Design Studies | San Jose State University

Skills & Competencies

Skills developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET via SOC 17-3011.00

Skills

Reading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingSystems AnalysisCritical ThinkingActive LearningWritingActive ListeningMathematics

Knowledge

DesignBuilding and ConstructionEngineering and TechnologyEnglish LanguageComputers and Electronics

Abilities

Oral ComprehensionWritten ComprehensionWritten ExpressionVisualizationNear VisionDeductive ReasoningOral ExpressionFluency of IdeasOriginalityInductive Reasoning

Tasks

Produce drawings, using computer-assisted drafting systems (CAD) or drafting machines, or by hand, u
Draft plans and detailed drawings for structures, installations, and construction projects, such as
Coordinate structural, electrical, and mechanical designs and determine a method of presentation to
Use drone technology to capture aerial views and topographical data for civil engineering projects.

Technology

Pattern design softwareDocument management softwareGraphics or photo imaging softwareDesktop publishing softwareComputer aided design CAD software

Tools

Architects' scalesBacklit digitizersCompassesComputer aided design CAD multi-unit display graphics cardsDesktop computersElectronic scalesEstimating keypadsFlexible curvesFrench curvesGraphics tabletsHandheld calculatorsLarge-format digitizersNotebook computersPlottersPressure-sensitive graphic tablets

Work Values

SupportWorking ConditionsAchievementRecognitionIndependenceRelationships

Career Pathways

Occupations this program prepares you for

Auto-populatedfrom O*NET + BLS

Occupations matched to this program, with median wage, top wage, growth, and openings
SOC	Occupation	Method	Wage	Growth	Openings
Match confidence: medium17-3011.00	Architectural and Civil Drafters	title_inference	$64,280 median$98,190 top	+4.16%	460

Program Pathways

Credentials this program stacks toward

No program pathways.

What You'll Learn

Key competencies developed through this program

Auto-populatedfrom NSX Competency Framework

Mastery: proficient (Level 3)(based on Bachelor's Degree)

Full construction drawing packages for complex civil and architectural projects — produce autonomously using advanced CAD software, ensuring compliance with applicable codes and engineering standards.
Multi-discipline design coordination — lead integration of structural, mechanical, and electrical drawings, resolving conflicts and establishing graphical presentation standards for the entire project set.
Building code, by-law, and regulatory analysis — independently evaluate technical documents and determine design impact, advising architects and engineers on required plan modifications.
Subsurface formation, topographic, and utility mapping — generate detailed profiles and survey-based drawings for infrastructure projects such as dike systems and highway corridors with full professional accountability.
Presentation method selection — determine and implement the most effective combination of orthographic, isometric, and perspective views to communicate complex design intent to diverse stakeholders.
Commercial interior layout design — develop comprehensive CAD-based space plans for large-scale commercial buildings, optimizing circulation, code compliance, and programmatic requirements.
Systems analysis and critical thinking — evaluate existing drawing sets and design systems to identify inconsistencies, proposing and implementing corrective solutions on non-routine project challenges.
Advanced CAD and graphics software capabilities — configure templates, block libraries, and customized workflows that improve drawing quality and production efficiency across a project team.
Client and contractor communications — present drawing packages, respond to RFIs, and explain technical details verbally and in writing, applying oral expression and active listening skills.
Quality control review — audit completed drawing sets against specifications, codes, and project scope, documenting findings and directing junior drafters to implement corrections.

Program Details

Detailed information about this program

No detailed information available.

Requirements

What you need to earn this credential

No requirements listed.

Financial Aid

Eligible funding programs

No funding information available.

Scholarships

No scholarships listed.