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Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
A student designs an engine part on a computer

Mechanical Design Technology - Associate Degree

Mechanical design technicians apply knowledge of mechanical engineering technology to design, develop, and test new or revised machinery. Working primarily on a computer utilizing 2D drafting or 3D modeling programs, you assist product engineers by detailing sections of machine designs. As a graduate of the Mechanical Design Technology program, you're also equipped for such careers as detailer and mechanical drafter. With additional education and/or work experience, you may also become a product designer, lead designer, project engineer, or technical sales/service representative.

Program Code: 106061
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Home » Academics and Training » Mechanical Design Technology
Area of Study: Manufacturing, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

Program Costs & Financial Aid

Tuition: $10,810, Books: $1,361, Supplies: $375

Total Approximate Costs
$12,546

This program is fully eligible for financial aid.

Estimates based on in-state residency. Learn more about tuition and fees.

Explore Locations

Offered At:

Follow Your Path

Some credits from the following certificate(s) apply toward this associate degree:

CAD (Computer Aided Drafting), 906061

Ask your advisor about 4-year university all-credit transfer opportunities.

Delivery

  • Day
  • Full-time
  • Part-time

How do I get started in this program?

Requirements for Program Entry

  • Apply at www.nwtc.edu/apply.
  • Submit the following to transcripts@nwtc.edu: • High school transcript (or GED/HSED transcript). • College transcript.
  • If your cumulative GPA is below 2.6, complete or submit a placement evaluation.
  • Tip! Our admission advisors will assist you through every step. Have questions? Connect with NWTC Admissions at start@nwtc.edu or 920-498-5444.

What will I learn?

Curriculum

Students following the study plan below will complete the Mechanical Design Technology associate degree in the number of semesters shown.

First Semester

Semester Total 17

Second Semester

Semester Total 17

Third Semester

Semester Total 17

Fourth Semester

Semester Total 16
Total Credits 67
  • Curriculum Note: The credit for 10-890-101, College 101 is an Institutional Requirement for graduation. Consequently, it is not part of the program requirements, but must be passed with a C or better.
  • Students considering pursuing a four-year degree should take Intermediate Algebra w/Apps, 10-804-118, in place of 10-804-113, College Tech Math 1A and 10-804-196, Trigonometry w/Apps in place of 10-804-114, College Tech Math 1B.

Program Outcomes

  • Prepare detail and assembly drawings for the documentation of mechanical components and products.
  • Create CAD geometry, parts, and assemblies.
  • Design Mechanical components and products.
  • Analyze Mechanical Engineering Problems.
  • Select purchased parts.
  • Operate word processing and spreadsheet programs.
  • Understand application of electromechanical devices and servos.
  • Participate as a member of a manufacturing team.
  • Work in an organized manner, documenting work performed.

What careers are in my future?

100%

Graduate Employment

with 57% in field

$47,172.90

Median Starting Salary

Source: NWTC 2019 Grad Outcome Survey

Employment Potential

A graduate of this program will have the potential for employment in the following areas:

  • Detailer: produces detailed drawings of parts of machines from supplied information on CAD, and make drawing changes to comply with Engineering Change Notices (ECN’s)/ Engineering Change Requests (ECR’s).
  • Mechanical Design Technician: applies knowledge of mechanical engineering technology to design, develop, and test new or revised machinery; assists in component selection and sizing of machine members; has duties split between design and drafting and may specialize in a specific type of machine or product. Most work is performed on a computer.
  • Mechanical Drafter: has the principal duty of preparing working drawings of machinery and mechanical devices using CAD systems to draft detail and assembly drawings indicating dimensions and tolerances, materials, surface finishes, joining requirements, and other engineering data.

Employment opportunities with additional education

  • Mechanical Designer (Product Designer)
  • Lead Designer
  • Project Engineer
  • Technical Sales/Service Representative

What's next after graduation?

Start here. Finish at a four-year.

NWTC transfer programs are offered through collaborative agreements with our four-year college and university partners. See where your associate degree credits will transfer.

What else do I need to know about the program?

Study Abroad Opportunities

The International Programs staff continually seeks opportunities for students to travel abroad for educational experiences that may be offered in association with program courses. To find out more about which of your program courses may offer an opportunity during this academic year, contact your academic advisor or visit nwtc.edu/studyabroad.

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