In-person 3D AutoCAD course

What Will I Learn?

Expand your AutoCAD skills by mastering advanced 2D commands and gaining hands-on experience with 3D drawing techniques. This comprehensive course offers more than just software training. It delivers the kind of industry-relevant instruction and consulting insight you won’t find in standard programs.

Explore powerful tools for collaboration and publishing, working with advanced tables, and creating dynamic blocks—all while optimizing your workflow within AutoCAD. Master the use of AutoCAD’s 3D modeling environment, develop camera-based views, apply materials and lighting for realistic renderings, and generate complete drawing sets using Sheet Set Manager. Additionally, you will explore animation creation, how to generate, modify, and manage complex solids and surfaces, and how to effectively use the User Coordinate System (UCS) to support professional-level design projects.

How Will I Learn?

Through a series of realistic individual and group projects, this course will immerse you in the complete project lifecycle, from conceptual layout to detailed design documentation. Hired by a fictitious client, you will apply 3D modeling skills, collaborate with peers, and deliver polished, client-ready project packages just like in the real world. The course also integrates modern tools such as AI-assisted LISP routine creation and Navisworks Freedom for model navigation, giving you a competitive edge in today’s tech-driven workplace. By the end of the class, you will have professional portfolio pieces that demonstrate not only technical mastery, but also your ability to take a design from concept to client delivery. This class allows you the flexibility to enroll as an in-person student or attend online-live.

Why Choose KSU CPE?

• You will receive instruction from industry professionals who bring years of architecture, engineering, and CAD consulting experience.
• You will complete two major group projects simulating actual client engagements.
• You will generate work for your professional portfolio showcasing your skills with 3D renderings, title blocks, and complete drawing sets.
• In addition to your technical skills, you will build confidence in your soft skills, including communication, collaboration, consulting, and project planning.
• You will gain exposure to AI, Navisworks Freedom, and custom scripting, equipping you with a competitive edge in both job readiness and professional growth.
• You will learn how real-world professionals take a layout from a concept to a complete 3D presentation package.
• Spotlight your AutoCAD 3D skills through an official digital badge from Kennesaw State University that can be displayed on your LinkedIn page. You will also earn a certificate of completion from Kennesaw State University.
• You will graduate with the skills and confidence to pursue entry-level design roles, consulting work, or advance your career with your current employer.

Upon Successful Completion, I Will Be Able To:

• Demonstrate how to work with advanced text objects and tables
• Manage and organize 2D drawings using layers
• Show how to create, customize, and publish sheet sets
• Control how elements display in a 3D view using the visual styles
• Change the origin and alignment of the User Coordinate System (UCS) using multifunctional grips
• Create and edit advanced 3D models using solid, surface, and mesh tools
• Edit individual edges, faces, vertices, and parts of composite solids using grips and Properties
• Attach and manage point clouds
• Set up a rendering with materials, lighting, and cameras for high-quality visualizations
• Use Xrefs, custom templates, CAD standards files, and file structures to organize complex projects
• Transition a 2D layout into a fully developed 3D design and presentation package
• Export and navigate 3D models to Navisworks Freedom for basic coordination and review
• Use AI tools to generate LISP routines, streamline workflows, and solve modeling problems
• Generate a .STL file of a 3D model for printing

What Do I Need To Take the Class?

Textbooks are required and are available at the KSU Bookstore. Call (470) 578-6261 or visit the bookstore website for pricing and availability. When contacting the bookstore, please identify yourself as a CPE student.

Completion of our AutoCAD 2D Certificate is strongly recommended. According to Autodesk, it is recommended that students have around 80 hours of work experience with the AutoCAD software prior to taking this class. Working knowledge of computers and access to computer and Internet are required. We strongly recommend that students have access to a Windows computer and Microsoft Office for this class. MAC computers are not recommended. Please ensure that your computer also matches the recommended system requirements at the Autodesk Systems Requirements reference page.

Special notice: This class will be delivered online. You will need access to an internet connection that remains stable for the duration of the class. Though a chat feature is available, a microphone is preferred. For most productive audio/video participation, a webcam and/or headset are encouraged. Virtual classes may be recorded.