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CIP 15.1307 Engineering Technologies

3-D Modeling and Design Technology/Technician

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

26

2025 · 5 schools

International share

3.8%

1 international students

Master's degrees

1

0.0% international

Overview

3-D Modeling and Design Technology, commonly referred to as 3-D Modeling and Design Technician, is a specialized field that focuses on the creation and manipulation of three-dimensional digital representations of objects. This program combines principles of art, engineering, and technology to equip students with the skills necessary to produce realistic models for various applications, including video games, animation, product design, and architectural visualization.

Students in this program typically learn a range of software tools such as Autodesk Maya, Blender, and SolidWorks, which are essential for modeling, texturing, and rendering 3-D graphics. The curriculum often covers topics like geometry, lighting, materials, and animation techniques, allowing students to create visually appealing and technically sound models. Additionally, courses may include an exploration of industry standards and practices, which prepare graduates for the workforce.

Career opportunities for individuals with expertise in 3-D modeling and design are diverse. Graduates can pursue roles such as 3-D modelers, animators, product designers, or architectural visualizers, working in industries ranging from entertainment and gaming to manufacturing and construction. The demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to rise, driven by advancements in technology and the increasing need for high-quality visual content. Overall, a degree in 3-D Modeling and Design Technology provides a solid foundation for a creative and rewarding career in the digital arts and design sectors.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2020 to 2025, graduates grew 420% and the international share went from 0.0% to 3.8%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
80.8%
Asian
3.8%
Hispanic
0.0%
Black
3.8%
Other
7.7%
Intl.
3.8%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 5 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.

RankSchoolStateGraduatesInternational
— Macomb Community College Michigan 10 0
— Oakland Community College Michigan 9 1
— Carroll Community College Maryland 5 0
— Southeast Community College Area Nebraska 1 0
— State University of New York at New Paltz New York 1 0

Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Architectural and Civil Drafters 103,700 $34.01 $70,740
Mechanical Drafters 39,960 $36.09 $75,060
Electrical and Electronics Drafters 17,920 $39.08 $81,280
Drafters, All Other 14,470 $32.81 $68,250

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2020–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.