Precision Metalworking at Dunwoody College of Technology

Minneapolis, MN · Private nonprofit · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

With 98% of applicants admitted, Dunwoody College of Technology prioritizes broad access, a compact campus enrolling 1,417 students in Minneapolis, MN.

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $44,559 at Dunwoody College of Technology come in 21% above the national median of $36,869 for Precision Metalworking programs.

Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 22.3x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Precision Metalworking programs nationally.

Some AI exposure exists in Precision Metalworking's career paths, with 13% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 25% gap from the optimistic case.

With first-year pay of $44,559 far exceeding the $5,500 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.

Ranked #208 of 355 Precision Metalworking programs, Dunwoody College of Technology falls below the median. Stronger options exist, though cost and location may compensate.

Earnings grow from $44,559 to $58,679 over five years — a 32% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.

Precision Metalworking offers 131 registered apprenticeship pathways — an unusually broad set of earn-while-you-learn alternatives to the classroom track.

53 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
51
Low End
53
Score
54
High End
Earnings $44,559/yr (21% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$619K
7.1% annual growth
Earnings Multiple
24.1x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
22 of 24
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition
$25,659
Median Debt at Graduation
$5,500
1.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$58,679
32% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Precision Metalworking graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers $65,670 +12.8% 20%
Tool and die makers $63,180 -10.8% 81%
Model makers, metal and plastic $62,700 -18.2% 84%
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
$65,670
+12.8% growth 20% AI-proof
Tool and die makers
$63,180
-10.8% growth 81% AI-proof
Model makers, metal and plastic
$62,700
-18.2% growth 84% AI-proof

View all 24 career paths with full salary data →

Precision Metalworking Career Guide

From day-one roles to senior positions, Precision Metalworking careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering skilled trades.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Dunwoody College of Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TradeSchoolOutlook Score for Precision Metalworking at Dunwoody College of Technology?
At 53/100, the score looks reasonable — but Precision Metalworking is a high-scoring trade overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
How safe is Precision Metalworking from automation?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. Precision Metalworking work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. Dunwoody College of Technology's score of 53/100 reflects this durability.
How affordable is Precision Metalworking at Dunwoody College of Technology?
At $5,500 in median debt, Precision Metalworking graduates from Dunwoody College of Technology carry minimal financial burden. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.1x is well below the trade program average.
Can I learn Precision Metalworking through an apprenticeship instead of Dunwoody College of Technology?
Yes — 131 registered apprenticeship programs are mapped to Precision Metalworking career paths, including Cnc Operator - Milling. Apprenticeships offer paid on-the-job training as an alternative or complement to a program at Dunwoody College of Technology.
What's the job market like for Precision Metalworking from Dunwoody College of Technology?
Job availability for Precision Metalworking is strong — 164,200 positions open annually across the mapped career paths. For Dunwoody College of Technology graduates specifically, local market conditions in MN may shift the picture.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →