Drafting schools in Chesapeake, VA

4 schools within 30 miles of Chesapeake, VA offer CAD & drafting programs, and the closest is Tidewater Community College in Norfolk, 12 miles away. CAD drafters in Virginia earn a median $69,630 a year, according to the BLS.

Within 30 miles
4
Closest
12 mi
Public colleges
3
Median pay in VA
$69,630

4 CAD & drafting schools within 30 mi of Chesapeake, VA

School results

  1. Tidewater Community College

    Norfolk, VA · 12 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • Electrician
    • HVAC technician
    • +20

  2. ECPI University

    Virginia Beach, VA · 13 mi · Private

    • CAD & drafting
    • Medical assistant
    • Practical nursing (LPN/LVN)
    • +11

  3. College of the Albemarle

    Elizabeth City, NC · 25 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • HVAC technician
    • Welding
    • +11

  4. Hear from the best fits near Chesapeake, VA

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  5. Virginia Peninsula Community College

    Hampton, VA · 27 mi · Public

    • CAD & drafting
    • HVAC technician
    • Automotive technician
    • +6

What CAD drafters earn in Virginia

Median pay means half earn more and half earn less. Pay grows with experience, certifications and overtime.

CAD drafter salary in VirginiaHow to become a CAD drafter

Median pay
$69,630
$33.48 an hour
Typical range
$47,840–$94,800
10th to 90th percentile
Jobs in VA
630
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.

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Frequently asked questions

What are the closest CAD & drafting schools to Chesapeake?

The closest are Tidewater Community College (Norfolk, 12 mi), ECPI University (Virginia Beach, 13 mi), and College of the Albemarle (Elizabeth City, 25 mi). In total, 4 schools within 30 miles teach CAD & drafting.

How much do CAD & drafting programs near Chesapeake cost?

For the 4 schools nearby that report it, the average yearly net price after aid ranges from $2,253 to $22,965. Ask each school for the full program cost, including tools, books and exam fees.

How much do CAD drafters make near Chesapeake?

Across Virginia, the median pay is $69,630 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 Chesapeake?

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.

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