Design

The Design program offers courses in architecture, drafting, and engineering for students who wish to transfer to a four-year institution or gain employment in the fields of architectural design, computer aided design, mechanical design, and engineering design. The program also offers courses for those who may not be pursuing a career in design but who have an interest in or need to understand graphic communication. The engineering course work includes engineering design graphics courses for students majoring in aerospace, civil, environmental, industrial, mechanical, and structural engineering. The architectural course work gives students a working knowledge of the practices and technical aspects of architectural design and drawing.

Career Options

Careers in architecture, some of which require an undergraduate degree, include urban planner, surveyor, draftsperson, building inspector, corporate architect, and technical illustrator.

Employers for students obtaining certificates and associate degrees include federal, state, and local land use planning agencies; building and transportation agencies; private architectural, contract, and construction companies; and for-profit industrial and manufacturing companies in life science, defense, sport/recreation equipment, and various other industries.

Student Voice

Milad Samadi, MiraCosta College graduate hired as a CAD technician

“MiraCosta College’s Design Drafting Program taught me detailed skills that prepared me for my current job and gave me the fundamentals I will use throughout my career”

Read the stories of other MiraCosta College design students-

Academic Programs in Design

The academic maps will give you an idea of the classes you need to take. However, please meet with a counselor to personalize your education plan.

KEY: Certificate of Proficiency Certificate of Achievement Associate Degree Bachelor's Degree

3D Modeling and Prototyping	MAP	CAREERS
Applied Design	MAP	CAREERS
Architectural Design		CAREERS
Architectural Design		CAREERS
AutoCAD Certified User	MAP	CAREERS
Computer-Aided Drafting	MAP	CAREERS
Computer-Aided Drafting	MAP	CAREERS
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design	MAP	CAREERS
Computer-Aided Drafting and Design	MAP	CAREERS
Construction Management	MAP	CAREERS
Drafting Fundamentals	MAP	CAREERS
Engineering Design Graphics	MAP	CAREERS
Engineering Technology	MAP	CAREERS
Engineering Technology		CAREERS
Mechanical Design	MAP	CAREERS
Mechanical Design	MAP	CAREERS
SolidWorks Certified User	MAP	CAREERS

Additional Resources

Design Career Options Video: Learn all about career options in Design.
Maker Lab: Get the hours of our Maker Lab and come visit us.
News: Read the latest department news.
Awards: Learn about the awards and accolades of our students and staff
Industry: Check out jobs opportunities in the design field.
Students: Meet MiraCosta College design students.
Student Gallery: Explore the work of MiraCosta College design students.
Design Facilities: Explore the Maker Lab and classrooms.
Meet our Faculty and Staff: Learn about the talented faculty and staff in the design department.
Request Additional Information: Learn more about all that MiraCosta College has to offer.