Computer-aided design, or CAD, is the use of software to assist with the drafting and design of buildings, machines, and other physical products. Along with computer aided engineering (CAE) software, CAD programs like Autodesk are extremely important tools for architecture and engineering professionals, allowing them to work and collaborate more efficiently, shortening the design cycle, reducing costs, and improving the accuracy of their designs.

The power and scope of CAD software has grown dramatically since the 1960s, when the first CAD programs were introduced to replicate manual drafting processes. Today, CAD programs can be used for 2D blueprints and 3D modeling, as well as the creation of animations and renderings that can help architects visualize building designs for clients. They can also conduct strength and dynamic analyses as well as other engineering calculations, generate construction simulations to assist with scheduling and project management, and complete other complex tasks critical to delivering projects on schedule and under budget.

A mastery of CAD software has become as important for careers in architecture and engineering as spreadsheet programs like Excel have become for careers in finance, allowing professionals in these fields to do their work more efficiently as well as providing functionality like 3D modeling and simulations that simply did not exist before. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics architects made a median annual salary of $80,750 in 2019, and typically have at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture along with professional certification through the Architect Registration Examination.

Certainly. Coursera offers a wide range of learning opportunities in architecture and engineering, including courses and Specializations focused on the use of CAD software as well as related computer-aided engineering (CAE) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) programs. You can learn from top-ranked schools like University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and National Taiwan University, or take courses directly from Autodesk, one of the leading CAD software producers.

Regardless of where you choose to learn from, Coursera lets you view course materials and complete assignments on a flexible schedule, making this an excellent opportunity for working professionals to upgrade their skills as well as for students just starting their education in architecture or engineering.