Precision Production: Program Overview, Universities, Careers & Salaries
Program Overview
Programs in precision production equip learners with advanced technical expertise in high-accuracy manufacturing processes, emphasizing efficiency, quality control, and the integration of modern production technologies. This field prepares individuals for careers requiring meticulous attention to detail, technical problem-solving, and mastery of automated and computer-controlled systems.
- Advanced Machining Techniques: Mastery of precision cutting, shaping, and finishing processes using CNC machines, lathes, and milling equipment to achieve exact dimensional tolerances.
- Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): Application of software tools to generate toolpaths and automate machine operations, enhancing consistency and reducing human error in production workflows.
- Quality Assurance and Metrology: Implementation of inspection methods and measurement systems to verify product conformity to engineering specifications and industry standards.
- Materials Science in Manufacturing: In-depth understanding of material properties, selection criteria, and behavior under stress to optimize performance and durability in final components.
- Automation and Robotics Integration: Design and operation of automated systems and robotic cells used in assembly, material handling, and precision fabrication environments.
- Lean Production and Process Optimization: Application of continuous improvement methodologies to streamline workflows, minimize waste, and maximize output efficiency in high-precision settings.
Precision Production Graduate Trends (2010-2024)
Precision Production Career Pathways & Salary Outlook
The following table presents salary data for occupations typically aligned with Precision Production degrees, including . 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.
Career salary data is not available for this program.
Top Universities for Precision Production by Graduate Enrollment
Below are the top 13 institutions offering Precision Production 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 Precision Production is found at Salem Community College (SCC) (18 graduates), Wichita State University (WSU Tech), Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (15 graduates), Washtenaw Community College (WCC) (14 graduates), Macomb Community College (9 graduates), and North Bennet Street School (NBSS) (8 graduates). Combined, these colleges produced 95 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salem Community College (SCC) |
Associate's
|
18 | Carneys Point, New Jersey | Public | salemcc.edu |
| Wichita State University (WSU Tech) |
Other Award
|
15 | Wichita, Kansas | Public | wsutech.edu |
| Washtenaw Community College (WCC) |
Associate's
|
14 | Ann Arbor, Michigan | Public | wccnet.edu |
| Macomb Community College |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
9 | Warren, Michigan | Public | macomb.edu |
| North Bennet Street School (NBSS) |
Certificate (≥2 yrs)
|
8 | Boston, Massachusetts | Private | nbss.edu |
| Delta College |
Associate's
Other Award
|
8 | University Center, Michigan | Public | delta.edu |
| Lake Michigan College (LMC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
Associate's
|
7 | Benton Harbor, Michigan | Public | lakemichigancollege.edu |
| Waukesha County Technical College (WCTC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
6 | Pewaukee, Wisconsin | Public | wctc.edu |
| Greenville Technical College (GTC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
4 | Greenville, South Carolina | Public | gvltec.edu |
| St Charles Community College (SCC) |
Associate's
|
3 | Cottleville, Missouri | Public | stchas.edu |
| Mott Community College |
Associate's
|
1 | Flint, Michigan | Public | mcc.edu |
| Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) |
Certificate (1-2 yrs)
|
1 | Reno, Nevada | Public | tmcc.edu |
| Northern Wyoming Community College District (NWCCD) |
Associate's
|
1 | Sheridan, Wyoming | Public | sheridan.edu |
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about Precision Production programs
Which universities have the largest Precision Production programs?
Currently 13 accredited institutions offer Precision Production degrees across the U.S. Programs with the highest enrollment include Salem Community College (SCC) (18 graduates), Wichita State University (WSU Tech), Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology (15 graduates), and Washtenaw Community College (WCC) (14 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.
Is enrollment in Precision Production growing or declining?
Graduate numbers have decreased over the past decade, rising from 159 in 2010 to a peak of 107 in 2020, before declining slightly to 95 in 2023-24. This represents a 40% decrease overall from 2010.
The field remains specialized with consistent demand, though opportunities are most concentrated in major metropolitan areas with active arts scenes like New York, California, and Illinois.
Graduate enrollment data from IPEDS, 2010-2024 academic years. Trends reflect reported completions at participating institutions.
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