Prototype and Design - Associate Degree
As a graduate of the Prototype and Design program, you will be skilled in 3D printing or Additive Manufacturing, hand fabrication, high quality painting and finishing, 3D drawing software, CNC machining, and RTV model making. You can build a variety of three-dimensional prototypes and models for use in manufacturing, consumer products, and other fields of product development. You will also be able to construct three-dimensional models for use in props, architectural design, and mechanical design. Your skills will emphasize problem solving and critical thinking across all aspects from design to model completion. Career opportunities include product development, prototype model builder, engineering design, architectural model builder, RTV mold maker, rapid prototype technician, and pattern maker.
Delivery
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Program Costs & Financial Aid
Tuition: $12,343, Books: $311, Supplies: $535
This program is fully eligible for financial aid.
Estimates based on in-state residency. Please visit the following URL to learn more about tuition and fees for this program. https://www.nwtc.edu/admissions-and-aid/paying-for-college/tuition-and-fees?ProgramCode=106142
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.
Program Outcomes
- Develop planning strategies necessary to translate two-dimensional information into a three- dimensional prototype.
- Use critical thinking and problem solving techniques in the construction of a prototype.
- Create a variety of computer aided drawings using AutoCAD and SolidWorks.
- Create programs to be used on CNC (computer numerical control) milling machines using Surf CAM software.
- Construct 3D models using a variety of rapid prototyping processes.
- Produce highly detailed and accurate parts using the laser machining center.
- Fabricate silicone rubber molds and rigid molds suitable for casting.
- Build patterns and molds to be used for vacuum forming.
- Create jigs and fixtures necessary for special machining operations.
- Select and apply a variety of industrial finishes on various materials.
- Effectively estimate the time and cost to design and fabricate a prototype.
- Manage computer files and utilize a variety of technically related software.
- Work efficiently as a part of a team, or independently.
- Safely operate all hand tools, metalworking, and woodworking equipment typically used in a professional model shop.
- Effectively select appropriate materials and adhesives and understand their properties.
- Use proper sanding and finishing techniques on various materials.
- Understand various design and engineering processes as they relate to the Prototype and Design Industry.
Accreditation
The Prototype & Design Technology program at NWTC is accredited by the APMM, Association of Professional Model Makers.
Curriculum
Students following the study plan below will compete the Prototype and Design Technician associate degree in the number of semesters shown.
First Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Second Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Third Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
Fourth Semester
8 Week 1
8 Week 2
- 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.
- It is acceptable for students to take 10-804-118, Interm Algebra w Apps and 10-804-196, Trigonometry w Apps as alternatives to 10-804-113, College Technical Math 1A and 10-804-114, College Technical Math 1B.
- If a student is considering pursuing a 4-year degree, 10-804-118, Intermediate Algebra w/Apps, should be taken in place of 10-804-113, College Tech Math 1A and 10-804-196, Trigonometry w/Apps should be taken in place of 10-804-114, College Tech Math 1B.
- Students must earn a "C" or higher in College Tech Math 1A and all 10-614-XXX, 10-606-XXX, 10-420-XXX, and 10-442-XXX courses.
Course Descriptions
Students gain skills that lead to success in college and employment. This course encourages students to develop a growth mindset and make wise choices. Students should take this course in their first semester. (Pre-requisite: None.)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall SpringIntroduction to the prototype & design industry using a variety of shop tools and equipment, machine processes, and fabrication techniques with an emphasis on shop safety, hand skills, accuracy, professionalism, and working within specified tolerances to build three dimensional models.
Course Typically Offered: FallCAD terminology, drawing preliminaries, basic inquiry and setting commands, layer setting and manipulation, basic drawing and display commands, basic edit commands, and plotting, using AutoCAD software.
Course Typically Offered: Fall SpringIntroduction to machine shop fundamentals using precision measuring instruments; performing machine tool operations on a metal lathe, vertical and horizontal milling machines and surface grinders; and basic foundry applications.
Course Typically Offered: FallIntroduces use of spray guns and airbrushes to safely apply gradients, glosses and textured paints to a variety of prepped and sanded materials & 3D Printed models.
Course Typically Offered: FallGraphically describe objects with and without a CAD system; understand and demonstrate the fundamental components of an engineering drawing: geometric construction, orthographic projection, section views, dimensioning & tolerancing. (Prerequisite: Accepted into Mechanical Design Technology program, Mechanical CAD Certificate or Prototype and Design Technology program; Corequisite: 10-606-116, CAD-Intro.)
Course Typically Offered: Fall SpringTopics include solving linear equations; graphing; percent; proportions; measurement systems; computational geometry; and right triangle trigonometry. Emphasis will be on the application of skills to technical problems. (Prerequisite: Next Gen Arithmetic score greater/equal to 250 AND Rdg score greater/equal to 250; OR TABE A 9/10 Math greater/equal to 12.7 AND Rdg greater/equal to 8.8; OR TABE 11/12 Math greater/equal to 780 AND Rdg greater/equal to 573; OR ACT Math score greater/equal to 15 AND ACT Rdg score greater/equal to 16; OR preparatory courses-contact an academic advisor 920-498-5444)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall SpringIntroduction to CNC machining and programming using computer drawing software such as AutoCAD and SurfCAM, to produce three dimensional models from 2D geometry with an emphasis on machining materials used in the prototype & design industry. (Prerequisites: 10-606-116, CAD-Intro; 10-614-152, Prototyping-Introduction to, 10-420-151 Prototype Machine Tool)
Course Typically Offered: Springterminology, software operation, creating and manipulating SolidWorks models from blue prints to reverse engineering, utilizing basic modeling functions. (Prerequisite: 10-606-119, Sketching Technical)
Course Typically Offered: SpringTopics include: performing operations on polynomials; solving quadratic and rational equations; formula rearrangement; solving systems of equations; and oblique triangle trigonometry. Emphasis will be on the application of skills to technical problems. (Prerequisite: 10-804-113, Tech Math 1A with grade C or better)
Course Typically Offered: Fall SpringExpands on paint theory, safety, and equipment. Introduces use of vinyl masking systems and creation of multi layered painting processes as well as advanced techniques with gloss, metallic paint, and clear coat. High end sanding, buff and polishing techniques are also covered. (Prerequisite: 10-614-148, Intro to Model Finishing)
Course Typically Offered: SpringThis course focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication. (Prerequisite: Next Gen Rdg score greater/equal to 250 AND Writing score greater/equal to 237; OR ACT Rdg score greater/equal to 16 AND English score greater/equal to 16; OR preparatory course-contact an academic advisor at 920-498-5444)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall SpringIntroduces expanded SolidWorks terminology, software operation, object creation, and manipulation of advanced surface models. Also utilizes assemblies, motion studies, and advanced modeling functions. (Prerequisite: 10-614-238, Intro to SolidWorks Modeling)
Course Typically Offered: SpringIntroduces the utilization plaster, single sided RTV molding, and hard-cast tooling techniques used to create engineering replicas. (Prerequisite: 10-614-152, Prototyping - Introduction to; 10-614-148, Intro to Model Finishing)
Course Typically Offered: FallCreate three-dimensional prototypes on the CNC machining center using SolidWorks and SurfCAM software with a focus on 3 axis surface machining and multiple part setups and an emphasis on problem solving and critical thinking. (Prerequisites: 10-614-235, CNC Mach/2D Prog-Intro; 10-614-238, Intro to SolidWorks Modeling)
Course Typically Offered: FallUtilizes 3D Printing technologies to create visual parts and engineering samples from SolidWorks & other sources. General use of machines and STL editing software is also covered. (Prerequisite: 10-614-152 Prototyping-Introduction to; AND 10-614-238, Intro to SolidWorks Modeling; OR 10-606-160 SolidWorks Fundamentals)
Course Typically Offered: Fall SpringSurvey of theoretical foundations of human behavior such as sensation and perception, motivation, emotions, learning, personality, psychological disorders, therapy, stress, and human diversity in personal, social and vocational settings. (Prerequisite: Cumulative GPA of 2.6 or greater OR satisfactory reading and writing assessment scores OR 10-831-107, College Reading and Writing 1 with "B" or better OR Corequisite: 10-831-102, English Comp Prep)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall SpringAn introduction into the manufacturing & production environment, illustrating the basic concepts of machine setup and fixture design, pattern making, material selection, thermoforming, die making, short run production molds. (Prerequisite: 10-614-156, Intro to Molding Processes & Techniques; 10-614-138, CNC Machining-Advanced)
Course Typically Offered: FallFocuses on multi-sided RTV & fiberglass reinforced tooling used in the creation of detailed replicas with advanced use of resins, rotational casting, and urethane foams. (Prerequisite: 10-614-156 Intro Molding Process/Techniques)
Course Typically Offered: FallIntroduces advanced 3D Printing theories and business principles. Manipulation of SolidWorks models to create complex 3D Printed parts is also covered. SME Fundamentals certification to accompany completion of class. (Prerequisite: 10-614-236, Intro to Rapid Prototype)
Course Typically Offered: FallCreate professional employment portfolio, resume and cover letter, learn how to prepare for interviews, understand different interviewing techniques, and participate in a mock interview. (Prerequisite: satisfactory completion of semesters 1, 2, and 3; Corequisite: 10-614-143, Prototyping Solutions Advanced OR 10-614-139, Prototype & Design Internship)
Course Typically Offered: SpringIntroduces planning and construction of architectural models focusing on layout, fabrication, material selection, painting, and attention to details. (Prerequisites: 10-614-152, Prototype Introduction to; 10-606-116 CAD-Intro)
Course Typically Offered: SpringThe application of theory, skills, and techniques in model building.
Course Typically Offered: With instructor approvalFerrous and non-ferrous metals, oxyacetylene gas, tungsten arc, gas metal arc, and metal fabrication.
Course Typically Offered: SpringLearners develop knowledge/skills in planning, organizing, writing, editing. Students will also analyze audience/purpose, use elements of research, format documents using standard guidelines, and develop critical reading skills. (Prerequisite: High school GPA greater/equal to 2.6; OR ACT Reading score greater/equal to 16 AND English greater/equal to 18; OR Next Gen Reading score greater/equal to 250 AND Writing score greater/equal to 260; OR "preparatory course(s)", contact academic advisor at 920-498-5444)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall SpringComprehensive overview of the design and development process using the skills acquired throughout the program to build a team focused project with an emphasis on project management, critical thinking, problem solving, time management and collaboration. (Prerequisite: completion of semesters 1, 2, 3)
Course Typically Offered: SpringAn introduction to model building, safety, tools, materials, flexible mold making, casting, limited run production, techniques and practices as on-the-job training.
Course Typically Offered: With instructor approvalBasic American values of justice and equality by teaching vocabulary, history of immigration/conquest, transcultural communication, legal liability, multicultural majority/minority relations, ageism, sexism, gender, sexual orientation, the disabled/ADA. (Prerequisite: Next Gen Rdg score greater/equal to 250 AND Writing score greater/equal to 237; OR ACT Rdg score greater/equal to 16 AND English greater/equal to 15; OR 10-831-107, College Reading and Writing with a B or better.)
Course Typically Offered: Summer Fall Spring