# CAD/BIM Certificate Program

Online certificate program with job support, software, and portfolio project

Canonical URL: <https://vdci.edu/certificates/cad-bim-certificate-program>

## Overview

Master AutoCAD and Revit, the essential tools behind modern drafting and building design, and gain the skills to design, document, and visualize projects with precision. This program offers a structured learning path, beginning with foundational AutoCAD training and progressing into Revit’s Building Information Modeling capabilities. You can further tailor your experience by specializing in Revit MEP, Revit Structure, or AutoCAD Construction Documents. Throughout the program, you will learn industry best practices that build confidence, support complex project management, and prepare you to produce professional construction documents that meet industry standards.

Along the way, you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD tools while developing detailed 2D drawings and engaging 3D models that clearly communicate your ideas. You will explore BIM fundamentals and their role in today’s design and construction workflows, apply your skills through practical projects that reflect real workplace challenges, and learn techniques that streamline drafting and modeling processes to save time and resources. The program also supports the creation of a strong portfolio that highlights your skills, knowledge, and completed work.

## Curriculum
1. **Intro to AutoCAD Course Online**
2. **Intermediate AutoCAD Course Online**
3. **AutoCAD Construction Documents I Course Online**
4. **AutoCAD Construction Documents II Course Online**
5. **Intro to Revit Course Online**
6. **Intermediate Revit Course Online**
7. **BIM Construction Documents I Course Online**
8. **BIM Construction Documents II Course Online**
9. **CAD/BIM Certificate Elective Courses**
10. **Capstone Project**

## Instructors

### Michael Wilson — Instructor

Michael is an Instructor for VDCI San Diego focusing on teaching and creating Revit courses to help students learn workflows through project based exercises that can be applied to real world projects. As a Licensed Architect in the State of California he has over 25 years of experience working on award winning commercial, municipal and industrial projects; creating spaces for some of the top pharmaceutical companies in the world, and enriching communities with projects like the El Cajon Animal Shelter, Mission Hills Library and El Centro Library. As an Autodesk Certified Instructor specializing in Revit he has helped train thousands of students over the past 15+ years within the San Diego AEC community and beyond.

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Certified Instructor
- Autodesk Certified AutoCAD Professional
- Autodesk Certified Revit Professional
- Revit

### John Menvielle — Instructor

John has been working in the Multimedia World for more than 15 years but has had an interest in it ever since he was a child. He moved to San Diego to attend the University of California, San Diego, and upon graduating, decided to stick around “because of the weather.” He joined the VDCI Team in 2019 and has since come to appreciate a multitude of VDC Software.

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Certified Instructor (ACI)
- Bluebeam Professional

### Reid Johnson — Instructor

Reid isn't just someone who knows CAD and BIM; he's a licensed architect and contractor who deeply integrates these technologies into every facet of his career. His hands-on experience as a practitioner building real-world projects provides him with an invaluable understanding of how BIM and CAD streamline workflows and enhance design. This practical foundation led him to Autodesk, where he shared his expertise, helping others effectively leverage these powerful tools. Throughout his professional journey, Reid also dedicates himself to education, consistently teaching university courses and shaping the next generation of design professionals by equipping them with essential CAD skills. His unique blend of practical experience, industry knowledge gained at Autodesk, and passion for teaching positions Reid as a true specialist in BIM and CAD technology, capable of bridging the gap between theory and real-world application.

**Credentials:**

- Autodesk Fusion Certified User
- Autodesk Revit Certified Professional
- Autodesk Certified Instructor
- Licensed Architect
- Licensed General Contractor

### David Nguyen — Instructor

David is the AEC Software Specialist at VDCI, with a Bachelor of Science in Construction Management and an Associate’s degree of science in Drafting and General Design from ITT Technical Institute. A San Diego native with over 12 years working in the Design Industry and construction industry, David brings his construction and design expertise to help all students achieve their goals in the field. Outside of his professional life, David loves attending concerts, festivals, playing his guitar and restoring and repairing all types of vehicles.

**Credentials:**

- OSHA 30 hr. Construction Safety Certified
- Construction Software: SketchUp, Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Suite (AutoCAD, Fusion, Revit)
- Mechanical Software: PTC Creo Parametric, SOLIDWORKS, Mastercam

### Derek McFarland — Instructor

Over the course of the last 10 years of his architectural experience and training, Derek has developed a very strong set of skills and talents towards architecture, design and visualization. Derek grew up in an architectural family with his father owning his own practice in custom home design. Throughout the years, Derek has had the opportunity to work and be involved at his father's architecture office, dealing with clients, visiting job sites, and contributing in design and production works. Recently, Derek has built up an incredible resume of architecture experiences working at firms such as HOK in San Francisco, Gensler in Los Angeles, and RNT, ALTEVERS Associates, HMC, and currently as the lead designer at FPBA in San Diego. Derek has specialized in the realm of architectural design and digital design.

### Marc Mucciaccio — Instructor

Marc is an Architectural Designer and Educator at VDCI, holding a Bachelor of Architecture from the Bernard & Anne Spitzer School of Architecture at CCNY, with a Minor in Art. A New York local with years of experience at prestigious NYC firms — including Douglas Wright Architects, Groves & Co., Joseph Vance Architects, and Studio SFW — Marc brings deep expertise in technical precision and architectural representation to help students excel in the field. Outside of work, he enjoys cycling along the West Side Highway, exploring Central Park, and visiting historic architectural sites.

Credentials:

- NAAB-Accredited 5-Year B.Arch, City College of New York (CUNY)
- Design Software: ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Revit, Civil 3D, SketchUp, Rhinoceros, Vectorworks
- Rendering Software: Enscape, Twinmotion, V-Ray, Redshift
- Specializations: High-End Residential Design, Construction Documentation, BIM Management

## FAQ

### Who is the target audience for this course?

This program is designed for architecture, engineering, and construction professionals and those who want to develop both 2D drafting and 3D BIM modeling skills to support coordinated design and documentation workflows across projects. AEC professionals seeking proficiency in both CAD drafting and BIM modeling Students and recent graduates looking to build practical design and documentation experience Those aiming to change careers and gain a broad skill set that spans drafting and BIM workflows CAD users who want to expand into BIM and enhance their technical versatility in design and construction environments

### Does this certificate include job support?

In addition to 400 hours of interactive training, you will receive eight 1-on-1 mentoring sessions that can be used for career and job support, including polishing your resume, preparing for interviews, and reviewing best practices for applying to jobs. Note, however, that we don’t provide job placement (i.e. reaching out to companies on your behalf).

### Is this course open to beginners?

Yes, this course is open to beginners. Students must be comfortable using a computer. No other prior knowledge is required.

### Do you offer payment plans or student financing for this course?

Yes, this course is eligible for our installment plan. Learn more in the Tuition section above.

### How long is this course?

This course is 400 clock hours. Clock hours is the total estimated course time including watching the course videos and completing the projects. The time varies by student. Assuming that you work approximately 10 hours per week, you will complete this course in about 10 months.

### What’s included with my tuition?

A hands-on learning experience working on projects and exercises, which is proven to boost comprehension, retention, and engagement Expert instructors who are industry professionals and experienced educators that are driven to help you succeed A comprehensive program with 10 in-depth course modules designed to build your skills progressively Extensive video training resources to support your learning journey Access to AutoCAD & Revit software (1 year) during your training Expert support with answers to your questions from real instructors throughout your learning journey Professional feedback on your final project from an industry expert to help improve your skills Valuable 1-on-1 mentoring sessions outside of class to address your specific needs and career goals Top-notch curricula that have been tried and tested over many years and are consistently improved for an optimal learning experience A certificate of completion to verify your accomplishment The confidence of learning at an accredited institution Assessment tools including quizzes to reinforce your learning and track your progress

### Are there any additional fees or expenses?

There are no hidden fees or taxes for our courses. This course requires a non-refundable registration fee of $150 . The price you see on this page, $7,750 , is the maximum you’ll pay us.

### Do you offer any discounts for this course?

This program has a single package price. Additional discounts do not apply.

## Reviews

> VDCI training courses definitely helped me to get a job in the field. At the moment, I work as a building designer (architectural technician) and I have been using part of what I learned from their courses. A lot of what I learned in Revit when taking Revit courses at VDCI have been translated into my job with success.
>
> — Leandro Lazzarti

> Though my current career is not in the CAD arena, this training helped me to better comprehend some of the technical tools we use to support our military. For my future career in drafting and design, this program taught me very valuable skills and attention to detail that will help me produce quality drawings.
>
> — Sarah Barker

> My experience was excellent! I think the staff and faculty were excellent. Everyone was very knowledgeable and were always there to help and guide you through the courses. I appreciate all their help!
>
> — David Lovett

> This program is great. Gives you what you need for your career.
>
> — Hubert Carle

> Awesome program, and keep up the good work!
>
> — Nicholas Mecir

> I really like the videos and projects in this program. All instructors were highly knowledgeable and helpful in my educational process. I appreciate the support all the staffs have provided me.
>
> — Sophia T Nguyen

> The videos and overall experience was great. At times it was tough getting through all the material but making the time to do it definitely paid off in the end! Thank you VDCI for the help in this achievement.
>
> — Anthony Perez

## Pricing

**Tuition:** $7750

Payment options: equal installment plan and GI Bill accepted.
