Overview and Award Outcomes
Overview
The Product Design and Digital Manufacturing Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree prepares students for careers in the design and development of manufactured products. Graduates typically work as Engineering CAD Technicians or Product Designers, contributing to the creation of innovative, functional, and user-centered products. Product designers are creative problem-solvers who integrate design thinking with engineering and manufacturing principles. They work on a wide range of products—from consumer electronics and medical devices to automotive components and industrial tools. Their work also extends to specialized items like laboratory instruments, assistive technologies, agricultural tools, and general machine design. Key tasks include concept development, 3D modeling, prototyping, material selection, collaboration with engineers, visual communication, and guiding products from design through manufacturing. This versatile skill set enables graduates to thrive in modern, technology-driven design environments.
Award Outcomes
Create and interpret engineering drawings using ASME/ISO standards for manufacturing and assembly
Apply Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles to ensure precision and quality in product design
Design and optimize components for additive manufacturing using advanced CAD platforms such as SOLIDWORKS and Creo Parametric
Execute additive manufacturing processes, including finishing techniques, to produce functional prototypes and production-ready parts
Analyze material properties and structural integrity to ensure product performance and safety
Utilize 3D scanning technologies to capture, process, and integrate physical geometry into digital design workflows
Collaborate on engineering design projects from concept through production, integrating digital manufacturing workflows and industry best practices
Career Opportunities
Persons trained in Product Design and Digital Manufacturing are prepared for careers in advanced manufacturing, product development, and engineering design. With expertise in CAD modeling (SOLIDWORKS and Creo), additive manufacturing, 3D scanning, GD&T, and industrial processes, they can pursue roles such as Product Designer, CAD Engineer, Additive Manufacturing Specialist, Reverse Engineering Technician, and Digital Manufacturing Technician. These skills are in demand across industries including aerospace, automotive, medical devices, consumer products, industrial equipment, or any industry that innovation and precision drive success.
Semester Sequence - Brooklyn Park
Second Semester
| ENGC1070 | Additive Manufacturing Finishing Techniques | 3 |
| ENGC1250 | SOLIDWORKS I | 4 |
| METS2100 | Statics and Strength of Materials | 3 |
| Technical Studies Electives | 6 |
Third Semester
| ENGC1021 | Working Drawings | 3 |
| ENGC1041 | Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing | 3 |
| ENGC1060 | Design for Additive Manufacturing | 3 |
| | |
| PHYS2005 | College Physics I | 4 |
| | |
| Technical Studies Electives | 3 |
Technical Studies Electives
Choose credits from any manufacturing department.
Choose a Total of: 12 Credits
Graduation (66 Credits)
Semester listings reflect the recommended sequence. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the information herein is subject to change without notice.
4/21/2026 : BP 4104 / EP 4105
Semester Sequence - Eden Prairie
Fourth Semester
| ENGC1041 | Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing | 3 |
| ENGC1070 | Additive Manufacturing Finishing Techniques | 3 |
| | |
| Technical Studies Electives | 9 |
Technical Studies Electives
Choose credits from any manufacturing department.
Choose a Total of: 12 Credits
Graduation (66 Credits)
Semester listings reflect the recommended sequence. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the information herein is subject to change without notice.
4/15/2026 : BP 4104 / EP 4105