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CIP 48.0507 Precision Production

Tool and Die Technology/Technician

IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education · 2025

Total graduates

107

2025 · 17 schools

International share

0.0%

0 international students

Overview

Tool and Die Technology/Technician is a specialized field focused on the design, production, and maintenance of tools and dies used in manufacturing processes. This program equips students with the skills necessary to create precision parts and components through various manufacturing techniques, including machining, molding, and stamping.

Students in this program typically learn to work with a variety of materials, such as metals, plastics, and composites, and gain expertise in computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. They also study the principles of metallurgy, mechanical drawing, and manufacturing processes, which are crucial for understanding how different materials behave under various conditions.

The curriculum often includes hands-on training in workshops where students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, creating prototypes and testing their designs. This practical experience is essential for developing problem-solving skills and understanding the intricacies of tool and die production.

Graduates of Tool and Die Technology/Technician programs often find employment in diverse industries, including automotive, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing. They may work as tool and die makers, machinists, or quality control inspectors, ensuring that manufacturing processes run efficiently and that products meet stringent quality standards.

Overall, this field plays a vital role in modern manufacturing, as the quality and precision of tools and dies directly impact the efficiency and effectiveness of production lines. As technology evolves, professionals in this area are increasingly expected to adapt to new tools and techniques, making continuous learning a key component of their careers.

Graduates by year

Graduates by degree level (first and second majors)

AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral

From 2002 to 2025, graduates fell 74% and the international share went from 0.0% to 0.0%.

International share (%)
Graduates by group, 2025
White
88.8%
Asian
0.9%
Hispanic
3.7%
Black
1.9%
Other
4.7%
Intl.
0.0%

Colleges that award this degree

In 2025, 17 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.

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

Related jobs and pay

OccupationUS employmentMean hourly wageMean annual wage
Tool and Die Makers 56,930 $32.14 $66,860

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

Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2002–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.