Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Technology

Turn your job training into a degree

Among all those certificates on your office wall is there a blank spot where your college diploma should be? Have you received specialized training for your current job, but lack a college education that could advance your career?

Southwestern Michigan College is launching the Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Technology degree that could turn those training hours and certifications into the college education you always wanted.

What is an Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Technology?

The Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Technology is designed to advance the academic credentials and careers of people who have gained specific skills either through training and experience in an occupational career area.

How does an Associate in Applied Science in Occupational Technology work?

Credits for documented and validated training outside SMC may be combined with core degree requirements and appropriate elective courses to comprise a 62 credit hour Associate in Applied Science degree. SMC credit may be awarded after evaluation by and recommendation of the appropriate dean of that department. The training must be formal with clearly defined outcomes.

What general education courses are required?

In order to graduate with a college degree, all students are required to take certain generaeducation courses. These include speech, wellness, two semesters of English composition and proficiency in mathematics and computer use. A complete curriculum guide is available online.

How many credits can I get for training or certifications that I have had?

The number of credit hours you receive for career training can vary, depending on what is approved. A minimum of 16 credits of occupational skill training or certification is required in order to enroll into the program.

Can I get more than 16 credits for all those certifications?

A maximum of 32 credits may be given towards your occupational training. Again, this depends on the types of training you received.

How many elective credits do I need?

That depends on the remaining credit needed to reach the total of 62 credits. Students will work with an advisor to select the course electives that will best support their field of study.