Lewis-Clark State College

What you'll study

This bachelor programme builds on foundational drafting principles and advances into contemporary digital design workflows. Core study areas include technical orthographic and isometric drawing, advanced 2D and 3D computer‑aided design (CAD), building information modelling (BIM), and parametric modelling. Students also study materials and manufacturing processes, construction and architectural drawing, mechanical drafting, standards and codes, and detailing for fabrication and assembly.

• Technical Drawing & Graphics: projection techniques, dimensioning, tolerancing and industry drawing standards.
• CAD & BIM: professional use of industry software for 2D drafting, 3D modelling, assembly drawings and information‑rich models.
• Materials & Processes: properties of common construction and manufacturing materials, plus methods of fabrication and joining.
• Mechanical & Architectural Drafting: discipline‑specific practices including HVAC/structural detailing and architectural plan sets.
• Computer and Manufacturing Integration: CAM basics, CNC data preparation and interoperability between CAD and production systems.
• Professional Practice & Project Management: project documentation, specification writing, codes compliance, teamwork and client communication.
• Capstone/Design Project: a supervised, practical project that integrates modelling, documentation and project delivery, often completed in collaboration with industry partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification or an equivalent credential. Candidates with an associate degree or substantial prior technical coursework in drafting, engineering technology or a related field may be considered for advanced standing. Typical expectations include satisfactory attainment in mathematics and technical subjects, basic computer literacy and a demonstrated interest in drafting or design. Some applicants are asked to submit a portfolio of technical drawings or CAD work and may be invited to an interview. Mature applicants with relevant work experience are encouraged to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles where precise digital and manual drawing skills are required. Common job titles include drafter/CAD technician, BIM technician/modeler, design technologist, detailing drafter, CNC programmer and production documentation specialist. Employers include architectural and engineering firms, construction contractors, manufacturing companies and fabrication shops. With experience, graduates can progress to supervisory and project coordinator positions, specialise in BIM management or move into related fields such as estimating, quality control or further study in engineering and design.

Why study at Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis‑Clark State College emphasises applied, hands‑on learning in small classes where students receive direct access to faculty and lab resources. The college provides training on industry‑standard CAD and BIM software and maintains lab facilities suited to drafting and prototyping work. Close ties with regional industry and local employers create opportunities for internships, cooperative projects and practical experience in the Lewiston‑Clarkston area and beyond. The programme’s practical focus is designed to prepare graduates to enter the workforce quickly with job‑ready skills and an industry‑oriented portfolio.