CAD Technician

Diploma: Short Certificate

Location: Online

A group of five people inspecting architectural plans on a table in an office or studio setting, with computers and large windows in the background.

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Overview

Get a thorough, hands-on introduction to the Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) software and techniques used in home design, construction, renovations, and development work.

Tuition $2,525
Credential Short Certificate
Length 14 weeks
Hours Full-time
Delivery Online
Campus Online
Start Dates

What to expect

  • Project-based learning
  • Project-based learning
  • Presentations
  • Laboratory work
  • Homework
  • Theory
  • Individual projects
  • Theory examinations
  • Practical assessments

What you will learn

  • Use drawing techniques to complete projects in orthographic projection, sectioning, and dimensioning, auxiliary view and machine detailing.
  • Describe concepts in orthographic projection, sectioning, and dimensioning, auxiliary view and machine detailing.
  • Employ Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) skills to produce drawings from data, designs and/or specifications.
  • Develop drafting and related trade knowledge.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of drafting skills and conventions.
  • Prepare a comprehensive professional portfolio.
  • Use concepts of residential building construction and technology to plan and detail a residential building in accordance with local bylaws and the BC Building Code.

Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion

Fourteen (14) weeks.

Admission Requirement

Program-specific

  • Grade 12 graduation or equivalent.
  • English Language Proficiency at a grade 12 level
  • Knowledge of mathematics demonstrated by one of the following:
    • Workplace Math 11 or equivalent, or
    • VCC Math Assessment with 80% Basic Arithmetic and 60% Basic Algebra

Note:

  • Applicants who do not meet the English language requirement may be admitted at the discretion of the Department
  • Applicants who have met all the above requirements and have completed high school Drafting 11 and 12 may, with Departmental approval, apply for direct entry into Level 2 of the program.

For assistance with meeting the entrance requirements, please contact Advising Services to schedule an appointment with an Advisor.

VCC CAD & BIM Technologies Department Technician Certificate students who have successfully completed Level 1 may insert into level 2 of the Citation program.

Missing prerequisites? Learn more about VCC's tuition-free academic upgrading or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses, or discover which university transfer options are right for you.

Recommended Characteristics

  • Excellent English communication skills.
  • Working knowledge of Windows OS is strongly recommended.
  • Good mathematical and mechanical comprehension.
  • Ability to work in imperial and metric units of measurement.
  • General good health, good hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
  • Successful work habits and an ability to work well with others.
  • Logical reasoning and an ability to visualize objects.
  • Interest in all aspects of architecture, engineering, and general construction and related fields.

Program Availability

Fall 2026

Program Start Date Sep 2026
Status Closed
Application opens October 1, 2025
Application Deadline

Courses

This program is offered full time Monday to Friday 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Please note this program is only offered online.

Plan of Study Grid
Term OneCredits
DRFT 1010 CAD Drafting Fundamentals 4
DRFT 1011 CAD Drafting Applied 3
DRFT 1012 Office & Construct Site Safety 1
DRFT 1013 Construction Mathematics 1
DRFT 1255 Residential Plans and Framing 4.5
DRFT 1326 Job Search Skills 0.5
 Credits14
 Total Credits14

This guide is intended as a general guideline only. The college reserves the right to make changes as appropriate.

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and Costs

Application fee $36
Tuition $2,525
Student union $73
College initiative $43
Campus resource $51
U-Pass $188 Discounted, unlimited transit pass. Learn more.
Graduation $45
Total $2,958

Books & Supplies

Textbooks or other supplies may be required for this program. Visit the VCC Bookstore for more information.

Open Educational Resources(OER) at VCC

No-cost textbooks are available for this program.

* Fees are approximate and subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors. Students are required to pay any applicable fee increases. Application and assessment fees are non-refundable. Tuition fees include a non-refundable deposit ($300 or $500, depending on program).

Fees listed are for domestic students. For international programs, visit VCC International.

Any refunds are issued according to VCC's refund policy.

Need help with tuition?

Explore your options for scholarships, grants, bursaries, and loans.

Technical requirement

General technology requirements for online learning

How to Apply

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

Contact us

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: studentservice@vcc.ca

Advising services for International students

study@vcc.ca

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples, and we acknowledge our privilege to be here.