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:
Completion of a program conference is required to be admitted to the program. You’ll learn more about the program as well as specific admissions requirements.
Anyone interested in CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology can complete a program conference in two ways:
Online Program Conference
Watch the program conference video and complete the information form at the end of the video. Click this link to watch the program conference video.
In-Person Program Conference
Those who prefer an in-person program conference may schedule one by emailing kristie.mckibben@kirkwood.edu
School Year: 2024–25
Program Entry Semester: Fall
| Fall | Spring | Summer | Fall | Spring | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Credit Hours per Semester | 14 | 17 | 9 | 18 | 19 | 77 |
| In-State Tuition | $3,038 | $3,689 | $1,953 | $3,906 | $4,123 | $16,709 |
| 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.) | $449.45 | $291.75 | $151.25 | $408.74 | $640.50 | $1,941.69 |
| Course/Section Fees | $30 | $40 | $0 | $150 | $85 | $305 |
| Laptop (required devices) | $1,250 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $1,250 |
| Testing Fees | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Third Party Credentials | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Tool Sets | $20 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $20 |
| Uniforms | $5 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $5 |
| Other | $50 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $0 | $50 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $4,892.45 | $4,070.75 | $2,154.25 | $4,514.74 | $4,898.50 | $20,530.69 |
Costs provided are estimated and based on the following current tuition rates: $217 (In-State), $290 (Out-of-State), $400 (International).
Fees and costs are subject to change. To view all costs associated with attending college visit our Tuition and Costs page.
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*
Students in Kirkwood’s CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology program, as well as those pursuing the Computer Aided Design Certificate or CAD/Mechanical Engineering Technology Diploma, are encouraged to join the Kirkwood chapter of SkillsUSA, a workforce development organization for students with nearly 400,000 members nationally, or TSA (Technology Student Association), an organization devoted exclusively to the needs of students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
SkillsUSA and TSA are two of eight recognized members of the National Coordinating Council for Career and Technical Student Organizations (NCC-CTSO). CTSOs are co-curricular groups that help students in career and technical education programs further their knowledge and skills by participating in activities, events, and competitions.
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.