CAD courses can help you learn 2D and 3D modeling, technical drawing, and design visualization. You can build skills in creating detailed schematics, understanding material properties, and applying design principles to various projects. Many courses introduce tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and SketchUp, that support drafting and prototyping in fields such as architecture, engineering, and product design. By mastering these tools, you can effectively communicate your ideas and bring your designs to life.

Skills you'll gain: AutoCAD, Architectural Drawing, Drafting and Engineering Design, Blueprint Reading, Blueprinting, Technical Drawing, Computer-Aided Design
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Simulation and Simulation Software, Engineering Analysis, Engineering, Prototyping, Computer-Aided Design, Cloud Computing
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, SketchUp (3D Modeling Software), Computer Graphics, Visualization (Computer Graphics), 3D Assets, Design Software, Graphical Tools, Product Design, Graphic Design
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Computer-Aided Design, AutoCAD, Drafting and Engineering Design, Product Design, Product Development, Technical Drawing, Design
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Finite Element Methods, Engineering Analysis, Simulation and Simulation Software, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Structural Analysis
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Finite Element Methods, Simulation and Simulation Software, Cloud Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Simulations, Mechanical Design, Engineering Design Process, Verification And Validation
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Adobe Illustrator, Color Theory, Graphic and Visual Design, Design, Design Elements And Principles, Graphic Design, Typography, Adobe Creative Cloud, File Management
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Simulation and Simulation Software, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Computer-Aided Design, Pump Stations, Mechanical Design, Hydraulics, Cloud Computing
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Data Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Visualization (Computer Graphics), JSON, Data Mapping, Javascript
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: Animations, Content Creation, Design Elements And Principles, Adobe Creative Cloud, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Graphic and Visual Design, Design, Digital Design
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Coursera
Skills you'll gain: C++ (Programming Language), Data Structures, Data Store, Data Cleansing, Data Mapping, Data Import/Export, Data Validation, Data Integrity
Intermediate · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Prompt Engineering, Content Creation, Digital Design, Image Quality, Creativity, Design and Product, Marketing Design
Beginner · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours
Browse the CAD courses below—popular starting points on Coursera.
Understanding your goal of learning computer-aided design (CAD), whether for engineering, architecture, or design, can guide your learning journey. Regular practice is crucial for mastering CAD tools and improving precision. Join communities such as CAD forums or Reddit’s r/CAD to get tips and share projects. Work on real projects like designing simple objects or participating in design challenges.
CAD courses cover a variety of topics essential for mastering computer-aided design software. These include the basics of CAD software, such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Fusion 360. Learners will explore topics such as 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and rendering. Courses often include instruction on creating technical drawings, understanding geometric dimensions and tolerances, and applying materials and lighting effects. Advanced courses might cover complex assembly modeling, simulation, and analysis, as well as industry-specific applications such as architectural design or mechanical engineering. Practical projects help learners apply these concepts to real-world design scenarios.
A certificate in CAD can open up various career opportunities in design, engineering, and manufacturing. Common roles include CAD technician, design engineer, architectural drafter, and mechanical designer. These positions involve creating detailed technical drawings, developing 3D models, and collaborating with engineers and architects to design and optimize products and structures. With the increasing reliance on digital design tools in various industries, earning a CAD certificate can significantly enhance your career prospects and opportunities for advancement in fields such as architecture, automotive, aerospace, and product design.