Sep 23, 2025  
GRCC Curriculum Database (2025-2026 Academic Year) 
    
GRCC Curriculum Database (2025-2026 Academic Year)
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DR 150 - Introduction to SolidWorks


Description
SolidWorks is one of the leading parametric solid modeling software packages used in industry. This course introduces the basic functions of the software including the creation of 3D Models, assembly of models, and generation of model and assembly drawings.
Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 4
Prerequisites/Other Requirements: None
English Prerequisite(s): None
Math Prerequisite(s): None
Course Corequisite(s): None
Academic Program Prerequisite: None
Consent to Enroll in Course: No Department Consent Required
Dual Enrollment Allowed?: Yes
Number of Times Course can be taken for credit: 1
Programs Where This Course is a Requirement:
Computer Numeric Control (CNC) Programming Certificate, Mechanical Design Certificate, Plastics-Polymer Engineering Technology, A.A.A.S (Ferris State University-Manufacturing Engineering Technology), Pre-Manufacturing Engineering Technology, A.A. (Ferris State University), Tooling and Manufacturing Technology, A.A.A.S., Tooling and Manufacturing Technology Certificate, Welding Technology, A.A.A.S., Welding Certificate, Mechanical Design, A.A.A.S.
General Education Requirement:
None
Course Learning Outcomes:
1. Navigate the SolidWorks software: menus, toolbars, startup options, prompts, help functions.

2. Incorporate additional modeling features: lofts, sweeps, patterns, shell, hole wizard.

3. Complete and assembly of solid modeling components using the proper mates.

4. Incorporate additional sketching techniques and tools: convert, offset, mirror, pattern, modify.

5. Complete the design process with detail drawings of the model.

6. Begin to create models using extrude and simple cuts.

7. Apply the appropriate dimensions and sketch restraints.

8. Specify and create the initial sketch objects.

9. Describe common CAD / solid modeling terminology and procedures.

10. Identify the required hardware, software and peripheral devices used in solid modeling.

11. Develop environmentally friendly designs.

12. Use visual representations such as graphs, charts, or graphics to enhance the meaning of the message that is being communicated. 

13. Identify the best solution to a problem or issue. 
Course Outline:
I. Orientation to parametric modeling.

II. Creating a 2D sketch.

III. Modifying and contraining a sketch.

IV. Dimensioning a 2D sketch.

V. Creating a 3D model from a 2D sketch.

VI. Performing engineering changes to the 3D model.

VII. Building an assembly from 3D models.

VIII. Developing detailing drawings from the model.


Approved for Online and Hybrid Delivery?:
Yes
Instructional Strategies:
Audio-Visual Materials: 5-10%

Discussion: 10-15%

Lecture: 25-30%

Questions and answers: 5-10%

Demonstration: 10-30%

Projects: 20-40%

Laboratory Activities: 10-15%

Review Reinforcement: 10-15%
Mandatory Course Components:
None
Equivalent Courses:
None


Accepted GRCC Advanced Placement (AP) Exam Credit: None
AP Min. Score: NA
Name of Industry Recognize Credentials: None

Course prepares students to seek the following external certification:
No
Course-Specific Placement Test: None
Course Aligned with ARW/IRW Pairing: IRW 97, IRW 98, IRW 99
Mandatory Department Assessment Measures:
None
Course Type:
Program Requirement- Offering designed to meet the learning needs of students in a specific GRCC program.
Course Format:
Lecture/Lab - Must meet Lecture & Lab Ratios
Total Lecture/Lab Hours Per Week: 4
People Soft Course ID Number: 102929
Course CIP Code: 15.9999
Maximum Course Enrollment: 24
General Room Request: CAD Lab
High School Articulation Agreements exist?: Yes
If yes, with which high schools?: Coopersville High School, Zeeland High School
Non-Credit GRCC Articulation Agreement With What Area: No
Identify the Non Credit Programs this Course is Accepted: NA


School: School of STEM
Department: Mechanical & Architectural Design
Discipline: DR
Faculty Credential Requirements:
Master’s Degree (GRCC general requirement)
Faculty Credential Requirement Details:
The instructor must know Mechanical Design thoroughly. He or she must know the current Solidworks software. He or she must have good presentation techniques and interpersonal teaching skills. Must have 4,000 hours of work experience in industry.
Major Course Revisions: N/A
Last Revision Date Effective: 20220215T20:38:49
Course Review & Revision Year: 2026-2027



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