AutoCAD Classes & Certifications

AutoCAD is the leading computer-aided design program for making 3D models and schematics. While most commonly associated with architecture and civil engineering, AutoCAD is used in almost every professional context where someone wants to create a model, set of blueprints, or other test design before creating a physical product. This means the program is utilized on projects ranging from schematics and blueprints to floor plans and 3D printing files. If your job requires you to make precise models or plans before you start construction, you are likely going to use AutoCAD in some capacity.

AutoCAD is used to draw incredibly precise 2D outlines and schematics of 3D objects and spaces so that engineers (and computers) precisely understand what they are being asked to build once the project enters a testing and modeling phase. This is an essential step in virtually every project that intends to produce a physical object at its conclusion, whether that be a building, a car, or a toaster.

Released by Autodesk in 1982, AutoCAD remains one of the most important design applications on the consumer market. While it can be pricey (a monthly subscription for individuals is likely to run over 200 dollars), there isn’t a program better suited for building elaborate 3D schematics, blueprints, and designs. AutoCAD’s longevity and reputation as an industry standard make it an invaluable tool for professionals and enthusiasts alike, consistently delivering top-notch capabilities for design and drafting. 

Why Learn AutoCAD?

AutoCAD skills will prepare you with part of the technical foundation for a career in interior design, project management, machining, manufacturing, architectural design, or engineering. Learning AutoCAD will give you the relevant skills to draft detailed architectural plans and specifications or create working prototypes. AutoCAD can also help you learn how to take advantage of emerging 3D printing technologies across various industries.

AutoCAD is most commonly used in industries that require incredibly precise plans and outlines for projects before they can be put into production. This is one of the reasons that AutoCAD is so frequently associated with architecture. Buildings can cost billions of dollars and require hundreds of thousands of man-hours of work to build, so the planning stage must be precise down to the foot. AutoCAD is an irreplaceable tool in projects such as this since it offers so much fine control over the design and drafting of a set of plans and blueprints. Similarly, Engineers of all stripes use AutoCAD to produce schematics for all projects, including those undertaken by electrical engineers, electronics engineers, civil engineers, and mechanical engineers.

AutoCAD is also a baseline for most advanced computer-aided design applications. If you want to learn more specialized tools for projects like civil engineering, electrical design, or even interior design, you will want to learn AutoCAD first to ensure you understand this foundational knowledge.

Ease of Learning

While AutoCAD can seem like an intimidating program to learn, it is fairly accessible for new users. Students won’t need any prior knowledge of computer-aided design, and the program handles many of the more complex math functions that go into the design process. While someone wanting to work on incredibly elaborate and high-stake designs such as bridge construction, will need a lot of detailed training, for students who are interested in learning AutoCAD for things like interior design or 3D printing, the program is incredibly accessible to students with little background in professional design.

3D Printing

One reason for the rising demand for AutoCAD skills is the introduction of additive manufacturing – or 3D printing. 3D printing is a rapidly developing technology that has become consumer viable fairly rapidly. It relies on the creation of CAD models that are used to guide the printer. This means anyone interested in experimenting with 3D printing, whether on a professional or a personal level, will want to learn AutoCAD to ensure that the finalized printed model is as precise as a user desires.

The technology surrounding 3D printing is still relatively unrefined, but it is rapidly starting to find its way into many different fields. For example, medical researchers are using 3D printing technology to build incredibly precise models of tumors that give doctors a better understanding of what they are looking for when examining patents. 3D printing is also a huge part of many small businesses that utilize a print-on-demand business model to produce goods for customers at an accessible price point, making their business profitable in a way that it would never have been. 3D printing is still a nascent industry, driving growth in employment opportunities across multiple manufacturing industries.

AutoCAD Careers

AutoCAD is a versatile tool that sees use in a wide variety of industries. This means that many professionals, including Drafters, Engineers, and other Designers, will use the tool to build schematics and blueprints. Anyone aspiring to design a physical project, be it something as large as a building or as small as a component of a phone, will benefit from learning AutoCAD. AutoCAD is also a useful tool for product managers and entrepreneurs to learn how to use because it will make the planning and design process much easier and less prone to failure.

There are also more creative fields that utilize AutoCAD. For example, Interior designers use AutoCAD. They create technically specific traffic flows and layout design schematics with the software. AutoCAD is the most efficient way for interior designers to create collaborative plans that their contractors can reference for their remodeling projects. It also helps them ensure that they are aware of the limitations of a design project. AutoCAD lets them prepare for the physical act of construction, and it can help them be more aware of what kinds of design decisions aren’t possible (for example, what walls are load-bearing and what walls aren’t).

AutoCAD is so popular among professionals in many industries because it makes designing more efficient and it’s a tool that can be used collaboratively. Designers with AutoCAD skills are in high demand, and some designers are able to make a comfortable living freelancing. AutoCAD positions are expected to grow by 13% over the next few years. This is a massive expansion of open positions compared to the average career in the U.S.

Entrepreneurs can also now make use of AutoCAD, given its use in 3D printing projects. By learning how to build plans in AutoCAD and feed those plans to a 3D printer, niche businesses (particularly online businesses) can massively reduce the cost associated with producing a wide range of different products. This opens up the opportunity for small business owners to succeed in fields that would have otherwise been unprofitable due to the high production costs associated with making their products. Innovators and Entrepreneurs have more options than ever, thanks to the new technologies available to them that rely on AutoCAD to function.

AutoCAD is also an important skill for managerial positions like Product Managers. Product Managers will oversee the step-by-step process that takes a product idea through the development stage until it reaches production. Product Managers will need to know exactly how much the raw materials involved in the manufacturing process will cost, and AutoCAD models can provide them with this information. They will also have to collaborate with technicians and engineers regarding the final design schematics of a product, which means needing to learn how to read AutoCAD blueprints.

What Will You Learn in an AutoCAD Class?

In an AutoCAD class, you’ll learn a wide range of skills and concepts related to computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting using Autodesk’s AutoCAD software. AutoCAD is a powerful tool commonly used in various industries, including architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and construction. Here, we’ll explore the key topics and skills typically covered in an AutoCAD class. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a novice, AutoCAD offers much to learn on its versatile platform. 

• Introduction to AutoCAD. Students will understand the history and importance of AutoCAD in various industries. They’ll learn how to navigate the AutoCAD user interface, including toolbars, ribbons, and menus. 

• Basic drawing commands. Students will learn fundamental drawing tools such as lines, circles, rectangles, and polygons. They’ll explore precision techniques for specifying dimensions and coordinates. 

• Modifying and editing drawings. Students will master editing commands to modify existing objects such as Move, Copy, and Rotate. They’ll understand more advanced editing tools like Trim, Extend, and Fillet. 

• Layers and properties. Students will work with layers to organize and manage elements in drawings. They’ll learn how to define object properties like color, line type, and line weight. 

• Texts and annotations. Students will add text and annotations to drawings using tools like Text, MText, and Multileaders. They’ll learn how to format and align text within the drawing. 

• Hatching and gradients. Students will create hatch patterns and gradients to represent materials and textures. They’ll adjust hatch scale and angle for accuracy. 

• Dimensioning and measuring. Students will apply dimensions to drawings using various dimensioning tools. They’ll grow to understand dimension style and settings. 

• Blocks and symbols. Students will create reusable block libraries for commonly used symbols and elements. They’ll explore inserting and managing blocks within drawings. 

• Advanced drawing tools. Students will explore advanced drawing tools like polylines, splines, and ellipses. They’ll understand parametric constraints to maintain design integrity. 

• Layouts and printing. Students will set up paper space layouts for plotting and printing. They’ll learn how to configure plot styles and page setups. 

• 3D Modeling Basics. Students will experience an introduction to 3D modeling concepts and workspace. They’ll create basic 3D objects like cubes, spheres, and cylinders. 

• Viewports and rendering. Students will manage multiple views of 3D models using viewports. They’ll master basic rendering and visualization techniques. 

• Customization and automation. Students will learn how to customize the AutoCAD interface with menus, tool palettes, and macros. They’ll likely be introduced to scripting and automation using AutoLISP and Visual Basic for Applications (VBA)

• Collaboration and file management. Students will learn best practices for organizing and sharing AutoCAD files. They’ll understand collaborative workflows using external references. 

• Industry-specific applications. Students will tailor their AutoCAD skills to specific industries like architecture, mechanical engineering, or electrical design. They’ll explore industry-specific tool sets provided by AutoCAD.

• Troubleshooting and problem solving. Students will learn how to identify and resolve common issues and errors in AutoVCAD. They’ll develop strategies for efficient problem solving. 

• Project work. Students will apply learned skills to real-world projects. They’ll develop a portfolio of drawings and designs. 

Overall, an AutoCAD class equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary to create accurate and professional 2D and 3D drawings and models. 

Is It Worth Attending an AutoCAD Course? 

Dedication whether to take an AutoCAD course or teach yourself the software is a choice that depends on your specific circumstances, learning style, and goals. Both approaches have their advantages and drawbacks, and the best option for you will vary. 

There are several pros to taking an AutoCAD course. One of the significant advantages of enrolling in an AutoCAD course is that it provides a structured curriculum. Courses are designed to take you through the software step-by-step, ensuring that you learn the fundamentals before moving onto a more advanced concept. In a course, you also have access to instructors who are experienced in teaching AutoCAD. These teachers can provide valuable insights, answer questions, and offer guidance based on their expertise. 

Completing a formal AutoCAD course also often results in a certificate, which can be a valuable credential when seeking employment or freelance work. Employers may prefer candidates with formal training. Courses also typically include hands-on exercises and projects, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned in a practical context. This practical experience can be invaluable in building your skills. AutoCAD courses also often provide opportunities to connect with fellow students who share similar interests. Networking can lead to collaborations, job referrals, and a broader professional network. 

There are also some cons in taking a formal AutoCAD course. Taking a formal AutoCAD course can be expensive, especially if you opt for an in-person program or a prestigious institution. However, online courses are often more affordable. Courses also have set schedules and durations, which may not be convenient for everyone. If you have a busy schedule or prefer to learn at your own pace, this can be a drawback. 

There are also some pros to teaching yourself AutoCAD. First of which is flexibility. Learning AutoCAD on your own allows you to choose your own pace and schedule. You can tailor your learning experience to fit your lifestyle and commitments. Self-learning is also often more cost-effective since you can access free or low-cost online tutorials, resources, and software. You won’t incur tuition fees. 

When self-learning, you have the freedom to focus on specific aspects of AutoCAD that interest you the most or are most relevant to your needs. You can skip over what you already know and dive deeper into areas of interest. Teaching yourself AutoCAD often involves real-world design problems, which can enhance your problem-solving skills and creativity. 

One negative aspect of self-learning is the lack of structure. Self-learning can be challenging for beginners because it lacks the structured approach of a formal course. Without guidance, you may struggle to know where to start or what to prioritize. You also won’t have an instructor to provide feedback on your work or answer questions as they arise. This can lead to frustration and slower progress. Without guidance, you might develop bad habits or use inefficient workflows that could hinder your proficiency in AutoCAD. Self-learners may also miss out on certain aspects of AutoCAD or important best practices, which can limit their abilities. 

AutoCAD Careers

With applications in a number of different industries, AutoCAD skills can be an especially valuable addition to an individual’s resume. While learning the program alone may not be enough to jump-start an entirely new career, combining AutoCAD proficiency with industry-specific skills in design, architecture, engineering, or manufacturing is a surefire way to stand out from the crowd during the job search process.

Across the country, there are a wide variety of AutoCAD-related careers that skilled professionals should consider. According to recent job postings on Indeed and salary figures from Glassdoor, positions such as CAD Designer can pay between $45,000 and $60,000 per year in many major cities. Meanwhile, architecture-related positions such as a Drafter, can earn similarly well, between the $45,000 and $55,000 per year salary grade. Professionals versed in AutoCAD can also qualify for well-paying product design positions or work with clients as accomplished interior designers.

Learn AutoCAD

AutoCAD Classes

Students looking to learn AutoCAD have a lot of different options available to them. Students can learn broad AutoCAD skills or narrow their focus to learning how to use the program in specific professional contexts.

Noble Desktop offers a series of courses,  AutoCAD Level I,  AutoCAD Level II, and AutoCAD Level III, for students looking to learn basic, intermediate, and advanced AutoCAD skills. In these courses, students will learn basic AutoCAD functionalities such as basic drawing and layering tools, text annotation, and advanced object types. The advanced courses will teach students how to customize layers, create data tables, work with external references, incorporate dynamic attributes, utilize collaboration tools, and prepare schematics for publication. These courses aim to teach students the necessary AutoCAD skills that they will need to complement their specific field training in skills like engineering, design, or drafting. Noble also offers an AutoCAD Bootcamp and an Introduction to AutoCAD course. The Bootcamp combines the Level I and Level II classes, and the introductory course offers a portion of the Level I course for students looking to acclimate themselves to the basics of the AutoCAD interface quickly. Noble also offers a 3D Modeling in AutoCAD course for students interested in learning the specific ways AutoCAD can be used to build 3D models.

In-person or Online?

When picking an AutoCAD class, you’ll need to decide whether you want to commute to a training facility or learn online from your home office. Each kind of class comes with advantages and disadvantages, so students must consider their own goals and learning styles to maximize their success odds.

Students often prefer in-person training options because the classroom design is meant to help improve student learning outcomes. Being in a dedicated learning environment alongside a cohort of classmates can go a long way to helping ensure that students retain the information they learn in class. Students will benefit from working directly with an experienced instructor who can provide personalized feedback and assistance, which can be invaluable considering how precise some AutoCAD projects need to be. The drawback to these courses is that students can only enroll in classes they can physically attend. This can limit students who don’t live near major metropolitan areas.

Students looking for more training options may consider enrolling in a live online course. These classes allow students to learn from experienced instructors in private digital classrooms rather than requiring a commute to a training facility. Students can still receive detailed, direct feedback on their work, and instructors will still be able to provide real-time assistance on difficult AutoCAD concepts for students who are struggling. Students will even have the advantage of learning AutoCAD on their personal computers, which may be profitable in the long term. The drawback to these classes is that the tech requirements for digital learning can be steep, with programs like AutoCAD (not only is AutoCAD a system-intensive program, but its Mac and PC versions differ significantly). Plus, students will need to supply their own version of AutoCAD, which can be expensive.

How Hard is It to Learn AutoCAD? 

Learning AutoCAD, like any new skill, varies in difficulty from person to person and depends on several factors, including your prior experience with design software, your familiarity with technical concepts, and your dedication to the learning process. Here, we’ll explore how challenging it can be to learn AutoCAD and provide some insights to help you gauge your readiness. 

• Previous experience. If you have prior experience with design software or related fields like architecture, engineering, or drafting, you’ll likely find learning AutoCAD easier. Familiarity with design principles can help you graph the concepts more quickly. For absolute beginners with no background in design or CAD software, AutoCAD may seem daunting at first. The interface and terminology might be unfamiliar, which can make the initial learning curve appear steep. 
• Technical aptitude. Your comfort and familiarity with computers and software, in general, will influence your experience with AutoCAD. If you’re tech-savvy, you may adapt more easily to the software’s interface and tools. AutoCAD requires precision and attention to detail. If you naturally excel in these areas, you might find it less challenging to create accurate drawings. 
• Learning resources. The availability of high-quality learning resources such as tutorials, textbooks, online courses, and video lessons, can significantly impact your learning experience. Access to comprehensive and well-structured materials can make the process smoother. Your choice between self-learning and enrolling in a formal AutoCAD course can also affect the learning difficulty. Courses provide structured guidance, while self-learning allows for flexibility but may require more self-discipline. 
• Practice and persistence. Regardless of your background, AutoCAD proficiency largely depends on practice. The more you use the software, the more comfortable and skilled you will become. Be prepared to invest time in practicing to improve your abilities. Learning AutoCAD, like any complex software, can be frustrating at times. You may encounter challenges, errors, or unexpected issues. Persistence and problem-solving skills are essential for overcoming these obstacles. 
• Complexity of projects. Beginners should start with basic projects and gradually work their way up to more complex tasks. Trying to tackle intricate designs too soon can be overwhelming. Depending on your industry or field of interest, you may encounter specific challenges related to AutoCAD such as 3D modeling, parametric design, or specialized industry standards. 
• Support and collaboration. If you have colleagues or mentors with AutoCAD experience, they can provide guidance, answer questions, and share tips. Collaboration can make the learning process smoother. AutoCAD has a vibrant online community where users share knowledge and help each other. Participating in forums and discussion boards can be valuable for getting assistance and advice. 

In conclusion, the difficulty of learning AutoCAD varies depending on your background, technical aptitude, available resources, and the complexity of the projects you aim to undertake. While it may seem challenging at first, with dedication, practice, and access to the right resources, most individuals can learn to use AutoCAD effectively. 

Live AutoCAD Training Near You

One of the most powerful advancements in how designers across all fields work today has been the development of computer-aided design programs. Used in everything from industrial manufacturing to interior and product design, computer-aided design programs give users powerful tools to plan out designs and export them for a variety of purposes. In fact, computer-aided design programs are even used in cutting-edge fields like 3D printing today.

While there are several different computer-aided design programs available today, none are as popular as AutoCAD. As the premier software for computer-aided design across many different industries, AutoCAD is quickly becoming the standard for interior designers, architects, manufacturing designers, and 3D printing enthusiasts to create immaculately polished designs and blueprints. As a result, learning AutoCAD today is an incredibly versatile skill for professionals looking to dive into a design-related career.

Virtual AutoCAD Classes

While in-person learning may be perfect for some students, it isn’t always the best choice for everyone. In particular, busy learners looking for a flexible educational option may not get the most value out of an in-person class. For these learners, virtual courses can offer unparalleled value, due to their combination of high-quality educational experiences with the ability to complete lessons from the home or office.

For over three decades, Noble Desktop has offered industry-leading tech education to thousands of students both in-person and online. Today, Noble Desktop is proud to offer virtual AutoCAD classes for students of a variety of skill levels. In addition to offering introductory classes such as AutoCAD 1, Noble Desktop also provides two levels of instruction for more advanced learners, as well as a course focused specifically on 3D modeling.

Noble Desktop’s affiliate companies, NYIM Training and NYC Career Centers, also offer AutoCAD training. While NYC Career Centers’ AutoCAD classes include private tutoring options in the software,  NYIM Training’s AutoCAD classes feature a 40-hour AutoCAD Bootcamp designed to help students become experts in the software in no time.

Corporate & Onsite AutoCAD Training

Do you work in architecture, engineering, 3D printing, or another industry where AutoCAD is standard? Noble Desktop also offers onsite and virtual AutoCAD corporate training sessions to businesses of all sizes. In addition to these training sessions, employers can purchase group vouchers for their teams to attend Noble Desktop’s open enrollment AutoCAD classes at a major discount. To learn more about these opportunities, please contact Noble Desktop. Whether you’re an individual looking to advance your skills or a company seeking to enhance your team’s proficiency, Noble Desktop has tailored solutions to meet your AutoCAD training needs. 

What Should You Consider Learning Alongside AutoCAD? 

Understanding computer graphics principles and visualization tools can enhance your ability to create compelling and realistic presentations of your designs. Programs like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator are widely used for enhancing drawings and creating visualizations. 

Noble Desktop offers a course called Adobe Photoshop Bootcamp. Students interested in this course will explore the world of digital image editing and graphic design in a comprehensive manner. This hands-on program provides practical instruction to enhance students’ photo editing skills and graphic creation abilities. Throughout a series of engaging projects, students will become proficient in color correction, precise selections, image integration, and advanced Photoshop techniques. They’ll also gain a solid understanding of essential Photoshop features like layers, masks, filters, and typography. 

If you’re involved in managing design projects, acquiring project management skills can be valuable. Project management tools and methodologies can help you efficiently plan, execute, and monitor projects. 

NYC Career Centers offers a course called Project Management Bootcamp. In this course students will dive into the five fundamental phasers of project management, master the art of crafting compelling project proposals and business cases, and acquire the essential strategies and tools for seamless collaboration with project teams. Whether they’re embarking on a project management career, seeking a refresher on key concepts, or aspiring to gain expertise in this field, this course is tailored to students’ needs. 

Learning programming languages, especially those relevant to AutoCAD customization (e.gAutoLISP, VBA, Python) can help you automate repetitive tasks and enhance your efficiency in AutoCAD. 

Practical Programming offers a course called Introduction to Python Programming. Students will gain a deep understanding of Python’s syntax, equipping them to write complex programs. Additionally, they’ll delve into the inner workings of how computers execute programs. In this hands-on program, they’ll also learn how to operate a text editor and terminal effectively. At the end of this course, students will have the essential skills to think like a programmer, opening doors to a world of coding possibilities.