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 Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition: $10,810, Books: $1,361, Supplies: $375
Explore Locations
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 Methods
8 Week Advantage: This is an 8 Week Advantage program.
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
Second Semester
Third Semester
Fourth Semester
- 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?
Graduate Employment
with 57% in field
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.