3D Design & CAD Modeling

Master the fundamentals of CAD (computer-aided design) for 3D printing, architecture and engineering — no previous experience required. In this course, you’ll learn to work with Tinkercad, SketchUp and Onshape CAD modeling software. You’ll develop virtual designs on the computer and then physically build those designs with materials in class. Your projects will include CAD designing and 3D printing tools, puzzle toys, balsa towers (that you’ll test for strength!), and a marble-run course. You’ll work on architecture designs of modern-style houses, learn to create circuits in CAD and solder a circuit board to make lights flash!

We’ll also take field trips to on-campus sites and hear from guest speakers who work with CAD professionally. On the last day of class, you’ll share your designs with family and friends, and by the end of this course, you’ll have enough understanding of CAD design to continue to grow your skills into the next school year on your own.

What You'll Learn

Fundamentals of 3D modeling software to create objects with specific shapes and dimensions
More complex CAD modeling programs
How to think in three-dimensional space and apply that thinking to physical objects
How 3D printers work and how to use them
Insights into careers and industries that employ people with 3D modeling skills
Basic universal design terminology and why virtual models are used

Who Should Register

This course is for sixth to eighth graders. It's a beginner's course; you don‘t need any previous CAD experience to enroll.

More Information

If you took the course 3D Design & CAD Modeling for Kids while you were in elementary school, this middle school course will build on what you already know and take your skills to the next level.

The in-person course is taught on the UW Seattle campus.

There’s a nonrefundable $50 registration fee each quarter you register. See the FAQs page for details about registration, refunds, waitlists and more.

Details

Jun 29–Jul 10, 2026 1B no class on July 3	Day Mon–Fri	Time 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
	Location UW Seattle	Cost $895
	Instructor Steve Howard	Status Opens Jan 27, 2026

Jul 27–Aug 7, 2026 3B	Day Mon–Fri	Time 1 p.m.–4 p.m.
	Location UW Seattle	Cost $995
	Instructor Will Nelson	Status Opens Jan 27, 2026