Mar 13, 2025  
2024-2025 Catalog 
  
2024-2025 Catalog

Computer Numerical Control, A.A.S.


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Associate of Applied Science Degree: (CNC-AAS)
CNC Programming and Operation Short-Term Certificate: (CNC-SCERT)

About the Program

The Computer Numerical Control Associates of Applied Science degree program prepares students to be successful in a highly technical field with the foundation and skill-set to make them a valued asset in an ever-changing industry. Students will be exposed to topics that include, but are not limited to, basic and advanced programming, machine controls, machine set-up, and program structure to manufacture parts to blueprint standards for fit and tolerances as dictated by modern Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T) standards. Students will be required to complete hands-on projects in a state-of-the-art lab environment.

This Program Offers:

  • Associate of Applied Science Degree: 60 credit hours
  • CNC Programming and Operation Short-Term Certificate: 24 credit hours

Program Goals

  • To prepare students for employment in highly skilled manufacturing environments
  • To instruct students on how to apply critical thinking and analytical problem solving as a CNC operator and/or programmer
  • To prepare the student to successfully take the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification exams (4 exams that can be taken at different intervals as the student moves through the program)
  • To emphasize the importance accuracy and attention to detail
  • To expose students to resources such as online forums and networking
  • To teach students to adhere to safety standards and procedures to not endanger themselves or others

Program Outcomes

  • Accurately interpret blueprint drawings and apply information to product development
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of manufacturing processes
  • Utilize the CAD application within MasterCam for both 2D and 3D drawing development
  • Write and apply 2D and 3D programs
  • Demonstrate ability to start-up and set-up CNC machines
  • Utilize machine controls on various CNC equipment
  • Set-up machines to execute programs
  • Demonstrate ability to load programs and/or use Intuitive Programming proficiently
  • Demonstrate knowledge of safety standards as they apply to all manufacturing environments
  • Demonstrate ability to measure and gage parts accurately
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and ability to apply Reinshaw Probing
  • Demonstrate and apply proficient use of point-to-point measuring equipment as well as surface scanning
  • Demonstrate an understanding of hard part machining

Certificate Goals

  • To instruct students on how to apply critical thinking and analytical problem solving as a CNC operator and/or programmer
  • To prepare the student to successfully take the National Institute of Metalworking Skills (NIMS) certification exams
  • To teach students to adhere to safety standards and procedures to not endanger themselves or others

Certificate Outcomes

  • Accurately interpret blueprint drawings and apply information to product development
  • Demonstrate basic knowledge of manufacturing processes
  • Utilize the CAD application within MasterCam for both 2D and 3D drawing development
  • Write and apply 2D and 3D programs
  • Demonstrate ability to start-up and set-up CNC machines

Admission Requirements

Students are required to do the following:

  • Fulfill all WCCCD admission requirements
  • Fulfill course placement requirements based on ACCUPLACER® test
  • Students must be 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or GED
  • Declare intent to enter the Computer Numerical Control Program
  • Students must Complete a WCCCD Program Application and submit to the Campus President/CAO

Semester 3 Total: 12 Credits


Semester 4 Total: 12 Credits


A.A.S. Program Total: 60 Credits


Note: Program total hours may not include prerequisites.

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