Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General
Total graduates
1,662
2025 · 146 schools
International share
8.2%
137 international students
Bachelor's degrees
325
13.2% international
Master's degrees
183
41.5% international
Overview
Drafting and Design Technology is a specialized field that focuses on creating detailed technical drawings and plans used in various industries, such as architecture, engineering, and manufacturing. This program equips students with essential skills in drafting techniques, design principles, and the use of computer-aided design (CAD) software.
Students in this program learn to produce accurate representations of structures, products, and systems. The curriculum typically includes courses in geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, 3D modeling, and materials science, enabling students to understand how to visually communicate complex ideas effectively.
Drafting and Design Technology is fundamental in the development process of a wide range of projects, from residential buildings to intricate machinery. As a result, professionals in this field play a crucial role in transforming conceptual ideas into tangible products or structures.
Moreover, with the increasing integration of technology in design, proficiency in CAD software is essential, as it allows drafters to create and modify designs with precision.
Employment opportunities for graduates of this program are diverse, ranging from working in architectural firms, engineering companies, to manufacturing industries. The demand for skilled drafters and designers continues to grow, driven by advancements in technology and the need for efficient design processes.
In summary, a career in Drafting and Design Technology offers a blend of creativity and technical skills, making it an appealing choice for those interested in shaping the physical world through design.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2003 to 2025, graduates fell 45% and the international share went from 0.9% to 8.2%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 146 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Civil Drafters | 103,700 | $34.01 | $70,740 |
| Mechanical Drafters | 39,960 | $36.09 | $75,060 |
| Electrical and Electronics Drafters | 17,920 | $39.08 | $81,280 |
| Drafters, All Other | 14,470 | $32.81 | $68,250 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.