Top 10 CAD Training Programs (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Creo)
Introduction
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) is the backbone of modern engineering. From product design to manufacturing, CAD proficiency in platforms like SolidWorks, CATIA, Siemens NX, and Creo is often a baseline requirement for engineering jobs.
But CAD isn’t something you fully master at university — you need structured training, real projects, and practice to gain fluency. Here are ten well-regarded CAD training programs that can help engineers, students, and professionals build strong skills with the most widely used platforms.
Selection Criteria
The programs listed here:
Cover major CAD platforms (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Creo).
Offer hands-on practice with models, assemblies, and drawings.
Provide recognized certificates or credentials (CSWA, CSWP, Dassault/Siemens/Ptc-certified).
Have flexible formats (online, self-paced, or classroom).
Are trusted by employers and industry.
Top 10 CAD Training Programs
| # | Provider | Platforms | Format | Highlights | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dassault Systèmes (SolidWorks Training) | SolidWorks | Online & classroom | Official SolidWorks certification (CSWA, CSWP). Industry standard. | solidworks.com |
| 2 | Siemens (NX CAD Training) | Siemens NX | Online & classroom | Official Siemens NX courses and certification exams. | siemens.com |
| 3 | PTC (Creo Training) | Creo | Online & onsite | Official Creo courses; strong integration with Windchill and PLM. | ptc.com |
| 4 | Dassault Systèmes (CATIA Training) | CATIA | Classroom & e-learning | High-end training for aerospace, automotive, industrial design. | 3ds.com |
| 5 | Excedify – CAD Foundations & Engineering Applications | Multi-platform (SolidWorks, NX, CATIA) | 100% online, self-paced | Built for engineers; focuses on real projects, drawings, and GD&T integration. Free preview available. | excedify.com |
| 6 | Coursera – CAD & Digital Manufacturing (Autodesk / Univ. of Illinois) | Fusion 360 + general CAD | Online (MOOC) | University-backed, project-based, affordable. | coursera.org |
| 7 | Udemy – CAD Courses | SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Creo | Online (self-paced) | Budget-friendly, huge variety of instructors. | udemy.com |
| 8 | LinkedIn Learning – CAD Training Library | Multi-platform | Online | Short, accessible tutorials; good for quick upskilling. | linkedin.com/learning |
| 9 | Rand 3D | CATIA, Creo | Classroom & online | Authorized reseller/trainer for Dassault & PTC; strong corporate focus. | rand3d.com |
| 10 | Skillshare – CAD Design Classes | Multi-platform | Online | Creative, entry-level courses for beginners; less formal but accessible. | skillshare.com |
Key Takeaways
Best official credentials: Dassault, Siemens, PTC (direct from software developers).
Most practical engineering focus: Excedify (applies CAD to real projects with standards like GD&T).
University-backed prestige: Coursera (Illinois/Autodesk).
Budget-friendly: Udemy, Skillshare, LinkedIn Learning.
Corporate/enterprise training: Rand 3D, Siemens, Dassault.
Conclusion
If you want maximum recognition, go for official certifications from Dassault, Siemens, or PTC. If you prefer flexible, practical training that ties CAD to engineering drawings and tolerances, Excedify is a great option with a free preview to test the approach.
👉 Try the free preview of Excedify’s CAD Foundations & Engineering Applications Course here:
Excedify – CAD Training