Southwestern Community College (NC)

The Advertising and Graphic Design curriculum is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the graphic design profession, which emphasizes design, advertising, illustration, and digital and multimedia preparation of printed and electronic promotional materials.

Students will be trained in the development of concept and design for promotional materials such as newspaper and magazine advertisements, posters, folders, letterheads, corporate symbols, brochures, booklets, preparation of art for printing, lettering and typography, photography, and electronic media.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities with graphic design studios, advertising agencies, printing companies, department stores, a wide variety of manufacturing industries, newspapers, and businesses with in-house graphics operations.

The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology curriculum provides the basic knowledge to develop skills necessary to work with residential and light commercial systems.

Topics include mechanical refrigeration, heating and cooling theory, electricity, controls, and safety. The diploma program covers air conditioning, furnaces, heat pumps, tools and instruments. In addition, the AAS degree covers residential building codes, residential system sizing, and advanced comfort systems.

Diploma graduates should be able to assist in the start up, preventive maintenance, service, repair, and/or installation of residential and light commercial systems. AAS degree graduates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of system selection and balance and advanced systems.

The Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Technology curriculum provides the basic knowledge to develop skills necessary to work with residential and light commercial systems.

Topics include mechanical refrigeration, heating and cooling theory, electricity, controls, and safety. The diploma program covers air conditioning, furnaces, heat pumps, tools and instruments. In addition, the AAS degree covers residential building codes, residential system sizing, and advanced comfort systems.

Diploma graduates should be able to assist in the start up, preventive maintenance, service, repair, and/or installation of residential and light commercial systems. AAS degree graduates should be able to demonstrate an understanding of system selection and balance and advanced systems.

The electrical technology program provides students with the training essential for entry-level positions in residential or commercial construction or industrial maintenance. Students will also become familiar with the electrical operations of alternative energy systems. This program may be used as a springboard into apprenticeship training.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

The Welding Technology curriculum provides students with a sound understanding of the science, technology, and applications essential for successful employment in the welding and metal industry.

Instruction includes consumable and non-consumable electrode welding and cutting processes. Courses in math, blueprint reading, metallurgy, welding inspection, and destructive and non-destructive testing provides the student with industry-standard skills developed through classroom training and practical application.

Successful graduates of the Welding Technology curriculum may be employed as entry-level technicians in welding and metalworking industries. Career opportunities also exist in construction, manufacturing, fabrication, sales, quality control, supervision, and welding-related self-employment.

If you're looking for a rewarding career in the auto industry, SWCC's auto collision repair/refinish program is an excellent place to get started. SWCC's esteemed auto collision repair/refinish program is one of two programs in Iowa to have the ASE (The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence)/NATEF (National Automotive Technician Education Foundation) certification. SWCC is the only program in the state to have the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) I-CAR Gold Class designation.

If you're looking for a rewarding career in the auto industry, SWCC's auto collision repair/refinish program is an excellent place to get started. SWCC's esteemed auto collision repair/refinish program is one of two programs in Iowa to have the ASE (The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence)/NATEF (National Automotive Technician Education Foundation) certification. SWCC is the only program in the state to have the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) I-CAR Gold Class designation.

If you're looking for a rewarding career in the auto industry, SWCC's auto collision repair/refinish program is an excellent place to get started. SWCC's esteemed auto collision repair/refinish program is one of two programs in Iowa to have the ASE (The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence)/NATEF (National Automotive Technician Education Foundation) certification. SWCC is the only program in the state to have the I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) I-CAR Gold Class designation.

Curriculums in the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway prepare individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.

Course work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to enter careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry.

The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. The program includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Curriculums in the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway prepare individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.

Course work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to enter careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry.

The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. The program includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Curriculums in the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway prepare individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.

Course work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to enter careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry.
The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. The program includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Curriculums in the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway prepare individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.

Course work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to enter careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry.

The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. The program includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Curriculums in the Mobile Equipment Maintenance and Repair pathway prepare individuals for employment as entry-level transportation service technicians. The program provides an introduction to transportation industry careers and increases student awareness of the diverse technologies associated with this dynamic and challenging field.

Course work may include transportation systems theory, braking systems, climate control, design parameters, drive trains, electrical/electronic systems, engine repair, engine performance, environmental regulations, materials, product finish, safety, steering/suspension, transmission/transaxles, and sustainable transportation, depending on the program major area chosen.

Graduates of this pathway should be prepared to take professional licensure exams, which correspond to certain programs of study, and to enter careers as entry-level technicians in the transportation industry.

The Automotive Systems Technology program prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, service, and maintain all types of automobiles. The program includes instruction in brake systems, electrical systems, engine performance, engine repair, suspension and steering, automatic and manual transmissions and drive trains, and heating and air condition systems.

Western North Carolina has a need for skilled office assistants. Update your office skills and increase your marketability with an Office Administration Certificate. Students can complete the courses required for this degree as online courses.

The Office Administration Diploma curriculum is designed to provide the intermediate entry-level employment training necessary for entry-level office administration positions. Associate degree level courses within the diploma program may also be applied toward an AAS degree in Office Administration. Students can complete the courses required for this diploma as online courses.

The Office Administration curriculum prepares individuals for employment as administrative office personnel who use skills in the areas of office management, office finance, legal office, virtual office, customer service, and office software.
Course work includes computer applications, oral and written communication, analysis and coordination of office tasks and procedures, records management, and other topics depending on the subject area selected within this curriculum.
Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities in a variety of office positions in business, government, and industry. Upon graduation, students may be eligible to sit for industry recognized certification exams. Students can complete the required courses for this degree online.

The Criminal Justice Technology curriculum is designed to provide knowledge of criminal justice systems and operations. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. The criminal justice system’s role within society will be explored.

Emphasis is on criminal justice systems, criminology, juvenile justice, criminal and constitutional law, investigative principles, ethics, and community relations. Additional study may include issues and concepts of government, counseling, communications, computers, and technology.

Employment opportunities exist in a variety of local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, and security fields. Examples include police officer, deputy sheriff, county detention officer, state trooper, intensive probation/parole surveillance officer, correctional officer, and loss prevention specialist.

IN-SERVICE Training Requirements from the NC Criminal Justice and Sheriffs' Education and Training Standards Commission: The In-service NC law enforcement officer training requirements, as outlined in the NC Administrative Code, requires that every police officer certified by the NC Criminal Justice and Training Standards Commission and deputy sheriff certified by NC Sheriff Education and Training Standards Commission complete at a minimum, 24-credits of in-service training annually. The topics for this requirement are outlined in the Code and include but are not limited to the classes listed below for 2020. SCC will work with all agencies to meet these training requirements in traditional seat-based classes or online delivery.

The Speed Measuring Instrument (SMI) Training Program at SCC-PSTC is comprised of Basic RADAR, LIDAR Operator and RADAR and LIDAR Operator Re-Certification Training. Training is for those seeking initial certification as well as re-certification to operator Speed Measuring Instruments in North Carolina

The Criminal Justice Technology curriculum is designed to provide knowledge of criminal justice systems and operations. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. The criminal justice system’s role within society will be explored.

Emphasis is on criminal justice systems, criminology, juvenile justice, criminal and constitutional law, investigative principles, ethics, and community relations. Additional study may include issues and concepts of government, counseling, communications, computers, and technology.

Employment opportunities exist in a variety of local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, and security fields. Examples include police officer, deputy sheriff, county detention officer, state trooper, intensive probation/parole surveillance officer, correctional officer, and loss prevention specialist.

The Criminal Justice Technology curriculum is designed to provide knowledge of criminal justice systems and operations. Study will focus on local, state, and federal law enforcement, judicial processes, corrections, and security services. The criminal justice system’s role within society will be explored.

Emphasis is on criminal justice systems, criminology, juvenile justice, criminal and constitutional law, investigative principles, ethics, and community relations. Additional study may include issues and concepts of government, counseling, communications, computers, and technology.

Employment opportunities exist in a variety of local, state, and federal law enforcement, corrections, and security fields. Examples include police officer, deputy sheriff, county detention officer, state trooper, intensive probation/parole surveillance officer, correctional officer, and loss prevention specialist.

IN-SERVICE Training Requirements for detention officers from the Sheriffs' Education and Training Standards Commission: The In-service NC detention officer requirements, as outlined in the NC Administrative Code, requires that every detention officer certified by the NC Sheriffs' Education and Training Standards Commission complete 16-hours of in-service training annually. The topics for this requirement are outlined in the Code and include but are not limited to the following: Detention Legal Update, Career survival for Detention Officers, Cryptology and Contraband and departmental choices. SCC-PSTC will work with all agencies to meet these training requirements.

The Southwestern Community College (SCC) Division of Public Safety Training Center (PSTC) Tactical Training Program is responsible for, and committed to, providing the highest level of training capabilities to those who serve, safeguard and secure our communities within the State of North Carolina and at the Federal level of law enforcement.

Guided by integrity, our commitment to excellence, professionalism and the efficient management of our resources, the Tactical Training Program provides innovative research, comprehensive program development, consultation, exceptional education, realistic training and consistent support for law enforcement professionals, expressed within our operational philosophy: esse quam videri.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

This curriculum prepares individuals to work with preschool aged children (3-5) in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories, competency-based knowledge, and practice in actual settings with preschool children.

Course work includes child growth and development, physical/nutritional needs of preschool children, safety issues in the care of preschool children; care and guidance; communication skills with families and children; design and implementation of appropriate curriculum; and other related topics.

Graduates should be prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate preschool programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and other preschool programs.

The curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy to three years of age in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories, competency-based knowledge, and practice in actual settings with infants and toddlers.

Course work includes infant/toddler growth and development: physical/nutritional needs of infants and toddlers; safety issues in the care of infants and toddlers; care and guidance; communication skills with families and children; design an implementation of appropriate curriculum; and other related topics.

Graduates should be prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate infant/toddler programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Early Head Start Programs, and other infant/toddler programs.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

The Early Childhood Education curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy through middle childhood in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories with practice in actual settings with young children under the supervision of qualified teachers.

Course work includes child growth and development; physical/nutritional needs of children; care and guidance of children; and communication skills with parents and children. Students will foster the cognitive/language, physical/motor, social/emotional, and creative development of young children.

Graduates are prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and school-age programs.

This curriculum prepares individuals to work with preschool aged children (3-5) in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories, competency-based knowledge, and practice in actual settings with preschool children.

Course work includes child growth and development, physical/nutritional needs of preschool children, safety issues in the care of preschool children; care and guidance; communication skills with families and children; design and implementation of appropriate curriculum; and other related topics.

Graduates should be prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate preschool programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Head Start Programs, and other preschool programs.

The curriculum prepares individuals to work with children from infancy to three years of age in diverse learning environments. Students will combine learned theories, competency-based knowledge, and practice in actual settings with infants and toddlers.

Course work includes infant/toddler growth and development: physical/nutritional needs of infants and toddlers; safety issues in the care of infants and toddlers; care and guidance; communication skills with families and children; design an implementation of appropriate curriculum; and other related topics.

Graduates should be prepared to plan and implement developmentally appropriate infant/toddler programs in early childhood settings. Employment opportunities include child development and child care programs, preschools, public and private schools, recreational centers, Early Head Start Programs, and other infant/toddler programs.

The Emergency Medical Science curriculum provides individuals with the knowledge, skills and attributes to provide advanced emergency medical care as a paramedic for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system and prepares graduates to enter the workforce.

Students will gain complex knowledge, competency, and experience while employing evidence based practice under medical oversight, and serve as a link from the scene into the healthcare system.

Graduates of this program may be eligible to take state and/or national certification examinations. Employment opportunities include providers of emergency medical services, fire departments, rescue agencies, hospital specialty areas, industry, educational and government agencies.

The Emergency Medical Science curriculum provides individuals with the knowledge, skills and attributes to provide advanced emergency medical care as a paramedic for critical and emergent patients who access the emergency medical system and prepares graduates to enter the workforce.

Students will gain complex knowledge, competency, and experience while employing evidence based practice under medical oversight, and serve as a link from the scene into the healthcare system.

Graduates of this program may be eligible to take state and/or national certification examinations. Employment opportunities include providers of emergency medical services, fire departments, rescue agencies, hospital specialty areas, industry, educational and government agencies.

Various courses are offered in cooperation with individual fire and rescue departments in the Jackson County, Macon County, Swain County and Qualla Boundary service area. Specific courses are designed to increase the firefighter’s technical knowledge and improve his or her skills in fire ground operation. Classes may be offered according to the needs of each fire department. In addition, SCC offers the nationally recognized firefighter certification program and the rescue certification program. The training curriculum is based on the NFPA 1001 & NFPA 1006 standards.
The Fire and Rescue Training Facility is located adjacent to the Public Safety Training Complex at 225 Industrial Park Loop, Franklin, NC 28734. This 4,100 square foot, three-story live burn building is designated for a variety of training exercises. Both fire and smoke exercises can be conducted in and on the structure and rescue operations can be simulated throughout the building. SCC will coordinate training for firefighters and rescue personnel in the region and will be responsible for the scheduling of this facility.

These courses provide instruction in the primary environmental factors that affect the start and spread of wildfires and recognition of potentially hazardous situations. Also, human factors on the fire line and basic incident command structure will be discussed.

This Certificate is designed to appeal to those professionals who desire increased knowledge and skills to augment their current education and experience. This Certificate will provide participants with information and skills in helping by learning how to develop trust, understanding family dynamics, including domestic violence, and how to help a person through a crisis such as divorce, death, unemployment, or past child abuse. The Certificate will provide awareness on how to increase self-growth as a helper of others and how to develop strategies to prevent burnout. Professionals who are likely to be interested in this Certificate are people in ministry, non-profit agencies as well as volunteers in the human services field. This Certificate should also appeal to those who are employed in a human service agency without specific education and training in Human Service skills.

This curriculum prepares students for entry-level positions in institutions and agencies which provide social, community, and mental health and substance abuse services. Along with core courses, students take courses which prepare them for specialization in working with people who have mental health and substance abuse issues.

Courses are designed to prepare students to learn skills in interviewing, group process, crisis intervention and general helping skills while continually developing self-understanding throughout the courses of study. Emphasis in core courses is placed on development of relevant knowledge, skills, and attitudes in the counseling and helping fields. Fieldwork experience will provide opportunities for application of knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, in realistic settings with appropriate supervision provided.

Graduates should qualify or have an advantage for positions in mental health, child care, family services, social services, rehabilitation, correction, and educational agencies.

Graduates choosing to continue their education may transfer to Western Carolina University’s Social Work Program as a junior under our articulation agreement. A degree in Social Work increases opportunities for employment in Mental Health, Nursing homes, Veterans services, Hospitals, Elementary and High schools, child protective services, jails and prisons, and Vocational Rehabilitation.

This course is specifically designed to prepare students for the CompTIA A+ certification exams. Students learn about hardware, operating systems, networking, security, and troubleshooting as well as more specialized topics such as mobile devices, laptops, and printers. In addition to one-on-one support from experienced instructors throughout the course and access to personalized graduate support after course completion, students receive two quick-reference exam study guides, a computer repair toolkit, a power supply tester, a USB drive, and two CompTIA A+ certification exam vouchers.

The Support & Services Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on help desk and troubleshooting in the Information Technology field. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as help desk and user support technicians.

The Support & Services Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on help desk and troubleshooting in the Information Technology field. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as help desk and user support technicians.

The Network Management Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on supporting network infrastructure environments. Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians. Graduates may also be qualified to take certification examinations for various network industry certifications, depending on their local program.

The Network Management Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on supporting network infrastructure environments. Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians. Graduates may also be qualified to take certification examinations for various network industry certifications, depending on their local program.

The Software and Web Development Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on creating software and web based applications. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as designers, administrators, or developers in the areas of software and web applications, websites, web services, and related areas of distributed computing.

The Software and Web Development Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on creating software and web based applications. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as designers, administrators, or developers in the areas of software and web applications, websites, web services, and related areas of distributed computing.

This curriculum will prepare students to enter the field of computer crime investigations and private security. Students completing this curriculum will be capable of investigating computer crimes, properly seize and recover computer evidence and aid in the prosecution of cyber criminals.

Course work in this curriculum will include a division of work in the disciplines of criminal justice and computer information systems. Additionally, students will be required to take specific cyber crime classes.

Graduates should qualify to become computer crime investigators for local or state criminal justice agencies. Also these graduates should be competent to serve as computer security specialists or consultants with private businesses.

This curriculum will prepare students to enter the field of computer crime investigations and private security. Students completing this curriculum will be capable of investigating computer crimes, properly seize and recover computer evidence and aid in the prosecution of cyber criminals.

Course work in this curriculum will include a division of work in the disciplines of criminal justice and computer information systems. Additionally, students will be required to take specific cyber crime classes.

Graduates should qualify to become computer crime investigators for local or state criminal justice agencies. Also these graduates should be competent to serve as computer security specialists or consultants with private businesses.

The Network Management Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on supporting network infrastructure environments. Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians. Graduates may also be qualified to take certification examinations for various network industry certifications, depending on their local program.

The Network Management Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on supporting network infrastructure environments. Graduates may find employment in entry-level jobs as local area network managers, network operators, network analysts, and network technicians. Graduates may also be qualified to take certification examinations for various network industry certifications, depending on their local program.

The Software and Web Development Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on creating software and web based applications. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as designers, administrators, or developers in the areas of software and web applications, websites, web services, and related areas of distributed computing.

The Software and Web Development Track of the Information Technology Curriculum focuses on creating software and web based applications. Graduates should qualify for career opportunities as designers, administrators, or developers in the areas of software and web applications, websites, web services, and related areas of distributed computing.

The Culinary Technology curriculum provides specific training required to prepare students to assume positions as trained culinary professionals in a variety of food service settings including full service restaurants, hotels, resorts, clubs, catering operations, contract food service and health care facilities.

Course offerings emphasize practical application, a strong theoretical knowledge base, and professionalism and provides the critical competencies to successfully meet industry demands. Courses also include sanitation, food/beverage service and control, baking, basic garde manger skills, American/international cuisines, food production and hospitality supervision.

Graduates should qualify for entry-level positions such as line cook, station chef, and assistant pastry chef. American Culinary Federation certification is available to graduates. With experience, graduates may advance to positions such as sous chef, executive chef or food service manager.

The Culinary Technology curriculum provides specific training required to prepare students to assume positions as trained culinary professionals in a variety of food service settings including full service restaurants, hotels, resorts, clubs, catering operations, contract food service and health care facilities.

Course offerings emphasize practical application, a strong theoretical knowledge base, and professionalism and provides the critical competencies to successfully meet industry demands. Courses also include sanitation, food/beverage service and control, baking, basic garde manger skills, American/international cuisines, food production and hospitality supervision.

Graduates should qualify for entry-level positions such as line cook, station chef, and assistant pastry chef. American Culinary Federation certification is available to graduates. With experience, graduates may advance to positions such as sous chef, executive chef or food service manager.

The Health Information Technology curriculum provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to process, analyze, abstract, compile, maintain, manage, and report health information.

Students will supervise departmental functions; classify, code, and index diagnoses and procedures; coordinate information for cost control, quality management, statistics, marketing, and planning; monitor governmental and non-governmental standards; facilitate research; and design system controls to monitor patient information security.

Graduates of this program may be eligible to write the national certification examination to become a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT). Employment opportunities include hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, nursing homes, health insurance organizations, outpatient clinics, physicians’ offices, hospice, and mental health facilities.

The Healthcare Informatics Certificate will provide individuals with the knowledge and skills to assess the environment of clinical practice, make recommendations for adoption of related technology, and lead the implementation of IT projects related to the collection, storage, and management of patient data within electronic health record systems.

Course work includes data collection, data sets and reporting for compliance, workflow analysis, the system development lifecycle with emphasis on impact within the clinical setting, vendor selection process, training of end users, and skills/tools used to manage IT projects.

Upon completion, the student will be able to explain data needs, capture methodology and retention of patient clinical data, perform an environmental assessment of data needs, prioritize clinical needs to determine vendor product selection, develop a plan for end user education/training, and create supporting end user training documentation. Opportunities would exist within large healthcare organizations, physician practices, clinics and vendor sales.

The Medical Coding Certificate prepares students to classify and code procedures and diagnoses. Graduates of this program will be able to work primarily in ambulatory care settings such as physician offices, clinics and surgery centers.

The Medical Office Administration curriculum prepares individuals for employment as medical administrative personnel in the areas of medical office, medical billing and coding, dental office, patient services, and medical documents.

Course work includes medical terminology, computer applications, medical office management, medical coding, medical insurance and billing, medical legal and ethical issues, oral and written communication, and other topics depending on the subject area selected within this curriculum.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities in a variety of medical office positions in medical and dental offices, hospitals, insurance companies, laboratories, medical supply companies, and other healthcare related organizations. Upon graduation, students may be eligible to sit for industry recognized certification exams. Students can complete the courses required for this degree as online courses.

The Medical Office Administration curriculum prepares individuals for employment as medical administrative personnel in the areas of medical office, medical billing and coding, dental office, patient services, and medical documents.

Course work includes medical terminology, computer applications, medical office management, medical coding, medical insurance and billing, medical legal and ethical issues, oral and written communication, and other topics depending on the subject area selected within this curriculum.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities in a variety of medical office positions in medical and dental offices, hospitals, insurance companies, laboratories, medical supply companies, and other healthcare related organizations. Upon graduation, students may be eligible to sit for industry recognized certification exams. Students can complete the courses required for this degree as online courses.

The Medical Office Administration curriculum prepares individuals for employment as medical administrative personnel in the areas of medical office, medical billing and coding, dental office, patient services, and medical documents.

Course work includes medical terminology, computer applications, medical office management, medical coding, medical insurance and billing, medical legal and ethical issues, oral and written communication, and other topics depending on the subject area selected within this curriculum.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities in a variety of medical office positions in medical and dental offices, hospitals, insurance companies, laboratories, medical supply companies, and other healthcare related organizations. Upon graduation, students may be eligible to sit for industry recognized certification exams. Students can complete the courses required for this degree as online courses.

The Medical Assisting Basic Certificate curriculum prepares skilled health care professionals, qualified to perform administrative procedures.

Course work includes instruction in scheduling appointments, telephone and written communication, processing insurance accounts, billing, collections, computer operations, medical records, and ethical / legal issues associated with patient care.

Employment opportunities include physician’s offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

The Medical Assisting curriculum prepares multi-skilled health care professionals qualified to perform administrative, clinical, and laboratory procedures.

Course work includes instruction in scheduling appointments, coding and processing insurance accounts, billing, collections, medical transcription, computer operations; assisting with examinations/treatments, performing routine laboratory procedures, electrocardiography, supervised medication administration; and ethical/legal issues associated with patient care.

Graduates of CAAHEP-accredited medical assisting programs may be eligible to sit for the American Association of Medical Assistants’ Certification Examination to become Certified Medical Assistants. Employment opportunities include physicians’ offices, health maintenance organizations, health departments, and hospitals.

The Medical Laboratory Technology curriculum prepares individuals to perform clinical laboratory procedures in chemistry, hematology, microbiology, and immunohematology that may be used in the maintenance of health and diagnosis/treatment of disease.

Course work emphasizes mathematical and scientific concepts related to specimen collection, laboratory testing and procedures, quality assurance and reporting/recording and interpreting findings involving tissues, blood, and body fluids.

Graduates are eligible to take the examination given by the Board of Certification of the American Society of Clinical Pathology. Employment opportunities include laboratories in hospitals, physician offices, industry, and research facilities.

The Medical Sonography curriculum provides knowledge and clinical skills in the application of high frequency sound waves to image internal body structures.

Course work includes physics, cross-sectional anatomy, abdominal, introductory vascular, and obstetrical/gynecological sonography. Competencies are attained in identification of normal anatomy and pathological processes, use of equipment, fetal growth and development, integration of related imaging, and patient interaction skills.

Graduates of accredited programs may be eligible to take examinations in ultrasound physics and instrumentation and specialty examinations administered by the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers and find employment in clinics, physicians’ offices, mobile services, hospitals, and educational institutions.

The Nurse Aide Curriculum prepares individuals to work under the supervision of licensed health care professionals in performing nursing care and services for persons of all ages.

Topics include growth and development, personal care, vital signs, communication, nutrition, medical asepsis, therapeutic activities, accident and fire safety, household environment and equipment management, family resources and services, and employment skills.

Upon completion, the student may be eligible for listing as a Nurse Aide I and other selected Nurse Aide registries as determined by the local program of study.

The Occupational Therapy Assistant curriculum prepares individuals to work under the supervision of a registered/licensed occupational therapist in screening, assessing, planning, and implementing treatment and documenting progress for clients receiving occupational therapy services.

Course work includes human growth and development, conditions which interfere with activities of daily living, theory and process of occupational therapy individual/group treatment activities, therapeutic use of self, activity analysis, and grading/adapting activities and environments.

Graduates may be eligible to take the national certification examination for practice as a certified occupational therapy assistant. Employment opportunities include hospitals, rehabilitation facilities, long-term/extended care facilities, sheltered workshops, schools, home health programs and community programs.

Southwestern’s practical nursing program and associate degree nursing program are both approved by the Iowa Board of Nursing, River Point Business Park, 400 S.W. 8th St., Suite B, Des Moines, IA 50309-4685. In addition to state accreditation, Southwestern is also investigating national accreditation. Graduates of SWCC's PN and ADN (RN) programs are eligible to take the National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) exam at the end of the one-year (PN) or two-year (RN) programs. Our pass rates on the licensure exams during the past four years have averaged 93 percent for LPN and 90 percent for RNs. Further information on the pass rates on the national licensure exams (NCLEX-PN and NCLEX-RN) are available on the Iowa Board of Nursing website.

The Radiography curriculum prepares the graduate to be a radiographer, a skilled health care professional who uses radiation to produce images of the human body.

Course work includes clinical rotations to area health care facilities, radiographic exposure, image processing, radiographic procedures, physics, pathology, patient care and management, radiation protection, quality assurance, anatomy and physiology, and radiobiology.

Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to apply to take the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists’ national examination for certification and registration as medical radiographers. Graduates may be employed in hospitals, clinics, physicians’ offices, medical laboratories, government agencies, and industry.

The Respiratory Therapy curriculum prepares individuals to function as respiratory therapists. In these roles, individuals perform diagnostic testing, treatments and management of patients with heart and lung diseases.

Students will master skills in patient assessment and treatment of cardiopulmonary diseases. These skills include life support, monitoring, drug administration, and treatment of patients of all ages in a variety of settings.

Graduates of accredited programs are eligible to take entry-level examinations from the National Board of Respiratory Care. Graduates may also take the Advanced Practitioner examination, which is required to become a Registered Respiratory Therapist. Graduates may be employed in hospitals, clinics, doctor’s offices, nursing homes, education, industry and home care.

"Maintenance technicians complete diverse tasks such as welding, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatics, and blueprint reading. They need to be able to maintain and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems and machinery.

During the industrial technology program, you will learn to troubleshoot and repair industrial equipment ranging from basic mechanical equipment and electrical motor controls to complex systems used in manufacturing environments. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in manufacturing and production facilities. "

Maintenance technicians complete diverse tasks such as welding, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatics, and blueprint reading. They need to be able to maintain and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems and machinery.

During the industrial technology program, you will learn to troubleshoot and repair industrial equipment ranging from basic mechanical equipment and electrical motor controls to complex systems used in manufacturing environments. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in manufacturing and production facilities.

Maintenance technicians complete diverse tasks such as welding, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatics, and blueprint reading. They need to be able to maintain and troubleshoot electrical and mechanical systems and machinery.

During the industrial technology program, you will learn to troubleshoot and repair industrial equipment ranging from basic mechanical equipment and electrical motor controls to complex systems used in manufacturing environments. Graduates of this program will be prepared for careers in manufacturing and production facilities.