CAD & 3D Modeling Software
Resources: CAD / 3D Modeling Software for Architecture Students
There is an excellent selection of CAD / 3D Modeling Software for Architecture Students. Most companies provide a free educational version of their software products for students, educators and schools to use. Schools and firms use different software. It is recommended that students learn multiple products to increase their versatility and knowledge of the capabilities of CAD / 3D Modeling within the design profession. Each of the software products are unique and have their own respective strengths. Please see our resources guide for more help. The software is listed alphabetically below.
ArchiCAD
Description:
ArchiCAD is an architectural BIM CAD software for Mac and Windows developed by the Hungarian company Graphisoft. ArchiCAD offers computer aided solutions for handling all common aspects of aesthetics and engineering during the whole design process of the built environment—buildings, interiors, urban areas. This product is one of the first BIM CAD technologies and Graphisoft releases an updated product each year. Models can be exported for 3D printing and VR. Compatible with both Mac and PC. Free educational software.
https://myarchicad.graphisoft.com
https://graphisoft.com/resources-and-support/learning
AutoCAD Fusion 360
Description:
Fusion 360 is a commercial computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, computer-aided engineering and printed circuit board design software application, developed by Autodesk. It is available for Windows and macOS, with simplified applications available for Android and iOS.
https://www.autodesk.com/campaigns/education/fusion-360-education
https://www.autodesk.com/education/students
Catia
Description:
CATIA is a multi-platform software suite for computer-aided design, computer-aided manufacturing, computer-aided engineering, 3D modeling and product lifecycle management, developed by the French company Dassault Systèmes.
https://edu.3ds.com/en/software/catia-v5-student-edition
Grasshopper
Description:
Grasshopper is a visual programming language and environment that runs within the Rhinoceros 3D computer-aided design application. The program was created by David Rutten at Robert McNeel & Associates. Programs are created by dragging components onto a canvas. LINK
Lumion
Description:
Lumion software is used for creating architectural visualizations that bring designs to life. This powerful tool for architects and designers allows you to present your designs to clients in a way they can truly feel. Win business by presenting your design exactly as it was imagined.
https://lumion.com/students.html
https://support.lumion.com/hc/en-us/categories/360000646374-Lumion-Videos
Maya
Description:
Autodesk Maya, commonly shortened to just Maya, is a 3D computer graphics application that runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, originally developed by Alias and currently owned and developed by Autodesk. It is used to create assets for interactive 3D applications, animated films, TV series, and visual effects. Maya is a surface-based 3D modeling software.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/maya/overview
Revit
Description:
Autodesk Revit is a BIM CAD (building information modeling) software tool for architects, landscape architects, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers, designers and contractors.
https://www.autodesk.com/products/revit/free-trial
https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/revit/learn-explore
Rhino
Description:
Rhinoceros is a commercial 3D computer graphics and computer-aided design application software that was developed by Robert McNeel & Associates, an American, privately held, and employee-owned company that was founded in 1969.
https://www.rhino3d.com/for/education/
https://www.rhino3d.com/for/education/teachers/
Sketchup
Description:
SketchUp is a suite of subscription products that include SketchUp Pro Desktop, a 3D modeling Computer-Aided Design program for a broad range of drawing and design applications. Sketchup is a surface-based 3D modeling software. Free versions available.
https://www.sketchup.com/plans-and-pricing/sketchup-free
https://www.sketchup.com/products/sketchup-for-schools
Twinmotion
Description:
Created by Epic Games, Award-winning software Twinmotion is a real-time 3D immersion software that produces high-quality images, panoramas and standard or 360° VR videos in seconds.