Southern Maine Community College

The Architectural & Engineering Design program prepares students for technician-level work assisting architects, engineers and contractors who work in the diverse manufacturing industry. Offering a variety of design disciplines, the program provides students with individual choices of specialization including architectural, mechanical and marine interests.

The Architectural and Engineering Design program provides a wide selection of courses, both specific and broad in scope, reinforced by established degree-level courses in general education and related technologies. The program is accessible to full- or part-time students. Some sequential scheduling of courses, however, is necessary to provide program continuity. All candidates are encouraged to contact the advisors in the Architectural & Engineering Design department regarding course and program selection.

The Construction Technology program provides technical and hands-on experience in residential construction, preparing its graduates for a rewarding career in the construction industry.

The construction field involves constantly changing technology in today’s continuing search for more energy-efficient structures. Technically trained professionals with innovative ideas and the skills to apply these ideas and knowledge are needed to meet the challenges of today’s building industry. Related subjects such as print reading, framing, interior finishes and building science along with English composition and math provide students with a well-rounded education, allowing them to obtain employment in a variety of positions within the construction industry or its related fields.

The Construction Technology program provides technical and hands-on experience in residential construction, preparing its graduates for a rewarding career in the construction industry.

The construction field involves constantly changing technology in today’s continuing search for more energy-efficient structures. Technically trained professionals with innovative ideas and the skills to apply these ideas and knowledge are needed to meet the challenges of today’s building industry. Related subjects such as print reading, framing, interior finishes and building science along with English composition and math provide students with a well-rounded education, allowing them to obtain employment in a variety of positions within the construction industry or its related fields.

The Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Plumbing programs prepare students to install, repair and maintain refrigeration, heating and air conditioning equipment. Students learn about the components and construction of HVACR systems, temperature control and electronics, and how to read blueprints. This program incorporates a hands-on practical approach through work in the lab on HVAC equipment.

The Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Plumbing programs prepare students to install, repair and maintain refrigeration, heating and air conditioning equipment. Students learn about the components and construction of HVACR systems, temperature control and electronics, and how to read blueprints. This program incorporates a hands-on practical approach through work in the lab on HVAC equipment.

The Heating, Air Conditioning, Refrigeration & Plumbing programs prepare students to install, repair and maintain refrigeration, heating and air conditioning equipment. Students learn about the components and construction of HVACR systems, temperature control and electronics, and how to read blueprints. This program incorporates a hands-on practical approach through work in the lab on HVAC equipment.

The Heavy Equipment Operations certificate program is designed to produce operators trained on earthmoving equipment such as bulldozers, backhoes, excavators and graders. Training takes place both on lab simulators as well as on an actual lab operation site. The program prepares graduates to work in county, state or interstate highway construction, agricultural construction, airport development, and commercial and residential construction. The program utilizes a curriculum recognized by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). Graduates of this certificate program will be qualified to attain employment in the construction, gravel processing, farm operations, equipment dealers and heavy equipment service industries.

SMCC offers a certificate in Plumbing requiring a mix of general education and hands-on courses.

The Automotive Certificate in Chassis Systems is designed to prepare skilled technicians to work in the automotive industry in the areas of routine maintenance, steering and suspension, brakes, and chassis electrical/electronics. It is also a stepping-stone to continue education at SMCC in the Automotive Certificate in Powertrain Systems. The Automotive Certificate in Chassis Systems involves math and English as well as automotive lecture and laboratory instruction. Students may work at a repair shop as part of the cooperative education phase of training. Opportunities for graduates include positions in dealerships, independent shops, automotive parts stores and companies with vehicle fleets.

The Automotive Certificate in Powertrain Systems is the second of two Automotive Certificates at SMCC. The Automotive Certificate in Chassis Systems is a requirement for admission to the Automotive Certificate in Powertrain Systems. The Powertrain Systems Certificate involves classes in Engine Repair; Engine Performance; Manual Transmissions and Drivetrains; Automatic Transmissions; and Automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning. Paired with the Automotive Certificate in Chassis Systems, the two programs are designed to prepare skilled technicians to work in the automotive industry in the areas of routine maintenance, steering and suspension, brakes, heating and air conditioning, engine repair and performance, manual and automatic transmissions, and drivelines. Opportunities for graduates include positions in dealerships, independent shops, automotive parts stores and companies with vehicle fleets. Graduates of the Automotive Certificate in Powertrain Systems may continue their education at SMCC in the Automotive associate degree program.

The Automotive Technology program is designed to prepare skilled technicians to work in the automotive industry. The program involves general education as well as automotive lecture and laboratory instruction. Our shops are spacious and well-equipped with state-of-the-art technology. During labs, the student-to-teacher ratio is capped at 13:1, so learners get plenty of hands-on experience and instructor attention. Students may also work at a repair shop as part of the cooperative education phase of training.

The program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation, Inc. (NATEF, a division of Automotive Service Excellence) in all eight performance areas. We have strong support from community business partners. Full-time instructors with vast technical experience and education offer a nurturing learning opportunity for students.

The Human Services program is designed to prepare individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for employment and/or future study in the human service field. Successful graduates work with individuals of all ages confronting disabling mental health issues, developmental disabilities, substance abuse and other behavioral health conditions.

The Associate in Applied Science degree in Human Services is designed primarily for students seeking to enter the workforce after graduation or to advance their career at their place of employment. Graduates of the program qualify for Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community (MHRT/C) certification and are eligible for Ed Tech II certification.

The Human Services program is designed to prepare individuals with the necessary knowledge and skills for employment and/or future study in the human service field. Successful graduates work with individuals of all ages confronting disabling mental health issues, developmental disabilities, substance abuse and other behavioral health conditions.

The Associate in Applied Science degree in Human Services is designed primarily for students seeking to enter the workforce after graduation or to advance their career at their place of employment. Graduates of the program qualify for Mental Health Rehabilitation Technician/Community (MHRT/C) certification and are eligible for Ed Tech II certification.

The Criminal Justice program provides students with the skills and abilities they need to succeed in dynamic and rewarding criminal justice careers. Students will find career opportunities in law enforcement, forensics, corrections, probation/parole, private security and investigations, and juvenile and adult protective services.

The professional expertise of the faculty provides an important blending of academic accomplishment and practical experience. Students benefit from their professors’ real-world expertise in police patrol, investigations, evidence technology/forensics, crime scene reconstruction, drug and selective enforcement, supervision, management/leadership, corrections and criminal prosecution. Career guidance and networking opportunities with criminal justice agencies and practitioners further enhance students’ academic preparation and career success.

The Criminal Justice program provides students with the skills and abilities they need to succeed in dynamic and rewarding criminal justice careers. Students will find career opportunities in law enforcement, forensics, corrections, probation/parole, private security and investigations, and juvenile and adult protective services.

The professional expertise of the faculty provides an important blending of academic accomplishment and practical experience. Students benefit from their professors’ real-world expertise in police patrol, investigations, evidence technology/forensics, crime scene reconstruction, drug and selective enforcement, supervision, management/leadership, corrections and criminal prosecution. Career guidance and networking opportunities with criminal justice agencies and practitioners further enhance students’ academic preparation and career success.

The Criminal Justice program provides students with the skills and abilities they need to succeed in dynamic and rewarding criminal justice careers. Students will find career opportunities in law enforcement, forensics, corrections, probation/parole, private security and investigations, and juvenile and adult protective services.

The professional expertise of the faculty provides an important blending of academic accomplishment and practical experience. Students benefit from their professors’ real-world expertise in police patrol, investigations, evidence technology/forensics, crime scene reconstruction, drug and selective enforcement, supervision, management/leadership, corrections and criminal prosecution. Career guidance and networking opportunities with criminal justice agencies and practitioners further enhance students’ academic preparation and career success.

SMCC offers two education programs: Early Childhood Education and Education. The programs focus on different age/grade ranges, but both provide students with the foundational skills and experiences they need to enter their chosen fields. The Early Childhood Education (ECE) program is designed for students who are interested in teaching children from 0-8 years of age, including students in grades K-3. The Education (EDUC) program is designed for students who are interested in exploring education more broadly and/or those who wish to teach older students in specialized fields like English or Math. Both programs focus on the essential knowledge, skills, and dispositions students need to make a difference in the lives of the children with whom they work. These skills are put to use as students engage in classroom settings and externships in the local community. Throughout each step of the way, students work with supportive and experienced faculty. Our goal is to create a community of learners who work (and play!) together with all students receiving the support they need to achieve their dreams.

The Advanced Certificate in Education is designed to prepare students who have already earned 60 college-level credits to earn the 90 credits need to be certified as an Educational Technician III. This program encompasses a blend of coursework and internship as a way to fully develop and prepare candidates to be confident and competent in their future roles as an Educational Technician III. The coursework is designed to cover important educational theory such as literacy, math, English language learners (ELL), and exceptionalities. An integral part of this program will be a full semester of internship experience in a public school setting. Please note a successful background, criminal records, fingerprinting and reference check may be required for licensure. To see full licensure requirements, please visit the Maine Department of Education website.

The Education degree program is designed to prepare pre-service teachers with the necessary knowledge and skills for employment and/or future study in the field of K-12 education. Successful graduates experience field work in public school classrooms in each education course taken as a way to connect theory into actual practice. Topics that are covered, beyond core requirements, seek to address the theories of how human beings learn, the compelling issues related to American education, the developmental stages of literacy acquisition from birth to grade 12, and an in-depth overview on issues related to special education law and students with special needs.

Graduates of the associate degree program are eligible for certification as Educational Technician II with the designation as “highly qualified.”

Paramedicine offers an exciting and challenging career within the field of Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Paramedics are members of the healthcare team that provides advanced-level care using standing orders, clinical judgment and medical direction of a physician. In the out-of-hospital environment, the paramedic leads the healthcare team. Employment opportunities are available with municipal and private ambulances, fire departments, hospitals, clinics and industrial settings.

The Fire Science program is designed to provide both pre-service and in-service students with sound technical and academic experiences, enabling them to assume positions of responsibility as members of fire departments or as technical and supervisory employees of industrial firms and insurance companies. The program focuses on developing skills in comprehensive approaches to fire protection that utilize cost-effective proactive, reactive and management methods. The ultimate goal is to help students develop the appropriate skills and knowledge for professional fire protection. In addition to the Associate of Applied Science degree, a one-year, 30-credit certificate option is available.

The Fire Science program is designed to provide both pre-service and in-service students with sound technical and academic experiences, enabling them to assume positions of responsibility as members of fire departments or as technical and supervisory employees of industrial firms and insurance companies. The program focuses on developing skills in comprehensive approaches to fire protection that utilize cost-effective proactive, reactive and management methods. The ultimate goal is to help students develop the appropriate skills and knowledge for professional fire protection. In addition to the Associate of Applied Science degree, a one-year, 30-credit certificate option is available.

The Cardiovascular Technology program provides graduates with the skills necessary to work with medical professionals in cardiac catheterization laboratories, cardiac surgery, electrocardiography/stress laboratories, or echocardiography departments. Students complete a combination of general education and required core courses in cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology, medical electronics and instrumentation, and applied cardiovascular techniques in either invasive cardiology or echocardiography. Clinical opportunities in patient care areas at various health care sites will be completed throughout their educational experience. The clinical component of the program includes more than 1,200 hours of patient care experience over four of the five semesters and is closely aligned with the cardiovascular curriculum. Graduates of the Cardiovascular Technology program are eligible to take either the Registered Cardiac Sonographer (RCS) or the Registered Cardiovascular Invasive Specialist (RCIS) upon graduation from Cardiovascular Credentialing International. The growth in cardiovascular surgeries, diagnostic procedures and interventional techniques, and the continued advances in echocardiography and non-invasive cardiology, has increased the demand for qualified cardiovascular technologists throughout the nation .

The Medical Assisting program prepares students to perform duties and responsibilities in a variety of medical settings. The duties of medical assistants are flexible and will vary depending on the type of office or work setting, but can include drawing blood, administering injections, assisting with exams and surgical procedures, taking vital signs, direct patient care, performing electrocardiograms, patient education, telephone triage, receptionist skills, filing, insurance reimbursement and billing procedures, medical coding, correspondence and scheduling appointments.

The Nursing program prepares individuals to become registered nurses at the associate degree level. Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to take the NCLEX Registered Nurse (RN) licensure examination for entry into practice.

The Associate of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics degree at Southern Maine Community College provides introductory courses as a starting point for students interested in working in areas of nutrition care, dietary management, health, fitness, and wellness. The nutrition and dietetics degree consists of foundational courses in science, English, math, social sciences, humanities, dietetics, and nutrition. This degree is especially appropriate for individuals interested in transferring to a baccalaureate program in health or exercise science and for those who wish to pursue a professional degree as a Registered Dietician. Students pursuing a Nutrition and Dietetics degree may opt to complete a second major in Health Science or Culinary Arts. Acceptance into these programs is based upon application to the program and meeting minimum entrance criteria.

The radiographer, a vital member of the healthcare team, utilizes sophisticated x-ray equipment to obtain diagnostically valuable images of any body part. In order to perform radiographic procedures, the radiographer must have a good working knowledge of not only human anatomy and radiographic procedures, but also radiation physics, principles of imaging, radiation protection and quality assurance. Employment opportunities include hospitals, private offices and outpatient clinics, and specialties such as mammography, computerized tomography, vascular and interventional radiography, and magnetic resonance imaging. The curriculum maintains clinical affiliations with many hospitals in southern Maine, as well as several orthopedic offices in Portland.

Respiratory Therapy is an allied health specialty involved with the evaluation, treatment, management, diagnosis and preventative care of patients with cardiopulmonary problems. Respiratory therapists are the healthcare professionals who care for people with breathing problems. Respiratory therapists treat and work with people of all age groups, including premature infants, children, adults and the elderly. Currently there are numerous opportunities within the state of Maine and beyond to work as a respiratory therapist.

A Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) is a member of the surgical team in the operating room who works with the surgeon, anesthesiologist and certified registered nurse delivering direct patient care before, during and after surgery. Surgical technologists perform functions and tasks that provide a safe environment for surgical care and contribute to the efficiency of the operating team by supporting operating surgeons, nurses and others involved in operative procedures. Surgical technologists also work in other patient service settings that call for special knowledge about asepsis, the methods of making or keeping an environment antiseptic.

The Computer Numerical Controller (CNC) Machine Operator Certificate offers new or returning students a competency-based comprehensive CNC Machine Operator training program. Along with general education courses and program-specific technical courses, students will be able to apply a wide variety of industries and employment opportunities. Students will be exposed to basic manufacturing skills, precision machining and CNC machine operations. Students completing the CNC Operator Certificate are in high demand across several industries.

Precision machinists control, design, maintain, upgrade and operate modern, computer-controlled production equipment and facilities equipment used to manufacture many of the world’s goods. The Precision Machining program equips its graduates with an in-depth multi-disciplinary education in mathematics, physics, engineering technology, both manual and CNC machining, manufacturing processes and methods, as well as a broad education in computer studies, business and liberal arts. Our highly skilled graduates have gone on to provide hands-on engineering and managerial services in state-of-the-art high-volume and/or high-precision manufacturing enterprises across Maine. Our graduates are currently employed in diverse industries including automotive, packaging, metalworking, power generation, aerospace, medical, defense, bottling and even private consulting companies. Our graduates specialize in precision machining with precision tools using Computer Numerical Controller (CNC) programming and operations.

The Electrical Engineering Technology programs provide the education and training needed to install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical devices and equipment. Students explore topics such as basic circuits, wiring practices, electronics, programmable logic controllers, sensors, hydraulics, motors – devices and principles used in all manufacturing processes. In addition, students are exposed to the practice and regulations of residential and commercial wiring and renewable energy. An emphasis is placed on developing strong and logical troubleshooting skills.

The Electrical Engineering Technology programs provide the education and training needed to install, maintain and troubleshoot electrical devices and equipment. Students explore topics such as basic circuits, wiring practices, electronics, programmable logic controllers, sensors, hydraulics, motors – devices and principles used in all manufacturing processes. In addition, students are exposed to the practice and regulations of residential and commercial wiring and renewable energy. An emphasis is placed on developing strong and logical troubleshooting skills.

Communications & New Media Studies is a multimedia program that prepares students for careers as media producers. Media producers create designed solutions through the integration of design technologies and fine art. They design and develop websites, produce and edit video and audio, create a variety of 2D and 3D animation projects, and design and develop applications for web and smart devices and a wide array of printed products. This is a hands-on program providing students with access to industry-standard software and gear through work in state-of-the-art labs.

The program provides students with a strong foundation in web, video/audio and print media. Once the fundamental courses have been completed, students can choose to specialize by selecting from a flexible menu of advanced curriculum options including digital imaging, design and illustration, video and audio production, animation or website production. Students in the program can transfer to a baccalaureate program in visual communication or art. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level employment in graphics and production.

The study of computer science involves both the theory and the practice of solving problems by computer. It describes the analysis, design, implementation and application of algorithms in order to solve complex problems. While computer science requires the study and use of several programming languages, the discipline as a whole encompasses much more; theoretical and practical mathematics, design and analysis of algorithms, and modeling of large systems are all part of computer science.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

The study of computer science involves both the theory and the practice of solving problems by computer. It describes the analysis, design, implementation and application of algorithms in order to solve complex problems. While computer science requires the study and use of several programming languages, the discipline as a whole encompasses much more; theoretical and practical mathematics, design and analysis of algorithms, and modeling of large systems are all part of computer science.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

The study of computer science involves both the theory and the practice of solving problems by computer. It describes the analysis, design, implementation and application of algorithms in order to solve complex problems. While computer science requires the study and use of several programming languages, the discipline as a whole encompasses much more; theoretical and practical mathematics, design and analysis of algorithms, and modeling of large systems are all part of computer science.

The Cyber Security program gives students an opportunity to train in one of the fastest-growing areas in IT (Information Technology), known as Information Security and Security Assurance. The program covers a wide range of topics including computer forensics, ethical hacking, laws, policies, network security and physically securing systems in a data center. The curriculum is designed to aid students in preparing for many of the certification exams in the field. The curriculum will include large amounts of hands-on experience along with simulation training and group/team-based learning to simulate a professional work environment.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

The program provides students with experience in basic and advanced networking, security, basic and advanced virtualization, database design and management, and both Linux and Windows-based server and client operating systems. Students are also exposed to project management best practices and will gain an understanding of how IT fits into business organizations.

As the third-largest national industry and the largest in the state of Maine, the food industry estimates more than 60,000 additional chefs will be needed each year in the United States. SMCC’s Culinary Arts program offers instruction in food preparation and service to supply these demands. It is the only post-secondary culinary program in Maine certified by the American Culinary Federation. The program curriculum covers all aspects of fundamental food preparation including meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, sauces, soups, bread and pastry baking, desserts, specialty cooking, dining room service and more. Related instruction gives emphasis to management techniques, including inventory control, culinary mathematics, personnel and business management, bookkeeping, accounting and menu planning. General education with coursework in English, math and social science and a 400-hour externship rounds out the program. Opportunities for graduates are wide ranging in all areas of both direct food preparation and related management in the food service field.