Overview
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Introduction to Technical Studies
The Technical Studies program is designed to support the diverse needs of skilled workers in our community to obtain an associate degree by offering credit for recognized technical experience, certifications and training.
The Technical Studies degree offers you the opportunity to study in an area other than the current degree programs offered by MCC. With consultation from a faculty advisor, you can build on the success of your individual area of technical expertise and choose technical electives to complement your specialty area.
Students coming from recognized apprenticeship programs or students with certifications in a technical field (in an area that MCC does not offer) may receive credits toward an associate degree in Technical Studies for industry training and/or certifications. Documented certification exams and/or military experience may also be reviewed for credit.
Degrees & Certificates
The Technical Studies program offers three options for study:
- Design a custom degree to meet your educational and career goals.
- Combine a certificate (that does not have a degree option at MCC) with general education requirements to complete a degree.
- Explore various courses before determining a course major.
The Technical Studies Associate of Science degree program offers the following degree:
- Technical Studies, (A.S.)
Program Goals
The goal of the Technical Studies program is to offer a flexible curriculum tailored to meet your professional needs and to provide avenues for credit for prior learning experience.
Curriculum
Admissions Requirements
In addition to college-wide admissions requirements, students must participate in a personal interview with a representative of Academic Affairs.
Incoming Transfer Options
Policies for incoming transfer credits and prior learning experiences are as follows:
- Transfer credits for technical courses will be accepted for ten years from the admission date unless otherwise noted in MCC degree programs.
- General education courses will not have a time limit for transfer.
- Credit may be awarded through MCC’s Prior Learning Experience process for majors offered at MCC. Fees apply.
- College Level Examination Program (CLEP) and National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) exams that meet the college transfer policies may be accepted for credit.
- Licensure or certification exams recognized by industry may be accepted.
Curriculum: Required Courses
Course Sequencing
Liberal Arts Core Course Requirements (Total 20+ Credits)
Technical Specialty/Major (Minimum 30 Credits)
Technical Support (Minimum 10 Credits)
Outcomes
Acquired Skills
After completing the Technical Studies degree you will be able to:
- Build on applied expertise through selected coursework, gaining knowledge and skills in a specific discipline or clearly articulated interdisciplinary area.
- Attain proficiency in concepts, theories and methods of inquiry pertinent to the courses chosen as related technical electives.
- Integrate knowledge of their technical specialty fields with new knowledge from their chosen related technical electives.
- Advance in the development of skills necessary to interpret facts, solve problems, evaluate issues, develop multiple perspectives and think critically and creatively.
Employment Opportunities
Due to the nature of this degree, the vast majority of students are already employed when they are accepted into the program. In many fields, a degree is required for advancement in that field and the Technical Studies degree affords students that opportunity.