Earn a Rapid Prototyping and Design Certificate
Rapid prototyping manufacturing (RPM) is an emerging field that uses existing and cutting-edge technologies to construct physical 3D objects. Used mainly in high-end product design, rapid prototyping can shorten product development cycle times and lead to more efficient and effective processes.
RPM is often associated with additive manufacturing, CNC machining and injection molding. Our certificate program meets the critical training needs of RPM and solid modeling. Students design models with SolidWorks and then create the models with 3D printers and scanners, CNC machines and casting equipment.
This academic program prepares you for the following careers. All job data is provided by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Architectural and Civil Drafters
Salary Data
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL Metro Area Average
Florida Average
Projected employment for Florida
2023 Employment
7,780
2033
8,950
Percent Change
15
Projected Job Openings
890
Model Makers, Metal and Plastic
Salary Data
Florida Average
United States Average
Projected employment for Florida
2023 Employment
80
2033
70
Percent Change
-13
Projected Job Openings
10
Commercial and Industrial Designers
Salary Data
Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL Metro Area Average
Florida Average
Projected employment for Florida
2023 Employment
1,850
2033
2,100
Percent Change
14
Projected Job Openings
160
Collaborative Center for Emerging Technologies
SPC's SolidWorks Design Center was the first of its kind in Florida developed through the collaborative efforts of local industry and makes use of Computer Numerical Control (CNC) equipment, 3-D scanners and 3-D printers. This center is located in our Collaborative Center for Emerging Technologies, an open manufacturing factory work environment with state-of-the-art equipment so you learn the latest skills needed in emerging technologies.
Rapid Prototyping and Design Certificate without Financial Aid Eligibility
RAPID-CT
Effective Beginning Catalog Term: Spring 2025 (645)
The requirements shown below are valid beginning Spring 2025 (645), and may not reflect degree requirements for current students. Current students should visit My SPC and view My Learning Plan to see specific degree requirements for their effective term.
Program Summary
This certificate provides a program of study with courses in solid modeling, using SolidWorks. By completing this certificate, the students will provide the technical expertise for the engineering activities of industry in planning, designing, and detailing for Rapid Prototyping. This certificate utilizes the 3-D printers and CNC machines for the solid modeling design process and development of the final product. These courses are also applied to the 60-credit hour Associate in Science Degree in Engineering Technology. Students new to this field will be able to obtain employment by completing this certificate and work in those areas where Rapid Prototyping is used.
Graduation Requirements
The student must complete 12 credits of the listed courses, required for the RAPID-CT certificate.
Academic Pathways
The Academic Pathway is a tool for students that lists the following items:- the recommended order in which to take the program courses
- suggested course when more than one option exists
- which semester each course is typically offered
- if the course has a prerequisite
- courses that may lead to a certificate (if offered in the program)
Please verify the Academic Pathway lists your correct starting semester.
Program Leadership Information
Dean
Florida CIP Code
0615130211 - Rapid Prototyping Specialist (CCC )
Federal CIP Code
15.1302 - CAD/CADD Drafting and/or Design Technology/Technician.
CONTINUING YOUR EDUCATION at SPC
The Rapid Prototyping and Design Certificate is part of and transfer to SPC's Engineering Technology Associate of Science Degree.
