SOLIDWORKS: Become a Certified Associate Today (CSWA) Course Syllabus

Overview: This course is designed for absolute beginners and takes you from the basics of SOLIDWORKS to full readiness for the CSWA certification exam. With over 5 hours of structured content, you'll learn essential modeling, assembly, and drawing skills through hands-on exercises and real-world examples. Each module builds your confidence step by step, culminating in a capstone project that integrates all learned skills. Lifetime access allows you to learn at your own pace and revisit concepts as needed.

Module 1: Getting Started with SolidWorks

Estimated time: 0.5 hours

• Introduction to the SOLIDWORKS user interface
• Navigating toolbars and menus
• File management and document setup
• Setting document templates, units, and system options

Module 2: Part Modeling Basics

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Creating 2D sketches using lines, circles, and rectangles
• Applying geometric and dimensional constraints
• Using basic features: Extrude, Revolve, Fillet, and Chamfer
• Understanding feature-based modeling workflow

Module 3: Advanced Part Features

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Creating lofts and sweeps for complex shapes
• Applying shell and draft features
• Managing feature order and configurations
• Working with design tables

Module 4: Assembly Modeling

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Inserting and positioning components in assemblies
• Applying standard mates (concentric, coincident, distance)
• Creating subassemblies and managing hierarchy
• Generating exploded views and basic animations

Module 5: 2D Drawings & Detailing

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Generating standard drawing views (front, top, side)
• Creating section and detail views
• Adding dimensions, annotations, and geometric tolerances
• Inserting and managing bill of materials (BOM)

Module 6: Certification Exam Prep

Estimated time: 1 hour

• Reviewing CSWA exam topics and structure
• Understanding key terminology and best practices
• Practicing sample exam questions
• Time-management strategies for passing the CSWA

Module 7: Capstone Project

Estimated time: 0.75 hours

• Modeling a multi-component assembly from scratch
• Creating detailed 2D drawings with annotations
• Producing a complete drawing package for review

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy
• Familiarity with technical drawings (recommended but not required)
• Access to SOLIDWORKS software (student version or trial acceptable)

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Navigate the SOLIDWORKS interface confidently
• Create and modify 3D parts using sketching and features
• Build and manage multi-component assemblies
• Generate professional 2D drawings with dimensions and annotations
• Pass the CSWA certification exam with strong foundational skills