Design Technology General Info
This unique program bridges the gap between production and engineering by creating a well-defined graduate who has knowledge of machining and computer aided drafting. The Design Technology program offers extensive “hands-on” and “hands-off” machining applications in both manual and computer-aided manufacturing.
You will learn to prepare detailed working drawings for the manufacturing industry. These drawings will be created in both two-dimensional and parametric modeling software, abiding by industry recognized standards. This two-year program will provide many interactive scenarios between machining and drafting. The program prides itself in operating state-of-the-art equipment and software currently being used by area manufacturers. This program benefits the student by increasing the skills needed in the machining and drafting worlds, allowing for a diversified graduate.
Graduating from the Design Technology program prepares you to work as a drafting technician, machinist, CNC programmer, shop supervisor, or to start your own business venture. This degree will allow the graduate numerous employment opportunities throughout the United States.
NEW: Future Ready Iowa Scholarships
FREE TUITION / IOWA LAST-DOLLAR SCHOLARSHIP
THIS PROGRAM QUALIFIES. Iowa needs people like you to fill exciting jobs in growing industries. To help keep Iowa moving forward, you can get free tuition for programs that lead to high-demand jobs and good-paying careers. Earn a one-year or two-year degree—all with free tuition. For a full list of every NCC program that qualifies for the Future Ready Iowa Scholarship – click here.
Award
- Associate of Applied Science Degree
- Diploma option is available after two semesters and one summer term
- Option to earn Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology through Dordt College
Length
- Four Semesters & One Summer Term
- Fall semester entry
Student Profile
- Likes to build
- Able to figure out how things work
- Problem solver
- Good visualization skills
- Accepts math challenges
Program Location
- This program is available on campus. General education courses are available online.
Contact Admissions
-
712-301-2573 | 712-301-1401 |
712-301-7033 - 800-352-4907
- Email Admissions
Student Story Christian Krejci
“I started getting interested in it from my industrial arts classes in high school. I like the combination of working with my hands and being creative. We get to make something from nothing!”
Design Technology student
Spencer, IA


Requirements for this program
Course # | Title | Credits |
---|---|---|
FIRST YEAR | ||
FALL SEMESTER | 19-20 | |
CAD167-E | Introduction to Parametric Modeling | 5 |
MFG150-C | Applied Math for Manufacturing | 2 |
OR | ||
EGR400-E | Intro to Engineering PLTW | 3 |
MFG122-E | Machine Trade Printreading I | 3 |
MFG185-E | OSHA/Shop Safety | 2 |
MFG191-C | Manufacturing Processes | 5 |
MFG194-E | Inspection Processes | 2 |
SPRING SEMESTER | 19 | |
CAD231-C | Geometric Dimension & Tolerancing | 4 |
CAD246-C | Parametric CAD I | 3 |
CAD248-C | Parametric CAD II | 3 |
MFG325-E | CAM I | 3 |
MFG263-E | CNC Mill Programming & Setup | 3 |
MFG264-E | CNC Lathe Programming & Setup | 3 |
SUMMER TERM | 9 | |
Elective | Communications* | 3 |
Elective | Math* | 3 |
ATR102-C | Introduction to Robotics | 3 |
SECOND YEAR | ||
FALL SEMESTER | 16 | |
EGR450-E | PLTW—Computer Integrated Manufacturing CIM | 3 |
OR | ||
MFG146-C | Automated Manufacturing Systems | 3 |
MFG429-C | Tooling Design & Build | 4 |
CAD101-E | Introduction to CAD | 3 |
Elective | Humanities** | 3 |
Elective | General Education** | 3 |
SPRING SEMESTER | 16 | |
EGR470-E | PLTW—Engineering Design & Development | 3 |
OR | ||
MFG220-C | Design Technology Final Design Project | 3 |
MFG455-E | Industrial Plastic & Injection Molding | 4 |
MFG548-E | Fluid Power | 3 |
WEL265-C | Introduction to Welding & Fabrication | 3 |
Elective | Communications** | 3 |
Total Credits | 79 |
**You may select any math or communications course with A, C, or E suffix.
**You must take course with an A or E suffix.
Frequently Asked Questions

The expected salary range is between $66,000 – $68,000 per year.
Financial Aid
The Financial Aid Office will work with you to reach the goal of attending college. Federal and state programs, scholarships and other funding sources, may be available to help you to afford college. We know there are a lot of questions and stress planning to pay for a college education. The Financial Aid Office staff administers aid programs and counsels students in planning individual methods of meeting college costs. Contact the Financial Aid Office for answers to any questions regarding financial aid. What are you waiting for? Let’s get started! Northwest Iowa Community College follows a nationally accepted philosophy in administering financial aid programs.