Murray State University

What you'll study

This bachelor’s degree builds core competence in technical drawing, spatial documentation and digital modelling. You will study fundamentals of geometric construction and descriptive geometry before progressing to advanced CAD and BIM applications. Typical modules cover:

• Engineering and Architectural Drafting: orthographic projection, sectioning, dimensioning and construction documentation for buildings and mechanical components.
• Computer-Aided Design (CAD): 2D and 3D drafting workflows using industry-standard software, file management, layers, and plotting.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM): collaborative modelling, information-rich documentation, clash detection and model-based quantity take-off.
• Manufacturing and Machine Drawing: tolerancing, fits, assembly drawings, and CNC-ready modelling for fabrication and production environments.
• Materials and Construction Technology: properties of common construction and engineering materials, reading specifications, and interpreting codes and standards.
• Surveying and Site Documentation: site measurement techniques, topographic drawing and integration of site data into design documentation.
• Standards and Professional Practice: industry drawing standards, legal considerations, contract documentation and communication with engineers, architects and builders.
• Capstone Project or Internship: an applied project or work placement that consolidates skills in producing a complete set of construction or manufacturing documents for a real or simulated client.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with demonstrated strength in mathematics (algebra and geometry) and a science subject. Practical experience with technical drawing, drafting courses at secondary level or a portfolio of relevant work can strengthen an application. Murray State typically considers admissions holistically; successful candidates usually show good communication skills and an aptitude for technical problem solving. International applicants must meet English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of technical design and production roles across construction, manufacturing and engineering sectors. Common job titles include drafter, CAD technician, BIM technician/model manager, architectural technologist, manufacturing designer and engineering technician. With experience and further professional certification, graduates can progress to senior CAD/BIM coordination, project documentation management, estimating and specification roles, or move into related areas such as project management, quality control and digital fabrication. Regional employers include architecture and engineering firms, contractors, fabrication shops and manufacturing plants; graduates also find opportunities within government agencies and utilities that require technical documentation expertise.

Why study at Murray State University

Murray State offers a focused, practice-oriented approach with small classes and hands-on lab time that help students develop drafting and modelling skills to professional standards. The programme emphasises use of industry-standard software and workflows, combined with applied projects and internship opportunities with local and regional employers. Faculty with professional experience guide students through real-world documentation practices and capstone projects, while the university’s regional partnerships support placement opportunities and connections with employers in construction and manufacturing sectors. The campus environment and resources aim to prepare graduates to enter the workforce ready to produce accurate, specification-compliant technical drawings and digital models.