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What is CNC Machining?
Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) is a field of study focused on the automation of machine tools to control the manufacturing process. A CNC degree holder is an operator that will either receive exact specifications of a part, assembly, device, or product from a customer or create the specifications through computer coding. Once the code is in place, a Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) technician will utilize the commands encoded on a storage medium to create the product or device.
The benefit of a highly precise set of CNC instructions coupled with advanced CNC machinery is that exact replicas can be built with tight tolerances versus a manually created product at a fraction of the cost. In most machining environments, a CNC system will be a highly automated using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer-aided design (CAD) programs. Unlike the production process of yesteryear, a CNC machine will often combine a number of tools and processes into a single work cell and only leave the CNC once fabrication is complete.
Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types
Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS
2025 Best CNC Degree
CNC Machining course’ goal is to help graduates qualify in performing machining operations utilizing CNC Machining Centers. Their program will provide classroom and hands-on lab instruction. To improve the performance of cylinder heads and engine blocks, their program gives primary emphasis on the application of CNC machining techniques. Additionally, at Sam Tech, students will have the chance to thoroughly explore the utilization of 5-axis CNC machining Centers.
Acceptance Rate
81.48
Tuition
$16,675 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
Computer Numerical Control is taken by students at Rochester Institute Technology who’s under manufacturing engineering degree or the associate in occupational studies degree. CNC is one of the manufacturing technologies that manufacturing engineering should learn. Learning CNC is also one way to prepare students in AOS in order for them to be prepared for employment in precision machining or precision optics manufacturing occupations. RIT is devoted in shaping their students to have the future they’ve always wanted.
Acceptance Rate
70.73
Student to Faculty Ratio
13:1
An Advanced Manufacturing degree is offered at Lincoln Tech – Mahwah. This program is designed to prepare students for an entry-level employment as CNC Operators or Set-up Technicians. This program helps students develop fundamental skills required in operating and setting up complex manufacturing machines. Completion of this program makes the students prepared for qualifying NIMS in the areas of Measurement and Safety, Bench work and Layout, CNC Turning, CNC Operator and CNC Milling.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$25,164 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
24:1
CNC Machining and manufacturing Technology training at Lincoln Tech Grand Prairie provides their students with technical and hands-on training on CNC machines from global leader Haas Automation, Inc. These are the same kinds of machines that you will find in clean, comfortable and safe factories in the country. TX CNC Machining School at Grand Prairie develops their students to be skilled in programming computers. They will be knowledgeable with 21st century manufacturing equipment.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$24,266 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
22:1
NASCAR Technical Institute offers CNC Machinist Training Program. This program provides industry-preferred tools and technology in training students in the brands they are going to use out in the field. This program teaches every important aspect in CNC machinist training in cooperation with a leading brand in the performance industry, Roush Yates. Some of the topics that students will be familiar with are interpreting geometric dimensioning, setup and operation of CNC lathes and mills, and reading blueprints.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$36,300 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
33:1
Lincoln Tech – East Windsor’s CT CNC Machining School offers programs in Machining and Manufacturing. They impart knowledge on how to program computers using 21st century manufacturing equipment. Students get the chance to practice reading blueprints as they work with industry-standard software to direct tool paths. Through specialized software programs, students are able to study CAD and CAM.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$24,442 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
21:1
Lincoln Tech-Indianapolis features the Gene Haas Center for Advanced Automation that is named for the founder of one of the leading CNC equipment manufacturers in the world. Students in Indianapolis’ IN CNC Machining School have acquired skills that are essential for their brighter future. They practice reading blueprints and have the opportunity to work with industry-standard software to direct tool paths. They will also be provided with specialized software programs to be able to study CAD and CAM.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$32,243 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
26:1
Tennessee College of Applied technology-Pulaski offers a CNC Machining degree. This program strives to give their students a broad range of experience in using machine tools that they will possibly come in contact with after graduation and throughout their career. They are dedicated in helping their students acquire skills of a machine operator that they will need in the machining of metal by machine tools. This program also includes blueprint reading, manual milling and turning machines, instruction relating to safety and many other more that they will need to know.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$4,236 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
10:1
Montana State University offers a Certificate in CNC Machine Technology. This is a 34-credit program which is designed to be completed in 2 semesters. It’ll train students to apply technical knowledge and skills in operating computer numerically controlled machines. Instruction in CNC terminology, programming, troubleshooting, machining and mill operations are just some of the topics included in this program.
Acceptance Rate
81.94
Student to Faculty Ratio
19:1
An Associate degree in Computer Numerical Control Technology is available at Northern Michigan University. Graduates of this program are employed to maintain, set-up, and operate CNC equipment. If you are interested in pursuing a degree beyond the associate, the credits you earn in this program can be transferred to a baccalaureate degree program in Industrial Technologies. It is also applicable to Mechanical Engineering Technology.
Acceptance Rate
65.59
Student to Faculty Ratio
20:1
At Hacienda La Puente Adult Education, students will not just learn basic CNC programming skills. Their students under the Header Machinist and basic CNC Programmer program will also learn how to operate a precision Centerless Grinder. Through a grant from the Howmet Aerospace, they will be able to produce fasteners for the Aerospace and Military Industry. All new students in this school are required to attend the appraisal.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$3,300 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
32:1
Students will learn both CNC lathing and milling at Dunwoody’s Machine Tool and Technology. They acknowledge that machining is crucial to precision manufacturing, so they strive to help their students learn the manual and computer-controlled machining in a state-of-the-industry machine tool facility. They will be trained in Solidworks and MasterCAM software. They will be guided in completing hands-on projects on manual machines and advanced manufacturing processes including CNC lathing and CNC milling.
Acceptance Rate
96.88
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Ferris State University provides hands-on experience with Basic CNC and Machine operations for students who will earn CNC Programming and Machine Operation Certificate. They will teach their students the basic fundamentals in programming and in both CNC and CAM. They are dedicated in preparing their students to be effective in any field of work they want to pursue. They claim that they can give the best education that anyone could ever receive.
Acceptance Rate
86.64
Student to Faculty Ratio
16:1
At Meridian Technology Center, you will really put your fingers to work. They will teach you how to input code on machining tools. They will provide you with everything you need to be a skillful CNC Machinist. You will literally get out of the classroom and enter into the real world while doing projects where you transform raw materials into parts. Students will be asked to create prototypes of products designed by students in Pre-Engineering and Computer Aided Drafting by writing programs.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$2,835 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
9:1
Green Country Technology Center offers NIMS Certified CNC Machine Operator Program. This program is designed to help prepare students for an exciting career in manufacturing. Students will be trained by Jerald Logan (instructor) in a shop equipped with a variety of industry standard advanced precision machines. Students who completed this program learned how to use advanced computer technology in manufacturing products for a broad range of production needs.
Acceptance Rate
84.62
Tuition
$2,625 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
11:1
Precision Machining degree at Gordon Cooper Technology Center is structured to train individuals to operate conventional and computerized numerical control machine shop equipment. They impart knowledge on how to work from technical drawings. Impart knowledge on how to meet production and tolerance specs on machined parts for the manufacturing industry. This is offered as full-time career pathways to high school juniors, seniors or adults.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$5,682 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
18:1
Affordable, accessible and high-quality programs in CNC Machinist, Manufacturing Technology is what Colorado Mesa University offers. Students at Archuleta Engineering Center learned how to apply industrial knowledge and skills in implementing designs, operating manual mills and lathes and in planning. They are trained to be skillful in operating computer aided machinery with CAD/Cam software. They are also knowledgeable in CNC machines.
Acceptance Rate
78.2
Student to Faculty Ratio
20:1
CNC Machinist (CERT) is offered as one of work experience courses at Baker College of Flint. They define work experience courses as a challenging work opportunity that are related to the major or intended career of the student. Students will then integrate and reflect their work experience to their college learning in the professional world. Skills that they will be able to hone with the help of the work experiences that they’ll gain gives them an advantage in their career field.
Acceptance Rate
73.16
Student to Faculty Ratio
8:1
Renton Technology College offers a two-year CNC Machining Technologies program for qualified students. This program will help their students develop skills that are essential in operating machines. They will receive hands-on experience just like what they’ll encounter as they start working at manufacturing facilities. They will learn how to apply math, and other practical skills at work.
Acceptance Rate
-
Student to Faculty Ratio
17:1
East Valley Institute of Technology, located in Phoenix, Arizona, was founded to provide service and education to the metropolitan areas of east Phoenix. The school is a public institution that primarily serves high school students from the surrounding region that meet the prerequisites for admission at the 10th, 11th, or 12th grade level. Students concurrently enrolled in high school may attend EVIT for free. The school provides technical training and has been nationally recognized for its program offerings and implementation.
Academics
Programs at EVIT provide students with training and education that allows for the development of skills and abilities useful in the student's chosen field of study. The goal of the school is to provide a quality educational and instructional environment that best prepares students as professionals, allowing for immediate workforce entry upon completion. Though the school is primarily geared for teenagers in high school, the school does offer training and continuing education courses for adults wishing to develop or upgrade their skills.
Programs offered include:
Admissions and Financial Aid
High school students enrolling at EVIT may do so through the application available through their current associated high school. Student will clear a portion of their schedule, allowing for EVIT classes take their place. Adults wishing to enroll must complete and submit an application, provide all pertinent information and meet with a counselor. Adults in need of financial assistance may complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if they qualify for grants and loans. Qualifying individuals will be contacted with information regarding tuition payments and disbursement of funds.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,555 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
20:1
Knox County Career Center is a public, less-than-2-year college that provides certifications in the fields of health, business, technology and trade. Their mission is to provide educational programs for entry-level competency for employment, career advancement and lifelong learning.
Located in Mount Vernon, Ohio, KCCC currently serves over 300 members of the community through quality education in areas such as Automotive Technology, Practical Nursing, Public Safety, Culinary, Cosmetology and Welding. Each course at the center is designed to technical skills using real-life situations so that students are immediately employable after completing a particular course.
The main campus of the KCCC Adult Education is located on Martinsburg Road; a separate training center for health and wellness programs is located on Yauger Road.
About 80% of the students enrolled in the 2012 programs received financial aid averaging about $3,000 for a total of $638,000 in grants and loans. Eligible students may apply through the center, and minimum performance standards apply for all forms of financial aid.
KCCC provides full-time as well as short-term, customized and online education. Online certification is given in more than 300 courses, all of which are accessible 24-hour-a-day-7-days-a-week. Virtual discussion areas allow interaction between students and faculty, and schedules can be set per the convenience of the students. Online courses are available in fields such as air conditioning, medical transcription, pharmacy technology and many more.
Student services for current students and graduates include career services such as counseling and employment assistance.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$14,061 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
Since 1968, the Training Centers of Southern California has prepared nearly 10,000 men and women for a career in the machining, tooling, and manufacturing industry. Offering a wide spectrum of training, all three locations offer modern classrooms, state-of-the-art machinery for extensive hands-on practice, and instructors possessing vital knowledge and experience in the industry. Students are afforded the highest caliber of instruction, including computer lab and actual machining of parts for the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to succeed.
The Training Centers serves two vital functions:
- To provide a quality learning environment for qualified individuals interested in learning or furthering their skills in the machining, tooling, and manufacturing industry.
- To supply the machining, tooling, and manufacturing industry with skilled, trained, competent workers.
An independent, nonprofit Trust of the Los Angeles chapter of the National Tooling and Machining Association operates the Training Centers. The LA/NTMA represents the custom precision-manufacturing industry in Southern California. Its member companies design and manufacture special tools and machines, dies, jigs, fixtures, gauges, and precision-machined parts, and are involved in virtually anything that is fabricated or consumed.
Six distinct training programs are offered by the Training Centers of Southern California. Depending on the program, instruction time, generally, is divided equally between classroom, computer lab, and shop, providing a unique blend of practical theory and shop-floor machining experience. All instructions are given in English. Financial aid is available to those who qualify. After successfully completing the Machinist Training Program students qualify for the NTMA's Training Center's job placement. The school cannot guarantee employment.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$12,033 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
12:1
With two convenient campuses, the Eastland Career Center in Groveport, and Fairfield Career Center in Carroll, and 16 satellite locations in participating high schools; the Eastland-Fairfield Career Center and Technical Schools is the seventh largest technical training district in the state of Ohio. As of the latest reporting year, over 6,000 adults were enrolled in one of many professional and technical programs such as Medical Assisting, Medical Office Technologies, HVAC, Plumbing, and Basic Police Officer Training. Tuition for adult training courses vary by program, however, financial aid is available to those who qualify. For high school students who reside in the districts serviced by this institution the classes and completion certificates are offered free of charge. There are many full and part time study options available for students, however, there are no online classes offered. It is of upmost importance that those educated at Eastland-Fairfield Career Center and Technical Schools achieve their academic and career goals. Career counseling is offered to all students. Upon completion of their program students will receive their designated certification as well as a packet containing their resume and transcripts. As of 2013 57% of Eastland-Fairfield Career Center and Technical continue their post secondary education. If you are interested in attending an adult technical school that values and supports your career goals than Eastland-Fairfield Career Center and Technical Schools may be the place for you.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$10,348 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
7:1
Great Oaks is a technical training Center that is located to the south of Cincinnati, Ohio. It offers vocational trainings to high school students and professionals in various career paths. The institute also has a range of opportunities for the students who would like to pick up new career paths such as: automotive collision technologies, practical nursing, law enforcement, aviation maintenance and heating, and ventilation and air conditioning. Almost all these programs are eligible for federal financial aid, however, one is advised to seek clarification from Great Oaks to know whether a particular course is included or not.
Apart from that, there are also good enrichment courses being offered such as motorcycle safety, dog grooming, photography, CPR and English lessons for those who are taking it as a second language. There is a gateway program that allows students to obtain a diploma qualification provided they meet the age limit--between 18 and 21 years of age. Other personal development skills like resume writing and professional development skills are nurtured through internships and even mock interviews. In order to secure admission, you have to take an entry exam, go through an interview, and officially select from one of Great Oaks’ many programs.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$7,695 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
15:1
California Career School is a leading occupational training provider. Students are offered quality training which prepares them for jobs primarily in the automotive industry. The current enrollment volume is one hundred and twenty students. This school is well known for its annual high percentage rate of training graduates. The school's training sites include Anaheim, Camp Pendleton/Oceanside, Miramar/Lakeside, Twenty-nine Palms, Barstow/Ft. Irwin, and Yuma, Arizona.
The training programs are listed below:
- Commercial Truck Driver
- Bus Driver Training
- Auto Repair Technician-Tune Up & Emissions
- Security Guard Training
- Computer Numerical Control
Students can expect to complete the commercial truck driver training in six weeks, bus driver training in 2 weeks, security guard training in 24 weeks, auto repair technician training in 24 weeks, and computer numerical control training in 36 weeks.
Prospective students can contact an admission officer by calling the school to begin the enrollment process. Tuition assistance is available for military personnel and veterans.
Acceptance Rate
-
Tuition
$6,290 / year
Student to Faculty Ratio
4:1
Top Degrees in CNC Machine Programming
High tech and high touch intersect in the manufacturing world with CNC machining. A CNC machine provides programmers with the ability to automate the manufacturing process with state-of-the-art equipment to replicate parts and/or assemblies to exact specifications. Behind the scenes, a CNC programmer will need to blend fabrication knowledge with computer coding skills.
Programmers will need to understand very specific requirements of an order prior to converting raw material into a finished product. Aspects such as size, composition, angles, assembly, timing, and customization need to be accounted for during the design phase to minimize waste and rework. Below you will find a summary of undergraduate and degree programs available to help students get matched to exciting jobs in the field and leverage CNC knowledge.
Certificate Programs in CNC Machining
A certificate and or diploma program in CNC machining or CNC machine programming is a hands-on learning experience. Students will learn the basics of becoming a skilled trades person. Skills learned in most program will include the manufacturing of precision parts and assemblies using a variety of metals and plastics.
Machinists will utilize forgings, castings, stampings, and stock material to produce a variety of parts. CNC equipment is utilized to produce parts to exact specifications using computer assisted machinery and precision measuring equipment.
Associate Degrees in CNC
An associate degree in CNC machine program is a 2-year program for full-time students. Degrees in the field are conferred as an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or Associate of Science (AS) depending on the school. Associate degree programs fuse core curriculum with general education courses to provide a balanced education. Examples of general education courses will often include creative writing, history, communications, philosophy, and psychology.
Core curriculum for CNC machinists will be designed to prepare students to step into a variety of jobs in the field. Courses you will typically find in a course catalog include:
- Manufacturing Safety
- Quality Practices
- Maintenance Essentials
- Engineering Drawings
- Materials Science
- Geometric Dimensioning
- Shop Calculations
- CNC, CAD, CAM
- Tool Design
- Mechanical Systems
Student Curriculum for Machinists & Programmers
In terms of educational requirements, Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) degree holders will have typically studied the following courses while in college:
- English Language
- Business Management
- Mechanical Engineering
- Production and Processing
- Mathematics
- Electrical Engineering
- Communications
Skills & Abilities Required for CNC Programmers
- Speaking
- Instructing
- Reading Comprehension
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speech Clarity
- Oral Expression
- Oral Comprehension
- Speech Recognition
- Written Comprehension
Schools Other Students Requested Information From:
Employment & CNC Specializations
For students that earn a college degree in Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC), there are several fields of specialization that one can pursue. The options range from safety engineer, machinist, systems engineer, operation design, manufacturing engineer, management science, production engineer, ergonomics, management engineer, and lean manufacturing in the public or private domain to name a few possible career tracks.
Where Do CNC Machinists Work?
After earning a degree, diploma, or certificate of completion in CNC programming, students will have a number of career tracks to consider. We have assembled a list of types of places a CNC programmer may work to help you best understand the road ahead. Top places a CNC machinist work include:
- Mold shops
- Contract machine shops
- Precision Machining
- Project Management
- Die shops
- CAD/CAM/CNC Machining
- Medical device manufacturers
- Research & development machine shops
- Defense Manufacturing
- OEM Suppliers
Top Job Titles of CNC Programmers
When looking for a job in the field, you will need to understand the common vernacular associated with a CNC professional. As a result, we have culled dozens of resources to come up with a list of commonly used job titles.
It is important to understand a CNC machinist can carry a different job title yet perform the same work from shop to shop. Likewise, you can have the same job title yet perform different duties. Thus making it essential to understand each job and the specific duties involved to find the best fit for you.
- Computer Numerically Controlled Programmer
- Machine Shop Lead
- CAD/CAM Programmer
- Machining Manager
- CNC Machine Operator
- Process Engineer
- CNC Machining Center Operator
- Programmer
- Computer Numerically Controlled Machinist
- Computer Numerically Controlled Operator
Popular Job Duties of a Computer Numerically Controlled Programmer
Data from a recent DOL survey help illuminate the top job duties of a machinist or computer programmer. When thinking about a career in computer programming and production, take the time to read through the following list and then reach out to accredited schools to learn more about their respective program(s). Top job duties of a CNC machinist include the following:
- Determining exact reference points, machine cutting paths, or hole locations for each part or assembly
- Writing specific programs in the appropriate coding language and storing the programs on tapes and disks for future use
- Updating existing computer programs to improve outcomes or optimize for fabrication efficiencies
- Establishing the proper sequence of machine operations and the best cutting tool for the job
- Establishing the proper simulations on test material prior to final production
- Modifying and testing computer programs to ensure minimal waste and rework
- Taking the time to analyze shop drawings, blueprints, orders, and customer specs to effectively calculate dimensions (length, width, depth, radii, curvatures, etc), optimal tools, and feed rates
- Properly maintaining each computer-controlled machine to run effectively and efficiently
Job Growth and Career Outlook in CNC Programming
The job growth in the greater Computer Numerically Controlled domain are well above average. The career outlook curriculum in CNC allows new students to hit the ground running and participate in the job market right away. In fact, the rate of job growth for industrial machinery mechanic is expected to rise 16% through 2024 and for machinist a 6% growth rate is expected during the same period. A CNC specialist career outlook is exceptionally bright given the training available and market demand.
Given the broad nature of the Computer Numerically Controlled programming degree, compensation after graduation can vary greatly from career field to career field given prior experience and geographic location. Related fields include engineer, operations manager, fabrication plant manager, manager, production engineer, and equipment repair.
Additional Resources in CNC Machining & Programming
Additional research can be done on professional trade associations such as the National Tooling and Machining Association (NTMA). As one of the largest trade associations affiliated with the CNC specialties, they provide tools and resources for professionals in this area of study.
The following organizations may also be worth researching as you focus your skills and abilities deeper into programming and machining.
- Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME)
- Association of Facilities Engineering (AFE)
- American Association for Machine Translation (AAMT)
- National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)
- Robotics Industries Association (RIA)
- Precision Machined Products Association (PMPA)
- Open Device Vendors Association (ODVA)
- Association of Manufacturing Technologies (AMT)
- Tooling and Manufacturing Association (TMA)
- International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM)
- National Center of Manufacturing Sciences (NCMS)