Begin this immersive program focusing on computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools and start your career in this exciting and high demand manufacturing sector. The program provides access to our advanced manufacturing lab and develops the skills necessary to safely operate CNC machine tools and program them to perform machine operation on CNC Mill's and CNC Lathes.

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Certificate

Students learn how to safely operate a CNC machines with high precision and accuracy. These robotic machines need programming and so students are immersed in this skill set. As with many skills, hands-on training is fundamental to this program. Students also learn precision measurement, and are introduced to quality standards and quality control. Graduates of this program learn how valuable these skills are with a guided introduction to local employers.

Cost

In-State Tuition: $223/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $429/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

2 Semesters

26 credits

Learn Online

This program may be completed less than 50% online.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Must have stable muscle control.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC Worcester (Main Campus).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.
  • Many of the courses do have Online/Remote access; however, there are many lab activities to be completed on site.

Connections

The following program(s) have connections that can be completed alongside or applied to this program:

Associate of Science

Manufacturing Technology

Become part of an ever expanding and diversifying manufacturing community. Learn about the skills needed to succeed and the vast array of high demand job functions being created by our highly advanced manufacturing community.

Career Stats

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More Info
Course TitleCourse #Semester OfferedCreditsPrerequisites

Semester 1

  • Apply and get accepted to this program (Program Code: CNC).
  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in two semesters; Students must register for MNT 101 and MNT 108 to be accepted into MNT 210.
  • Meet with Career Services to discuss the co-op process and leads for co-op placements.
  • Meet with Program Coordinator to discuss readiness for MNT 299.
  • Contact Career Services to complete all requirements of CPS 298 (required prior to registration for MNT 299). See www.QCC.edu/career-services.
  • Meet with Academic Advisor to discuss associate degree (Program Code: MP); or create an account on the QCC job board to search for internships, co-ops and jobs.
  • Complete MNT 100, MNT 108, and MNT 210 (these courses include certification exams).
Pre Cooperative Education SeminarCPS 298F/S0 
Manufacturing SafetyMNT 100F/S3Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
Mechanical CAD IMNT 101F/S3MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
Basic Machine OperationMNT 108F/S3MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
CNC ProgrammingMNT 210F4Coreq: MNT 101, MNT 108
  Total13 

Semester 2

  • Apply to associate degree (Program Code: MP); or if seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
  • Complete MNT 215 (includes certification exam).
  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
QualityMNT 106S3 
Manufacturing Materials and ProcessesMNT 110S3MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
Computer-Aided ManufacturingMNT 215S4MNT 101, MNT 210
Cooperative Work ExperienceMNT 299F/S/SU3CPS 298, Approval of Program Coordinator
  Total13 
Total Credits Required:  26 

Program Goals:

The CNC Technologies Certificate is designed to prepare graduates to enter the field of advanced manufacturing specifically as a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) operator/programmer. Students will gain an understanding of CAD/CAM systems and the conventions of blueprint reading, safety, metrology, quality, and machine operations. Using safe working practices, students will learn to operate, set up, and program Haas CNC equipment along with other production machines. Graduates will be able to apply sound mathematical principles to solve manufacturing problems.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Apply mathematical and scientific concepts to solve manufacturing problems.
  • Supervise and manage a variety of manufacturing systems.
  • Practice safe working protocols to nurture ethical responsibilities.
  • Communicate technical information both verbally and in written form.
  • Use modern tooling, skills, and techniques for effective manufacturing systems practice.
  • Apply accurate design methodology and use industry standard CAD/CAM software to improve quality and production.
  • Identify problems before they occur and design a solution.
  • Understand and manage product variability as defined by quality systems.
  • Apply advanced methods of analysis, synthesis, and control of manufacturing systems.
  • Safely operate, program, and set up a variety of CNC equipment.
  • Measure manufacturing process variables and draw credible technical conclusions.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
  • Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
  • Must have stable muscle control.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

  • Lab fees will be charged for specific courses.
  • Books and online LMS charges may apply to specific courses.
  • Examination fees for third-party certification exams.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

  • To evaluate technical prior learning credit, students should contact the Center for Career & Transfer Services.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 48.0510.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

  • The courses in this certificate can be transferred to the associate degree in Manufacturing Technology; upon graduation, they can be transferred to Fitchburg State University.

Additional Information:

  • This certificate is designed for full-time enrollment.
  • The courses in this program are aligned with national standards as set by the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM).

Certifications: