Drafting schools in Chicago, IL
12 schools within 30 miles of Chicago, IL offer CAD & drafting programs, and 4 are in Chicago itself. CAD drafters in Illinois earn a median $63,320 a year, according to the BLS.
- Within 30 miles
- 12
- Closest
- 4 mi
- Public colleges
- 12
- Median pay in IL
- $63,320
12 CAD & drafting schools within 30 mi of Chicago, IL
School results
City Colleges of Chicago-Harold Washington College
Chicago, IL · 4.5 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- Police academy & criminal justice
City Colleges of Chicago - Richard J. Daley College
Chicago, IL · 5.9 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- Electrician
- Welding
- +4
Hear from the best fits near Chicago, IL
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City Colleges of Chicago-Harry S Truman College
Chicago, IL · 8.9 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- Automotive technician
- Cosmetology
- +3
City Colleges of Chicago-Wilbur Wright College
Chicago, IL · 9.9 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- CNC machining
- IT support & networking
- +2
Moraine Valley Community College
Palos Hills, IL · 13 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- HVAC technician
- Welding
- +15
Prairie State College
Chicago Heights, IL · 22 mi · Public
- CAD & drafting
- Electrician
- HVAC technician
- +12
What CAD drafters earn in Illinois
Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.
- Median pay
- $63,320
- $30.44 an hour
- Typical range
- $56,710–$94,930
- 10th to 90th percentile
- Jobs in IL
- 450
- Job growth, 2025–35
- -6%
- 2,900 openings a year (U.S.)
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025, and Employment Projections.
Hear from the best fits near Chicago
One short form. Up to 3 schools send you costs, schedules and financial aid options. Free, with no obligation.
- Compare real costs and start dates
- Ask about financial aid and apprenticeships
- Your info goes only to the schools you're matched with
Step 1 of 3: Your trade
Frequently asked questions
What are the closest CAD & drafting schools to Chicago?
The closest are Morton College (Cicero, 4 mi), City Colleges of Chicago-Harold Washington College (Chicago, 5 mi), and City Colleges of Chicago - Richard J. Daley College (Chicago, 6 mi). In total, 12 schools within 30 miles teach CAD & drafting.
How much do CAD & drafting programs near Chicago cost?
For the 12 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $2,829 to $11,607. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.
How much do CAD drafters make near Chicago?
Across Illinois, the median pay is $63,320 a year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Pay varies by employer, experience and certifications.
How do I choose a CAD & drafting school in Chicago?
Ask each school about accreditation, total cost after financial aid, hands-on lab hours, certification exam prep, class sizes and job placement. Request info from two or three schools so you can compare their answers side by side.
Drafting schools in nearby cities
- Lombard (17 mi)
- Hammond, IN (18 mi)
- Orland Park (18 mi)
- Arlington Heights (24 mi)
- Aurora (32 mi)
- Joliet (33 mi)
- Elgin (36 mi)
- Waukegan (38 mi)
Other programs near Chicago
- Electrician schools
- HVAC schools
- Construction schools
- Welding schools
- CNC machining schools
- Industrial maintenance schools
- Auto mechanic schools
- Medical assistant schools
- CNA classes
- LPN programs
- Phlebotomy classes
- Pharmacy technician schools
- Dental assistant schools
- Dental hygiene schools
- Surgical tech schools
- EMT and paramedic schools