CAD FAQs

How much does the course cost?

Please telephone our MOL Enquiry Team for further details on 0161 203 2103.

What resources do I need to do this course?

To do this course you will need a computer capable of running the AutoCAD software and an email account.  You can successfully complete this course using AutoCAD version 2000, 2002, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 or 2008 software.

How long does the course last?

There are three possible time frames for completing the course depending on your circumstances.  Which ever option you choose, you must complete the programme within 12 months in order to qualify for the City & Guilds award.  Approximately 140 hours of study are needed, therefore you must dedicate at least 3 hours per week to complete the programme within one year.  Please read the ‘course information’ section of the website to find which time frames suits you.

What do the induction sessions involve?

You must attend a 3 hour induction session.  These are usually held on Friday afternoon at 12.30 until 3.30pm. The induction session includes the following:

  • Enrolment
  • Access accounts to the college computers
  • Issuing programme handbook, logbook and courseware material
  • Setting up the desktop to run AutoCAD efficiently
  • Execute CAD software and prepare AutoCAD’s screen environment to suit efficient 2D draughting
  • Function keys and using help efficiently
  • Overview of CAD concepts
  • Interrogating the files on the CD provided
  • Overview of Mock assessments
  • Purchasing Student version of AutoCAD software

I live miles away from the College and cannot get to an induction session easily; can I enroll on this course without attending an induction session?

Yes, in this case we will send you the enrolment forms by post with instructions. You will be asked to complete and return the forms with a letter from your employer or cheque for the course fees. If you would prefer to pay by debit/credit card our registration desk will contact you for your card details. On completion of enrolment a welcome pack will be posted out to you.

What kind of support do I get whilst studying on this programme?

We pride ourselves on offering you unrivalled support.  Our CAD suite is a very flexible learning environment open most hours during the week (details given on induction) and distance learners can drop in for support by arrangement.

Throughout the programme, you can expect:

  • Help with managing your learning
  • Answers to your queries
  • Telephone/e-mail access to your tutor, with a timely response to your contact made at reasonable times
  • Maintenance of contact by your tutor
  • Marking and written feedback on assessments
  • Overall support in assisting your studies to a successful conclusion within the 12 month duration of the programme

Can I fast track through this programme?

Yes. To successfully complete this course you are required to sign off the learning objectives. Once this is complete you can sit the mock assessments and written multiple choice test as many times as you feel fit. You must give the college one weeks notice if you require to be assessed.

Can I study on this course without doing the qualification?

Yes, please contact the tutor for details.

I have been working on AutoCAD for a number of years, can I get credit for the experience I have?

Yes, you could be APL’d (Acquired Prior Learning). This means, you may be able to sign off the objectives you are experienced at and focus on those you are not.  You can be entered for assessment once you have successfully completed the mock assessments in the allocated time.  Please discuss with a tutor for further details.

What is the assessment requirement?

All learners must successfully complete 3 practical assessments and a multiple choice question paper testing AutoCAD general knowledge.

For each stage of the qualification you need to compile a CAD portfolio.  The portfolio contains evidence demonstrating that you have covered the standards required for the course.

What does the assessment involve?

All learners must attend the college to be assessed.  Assessment can take up to 7 hours; therefore you have the option to take the assessment over one or two days.

What qualification will I get on completion?

Successful learners gain a Level 3 qualification issued by City and Guilds of London Institute. The qualification is seen as an industry standard for 2D Draughting and has been established for many years.