3-D Modeling and Design Technology: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Students in this program develop advanced proficiency in leveraging three-dimensional digital technologies to generate precise, functional models and visualizations for industrial and design applications. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of digital design, fabrication, and visualization techniques to support innovation across manufacturing, engineering, architecture, and product development.
- 3-D Computer-Aided Design (CAD): Mastery of industry-standard software to create detailed digital blueprints and technical drawings with exacting geometric accuracy for real-world applications.
- 3-D Model Design and Construction: Development of complex digital models from conceptual sketches to fully realized prototypes, focusing on form, function, and structural integrity.
- 3-D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): Hands-on experience with digital fabrication processes that transform digital models into physical objects using layered material deposition techniques.
- 3-D Scanning: Acquisition and processing of real-world objects into digital 3-D representations using laser or optical capture systems for reverse engineering, preservation, or design refinement.
3-D Modeling and Design Technology Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
3-D Modeling and Design Technology Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with 3-D Modeling and Design Technology degrees, including Electrical and Electronics Drafters, Mechanical Drafters and Architectural and Civil Drafters. These career paths represent common employment outcomes but are not guaranteed for all graduates. Salary ranges vary by location, employer, experience level, and specific role requirements. Nationally, these occupations employ approximately 185,480 professionals.
National Average Salaries
| Occupation | Median Salary | Salary Range | Total Employment | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and Electronics Drafters 17-3012 | $73,720 | $48,680 - $110,180 | 20,020 | $35.44 |
| Mechanical Drafters 17-3013 | $68,510 | $46,500 - $107,600 | 39,900 | $32.94 |
| Architectural and Civil Drafters 17-3011 | $64,280 | $44,040 - $98,190 | 109,550 | $30.90 |
| Drafters, All Other 17-3019 | $62,010 | $42,170 - $96,620 | 16,010 | $29.81 |
3-D Modeling and Design Technology Salary Map by State
Geographic location significantly impacts earning potential for these careers. Average salaries range from $53,033 in Alabama to $88,430 in District of Columbia—a 67% difference. The highest-paying states include District of Columbia, Alaska, and Massachusetts. Nationwide, these occupations employ over 185,480 professionals across all states. Explore the interactive map below to compare regional compensation and identify optimal markets for your career goals.
Average Salary Range:
Top Universities for 3-D Modeling and Design Technology by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 9 institutions offering 3-D Modeling and Design Technology programs for the 2023-2024 academic year (the most recent data reported as of 2025), ranked by the number of graduates. The highest graduate enrollment in 3-D Modeling and Design Technology is found at Oakland Community College (OCC) (10 graduates), Ventura Adult and Continuing Education (VACE) (7 graduates), Macomb Community College (5 graduates), Pima Community College (PCC) (4 graduates), and Front Range Community College (FRCC) (4 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 40 graduates across all degree levels. Program availability varies by award level, including Associate, Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees at participating universities and schools.
| College Name | Award Levels | Graduates | Location | Control | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oakland Community College (OCC) |
Associate's
|
10 | Auburn Hills, Michigan | Public | oaklandcc.edu |
| Ventura Adult and Continuing Education (VACE) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
7 | Ventura, California | Public | adultedventura.edu |
| Macomb Community College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
5 | Warren, Michigan | Public | macomb.edu |
| Pima Community College (PCC) |
Other Award
|
4 | Tucson, Arizona | Public | pima.edu |
| Front Range Community College (FRCC) |
Other Award
|
4 | Westminster, Colorado | Public | frontrange.edu |
| Yavapai College |
Other Award
|
3 | Prescott, Arizona | Public | yc.edu |
| State University of New York |
Master's
|
3 | New Paltz, New York | Public | newpaltz.edu |
| Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) |
Associate's
Other Award
|
2 | Detroit, Michigan | Public | wcccd.edu |
| Clackamas Community College (CCC) |
Other Award
|
2 | Oregon City, Oregon | Public | clackamas.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about 3-D Modeling and Design Technology programs
How much can I earn with a 3-D Modeling and Design Technology degree?
Salaries for 3-D Modeling and Design Technology graduates vary by role and location. Electrical and Electronics Drafters earn a median of $73,720 annually, while Mechanical Drafters earn around $68,510. Geographic location significantly impacts earnings—professionals in District of Columbia average $88,430 compared to $53,033 in Alabama. Approximately 185,480 professionals work in related occupations nationwide.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS program, May 2024. Earnings vary by experience, employer, and market conditions.
Which universities have the largest 3-D Modeling and Design Technology programs?
Currently 9 accredited institutions offer 3-D Modeling and Design Technology degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Oakland Community College (OCC) (10 graduates), Ventura Adult and Continuing Education (VACE) (7 graduates), and Macomb Community College (5 graduates).
Program size doesn't necessarily indicate quality—consider factors like faculty expertise, production opportunities, location, and available degree levels when choosing a school.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2023-2024 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated.
What career paths are available with a 3-D Modeling and Design Technology degree?
This degree prepares you for roles such as Electrical and Electronics Drafters, Mechanical Drafters, and Architectural and Civil Drafters. Related occupations employ approximately 185,480 professionals nationwide.
Skills in project management, creative leadership, and collaboration also transfer to event planning, arts administration, marketing, and corporate training roles. Many professionals work freelance or on a project basis across theatre, film, and live events.
Career pathways mapped using CIP-SOC crosswalk from the National Center for Education Statistics. Employment data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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