first CAD system created for use on PCs. In the time since its release, AutoCAD has become the most widely used CAD software on the market. This vector graphics program uses lines, circles, text, and arcs to create more complex objects. Its interchange file format, DXF, and its native file format, AutoCAD DWG, are considered the industry-standard for interchanging 2D CAD data.

Although many people think of AutoCAD as a tool for house design, this software has a range of applications that extend beyond, such as surveying, town planning, garment design, mechanical, and geographical projects. Professionals like Engineers, Architects, Graphic Designers, City Planners, and Project Managers use this software for tasks like conceptualizing ideas, creating technically accurate drawings and designs, and quickly executing design simulations and calculations. It’s also a popular tool for plumbing plans, electrical drawings, and technical drawings for large-scale projects. This software is popular in the drafting phase of a project, during which structural details are visualized, because it helps users create digital 2D sketches, or blueprints. Among AutoCAD’s many features, this software is able to draw and edit structures with extreme precision. Users can add precise dimensions and text to these designs, as needed. AutoCAD also allows users to view a project’s geometry from different scales and organize it into layers, styles, or colors.

One of AutoCAD’s most helpful features is its collaborative tool used to create prototypes and blueprints. Files created in AutoCAD can all be saved and stored in the cloud so they’ll be available at any time, from any location. In recent years, building information modeling (BIM) features have been added as another AutoCAD feature. In 2016, perpetual licensing options for this software were discontinued; users can now purchase AutoCAD commercial versions, which are licensed via term-based subscription plans. Today, AutoCAD is a staple product for streamlining the process of designing and communicating results with others. Most structures we see on a daily basis were constructed based on CAD drawings, and many of them with AutoCAD technology.

What Can You Do with AutoCAD Training?

Learning AutoCAD is an excellent way to acquire the training necessary to create and modify 2D and 3D designs for projects much quicker and easier than would be possible by hand. Before computer technology was developed, Designers had to manually revise every design they created. This often entailed creating entirely new drafts if the edits were too involved. Using AutoCAD avoids this time-intensive process because it ensures that users can easily manipulate the designs they’re creating and incorporate changes during the design process.

AutoCAD training provides a way for users to collaborate with one another across web, mobile, or desktop devices. This versatile software is used across industries for projects of all types, including manufacturing, architectural design, interior design, and machining. AutoCAD users can also create their own reusable block library where components of a design or manufacturing components that will be used repeatedly can be created, saved, and used as often as needed. This is a valuable time-saving feature, especially for large-scale endeavors.

Even non-professionals use AutoCAD for a range of personal projects, including home design, art, or fashion. This software can assist homeowners interested in remodeling a room by providing them with a 3D model of the project before they begin. Artistic individuals can use AutoCAD to create conceptual models of wood carvings or sculptures they hope to create. This versatile software also has applications for real estate graphics, floor plans, laser-cutting design, 3D printing files, and digital art projects.

What Will I Learn in an AutoCAD Class?

If you live in or near Philadelphia and are interested in studying AutoCAD, you may wonder what to expect from your coursework. Although each program is unique in its scope, its duration, and the specific tools you’ll learn, there are several core skills most AutoCAD training covers. In the following sections, a brief description of commonly taught AutoCAD training topics will be provided, including basic drawing and editing commands, blocks, templates, and layering techniques, as well as why each skill is important for professionals.

Basic Drawing & Editing Commands

AutoCAD classes, particularly those that provide students with introductory-level training with this software, will likely begin by providing an overview of this tool’s basic commands and shortcuts for drawing and editing. During coursework, students will explore commands like ERASE for removing objects from drawings, COPY to copy an object from one point and add it to one or more additional locations, MIRROR to design a mirrored image of an object, MOVE to transfer an object to a new location in the document, ROTATE to move an object a specific number of degrees, and SCALE to change an object’s size. Knowing which command to select and how to work with it is a key skill for AutoCAD users.

Blocks

CAD blocks are combinations of CAD drawing entities, such as lines, hatches, arcs, or text, that serve as a single 2D or 3D object. The text and linework that comprises a given block is grouped such that AutoCAD users can choose the entire block (object) and execute actions with it, including copying or moving it. One of the benefits of learning to work with blocks is that they’re selectable, which means they can be easily moved between different drawings or added to new drawings. Knowledge of blocks allows AutoCAD users to save time by reusing content, ensuring consistency in their documents, standardizing design details, reducing file size, and sharing block content with others for dynamic project collaboration. CAD blocks needed for specific products or parts can also be imported from third-party providers.

Templates

In AutoCAD coursework, another skill you’re likely to encounter is how to work with templates. Drawing templates are files that specify any settings, layouts, or styles that will be included in the drawing, such as blocks. Templates are saved in a .dwt extension. AutoCAD users like CAD Managers often create or share drawing template files to ensure consistency standards are maintained across an organization. Knowledge of how to create or modify these templates saves AutoCAD users the time of having to recreate specifications for each drawing. They may create templates for draft settings, units of measurement, layer properties, dimension styles, text styles, or publishing settings.

Layering Techniques

One of the most useful techniques you’re likely to encounter when enrolled in an AutoCAD course is how to work with layers. This software’s layering systems is one of its most essential features. With the help of layers, AutoCAD users can organize any objects they are designing based on their purpose or function. One of the main benefits of working with layers is that they can improve display performance by cutting down on a drawing’s visual complexity and hiding any information that’s not essential to see at that moment. AutoCAD programs that teach layering will provide students with guidance on how to create unique layers that are useful for the project at hand. For home design projects, for example, students may learn how to make separate layers for the property’s foundation, its floor plans, electricity, and fixtures. The user can then select to look only at the electric components of the design and turn the others off.

Collaboration

In addition to learning core AutoCAD skills like how to execute basic drawing and editing commands, work with templates and layers, and use blocks, coursework also imparts soft skills like communication or collaboration. AutoCAD has various features and tools designed to improve collaboration and help users complete projects as part of a team. Its Share Drawing tool provides a way for users to send others a link to their drawing via email or chat, and the others can then see this image and provide comments on it directly in the browser. Additionally, its Co-Authoring feature allows multiple AutoCAD users to work with a single file and add real-time changes to the document. The ability to collaborate with others on large-scale projects is an impressive skill to bring up at an interview or add to a resume.

How Hard is it to Learn AutoCAD?

Just like acquiring any other skill, the difficulty of learning AutoCAD depends on several key factors, such as your approach to learning and how you process information, the time you have available to spend studying and practicing, and the level of proficiency you are seeking with this software. At first, AutoCAD may seem a bit overwhelming to novice users. It offers a range of complicated commands and tools that can be daunting to some. However, most people who have learned AutoCAD, regardless of whether they’re experts with this software or average users, conclude that those who are willing to devote time and energy to practicing with this software can learn how to work with this software. Learners who want to learn to use AutoCAD for a complex, high-stakes structural construction project, such as building a bridge, will need to be extremely well-versed with this software. For those who are doing smaller-scale projects, such as interior design or 3D printing, it will be much easier to get started working with this tool. The bottom line is that while AutoCAD is considered by most users to be slightly more complex than other comparable software, once you get a feel for its interface and basic features, you’ll be able to start working with this tool.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning AutoCAD?

Although the difficulty level and challenges of learning AutoCAD differ from person to person, those who don’t have prior experience in the field of computer-aided design will likely find it more challenging than those who have previous experience. Because of how many options and commands are available in AutoCAD, some learners may find it daunting to get started working with this software and learn its many parts. It’s important to keep in mind that most users won’t need to learn every tool the software offers. This is why it makes sense for most learners to start with the basic commands and functions and then go from there as they learn AutoCAD.

How Long Does it Take to Learn AutoCAD?

If you’re wondering how long it will take you to learn AutoCAD, the short answer is that it depends on a host of factors. Experts often differ in their estimates of how long it will take the average user to learn this software because of the number of variables that contribute to the typical speed of acquisition. A good place to start learning AutoCAD is to explore its user interface. Those who are already familiar with Windows apps will find this process easier. On average, it takes learners between four and six weeks to learn basics like how to work with tools for drawing and modifying. Next, most users become familiar with the basic navigation tools for drawing, such as zoom in and zoom out. It’s suggested that they then move on to 2D drawing tools before attempting 3D tools since the concepts in 2D drawing can be applied to 3D models as well, with slight modifications.

It’s important to remember that learning AutoCAD is a gradual process that requires perseverance and practice. Those who have full-time jobs or family commitments may find that it takes longer to learn this software than those who have more flexible schedules. Even though the time it will take to learn AutoCAD can be subjective, those who enroll in an in-person or live online class can typically get started working with this software in between one month and one year.

Should I Learn AutoCAD In Person or Online?

Once you’ve committed to learning AutoCAD, the next choice you’ll likely have to make is to decide whether you would prefer studying in person in Philadelphia or online. The good news is that excellent learning options are available from many top schools for learners at all levels in various formats.

If you consider yourself an extroverted learner and gravitate toward the traditional classroom learning environment, in-person classes are a great option. These courses not only provide you with the opportunity to learn from an expert instructor who has industry experience working with AutoCAD, but they also allow you to connect with a cohort of individuals who are on a similar learning path, which is a benefit that will likely extend beyond the walls of the classroom. Training centers are located in or near Philadelphia and are equipped with computers that already have AutoCAD software available. This interactive and engaging training format provides you with the opportunity to ask questions as they occur, receive immediate clarification, and have support at every step of your learning journey. It’s important to consider that in-person coursework means that you will have to have reliable transportation to get to and from class for regularly scheduled meetings. This is why some individuals who live far from training facilities or don’t have access to a car.

In addition to in-person AutoCAD training options in Philadelphia, live online coursework is also available with this software. This type of coursework takes place using a teleconferencing platform like Zoom, through which students connect with the instructor in real-time. This type of coursework has many of the same learning benefits of in-person study; participants can ask questions in the moment and receive instantaneous support. Students can even share their screen with the teacher (with permission) to receive additional assistance. Since all coursework can be completed remotely, learners can complete their studies from the comfort of their own space without having to battle rush-hour traffic in Philadelphia or search for parking. Since live online classes meet at regularly scheduled intervals, those who wish to attend them must be able to commit to attending online sessions each week. This may be difficult for those with full-time work schedules or busy personal lives.

For learners who want to study AutoCAD but need a more flexible type of training, on-demand coursework is also available. In this type of training, materials like YouTube videos, lessons, tutorials, and quizzes are pre-recorded and placed online. Students can access this content at any time and from any location. One of the perks of this type of study is that it’s entirely self-paced; it’s up to the learner how long they wish to devote to each lesson. Some participants may prefer spending an entire weekend fully immersed in learning how to work with various AutoCAD layering techniques, whereas others may find it more beneficial to devote 30 minutes each day for a month to becoming proficient with using blocks. This flexible training format leaves it up to the participant not only when and for how long they wish to study but also to determine their own learning speed. Those who opt for on-demand training can watch a lesson as often as they wish, pausing or rewinding when needed to ensure optimal retention of the content. Since asynchronous AutoCAD coursework is pre-recorded, it’s often a more affordable learning option than live study. However, it’s important to remember that no instructor is present during these classes. Since AutoCAD is considered a relatively challenging software to learn, this may make it difficult for some learners to learn it without the support of a live instructor or cohort of students because they’ll have to find answers to questions on their own. This is why individuals who begin their AutoCAD learning journey sometimes start with on-demand content but then progress into more structured, live learning options like a certificate program to fully master this software.

Can I Learn AutoCAD Free Online?

If you’d like to learn AutoCAD but don’t want to invest hundreds or even thousands of dollars on a bootcamp or certificate program, free online resources are also available:

Noble Desktop provides learners with detailed information on AutoCAD in its Learn Hub articles. These free resources provide content on a range of relevant AutoCAD concepts and skills, such as polar tracking, zoning, the circle command, and object snap tracking. It also provides learners with a two-part, free tutorial on how to work with this popular software.
Udemy’s Free AutoCAD courses and tutorials include videos ranging from 30 minutes to several hours on core AutoCAD concepts like basic drafting techniques, 2D and 3D drawing skills, and civil tutorials.
Free instruction is also available from MyCADsite for those who are just new to AutoCAD, as well as for those with intermediate or advanced-level knowledge. The lessons provided are each followed by a quiz to test learners’ skills. This resource also provides students with AutoCAD tutorials and CAD files, as well as up-to-date HTML tutorials.
CADTutor is another free resource that provides articles, tutorials, and tips pertaining to AutoCAD. This site also is a great resource for connecting with other AutoCAD professionals. It includes forums where participants can ask AutoCAD questions and receive answers.

While free online AutoCAD resources can be a low-stakes, great starting place in your AutoCAD learning journey, it’s important to remember that these classes and tutorials are pre-recorded and don’t provide access to a live instructor. Additionally, content can become dated quickly with online materials, which makes it vital that you research the provider before working with their content. If you’re looking to master this software for work-related purposes, free online content can be a good place to start, but you’ll likely need more structured coursework, such as an in-person certificate program or live online bootcamp, to fully master this software for professional reasons.

What Should I Learn Alongside AutoCAD?

Once you’ve decided you’d like to learn AutoCAD, you may be curious if there are any skills you can study alongside this software to get the most out of your studies. Often, students who work with AutoCAD also explore topics like product design or graphic design to become more proficient with AutoCAD. Graphic design is a field that entails working with visual elements like graphics, text, or colors, to create a final product. Graphic Designers work in many industries, such as marketing and advertising, and are hired to create promotional materials like brochures and posters. Although most people associate graphic design with Adobe CC tools like Photoshop or Illustrator, some of these professionals also use AutoCAD because of this software’s precision in creating both 2D and 3D images.

AutoCAD training can also come in handy in the field of product design. Product Designers are tasked with brainstorming, creating, and iterating products that solve users’ problems. These professionals work on a product’s entire lifecycle, from its conceptualization to its launch. They work in industries like retail, healthcare, software, or manufacturing. Because AutoCAD is a helpful tool for 2D layouts and 3D conceptual design iterations, it’s a great complementary skill for product design in fields like engineering. This software helps Engineers make 3D product models and test their ergonomics and functionality. Additionally, the 2D models Engineers create with CAD software can be transformed into 3D models, as necessary.

Industries that Use AutoCAD

The greater Philadelphia area is home to many industries in which AutoCAD is used. In the following sections, several key sectors in the city will be explored, such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, clean energy, and civil engineering, as well as the role AutoCAD skills plays in each.

Advanced Manufacturing

In Philadelphia, the advanced manufacturing industry is a staple sector. The city was once referred to as the “Workshop of the World.” There are currently 190,000 workers employed in advanced manufacturing-related careers in more than 5,600 manufacturers around the city in sub-sectors like plastics, chemical, and aerospace manufacturing. Drawing from the city’s central location and robust infrastructure’s supply chain networks, Philadelphia continues to be a hub for manufacturing companies to create and transport a range of materials and products to regions around the US. Major firms like Pfizer, DuPont, Dow Chemical, and Boeing have all opened up manufacturing operations in the city.

Individuals who know how to use AutoCAD play an integral role in advanced manufacturing in Philadelphia. CAD software remains a popular tool that assists manufacturers of all types with designing their products. This tool helps those in various manufacturing subsectors create accurate 3D models of products. In addition to AutoCAD’s capabilities for creating detailed digital drawings, this tool helps those who work in manufacturing study and analyze a product’s design from all angles, which not only includes its minute details but also how its structure functions as a whole. This is an essential component of the manufacturing process.

Aerospace

The Philadelphia aerospace industry is another key sector for the city’s economy. Pennsylvania is a prime location for aerospace companies to research, manufacture parts and products, and continue to make breakthroughs in this field. Many leading aerospace manufacturers have set up operations in the city. With the help of the PA EDGE program, Pennsylvania-based businesses in key manufacturing sectors like aerospace can take advantage of tax credits through the PA Department of Revenue when they purchase clean hydrogen and natural gas from a Regional Clean Hydrogen Hub. Within the Philadelphia aerospace industry, Aerospace Engineers use CAD software like AutoCAD to create parts for aircraft, design prototypes, and perform simulations.

Clean Energy

Clean energy is another prominent industry in Philadelphia in which AutoCAD skills can be put to use. Residents of the city can take advantage of a range of renewable energy initiatives as the city strives to adopt renewable energy programs. Through the Municipal Energy Master Plan, the city strives to cut its greenhouse gas emissions in half and reduce energy use by 20% by 2030. Philadelphia is also working to implement a Streetlight Improvement Plan in which 100,000 street lamps will be replaced with energy-efficient LED bulbs, a plan that is expected to cut the city’s street light electricity usage in half. Energy Engineers in Philadelphia use AutoCAD to create, test, and make blueprints for power plant energy products and systems. These individuals are employed in sub-industries like hydroelectric, nuclear, solar, or wind.

Civil Engineering

In Philadelphia, civil engineering is a core industry that includes planning, designing, building, and maintaining public and private infrastructure like bridges, roads, sewage systems, tunnels, and facilities. In addition to creating new infrastructure, Civil Engineers also make improvements to existing infrastructure that has fallen into disrepair, such as maintaining airports or railways. In 2023, approximately 121,000 Philadelphia residents were employed in the construction sector to execute infrastructure projects of all sizes and scopes. Within the civil engineering sector in Philadelphia, AutoCAD is a popular software product for construction project planning, design, and visualization. It helps Civil Engineers create electrical systems, plumbing, architecture, and mechanical elements for projects.

AutoCAD Job Titles and Salaries

AutoCAD skills can be put to use in many career paths in Philadelphia. The following paragraphs will take a closer look at several popular professions in the city in which knowledge of AutoCAD is essential, including CAD design, CAD drafting, and mechanical design, as well as the basic job requirements and salary ranges for each role.

CAD Designer

CAD Designers who work in Philadelphia are hired to create 2D and 3D drawings for complex projects. These professionals work in industries like architecture, fashion, civil engineering, medical equipment, manufacturing, construction, or electronics. The daily tasks of a CAD Designer include proposing project budgets and timelines, working with CAD software like AutoCAD for planning and modeling, collecting reference material for clients, revising drawings, and maintaining a design record database. In Philadelphia, CAD Designers earn around $71,000-$81,000 a year.

CAD Drafter

Those who are employed as CAD Drafters in Philadelphia rely on various types of computer-aided software like AutoCAD to create designs and detailed digital drawings that transform the ideas generated by Architects, Surveyors, or Engineers into blueprints for products or buildings. These individuals are hired by organizations to draft and edit their drawings to include different specifications, annotations, and dimensions relative to the project. These drawings must be extremely accurate so that the final product or structure created is safe, functional, and can satisfy all necessary requirements. The average yearly salary for a Philadelphia-based CAD Drafter is $61,000-$71,000.

Mechanical Designer

Mechanical Designers in Philadelphia work alongside engineers to create drawings for machines, equipment, systems, or devices. Some also offer suggestions about how to streamline operations and manufacturing workflow. These professionals use complex software like AutoCAD to ensure the designs they create satisfy clients’ needs and requirements. The drawings Mechanical Designers create must also comply with client standards and any established regulations. On a daily basis, these professionals perform tasks like creating and testing prototypes and evaluating the results. The average yearly pay for a Mechanical Designer in Philadelphia is $83,000-$93,000.

AutoCAD Classes Near Me

If you want to learn how to work with CAD software, you can search for AutoCAD classes in Philadelphia to find the study option most suited to your needs. Coursework is available for those who are just getting started with this software, as well as individuals who have experience with computer-aided design and want to take their skills to the next level. The following sections will explore several popular course offerings available for Philadelphia residents, as well as the basic requirements for each program.

If you’re new to working with AutoCAD and want to learn the basics, you can enroll in Noble Desktop’s AutoCAD Level 1. This introductory-level program covers a range of useful techniques for creating and modifying drawings using AutoCAD. Coursework covers topics like working with layers and sheets, scaling drawings through viewpoints, creating dimensional drawings, and working between model space and paper space. There are no formal prerequisites to enroll in this program. Coursework is available in person in New York City and live online. Coursework is designed for PC users. Mac users can attend this class live online, but note that the Mac AutoCAD graphic interface differs from the PC version that will be taught in this program. All learners can retake this class for free for up to a year.

Noble Desktop also offers an AutoCAD Certification Program that’s a great option if you’d like to acquire hands-on training in AutoCAD from a live instructor with real-world training in CAD design and drafting. This class provides you with the chance to explore the basic commands for drawing and editing, then build on this knowledge and learn higher-level skills like customizations, collaboration tools, and macros. This intensive program includes six hours of private AutoCAD training in the 1-on-1 environment. These sessions can be used to revisit challenging AutoCAD concepts and further prepare for the Autodesk Certified Professional in AutoCAD for Design & Drafting exam. In addition to small class instruction, the cost of the exam and its proctoring are included with tuition, as is a free exam retake for those who need it. Those who pass the Autodesk AutoCAD exam earn an industry-recognized certification that will help them stand out from other job applicants in fields like design, drafting, or architecture. If you’d like to take this class but don’t want to sit for the exam, you can opt instead for an extra hour of tutoring. This class was created for PC users.

AutoCAD Bootcamp is available from NYIM Training for those interested in learning how to work with AutoCAD for 2D and 3D drafting and design-related projects. This hands-on bootcamp covers beginner to intermediate-level AutoCAD functions, including how to navigate its interface, create basic technical drawings, and use this software to make drawings for use in real-world architectural or mechanical projects. Those enrolled will become familiar with the basics AutoCAD tools needed to create and edit rudimentary 2D drawings. As coursework progresses, more advanced tools will be added to instruction. This program is available live online and in person in NYC. Tuition includes a free course retake for a full year. This class is intended for PC users and is not suitable for Mac users.

Those seeking to learn complex AutoCAD concepts can do so in Certstaffix Training’s AutoCAD - Advanced Course. This program is intended for those who already have experience with AutoCAD and are looking to take their skills even further. Participants learn how to manage layers, customize routines with macros, define attributes and dynamic blocks, and use tables. Instruction is provided on how to use advanced text objects and customize AutoCAD’s interface. This program is taught in the live online environment; students can complete all coursework remotely or use the computer lab that’s provided in Malvern, PA. A course retake is offered for no additional cost for up to six months after graduation.

In Intermediate AutoCAD, which is available from NYC Career Centers, participants have the chance to attain mastery in core CAD skills and concepts, including annotation styles, positioning, and layout. This program begins with tips aimed at helping participants streamline AutoCAD tasks and improve their work speed, such as how to customize their workspace. Coursework covers parametric drawing, productivity tools, and blocks. The final portion of this program provides participants with guidance on how to complete drawing projects like an office tower, title block, and lubrication system. As a prerequisite, learners should possess basic AutoCAD knowledge such as that which is provided in AutoCAD Level I. This class is intended for PC users. This class is taught live online and in person in New York City.

NYC Career Centers also offers AutoCAD in a Day. In this beginner-friendly program, participants receive hands-on training in the basic skills needed to draw and modify technical drawings. They use AutoCAD to create drawings for real architectural and mechanical objects. Coursework covers concepts like plotting, measurements, layers, text, and printing. This class is intended for PC users and isn’t suitable for those who use Macs. All participants can retake this short class for free for up to a full year after graduating. Instruction is provided in person in New York City and live online.

Self-guided AutoCAD programs

Students who are looking to make a career out of using AutoCAD might also be interested in their options for career focused, self guided classes. These courses allow students to learn at their own pace (with guidance and assistance from a professional mentor) and they provide students with career-focused training and job placement support. While many students find it desirable to learn from a live instructor, these self-paced classes are the perfect fit for self-motivated students looking to make a career out of their AutoCAD training.

AutoCAD Certificate Program

The Visual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) offers an immersive AutoCAD certificate program that aims to help students become career ready within only a few weeks of training. This program provides students with hands-on, job-focused training in the use of AutoCAD and the course is designed with new students in mind, meaning that you’ll move from your first construction draft to a capstone project to add to your professional portfolio over the course of the certificate program. This program also offers students the opportunity to take up to 80 hours of electives to help them specialize in subjects including Revit, Sketchup and Civil 3D Pro. With this option for specialization and the focus on career development training, this certificate program is an ideal entry point for aspiring designers, architects and engineers looking to learn how to use AutoCAD in a professional capacity.

AutoCAD Fundamentals

Students looking for an accelerated introduction to AutoCAD and computer-aided design generally may be interested in taking this introductory course offered by VDCI. Students will learn the basics of using AutoCAD and practical skills that they can bring back to their current jobs or use as the baseline for future CAD training (including some of the other advanced classes offered through VDCI). In this class, students will get live, hands-on instruction in the use of AutoCAD, including exercises in which they create drafting symbols, kitchens and bath fixtures, a floor plan, and deliverable file sheets. While you’ll need more training if you want to make a career out of your AutoCAD skills, this course is an excellent introduction to the kinds of projects that AutoCAD professionals will need to utilize.

AutoCAD Professional

If you have already taken the AutoCAD fundamentals program or you have experience with AutoCAD from another source, you may be interested in moving towards professional level training in this advanced AutoCAD program. In this program, students will learn how to create 2D designs for construction documents that meet all of the necessary and legal standards that they are expected to follow. This course offers practical skills training and is designed to ensure that experienced AutoCAD users are able to get the accelerated training that they need in order to start using the application in more complex professional capacities. This course is built to help students learn at their own pace and class scheduling is incredibly flexible for professionals looking to develop new skills while still working.

AutoCAD Corporate Training

If the employees at your workplace use AutoCAD or want to learn the basics of this software, let Noble Desktop help. Noble offers in-person and live online AutoCAD onsite and live online AutoCAD corporate training in Philadelphia for those who want to ensure their employees can fully leverage this complex program’s various features and tools. Coursework includes instruction on a range of essential AutoCAD skills and techniques, including how to work with the program’s interface, create and modify basic or advanced drawings, organize drawings with layers, and insert blocks. Students learn from an expert instructor with real-world AutoCAD training and expertise. Live courses provide an interactive, exciting way to acquire hands-on training in this widely used CAD software.

Noble can provide live online training with instructors in real time, as well as onsite training at your workplace or office. Flexible scheduling options are available on nights and weekends to ensure that even employees who have busy work schedules or personal commitments can find time to complete their studies. Those interested in enrolling multiple employees in training can purchase vouchers to open enrollment classes at a discount. To find out more about the different training options Noble can provide for those at your workplace, don’t hesitate to contact Noble today.

Philadelphia AutoCAD Courses by School

Here are some of the top Philadelphia schools offering AutoCAD training, including ONLC Training Centers (8 courses) and Certstaffix Training (3 courses). We’ve also included 4 schools that offer live online courses you can take from anywhere, including Philadelphia.

Noble Desktop

NYC location: 185 Madison Avenue, New York, NY

Founded in 1990, Noble Desktop offers part-time and full-immersion courses on anything you can think of from design and coding to business. Located in New York City and providing courses both online and in-person, Noble Desktop prides itself on accommodating dynamic courses and bootcamps with hands-on learning, time-tested curriculums, and education from top industry experts.
- AutoCAD Certification Program
  - 54 Hours
  - $2,499
- AutoCAD Masterclass
  - 48 Hours
  - $1,495
- AutoCAD Bootcamp
  - 30 Hours
  - $949
Virtual Design & Construction Institute
Locations:
- Live Online
Virtual Design and Construction Institute (VDCI) is a nationally accredited educational institution specializing in career-focused training for the design and construction industry. VDCI offers software training in CAD, BIM, and Virtual Design & Construction, equipping students with practical skills for immediate application.
- AutoCAD Certification Course (Self-Paced)
  - 15 Weeks
  - $2,595
- CAD Certificate Program (Self-Paced)
  - 8 Months
  - $5,320
NYIM Training

NYC location: 185 Madison Avenue, New York, NY

NYIM Training offers results-oriented business courses and corporate training online and in New York. With hands-on courses and certifications in data analytics, design, programming, office productivity, and finance, its extensive offering provides flexible training solutions for professionals and businesses.
- Beginner AutoCAD
  - 18 Hours
  - $599
NYC Career Centers

NYC location: 185 Madison Avenue, New York, NY

Career Centers offers intensive business courses and corporate training in the heart of New York City and remotely online. They offer courses in Microsoft Excel, finance & accounting, data analytics, Microsoft Office, and design.
- AutoCAD Bootcamp
  - 30 Hours
  - $949
- AutoCAD in a Day
  - 6 Hours
  - $325
- Beginner AutoCAD
  - 18 Hours
  - $599
- Intermediate AutoCAD
  - 12 Hours
  - $449
Certstaffix Training

Philadelphia location: 5 Great Valley Pkwy, Malvern, PA

Certstaffix offers live online classes and group training onsite for corporate entities all over the U.S. They provide courses in End-user/Desktop, IT Pro Skills, Online Marketing, Business Skills, and Programming/Development.
- AutoCAD Advanced
  - 3 Days
  - $1,730
- AutoCAD Essentials
  - 3 Days
  - $1,730
ONLC Training Centers

Philadelphia location: 1801 Market Street, Philadelphia, PA

ONLC has over 300 training sites and offers courses and certificates in many areas including desktop applications like Adobe, Microsoft Technical like Visual Studio, Server and Security, and Process and Programming like Java and Web Development.
- AutoCAD 3D Drawing and Modeling
  - 20 Hours
  - $1,495
- AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials
  - 20 Hours
  - $1,495
- AutoCAD for Novice Users
  - 33 Hours
  - $2,495

Showing 6 of 6 schools

Philadelphia AutoCAD
Corporate & Onsite Training

Upskill or reskill your workforce with our industry-leading corporate and onsite AutoCAD training programs. Conduct the training onsite at your location or live online from anywhere. You can also purchase vouchers for our public enrollment AutoCAD courses.

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Key Insights

Learn More About Philadelphia AutoCAD Courses

What is AutoCAD?

What Can You Do with AutoCAD Training?

What Will I Learn in an AutoCAD Class?

Basic Drawing & Editing Commands

Blocks

Templates

Layering Techniques

Collaboration

How Hard is it to Learn AutoCAD?

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning AutoCAD?

How Long Does it Take to Learn AutoCAD?

Should I Learn AutoCAD In Person or Online?

Can I Learn AutoCAD Free Online?

What Should I Learn Alongside AutoCAD?

Industries that Use AutoCAD

Advanced Manufacturing

Aerospace

Clean Energy

Civil Engineering

AutoCAD Job Titles and Salaries

CAD Designer

CAD Drafter

Mechanical Designer

AutoCAD Classes Near Me

Self-guided AutoCAD programs

AutoCAD Corporate Training

Philadelphia AutoCAD Courses by School

AutoCAD Certification Course (Self-Paced)

CAD Certificate Program (Self-Paced)

Beginner AutoCAD

AutoCAD Bootcamp

AutoCAD in a Day

Beginner AutoCAD

Intermediate AutoCAD

AutoCAD Advanced

AutoCAD Essentials

AutoCAD 3D Drawing and Modeling

AutoCAD Level 1: Essentials

AutoCAD for Novice Users

Philadelphia AutoCAD Corporate & Onsite Training Noble Desktop

AutoCAD Training Locations in or Near Philadelphia

Philadelphia Careers & Salaries Related to AutoCAD

Philadelphia AutoCAD
Corporate & Onsite Training