Rio Hondo College logo
Rio Hondo College logo
Rio Hondo College logo
Certificate of Achievement
Engineering Design Technology

This Certificate is designed for technical, mechanical and manufacturing careers and leads to employment in CADD application, engineering-related, mechanical and manufacturing-related industries, public works, utilities and CADD/Drafting-related industries.

To acquire the Certificate of Achievement in Engineering Design Technology, it is necessary to complete the following courses:

Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.

Apply Now!


Sample Education Plan

This sample education plan for the 2025-2026 catalog year represents one possible pathway through the program. Each university (UC, CSU, private, and others) has their own transfer requirements; please see a counselor to create an education plan that is customized to meet your needs. Additional course descriptions may be found in the College Catalog.
CourseUnitsTypically Offered
1st Semester
Select one: ARCH 101 / CIV 101 / ENGT 101 M3.0
ARCH 101 - Introduction to Technical Drawings & Graphics (Same as CIV 101, ENGT 101) (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and be able to read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This basic course in technical drawing and graphics is for students with no previous drafting skills or training who want to pursue training in fields and careers related to architecture, civil design, and engineering design drafting. Practical application with the tools, techniques, standards, and practices used in the industries that need technical drawings and graphics. ARCH 101, CIV 101, ENGT 101 are cross-listed. Credit will be granted for one course only.

CIV 101 - Introduction to Technical Drawing & Graphics (Same as ARCH 101, ENGT 101) (3.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This basic course in technical drawing and graphics is for students with no previous drafting skills or training. The course is designed for students who want to pursue training in fields and careers related to architecture, civil design, and engineering design drafting. Practical application with the tools, techniques, standards, and practices used in the industries that need technical drawings and graphics is a feature of the course. ARCH 101, CIV 101, ENGT 101 are cross-llisted. Credit will be granted for one course only.

ENGT 101 - Introduction to Technical Drawing & Graphics (Same as ARCH 101, CIV 101) (3.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 101)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This basic course in technical drawing and graphics is for students with no previous drafting skills or training. The course is designed for students who want to pursue training in fields and careers related to architecture, civil design, and engineering design drafting. Practical application with the tools, techniques, standards, and practices used in the industries that need technical drawings and graphics is a feature of the course. ARCH 101, CIV 101, ENGT 101 are cross-listed courses. Credit will be granted for one course only..

ENGT 105 - Introduction to Visualization, Sketching, & RenderingM2.0
ENGT 105 - Introduction to Visualization, Sketching, & Rendering (2.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 105)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course is designed to develop skills in drawing as used by design professionals in architectural and technical applications. Using visualization and deploying basic principles of proportion, composition, and freehand techniques, students prepare technical isometric, oblique, perspective, and orthographic sketches to industry standards. Design considerations for various projects involving preliminary design sketches are also introduced. This course is open to all students who want to develop drawing skills. It is required for all students working towards a degree or certificate in the Architecture and Engineering Design Drafting program.

Select a minimum of 3 units: ARCH 235 / ARCH 215 / ENGT 100 / ENGR 100 / ENGT 123 / ARCH 280 / ENGT 280 / ENGT 270 / ENGT 290 M1.0†
ARCH 235 - Architectural Design Studio (4.0 units)

(Formerly ARCH 030)

Prerequisite:CIV 101 or ARCH 101 or ENGT 101
Advisory:ARCH 115, ENGT 150, ARCH 215
Transfers to: UC, CSU

In this course, students learn about topics related to multiple design principles, including concept applications, spatial and form definition, preliminary studies, interior and exterior space planning, site orientation, styles, and materials. Student design concepts are expressed both verbally and graphically through presentation drawings, isometrics and perspectives, conceptual models, renderings, and photographs. Students develop skills in a studio environment, addressing existing conditions, problem-solving with design criteria, codes, and environmental relationships, and working on abstract, residential, and small commercial structures.

ARCH 215 - Perspective and Rendering (4.0 units)

(Formerly ARCH 016)

Prerequisite: CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or ARCH 101 or ENGT 105
Advisory:ENGT 150, ARCH 115
Transfers to:UC,CSU

In this course, students utilize the theory and practical application of perspective drawing and rendering in design fields such as architecture and interior design. Topics include one and two-point perspectives, and rendering techniques such as markers, pastels, pencil, pen, ink, and design software. Presentation techniques are also discussed.

ENGT 100 - Introduction to Engineering (2.0 units)

(Formerly CIV 138, CIVIL 138, DRAF 138, ENGT 138)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to:CSU, UC

This introductory course considers different branches of engineering, the engineering industries, and the functions of engineers and related roles. Topics include the methods and tools of engineering problem-solving and design, the place of engineering in society, and engineering ethics. Students learn about the educational requirements for careers in engineering fields and effective strategies to be academically successful in engineering programs, practice developing communication skills pertinent to engineering professions, and explore a variety of engineering career pathways to plan and shape career goals.

ENGR 100 - Introduction to Engineering (Same as ENGT 138) (2.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to:CSU

This introductory course considers different branches of engineering, the engineering industries, and the functions of engineers and related roles. Topics include the methods and tools of engineering problem solving and design, the place of engineering in society, and engineering ethics. Students learn about the educational requirements for careers in engineering fields and effective strategies to be academically successful in engineering programs, practice developing communication skills pertinent to engineering professions, and explore a variety of engineering career pathways to plan and shape career goals.

ENGT 123 - Intermediate Engineering Design: Descriptive Geometry (2.0 units)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101, ENGT 105, ENGT 150
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to graphics as used in engineering design utilizing descriptive geometry to solve three-dimensional engineering problems involving space, points, planes, and lines. The course explores the concepts of true length and size used within the industry to design and manufacture projects with high accuracy; utilizing auxiliary views; and revolution methods in regard to creating edges, surfaces, and developments.

ARCH 280 - Advanced MicroStation for CADD & BIM Applications (Same as ENGT 280) (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGT 170 or appropriate CADD work experience
Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to: CSU

This course is for students pursuing advanced study in MicroStation 3D parametric CADD (Computer Assisted Design and Drafting) and the BIM (Building Information Modeling) approach to building design using Bentley Architecture digital modeling applications. Students apply previously learned drafting conventions to produce 2D and 3D CADD- and BIM-generated mechanical and architectural drawings and virtual design models. This course benefits all students studying architecture, civil engineering of all types, drafting, design, and computer graphics. Emphasis is placed on the high technology skills necessary to function as a designer or CADD drafter.

ENGT 280 - Advanced MicroStation for CADD & BIM Applications (Same as ARCH 280) (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 280)

Prerequisite: ENGT 170 or appropriate CADD work experience
Advisory:

ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to: CSU

This course is for students pursuing advanced study in MicroStation 3D parametric CADD (Computer Assisted Design and Drafting) and the BIM (Building Information Modeling) approach to building design using Bentley Architecture digital modeling applications. Students apply previously learned drafting conventions to produce 2D and 3D CADD- and BIM-generated mechanical and architectural drawings and virtual design models. This course benefits all students studying architecture, civil engineering of all types, drafting, design and computer graphics. Emphasis is placed on the high technology skills necessary to function as a designer or CADD drafter.

ENGT 270 - Advanced 3D Parametric Modeling and Prototype Applications (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 270)

Advisory: ENGT 122, ENGT 150 or ENGT 170 or ENGT 200, ENGT 250
Transfers to: UC,CSU - UC credit limit. The UC will grant a maximum of 8 units of credit for the following courses: ENGT 150, ENGT 250, and ENGT 270.

This course is an intensive study of 3D computer graphics and computer assisted design and drafting (CADD) utilizing the latest release of 3D software. This course offers an in-depth exploration of manufacturing processes. This course benefits all students in areas of study related to engineering, drafting, design, and computer graphics. Students produce 3D, parametric, computer-generated virtual models incorporating mechanical design refinements. The course emphasizes the technological skills necessary to function as a design professional in order to apply 3D design graphics technology to the specific disciplines of mechanical engineering, machine drafting and design, manufacturing, animation, modeling, and illustration. Students are introduced to a variety of ways to produce prototype models directly from CADD-generated solid geometry. Students also take the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) industry standard test to check their proficiency, and receive certification upon passing.

ENGT 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Drafting-Related Fields (1.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 290)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course supports and reinforces on-the-job training in business and industrial establishments under the supervision of a college instructor. Training is informed by learning objectives. Students work in a skilled or professional-level assignment in their area of vocational interest, and meet performance objectives related to instruction that are above and beyond the conditions of regular employment. This course is intended for students whose job is related to the field of engineering design drafting and have completed or enrolled in the appropriate coursework. The course may be taken once and repeated for a maximum of 16 units. Contact the Work Experience Education Office regarding re-enrollment procedures.

Total Semester Units:6.0† 
2nd Semester
ENGT 122 - Introduction to Design DraftingM3.0
ENGT 122 - Introduction to Design Drafting (3.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 122)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting or ENGT 105
Transfers to: UC, CSU

Introduction to CAD and parametric modeling application and designs to generate industry standard models, renderings, and drawings for manufacturing products. Included industry standards for multiview orthographic projections, isometric views, pictorials, auxiliary views, cross sections, dimensioning, part and assembly models and drawings.

Select one: ENGT 150 / ENGT 170 M4.0
ENGT 150 - AutoCAD for Basic CADD Applications (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 150)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is for students preparing for high-technology careers who need the skills necessary to function as an entry-level computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) operator, or to apply CADD to the specific disciplines of mechanical and architectural design, manufacturing, illustration, and engineering-related documents. An overview of computer graphics and CADD utilizing the latest release of AutoCAD software is provided. Students produce 2D orthographic, isometric, and basic 3D model solutions of mechanical and architectural applications.

ENGT 170 - MicroStation for Basic CADD Applications (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 170)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to: CSU

This course is for students preparing for high technology careers who need the skills necessary to function as an entry level CADD operator or to apply CADD to specific disciplines of mechanical and architectural design, manufacturing, illustration and engineering related documents. An overview of computer graphics and CADD (Computer Assisted Design and Drawing) utilizing the latest release of MicroStation software will be provided. Students will produce 2D orthographic and basic 3D model solutions of mechanical and architectural applications.

Total Semester Units:7.0 
3rd Semester
ENGT 131 - Materials and ProcessesM4.0
ENGT 131 - Materials and Processes (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 131)

Advisory: ENGT 150 or ENGT 170 or ENGT 101, ENGT 122
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of the properties and applications of materials in manufacturing processes and rapid prototyping. Students explore how material properties characteristics influence their use and applications. The course covers testing and evaluating material for manufacturing processes. Through hands-on projects, students apply material selection and manufacturing processes.

ENGT 200 - Intermediate CAD Modeling for Design & ProductionM4.0
ENGT 200 - Intermediate CAD Modeling for Design & Production (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 200)

Advisory:ENGT 150 or ENGT 170 or ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting or ENGT 105
Transfers to: CSU

This course covers CAD strategies for the application and methods used in industry to generate the creation of designs and the construction of mock ups. There is a focus on the development of three dimensional surfaces and solids.

ENGT 250 - Introduction to Modeling and PrototypingM4.0
ENGT 250 - Introduction to Modeling and Prototyping (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 250)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or ENGT 105, ENGT 122
Transfers to:
UC,CSU

This course covers the techniques, processes and materials used for creating conceptual models and prototypes. Design and fabrication utilizing equipment such as 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting and other industry technologies are also presented, along with exploration of manufacturing techniques and materials.

Total Semester Units:12.0 
4th Semester
ENGT 231 - Advanced Visualization, Sketching, and RenderingM4.0
ENGT 231 - Advanced Visualization, Sketching, and Rendering (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 231)

Prerequisite:ENGT 101 or ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 105
Advisory: ENGT 122
Transfers to: CSU

This course focuses on enhancing design and presentation skills for objects and environments, using industry-standard techniques. It emphasizes quick production methods, including drawing and rendering methods. The use of rapid visualization to create formal compositions aims to produce portfolio-quality work.

Select a minimum of 3 units: ARCH 235 / ARCH 215 / ENGT 100 / ENGR 100 / ENGT 123 / ARCH 280 / ENGT 280 / ENGT 270 / ENGT 290 M1.0†
ARCH 235 - Architectural Design Studio (4.0 units)

(Formerly ARCH 030)

Prerequisite:CIV 101 or ARCH 101 or ENGT 101
Advisory:ARCH 115, ENGT 150, ARCH 215
Transfers to: UC, CSU

In this course, students learn about topics related to multiple design principles, including concept applications, spatial and form definition, preliminary studies, interior and exterior space planning, site orientation, styles, and materials. Student design concepts are expressed both verbally and graphically through presentation drawings, isometrics and perspectives, conceptual models, renderings, and photographs. Students develop skills in a studio environment, addressing existing conditions, problem-solving with design criteria, codes, and environmental relationships, and working on abstract, residential, and small commercial structures.

ARCH 215 - Perspective and Rendering (4.0 units)

(Formerly ARCH 016)

Prerequisite: CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or ARCH 101 or ENGT 105
Advisory:ENGT 150, ARCH 115
Transfers to:UC,CSU

In this course, students utilize the theory and practical application of perspective drawing and rendering in design fields such as architecture and interior design. Topics include one and two-point perspectives, and rendering techniques such as markers, pastels, pencil, pen, ink, and design software. Presentation techniques are also discussed.

ENGT 100 - Introduction to Engineering (2.0 units)

(Formerly CIV 138, CIVIL 138, DRAF 138, ENGT 138)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to:CSU, UC

This introductory course considers different branches of engineering, the engineering industries, and the functions of engineers and related roles. Topics include the methods and tools of engineering problem-solving and design, the place of engineering in society, and engineering ethics. Students learn about the educational requirements for careers in engineering fields and effective strategies to be academically successful in engineering programs, practice developing communication skills pertinent to engineering professions, and explore a variety of engineering career pathways to plan and shape career goals.

ENGR 100 - Introduction to Engineering (Same as ENGT 138) (2.0 units)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level, read college-level texts, and have knowledge of elementary algebra concepts.
Transfers to:CSU

This introductory course considers different branches of engineering, the engineering industries, and the functions of engineers and related roles. Topics include the methods and tools of engineering problem solving and design, the place of engineering in society, and engineering ethics. Students learn about the educational requirements for careers in engineering fields and effective strategies to be academically successful in engineering programs, practice developing communication skills pertinent to engineering professions, and explore a variety of engineering career pathways to plan and shape career goals.

ENGT 123 - Intermediate Engineering Design: Descriptive Geometry (2.0 units)

Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101, ENGT 105, ENGT 150
Transfers to:UC,CSU

This course is an introduction to graphics as used in engineering design utilizing descriptive geometry to solve three-dimensional engineering problems involving space, points, planes, and lines. The course explores the concepts of true length and size used within the industry to design and manufacture projects with high accuracy; utilizing auxiliary views; and revolution methods in regard to creating edges, surfaces, and developments.

ARCH 280 - Advanced MicroStation for CADD & BIM Applications (Same as ENGT 280) (4.0 units)

Prerequisite: ENGT 170 or appropriate CADD work experience
Advisory:ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to: CSU

This course is for students pursuing advanced study in MicroStation 3D parametric CADD (Computer Assisted Design and Drafting) and the BIM (Building Information Modeling) approach to building design using Bentley Architecture digital modeling applications. Students apply previously learned drafting conventions to produce 2D and 3D CADD- and BIM-generated mechanical and architectural drawings and virtual design models. This course benefits all students studying architecture, civil engineering of all types, drafting, design, and computer graphics. Emphasis is placed on the high technology skills necessary to function as a designer or CADD drafter.

ENGT 280 - Advanced MicroStation for CADD & BIM Applications (Same as ARCH 280) (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 280)

Prerequisite: ENGT 170 or appropriate CADD work experience
Advisory:

ARCH 101 or CIV 101 or ENGT 101 or two years of high school drafting
Transfers to: CSU

This course is for students pursuing advanced study in MicroStation 3D parametric CADD (Computer Assisted Design and Drafting) and the BIM (Building Information Modeling) approach to building design using Bentley Architecture digital modeling applications. Students apply previously learned drafting conventions to produce 2D and 3D CADD- and BIM-generated mechanical and architectural drawings and virtual design models. This course benefits all students studying architecture, civil engineering of all types, drafting, design and computer graphics. Emphasis is placed on the high technology skills necessary to function as a designer or CADD drafter.

ENGT 270 - Advanced 3D Parametric Modeling and Prototype Applications (4.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 270)

Advisory: ENGT 122, ENGT 150 or ENGT 170 or ENGT 200, ENGT 250
Transfers to: UC,CSU - UC credit limit. The UC will grant a maximum of 8 units of credit for the following courses: ENGT 150, ENGT 250, and ENGT 270.

This course is an intensive study of 3D computer graphics and computer assisted design and drafting (CADD) utilizing the latest release of 3D software. This course offers an in-depth exploration of manufacturing processes. This course benefits all students in areas of study related to engineering, drafting, design, and computer graphics. Students produce 3D, parametric, computer-generated virtual models incorporating mechanical design refinements. The course emphasizes the technological skills necessary to function as a design professional in order to apply 3D design graphics technology to the specific disciplines of mechanical engineering, machine drafting and design, manufacturing, animation, modeling, and illustration. Students are introduced to a variety of ways to produce prototype models directly from CADD-generated solid geometry. Students also take the Certified SolidWorks Associate (CSWA) industry standard test to check their proficiency, and receive certification upon passing.

ENGT 290 - Work Experience Education/Internship for Drafting-Related Fields (1.0 units)

(Formerly DRAF 290)

Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts.
Transfers to: CSU

This course supports and reinforces on-the-job training in business and industrial establishments under the supervision of a college instructor. Training is informed by learning objectives. Students work in a skilled or professional-level assignment in their area of vocational interest, and meet performance objectives related to instruction that are above and beyond the conditions of regular employment. This course is intended for students whose job is related to the field of engineering design drafting and have completed or enrolled in the appropriate coursework. The course may be taken once and repeated for a maximum of 16 units. Contact the Work Experience Education Office regarding re-enrollment procedures.

Total Semester Units:5.0† 
Total Units for Engineering Design Technology COA program 30.0† 
Notes:
  • AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor.
  • A total of 6 units must be chosen from the following courses: ARCH 235, ARCH 215, ENGT 100 OR ENGR 100, ENGT 123, ARCH 280 OR ENGT 280, ENGT 270, ENGT 290.
Legend:
Some classes may have higher units
M Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement
Advising Sheet:
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet.

Program Learning Outcomes

About RHC

Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.

Contact

Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601

Phone: (562) 692-0921
Comments? Questions?
Contact Us

searchth-largeclosearrow-circle-o-downchevron-upchevron-downbarsmap-o linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram