Grand Rapids Community College

A certificate in Addiction Studies prepares students to serve as substance abuse counselors, residential care counselors, specialists in drug or sobriety courts or to work with addicted populations as probation, parole or corrections officers. This program also enhances the skills of persons currently employed in corrections or substance abuse agencies in working with addicted populations. Substance abuse counselors and residential aides, as well as specialty probation and parole officers, work with persons having addictive disorders in order to eliminate dependence on drugs or alcohol and reduce criminal behaviors associated with their use of drugs or alcohol.

Gerontology is the study of the field of aging, and focuses on a basic understanding of processes, programs, and policies related to aging; these include the process of aging, and particularly the biological, behavioral and social aspects of later life. With an ever aging population, this certificate is designed to augment students who are pursuing or already have a degree the skills needed for productive employment in this sector.

With the older population expanding twice as fast as the general population, there is a growing need for knowledgeable, experienced, and compassionate individuals to provide assistance and support to older adults and their families. The demand for qualified individuals in the field of gerontology is expected to increase much faster than average because of the growth of the aging population and programs designated to provide services to older persons.

Child Development is a field of study that prepares professionals to provide care and education for children from birth through age eight. Professionals in this field provide interactions and learning experiences that promote the young child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth and development. This program prepares students to teach in and direct child care centers, Head Start programs, and part-day preschools; and to serve as Pre-K to 3rd grade teacher aides in public schools. Students are involved in a variety of hands-on lab experiences with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age, and special needs children at the GRCC Lab Preschool and other sites in the community.

The CDA Formal Training Hours Certificate provides students with the formal training hour requirements necessary to apply to the Council for Professional Recognition for the Infant/Toddler, Preschool, Family Child Care or Home Visitor Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. The online format consists of five 7 week classes which cover the core set of competency standards required for the CDA Credential. These standards guide early care professionals as they work toward becoming qualified teachers of young children.

This program is designed to provide early childhood professionals, who are already working in the role associated with the credential, a convenient and flexible way to complete the formal training hours while working. Upon completion of the five classes students will be prepared to apply to the Council for Professional Recognition for the CDA Credential. The CDA Credential is a stepping stone on the path of career advancement in early childhood education and the credits earned in the Formal Training Hours Certificate transfer into the Associate Degree Program in Child Development.

Please note that GRCC does not award the CDA Credential, nor does it have a role in determining pass/fail criteria.

This program can also be completed fully online.

An Infant and Toddler CDA Formal Training Hours Certificate provides students with the formal training hour requirements necessary to apply to the Council for Professional Recognition for the Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. The CDA Credential is based on a core set of competency standards, which guide early care professionals as they work toward becoming qualified teachers of young children. Please note that GRCC does not award the CDA Credential, nor does it have a role in determining pass/fail criteria.

A Preschool CDA Formal Training Hours Certificate provides students with the formal training hour requirements necessary to apply to the Council for Professional Recognition for the Preschool Child Development Associate (CDA) Credential. The CDA Credential is based on a core set of competency standards, which guide early care professionals as they work toward becoming qualified teachers of young children. Please note that GRCC does not award the CDA Credential, nor does it have a role in determining pass/fail criteria.

Child Development is a field of study that prepares professionals to provide care and education for children from birth through age eight. Professionals in this field provide interactions and learning experiences that promote the young child’s intellectual, social, emotional, and physical growth and development. This program prepares students to teach in and direct child care centers, Head Start programs, and part-day preschools; and to serve as Pre-K to 3rd grade teacher aides in public schools. Students are involved in a variety of hands-on lab experiences with infants, toddlers, preschoolers, school-age, and special needs children at the GRCC Lab Preschool and other sites in the community.

This program is designed to prepare students to work as paraprofessionals in preK-8 classrooms and preK-12 Special Needs classrooms. It is designed to satisfy federal requirements for Title I programs. Courses are designed to build knowledge and skills related to human growth and development, the field of teaching, characteristics of learners, special education, instructional content and practice, the teaching and learning environment, behavior management, communication, diversity of families, health, safety and emergency procedures, and professionalism and ethical standards.

The Corrections programs offered at GRCC prepare students to serve as adult corrections officers in prisons and jails, patient care providers in psychiatric inpatient facilities, counselors in halfway houses, residential advisors in probation and patrol centers, and probation or parole officers. It also serves to enhance the skills of people currently employed in correctional settings. Corrections officers are charged with the safekeeping of people who have been arrested, are awaiting trial or who have been tried and convicted of a crime and are sentenced to serve time in a correctional institution.

This Corrections, A.A.A.S. program prepares students to work in the field of corrections. The Corrections, A.A.A.S. offers two options for students to choose from – Sheriff’s Corrections Academy and General Corrections. Both options prepare students to work as corrections officers within the state prison system and lead to the Michigan Corrections Officer Training Council Certificate (MCOTC).

The General Corrections track prepares students to work as corrections officers at the state level in prisons, along with areas such as community corrections, probation or parole.

The Corrections programs offered at GRCC prepare students to serve as adult corrections officers in prisons and jails, patient care providers in psychiatric inpatient facilities, counselors in halfway houses, residential advisors in probation and patrol centers, and probation or parole officers. It also serves to enhance the skills of people currently employed in correctional settings. Corrections officers are charged with the safekeeping of people who have been arrested, are awaiting trial or who have been tried and convicted of a crime and are sentenced to serve time in a correctional institution.

This Corrections, A.A.A.S. program prepares students to work in the field of corrections. The Corrections, A.A.A.S. offers two options for students to choose from – Sheriff’s Corrections Academy and General Corrections. Both options prepare students to work as corrections officers within the state prison system and lead to the Michigan Corrections Officer Training Council Certificate (MCOTC).

The Sheriff’s Corrections Academy track prepares students to work as corrections officers within the local jails. The sheriff’s Corrections Academy is a selective admission program. It is offered both as a stand- alone certificate as well as an option within the Corrections AAAS degree. After admission to the college, students may apply to the Sheriff’s Corrections Academy at any time; please note entry in to the academy is not guaranteed due to the selective admission process.

This Certificate program prepares students to serve as adult corrections officers in prisons. The Michigan Department of Corrections gives hiring preference to candidates who have completed a degree or occupational certificate in Corrections. These five courses have been approved by the Michigan Department of Corrections and will serve as the minimum requirements that will allow candidates to apply for the entry level position of Corrections Officer. It also serves to enhance the skills of people currently employed in correctional settings.

Juvenile service workers help children and adolescents in human service settings. Those in this field may work in juvenile courts, juvenile detention centers, residential treatment facilities for youth, addiction treatment centers and other agencies that help at-risk youth and juvenile offenders.

The Sheriff’s Corrections Academy Certificate is a pre-service and in-service academy that prepares students to become certified as Sheriff’s Corrections Officers in Michigan. Sheriff’s Corrections agencies in Michigan require Local Corrections Officer candidates to attend a Local Corrections Academy approved by the Michigan Sheriffs’ Coordinating and Training Council (MSCTC). This training academy meets the requirements to prepare candidates to assume the role and function of corrections officers in a local correctional facility.

The Sheriffs’ Corrections Academy Certificate is a 7-week program that will be offered in the Winter and Fall semesters, with consideration to run special academies during the summer semesters.

All applicants must first complete an application and be screened according to Michigan Sheriffs’ Coordinating and Training Council (MSCTC) standards. All potential recruits must pass all of the minimum MSCTC standards, attend an interview and be selected into the program.

The Law Enforcement program is a pre-service police academy program that prepares students to become eligible to be a licensed Police Officer in Michigan. Police agencies in Michigan require a recruit to attend a Police Academy program and receive an Associates Degree or higher.

Students who complete the pre-requisite coursework (including general education and Criminal Justice courses) in addition to completing the Policy Academy may qualify for the Associate of Applied Arts and Sciences degree. The requirements for the A.A.A.S. degree follow.

The Law Enforcement program is a pre-service police academy program that prepares students to become eligible to be a licensed Police Officer in Michigan. Police agencies in Michigan require a recruit to attend a Police Academy program and receive an Associates Degree or higher. Students can attend the GRCC Police Academy if they already have a degree.

The Police Academy is a two semester program that runs Fall and Winter semester. All applicants must first complete an application and be screened to the Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES). All potential recruits must pass all of the minimum MCOLES Standards, attend an interview and be selected into the program. You must either complete the prerequisite classes at GRCC, or transfer an Associate degree or higher from an accredited college or university AND take CJ 164.

The Advanced Standing Associate Degree Nursing program contains prerequisite courses, and two and a half semesters of nursing course work. Students pursuing our ADN (RN) program are encouraged to focus first on completing the requirements for admission to the program. The date you complete your last admissions requirement, you are placed on the wait list and that is your ‘ready date’. Students enter the program based on their ‘ready date’. Some students may need to take a class or classes to prepare for successful completion of these admission requirements.

Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) care for the physically or mentally ill. Under the direction of registered nurses, physicians or dentists, they provide nursing care that requires considerable specialized knowledge. The Practical Nursing program contains a pre-nursing semester and two and a half semesters of nursing course work. Graduates of the Practical Nursing Program are qualified to sit for the state licensure exam NCLEX-PN.

Grand Rapids Community College's Certified Nurse Assistant program will prepare you to provide entry level health care support in various medical settings. You will be able to seek employment in long-term care, hospitals and rehabilitation establishments. Over the course of 4 weeks, you will complete work in a classroom, laboratory and a final 28-hour clinical component. Successful completion of this course allows you to take the Certified Nurse Assistant exam for the State of Michigan.

Unique Program Features:
Integrated learning with an emphasis on simulation of the work environment and learning the critical thinking skills needed to be successful in the workplace
Workplace standards woven and upheld throughout the learning experience
Small Class size
Introduction of the CNA role in Acute Care and Home Care environments
Our area employers have been very involved in the planning and implementation
Exceeds the mandated 75 hour state-approved training, which stands out as a new hire

Computed Tomography, or CT, procedures play an important role in diagnosing diseases and injuries. A CT scanner uses radiation to produce images of the inside of the human body. When a patient lies inside the CT machine, which is shaped like a donut, x-radiation assist with creating sectional images that are ultimately used by physicians to diagnose medical problems.

CT technologists are highly-trained and possess the expertise for competent practice. They are mostly employed by hospitals but increasingly, jobs are becoming available in physician offices and imaging centers. The main duties of the CT technologist include explaining the procedure to the patient, preparing the patient and positioning them correctly, operating the equipment, and recording the images for the physician to interpret. The patient might be in pain or distress, or they might feel claustrophobic. The CT technologist will provide support while talking patients through the procedure and letting them know what to expect.

The mission of the Grand Rapids Community College Radiologic Technology program is to demonstrate radiographic skills, critical thinking skills, communication skills, radiation safety, patient care, professional attitudes, and lifelong learning characteristics that will prepare students for entry into the workforce of diagnostic medical imaging as a registry-eligible radiographer. Graduates of this program, upon successfully completing the registry examination of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT), are prepared for entry level positions in hospitals, clinics, private offices, and traveling technologist employment.

Few careers offer the diversity and flexibility that dental assisting does. There are opportunities for part-time and full-time employment as chair side, office, and laboratory work assistants. Most dental assistants work in private dental offices. Others, however, may work in dental schools, hospital dental departments, public health departments, dental laboratories, or public and private dental clinics. There are also opportunities to work in the offices of dental specialists such as pediatric dentists and orthodontists. Registered dental assistants are often in short supply, making GRCC graduates highly employable.

The program prepares students for the nationally recognized credential, Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). In addition, students are prepared to take the Michigan Registered Dental Assistant exam that leads to the preferred RDA credential in Michigan.

Students can enroll in the program using one of two methods. Option A is for a student without a CDA credential. Option B is for a student with two or more years of experience as a dental assistant who has passed all three portions of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and holds a current CDA credential. These students will receive college credit for the CDA credential and granted advanced standing in the dental assisting program.

Few careers offer the diversity and flexibility that dental assisting does. There are opportunities for part-time and full-time employment as chair side, office, and laboratory work assistants. Most dental assistants work in private dental offices. Others, however, may work in dental schools, hospital dental departments, public health departments, dental laboratories, or public and private dental clinics. There are also opportunities to work in the offices of dental specialists such as pediatric dentists and orthodontists. Registered dental assistants are often in short supply, making GRCC graduates highly employable.

The program prepares students for the nationally recognized credential, Certified Dental Assistant through the Dental Assisting National Board. In addition, students are prepared to take the Michigan Registered Dental Assistant exam that leads to the preferred RDA credential in Michigan.

Students can enroll in the program using one of two methods. Option A is for a student without a CDA credential. Option B is for a student with two or more years of experience as a dental assistant who has passed all three portions of the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) and holds a current CDA credential. These students will receive college credit for the CDA credential and granted advanced standing in the dental assisting program.

The dental hygienist-the preventive specialist-fills a key position on the dental health team. Graduates of the associate degree curriculum may assume a variety of major roles in the prevention of dental disease.

Dental hygiene practice includes: obtaining clients' medical and dental histories, conducting extraoral and intraoral examinations, performing diagnostic procedures, providing complete oral prophylaxis (scaling and polishing teeth) and polishing restorations and placing pit and fissure sealants. The Michigan Dental Law has expanded dental hygiene care to include periodontal treatment.

Graduates will be eligible to take national and regional board examinations to qualify for licensure as Registered Dental Hygienists.

MRI technologists are highly trained and possess the advanced skills and knowledge necessary for competent practice. The ability to critically think and communicate is paramount to the success of an MRI technologist. They must have the ability to synthesize information and apply rational judgment in determining appropriate protocols that affect image quality and diagnostic outcomes. They must find balance between equipment capabilities and patient condition to arrive at the highest quality images for interpretation by the physician. The MRI environment presents unique patient care and safety issues that require exceptional attention to detail. The MiRIS MRI program provides a sound base of clinical practice in conjunction with course work in the related sciences and general education.

Clinical learning experiences are provided by affiliating hospitals, clinics and other MRI provider facilities. Didactic learning experiences occur in supportive college course work delivered through an online environment. Both are equally important to the development of the competent MRI technologist.

MRI technologists are highly trained and possess the advanced skills and knowledge necessary for competent practice. The ability to critically think and communicate is paramount to the success of an MRI technologist. They must have the ability to synthesize information and apply rational judgment in determining appropriate protocols that affect image quality and diagnostic outcomes. They must find balance between equipment capabilities and patient condition to arrive at the highest quality images for interpretation by the physician. The MRI environment presents unique patient care and safety issues that require exceptional attention to detail. The MiRIS MRI program provides a sound base of clinical practice in conjunction with course work in the related sciences and general education.

Clinical learning experiences are provided by affiliating hospitals, clinics and other MRI provider facilities. Didactic learning experiences occur in supportive college course work delivered through an online environment. Both are equally important to the development of the competent MRI technologist.

Grand Rapids Community College’s Medical Assistant program will prepare you to perform administrative and clinical tasks to keep health practitioner offices and clinics running smoothly. The goal of the program is to prepare competent entry-level medical assistants in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains. The course combines classroom lecture, group activity, simulation learning, and a competency-based externship experience. You will be prepared to take the Registered Medical Assistant national certification exam through American Medical Technologists. The exam fee is included in the tuition.

Occupational therapy is part of the health care and rehabilitation profession. Occupational therapy assistants work under the supervision of registered occupational therapists. They work with people of all ages who, because of physical, developmental, social or emotional deficits, need specialized assistance to lead independent, productive and satisfying lives.

Occupational therapy assistants find employment in hospitals, schools, psychiatric facilities, nursing homes, home health, community agencies, and health and wellness settings. GRCC’s Occupational Therapy Assistant (OTA) program prepares assistants for entry level into the profession. Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTA) work under the supervision of Registered Occupational Therapists. Students in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program earn an Associate’s Degree in Applied Arts and Sciences.

Train now for a job in the high demand position as a Phlebotomist!

Phlebotomy is found in a variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient labs, donation centers, and blood banks. A phlebotomist is an individual trained to draw blood, either for laboratory tests or blood donations. A phlebotomist obtains high-quality specimens and is a valued member of the health care team.

In this 10-week / 50 contact hour course including didactic and clinical skills laboratories, students will learn the knowledge, skills and attitude required to be a phlebotomist. This course provides classroom instruction as well as live draw practice. Participants will draw blood from each other.

The focus is on five integral components centered on the collection and transportation of laboratory specimens: knowledge, technical skills, decision making, documentation, and training responsibilities. The course also includes: human anatomy and physiology, medical terminology, customer service skills, legal and ethical issues, and hands-on venipuncture. There will be practice on mannequins and live draws weekly. Interpersonal skills to make a client feel at ease are an integral part of the program.

Graduates of the course will receive a certificate of successful completion from GRCC.

GRCC does not provide an internship/externship nor any national certification exam.

The architectural technician is competent in drawing and pictorial representations of buildings. The technician prepares building designs through the use of floor plans, elevations, sections and perspective drawings. He/she also works with building specifications and is familiar with sustainable buildings.

Students apply technical knowledge and skills to develop working drawings and specifications for architectural and related construction projects. Students learn basic construction and materials, building specification and codes, architectural rendering, computer-aided drafting (CAD), architectural blueprint interpretation and documentation, basic layout for mechanical, electrical and plumbing, and building information modeling (BIM).

The Mechanical Design Certificate Program includes all of the courses to prepare students for an entry level position as an engineering technician. The topics of Computer Aided Design (CAD) using AutoCAD and 3D parametric modeling with SolidWorks are featured in this program. Engineering graphics, industrial tool design, and prototyping (ie. 3D printing) are also covered in this program.

All credits earned in this certificate program may be applied toward the Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences in Mechanical Design.

The Mechanical Design Program prepares students to enter employment as an engineering technician. This program includes instruction in the topics of CAD, parametric design, engineering graphics, geometric dimensioning, and tolerances. Additional topics include manufacturing materials and processes, mechanical components, blueprint reading, and technical communication. Several of the most popular CAD engineering graphics software products are incorporated in this program including SolidWorks, Pro-E, Inventor, Catia, NX, and AutoCAD. Students are offered the opportunity to take the Certified SolidWorks Associate level exam.

Mechanical Designers prepare detailed drawings based on rough sketches and specifications. They also calculate the strength, quantity, and cost of materials. Engineering Technicians control engineering changes and design modifications to existing components and assemblies. The College has incorporated into the Mechanical Design program, the latest information and techniques in computer aided design (CAD) and parametric modeling. A Maker Lab that has lasers, scanners, 3D printers, and CNC equipment is available to give students the most up-to-date training available and to maximize their employment opportunities.

Our mission is to provide a quality learning experience for students pursuing a Department of Labor (DOL) apprenticeship credential in Electrical. This mission also includes partnering with the construction industry to provide continuing education courses, new programs and other educational needs. Through GRCC's School of Workforce Development, the Construction Trades program is geared toward people who want to begin or advance their careers in the construction industry and for contractors who want to train their existing employees. Upon completion of the program, the apprentice will receive a Certificate of Completion from the Office of Apprenticeship, the National Center for Construction Education and Research and GRCC. Apprentices desiring to continue their education by obtaining an associate's degree can apply to receive articulated credit for their Certificate of Completion.

The Construction Electrical Training Class will provide the basic knowledge and skill required to become an electrician and be placed in an Electrical Apprenticeship program. Students will be required to participate in job site, lab area, field trip and class room settings. Students will receive hands-on learning and application in all areas of electrical installation including employability skills, construction and electrical safety, hand and power tool safety, electrical math, electrical History, electrical theory, the National Electrical Code, electrical material identification, blue print reading, underground installations and residential/commercial wiring. Upon Completion of the class, graduates will receive a Certificate of Completion from GRCC and the NCCER (National Center for Construction Education ). Once Hired and registered as an Apprentice Electrician, students may request to have their Certificate articulated into credit that applies to their state required four years of training.

Students in this one-year program learn the theory and become proficient in the skills necessary to assume jobs as heating, ventilation and air conditioning/refrigeration mechanics. They take at least two hands-on laboratory courses in their various specialities each semester.

All credits earned in this certificate program may be applied toward the Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences in Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning/RefrigerationTechnology. Courses may be taken in any order as long as all requirements (including prerequisites) are met. Students entering this program should meet the college’s minimum entrance requirements in Reading, Mathematics and English.

Students in this program learn the theory and become proficient in the skills necessary to assume jobs as heating, ventilation and air conditioning/refrigeration service and installation technicians. Heating and air-conditioning equipment make buildings comfortable for work, study or play. Refrigeration equipment makes it possible to safely store foods, medicines, and other items. The equipment that provides these conveniences is complex. Heating, ventilation and air conditioning/refrigeration technicians are skilled workers who install, maintain, troubleshoot and repair heating and cooling equipment. Much of the equipment with which they work is computer controlled. Technicians in this field are often employed to design, manufacture, install, sell and service equipment that regulates interior temperatures of buildings. They often specialize in one area, and may work both outdoors and indoors.

Students take at least two laboratory courses in various specialties every semester. Courses may be taken in any order as long as all requirements (including prerequisites) are met.

Students entering this program should meet the college’s minimum entrance requirements in Reading, Mathematics and English.

The Introduction to Construction program focuses on the fundamental skills needed for entry into the construction industry. Many technical skills are required for an individual to be successful in the construction industry. To be most effective in today's construction industry you should be able to perform blueprint reading, shop math, communication and teamwork.

This Job Training program will take place at the construction site, where students will be building a new home. Students will have hands-on learning and application about the entire process of residential building including blue print reading, site layout, concrete, carpentry, door/window installation, roofing, siding, and interior finishing. Graduates will be qualified for employment in the residential construction industry. The program focuses on constructing homes that achieve a 5-Star Energy rating, are Michigan Green Built, and LEED Certified.

Prerequisite: This advanced program is recommended for students that have completed the GRCC Construction Trades program or other similar construction program. An assessment will be provided to interested students that are unsure of their construction skills.

Welding is an integral part of various world-wide industries including advanced manufacturing, petroleum, aerospace, automation, and the medical field. Students in the Welding Skills Certificate at GRCC learn many different welding processes including oxy/fuel, shielded metal arc, gas tungsten arc (TIG), and gas metal arc welding (MIG). These skills qualify them for a wide variety of welding jobs in manufacturing, automation, construction, inspection, and maintenance industries.

This Welding Skills Certificate program provides students with the fundamental skills of welding. All credits earned in this Certificate program may be applied toward the Welding Certificate and the Associate of Applied Arts and Sciences in Welding Technology.

This one-year Welding certificate program provides students with a quick way of learning the fundamental skills of welding. Students learn oxyacetylene (gas) welding, arc welding, and inert gas-shielded techniques. All credits earned in this certificate program may be applied toward the Associate in Applied Arts and Sciences in Welding Technology.

This two-semester Welding Certificate program builds upon the Welding Skills Certificate, providing students with enhanced knowledge and skills in welding. All credits earned in this Certificate program may be applied toward the Associate of Applied Arts and Sciences in Welding Technology.

This program is also offered at the Lakeshore Campus.

Upon completion of this program, students are eligible for testing and certification to the American Welding Society Welding Code. They are also eligible for testing as associate welding inspectors in the AWS code. Students at GRCC learn oxy/fuel, shielded metal, gas tungsten, gas metal, and pipe welding. These skills qualify them for a wide variety of welding jobs in manufacturing, construction and maintenance industries. All of the credits earned in the Welding Skills Certificate program and the Welding Certificate apply to this program.

As a Welder, your job may include basic duties such as cutting, brazing and welding of various metal components to more advanced duties such as Mig and Tig welding using aluminum and stainless steel.

Welders need to have an understanding of metallurgy, American Welding Society standards and welding equipment maintenance.

To be most effective in the manufacturing environment today, you will need to be able to read blueprints, perform basic shop math, read measurement tools and communicate effectively with others using today's welding terminology.

This program prepares students to work on today’s high-tech vehicles. Instruction includes component identification, fault diagnosis, and repair of six of the major automotive systems, including brake, suspension and steering, electrical and electronics, engine repair, heating and air conditioning, and engine performance.

Graduates are prepared for the following State of Michigan or ASE certification tests:

Engine Repair (A1)
Suspension and Steering (A4)
Brakes (A5)
Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6)
Heating and Air Conditioning (A7)
Engine Performance (A8)

The Job Training Automotive Program prepares students to diagnose, service and maintain automotive and light truck braking systems, suspension/steering and alignment systems, electrical systems and heating/air conditioning systems. Automotive repair facility policies, procedures and safety will also be administered. Training will be provided in a combination of classroom activities and hands-on instruction using advanced tools, equipment and facilities. Students will perform service, repairs and maintenance on customer vehicles and on GRCC training vehicles. Michigan Mechanic Certification tests will be administered after each program module is completed.

To be most effective in the auto-mechanic industry today, you will need to be able to read service manual schematics, perform basic shop math, read measurement tools and communicate effectively with others using automotive terminology.

The Automotive Technology Degree program prepares students for the fast-paced, highly-technical field of automotive diagnosis and repair. Graduates are equipped for entry-level positions and advancement to Master Technician status.

This program is certified by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) to meet the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) standards of quality. Graduates are awarded NATEF Automotive Service Technician (AST) certification.

Graduates are prepared for the following State of Michigan or ASE certification tests:

Engine Repair (A1)
Automatic Transmission/Transaxle (A2)
Manual Drive Train and Axles (A3)
Suspension and Steering (A4)
Brakes (A5)
Electrical/Electronic Systems (A6)
Heating and Air Conditioning (A7)
Engine Performance (A8)

The Computer Programming program provides students with the courses needed to seek employment as a computer programmer.

The employment outlook for careers in this growing, dynamic, technologically rich field is likely to remain strong. Students seeking work immediately upon graduation from GRCC should expect to find employment in smaller organizations or in supporting roles of larger organizations.

This program provides a broad knowledge base for applying graphic and web development skills and is career focused. Using a combination of theory, hands-on software practice and practical project development, students will gain an understanding of the principles of computer graphic applications, web development, typography, and print skills. Graphic/Web developers must be creative and have problem-solving, production, communication and technical skills.

This program can also be completed fully online.

The Computer Support Specialist program trains technicians for employment in business, industry, research, and education. The purpose of the program is to prepare individuals to provide technical assistance, support, and advice to computer users to help troubleshoot software and hardware problems in person, on the phone, and via electronic support. The program includes instruction in computer concepts, information systems, networking, operating systems, computer hardware, the Internet, software applications, problem solving, and principles of customer service.

This degree provides students with the courses needed to seek employment in the areas of computer repair, help desk technician, and application specialist.

Our Computer Support Technician (CST) program is designed to prepare you for entry-level employment as a PC support specialist. You will also prep for the nationally recognized CompTIA A+ Hardware and Software certification exam. This hands-on program will be a combination of individual, group, and computer-based lab instruction. Students in this program will survey various operating systems and have an overview of the Microsoft Office Suite applications. Students will learn to install, configure and troubleshoot computer hardware and software, and they will learn networking technology for local area networks (LANs).

This program qualifies students for a US Department of Labor registered apprenticeship. Students desiring to complete an apprenticeship program will need to successfully complete a minimum of 16 credit hours in CIS (Computer Information Systems) or a related area. Students successfully completing the employer established work requirements and the GRCC coursework are eligible to receive an apprenticeship certificate from Grand Rapids Community College.

Employers select employees for apprenticeship.

Students must be high school graduates or have passed the high school equivalency GED (General Educational Development) Test or be in an approved Pre-apprentice program.

This program provides students the skills needed to successfully seek employment as a local area network (LAN) support specialist, network administrator, or computer support specialist. This program will prepare the graduate with the technical knowledge and skills required to design, install, administer, and maintain LANs and WANs. The curriculum will be explored through classroom theory and practical application in a lab environment, including network operating systems and network systems designs and implementation. The courses in this program will cover topics directly related to certification exams from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTia.

This program provides students the skills needed to successfully seek employment as a local area network (LAN) support specialist, network administrator, or computer support specialist. This program will prepare the graduate with the technical knowledge and skills required to design, install, administer, and maintain LANs and WANs. The curriculum will be explored through classroom theory and practical application in a lab environment, including network operating systems and network systems designs and implementation. The courses in this program will cover topics directly related to certification exams from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTia.

The focus of the Culinary Arts Certificate program is to provide students with practical training in all aspects of commercial food preparation and presentation. The program includes laboratory courses in dining room service, baking, classical and American regional cookery, and restaurant operations. Students operate two open-to-the public restaurants: The Heritage, is a fine dining restaurant, and Art and Bev's, a fast casual dining experience. The curriculum also includes courses in nutrition, sanitation, purchasing, and personnel management. The Culinary Arts certificate, like the industry itself, demands dedication and hard work. Graduates of this program are prepared to accept jobs as prep cooks and line cooks in fine restaurants, hotels, resorts, and institutional food preparation and service.

GRCC’s Secchia Institute for Culinary Education program grants students an Associate Degree of Applied Arts and Sciences and a ticket to an exciting career and great gateway to continuing degree opportunities. Our students receive intensive practical training in all aspects of food preparation and presentation and are prepared to step into any culinary venue, including the increasingly popular role of personal or private chef. We accomplish this through applied courses in baking and pastry, catering and banquet organization, classical and American regional cookery, dining room service, and restaurant operations. Each student experiences an education that has an added focus on hands-on training, practical training, and real life experiences.

The Personal Chef Certificate program is designed to prepare graduates to begin their own business as a personal chef. The certificate program includes laboratory courses in dining room service, baking and pastry, catering and banquet organization, classical and American regional cookery, and restaurant operations. The curriculum also includes lecture courses in menu planning/nutrition, sanitation, wine, and personal chef business development.

The Digital Audio Certificate prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the production of sound recordings as finished products or as components of film/video, broadcast, live, or mixed media productions.

Prior to beginning the program coursework, students are required to complete placement testing. Successful completion of MUS 112 and MUS 120 or a score of 85% on both the Music Theory Pretest and Piano Placement Pretest is required for acceptance into many of the courses in this program.

The Digital Audio Certificate prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to the production of sound recordings as finished products or as components of film/video, broadcast, live, or mixed media productions.

Prior to beginning the program coursework, students are required to complete placement testing. Successful completion of MUS 112 and MUS 120 or a score of 85% on both the Music Theory Pretest and Piano Placement Pretest is required for acceptance into many of the courses in this program.

This program is designed for photography majors seeking a professional career and/or transfer to a professional B.F.A. program. A variety of technical and conceptual skills needed by photographic artists of today are emphasized.

The Associates of Music Degree with an emphasis in Recording Technology, prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills in digital audio to produce stand-alone professional level audio productions, or as components of mixed media productions.

Prior to beginning the program coursework, students are required to complete placement testing. Successful completion of MUS 112 and MUS 120 or a score of 85% on both the Music Theory Pretest and Piano Placement Pretest is required for acceptance into many of the courses in this program.

This program provides a broad knowledge base for applying graphic and web development skills and is career focused. Using a combination of theory, hands-on software practice and practical project development, students will gain an understanding of the principles of computer graphic applications, web development, typography, and print skills. Graphic/Web developers must be creative and have problem-solving, production, communication and technical skills.

This program can also be completed fully online.

The degree in Electrical Controls Engineering Technology prepares students to design, install, troubleshoot, and repair machine electrical systems with an emphasis in manufacturing equipment. Students study the basic operations and control systems which are used in industry today. Courses in this program also cover topics in pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical power.

This area of emphasis offers many employment opportunities in West Michigan. This program prepares students to become automation technicians, industrial electricians, electrical panel builders, electrical controls systems installers, and electrical field servicing technicians.

The Electrical Controls/Mechatronics Certificate program is designed to give a student the basic skills required of an industrial controls service technician. All credits earned for this certificate apply to the AAAS Electrical Controls Engineering Technology degree.

The Mechatronics Basic Industrial Electricity Level 1 Certificate program is designed to give a student the basic skills required of industrial machine service personnel. All credits earned for this certificate apply to the Electrical Controls Engineering Technology, A.A.A.S degree.

The Electronics Technology Certificate program is designed to give students a foundation in electronics. All credits earned for this certificate apply to the AAAS Electronics Engineering Technology degree.

The Electronics Engineering Technology program prepares students to enter the growing and complex field of electronics technology. Electronics technicians work in manufacturing, industry, business, and medical facilities. They operate various types of electronic equipment, industrial control systems, and computer systems. They also provide technical assistance in designing, constructing, measuring, and analyzing circuits.

Electronics Technology students study the theory of electricity and electronics, analog circuits, digital circuits, computer systems, equipment theory and applications, and electronic servicing. Course work includes extensive hands-on activities related to the field of electronics engineering technology.

The Industrial Maintenance Certificate program is designed to give a student the basic skills required of a maintenance technician. All courses in the program are also included and required in the Industrial Maintenance Technology Associates Degree program.

This program is also offered at the Lakeshore Campus

The Industrial Maintenance Technology program prepares students to install, adjust, troubleshoot, and repair a variety of industrial machinery used in manufacturing settings. Technicians may work in factories that manufacture, finish, or assemble many different types of products.

Students study the basic operations common to production equipment used in industry today. Electricity and electronics are emphasized because most modern manufacturing equipment is electrically powered. Pneumatics, hydraulics, and mechanical power are also covered.

This highly skilled trade offers many employment opportunities. Since each production facility has different needs, the program allows students to select technical electives specific to a particular production area.

This program is also offered at the Lakeshore Campus.

The Technology Option program prepares students to work in a variety of industrial settings. Technicians may work in factories that manufacture, finish, or assemble many different types of products.

This program is also offered at the Lakeshore Campus.

The GRCC Manufacturing Certificate is designed for employed students who are pursing employer sponsored education. Students in this program work with their employer and the GRCC Apprecticeship Coordinator to design a program of study that aligns with their education needs. In order to earn a Certificate in this program from GRCC, students must complete a minimum of 16 credit hours of approved coursework. The Manufacturing Apprenticeship Program offers you the combined benefits of on-the-job training plus instruction. You'll gain both practical experience and exposure to the theoretical aspects of skilled occupations.

Students in Tooling and Manufacturing Technology will learn both the soft skills and technical skills needed to be a successful technician. Soft skills include teamwork, problem solving, quality principles and communication skills. Technical skills (based on National Skill Standards) include manufacturing principles, metallurgy, welding, quality assurance, machine shop, CNC programming, and technical mathematics. Graduates of this certificate program are prepared to become certified skilled tradespeople. These positions often pave the way for careers in manufacturing, tool and die, mold making, and precision machining. This program offers the following features: Challenge exams are available for most courses. Advanced-standing credits are available for many high school students. Work experience can be gained through co-op classes. Enrollment may be part-time or full-time, days or nights.

This program is also offered at the Lakeshore Campus.

The Tooling & Manufacturing Technology program trains technicians for employment in the modern tooling and manufacturing industry. The manufacturing segment of our economy continues to offer a wide variety of rewarding career opportunities. The automation of manufacturing equipment and processing continues to change the world of work, increasing the skills needed to be a technician. Graduates of this program will become skilled manufacturing technicians to meet the needs of our changing world. The manufacturing of products creates thousands of secure technician-level jobs each year, most of which do not require a four-year degree.

Students will learn both the soft skills and technical skills needed to be a successful technician. Soft skills include teamwork, problem solving, quality principles and communication skills. Technical skills (based on National Skill Standards) include: Machine tool operations, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming, Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM).

Program graduates are prepared to become a manufacturing engineering technician, skilled tradesperson (tool and die or mold maker), or CNC programmer. These positions often pave the way for careers in manufacturing management, engineering technician, industrial sales, technical training, or owning and operating a company.

Students can tailor the Tooling and Manufacturing program to meet education and training needs. This program offers the following unique features:

1. Challenge exams available for most courses.
2. Advanced standing credits are available for many high school students.
3. Work experience can be gained via Co-op.
4. Several career tracks are available to students.
5. Attend as a part-time or full-time student, days or nights.

The Machine Tool Certificate program is designed to offer students a time effective pathway for acquiring the basic skills necessary to procure entry-level employment in the machine tool trades.

Students enrolled in this program learn both the soft skills and technical skills needed to be considered a viable candidate for early employment and/or apprenticeship opportunities. Soft skills include teamwork, problem solving, quality principles, and communication skills. Technical skills include manual machine tool operations, blueprint reading, mathematical operations, metrology, and Computer Numerical Controlled (CNC) operations and programming. These courses are directly applicable to the completion of the Tooling and Manufacturing Technology Certificate program and/or the Tooling and Manufacturing Technology A.A.A.S. degree if students wish to pursue further educational credentials.

As a Machinist / Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Technician you will shape metal and various materials to precise dimensions by using machine tools. MT/CNC technicians plan and set up the correct sequence of machine operations in accordance with blueprints, layouts or other instructions to write both manual and computer-generated machine programs. The technician is required to use various hand tools, micrometers, gauges and other precision measuring instruments.

To be most effective in the manufacturing environment of today, you will need to be able to read blueprints, perform basic shop math, read measurement tools and communicate effectively with others using today's Machine Tool/CNC terminology.

The Tooling & Manufacturing Technology program trains technicians for employment in the modern tooling and manufacturing industry. The manufacturing segment of our economy continues to offer a wide variety of rewarding career opportunities. The automation of manufacturing equipment and processing continues to change the world of work, increasing the skills needed to be a technician. Graduates of this program will become skilled manufacturing technicians to meet the needs of our changing world. The manufacturing of products creates thousands of secure technician-level jobs each year, most of which do not require a four-year degree.

Students will learn both the soft skills and technical skills needed to be a successful technician. Soft skills include teamwork, problem solving, quality principles and communication skills. Technical skills (based on National Skill Standards) include: Machine tool operations, Computer Numerical Control (CNC) programming, Computer Aided Design/Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAD/CAM).

Program graduates are prepared to become a manufacturing engineering technician, skilled tradesperson (tool and die or mold maker), or CNC programmer. These positions often pave the way for careers in manufacturing management, engineering technician, industrial sales, technical training, or owning and operating a company.

Students can tailor the Tooling and Manufacturing program to meet education and training needs. This program offers the following unique features:

1. Challenge exams available for most courses.
2. Advanced standing credits are available for many high school students.
3. Work experience can be gained via Co-op.
4. Several career tracks are available to students.
5. Attend as a part-time or full-time student, days or nights.