Mid-State Technical College Programs: A Comprehensive Overview

Mid-State Technical College (MTC) offers a wide array of programs designed to meet the diverse needs of students and employers in Wisconsin and beyond. With a focus on hands-on training and real-world skills, MTC equips individuals with the knowledge and expertise necessary to succeed in today's competitive job market. This article will explore the various programs available at Mid-State, highlighting their key features and potential career paths.

Addressing Wisconsin's Skilled Labor Shortage

Wisconsin employers face a significant challenge in finding, attracting, and retaining qualified employees, particularly in skilled labor occupations. These positions often require specialized training, making it difficult to fill in-demand jobs. Apprenticeships offer a viable solution, allowing employers to cultivate their own highly skilled workforce. Mid-State Technical College plays a crucial role in supporting apprenticeships and providing the necessary training to address this skills gap. According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development Bureau of Apprenticeship Standards (Wisconsin DWD-BAS), over 3,000 employers are currently involved in Wisconsin apprenticeship programs.

General Education: Building a Foundation for Success

Mid-State Technical College offers a comprehensive range of general education courses, which are a required component of nearly every hands-on degree program. These courses provide students with a solid foundation in essential skills and knowledge, preparing them for both their chosen careers and further academic pursuits.

Transfer Opportunities and Cost-Effectiveness

Students planning to transfer to a four-year institution will find significant value in Mid-State's general education offerings. The cost per credit is considerably lower than that of four-year public universities, making it a financially attractive option for students seeking to complete their general education requirements before transferring. A wide variety of individual courses are transferable, providing flexibility and convenience for students.

Developing Essential Skills for the Modern Workplace

In today's complex, diverse, and globally connected world, employers increasingly value the skills developed through a general studies curriculum. General education courses enhance awareness of the community and teach students to apply critical-thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to address real-world challenges effectively. These courses cultivate knowledge and skills in communication, math, science, and social science.

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Flexible Learning Options

Mid-State understands that the learning experience should align with individual needs and lifestyles. To accommodate diverse schedules and preferences, the college offers small in-person classes, online classes, and innovative technology-based learning options. Whether you're interested in taking a class or two, enrolling in a University Transfer program, or simply seeking advice, Mid-State's General Education program provides a curriculum that fosters critical thinking and prepares students for success.

Business and Information Technology Programs

Mid-State Technical College offers a wide range of programs in business and information technology, designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in these dynamic fields.

Accounting

The Accounting program at Mid-State prepares students for Intuit QuickBooks certification as well as the National Bookkeeper Association’s Bookkeeper and QuickBooks certifications.

Architectural Design

The Architectural Design program is tailored for students intending to transfer to a Bachelor of Architecture Program at another institution. Students learn the fundamentals of computer-aided design, drafting, and project management. An academic certificate specializes students in architectural design methodology. Graduates of the five-semester program can become architectural technicians, estimators, or building codes specialists, converting preliminary designs of architects and engineers into working drawings and specifications. They also learn how to "design to code," mastering the fundamentals of computer-aided design and building systems, as well as local and national building codes.

Automotive Technician

Whether you’re planning to enter the field as an automotive technician or would like to advance your career with certifications in specialty areas, MTC has the path that’s right for you.

Business Administration

An associate degree in Business Administration provides a wide range of skills applicable to various fields, including insurance, construction management, and state agencies. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as assistant manager, business systems analyst, payroll coordinator, and procurement lead. A concentration in sales and retail management equips students with specialized skills for success in the retail industry, leading to roles like sales manager, retail supervisor, and customer service coordinator. The Business program is geared towards transfer students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in business, allowing them to complete many core course requirements before transferring.

Medical Office Administration

The Medical Office Administration (MOA) program equips students with the skills and experience to excel in top-level information processing/administrative positions within the healthcare industry.

Lean Six Sigma

Students can learn how to lead Lean Six Sigma teams through an intensive course focusing on the Lean Six Sigma DMAIC methodology of eliminating waste and implementing data-driven process improvements. They can also learn the additional tools and methods used by Six Sigma Black Belts to successfully tackle large, complex projects.

Project Management

Project managers are trained to direct the daily operations of a project, analyze work flow, and establish priorities to meet set deadlines.

Career Development Facilitator

Students can train to become career development facilitators, assisting others in planning careers and obtaining meaningful work.

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Civil Engineering Technology

Civil engineering technologists play a major role in the design and construction of essential infrastructure such as airports, bridges, highways, pipelines, and water and sewage systems. Upon completing the five-semester program, graduates can pursue careers as survey technicians, civil engineering technologists or technicians, construction superintendents, or engineering design assistants. An academic certificate in structural analysis and management prepares individuals to assist design engineers or construction managers.

Health Sciences Programs

Mid-State Technical College offers a comprehensive range of health sciences programs, preparing students for rewarding careers in the healthcare industry.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy jobs are usually divided into two categories: location/setting and type of massage administered. Spa type jobs are typically found in resorts, salons, vacation destinations, day spas, and hotels.

Personal Trainer

Students can get certified as a personal trainer and work with clients one-on-one in gyms, spas, medical facilities, or become self-employed.

Physical Therapist Assistant

Physical Therapist Assistants (PTAs) carry out treatment programs under the direct supervision of physical therapists, including therapeutic exercises and procedures that help patients regain function.

Patient Care Technician

With training as a Patient Care Technician, also known as a patient aide, students will be qualified to work in a variety of health care settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health care agencies, and doctors’ offices.

Phlebotomy

Phlebotomists draw blood from patients for lab tests and procedures. Students will learn to follow universal precautions, tie tourniquets, identify veins, and demonstrate knowledge and use of equipment necessary for drawing blood.

CPR and First Aid

Every day, people administer CPR and First Aid. By learning how to administer CPR and First Aid, you could save a life until emergency medical services arrive on scene.

Dental Programs

Students can become a dental team member in restorative and specialty dental practices by completing this academic diploma program, or start a career in a dental office providing preventive oral care.

Protective and Human Services Programs

Mid-State Technical College is dedicated to preparing students for careers in protective and human services, which are vital to community well-being.

Criminal Justice

Criminal justice professionals work in various fields, including law enforcement, corrections, the court system, private security, and juvenile justice. State constables are commissioned by the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) and support S.C. law enforcement in times of emergency and/or crisis. Homeland Security Management encompasses the various agencies, professionals, and mechanisms that protect people, property and national infrastructure from both man-made and natural crises. Candidates who complete the PPAT certificate will be eligible to take the cumulative exam administered by the SC Criminal Justice Academy (SCCJA) in order to receive credit for the first four-week block of instruction required as part of the Basic Law Enforcement Certificate in South Carolina.

Early Childhood Education

Early childhood educators promote optimal development for all children, regardless of background or ability.

Human Services

Human services professionals assist others in managing their behavior in order to achieve their full potential in educational, social, therapeutic, and vocational settings.

American Sign Language

American Sign Language (ASL) communicators and interpreters help communicate with individuals who use ASL.

Behavioral Interventionist

The Behavioral Interventionist program supports individuals facing substance abuse and mental health challenges.

Industrial and Technical Programs

Mid-State Technical College has a strong focus on industrial and technical programs, which are designed to meet the needs of local industries and provide students with the skills necessary for success in these fields.

Truck Driving

This course will prepare students to sit for the CDL-A (Commercial Driver’s License) exam and go to work as a truck driver. Heavy and tractor-trailer truck drivers transport goods from one location to another. Most tractor-trailer drivers are long-haul drivers and operate trucks with a total weight exceeding 26,000 pounds for the vehicle, passengers, and cargo.

Graphic Production

At the completion of this program, students will have the skills to begin a career in a number of different graphic-production industries including screen printing, offset lithographic production, and vehicle wrapping.

Construction

This program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities for the construction industry in South Carolina including homebuilders, superintendents, job site personnel, building inspectors, and contractors. Training is based on a set of detailed skills standards from the nation's leaders in the construction industry. Students are encouraged to become a professional in the construction industry. Students learn to build with a "zero-defect" construction philosophy. This means that a commitment to flawless workmanship and unparalleled quality is the heart of all training activities. The Carpentry-Qualified Framer certificate is designed to train the next generation of skilled workers needed in the construction industry by enabling the student to learn a specialized carpentry sub-craft. This certificate can provide multiple avenues to enter the construction industry without a degree in building construction technology.

Electrical Wiring

The Basic Electrical Wiring Certificate provides fundamental knowledge of electrical wiring and AC and DC circuits. Students become familiar with electrical codes, ordinances, print reading, and electricity fundamentals. Graduates of this program are ready for positions with local electrical contractors, industrial plants, hospitals, power companies, government agencies, and other related businesses.

Electronics Engineering Technology

This degree is designed for students who wish to enter the workforce as electronics engineering technicians.

Emergency Medical Services

Students can start a rewarding career as an Emergency Medical Technician with just six months of training. EMTs, also known as First Responders, work in a variety of settings, including county emergency services departments, private ambulance and transport companies, and hospitals. Advance Emergency Medical Technicians (AEMTs) provide crucial pre-hospital emergency medical care, often bridging the gap between emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics. They possess advanced training in trauma assessment, airway management, and intravenous therapy, playing a vital role in stabilizing patients in high-pressure situations. Paramedics have more advanced training than EMTs and can give shots as well as use more advanced airway management devices to support breathing.

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR)

Heating and air conditioning systems control the temperature, humidity, and overall air quality in homes, businesses, and other buildings. When installing or repairing air conditioning and refrigeration systems, technicians must follow government regulations regarding the conservation, recovery, and recycling of refrigerants. Technicians from this program are prepared for careers in residential and commercial air conditioning, refrigeration, and heating equipment installation and maintenance.

Forklift Operator

In just one day, students will be trained to operate a forklift and receive a three-year certificate in forklift safety, preventative maintenance, and driving/operation skills. As a trained forklift operator, graduates can start earning up to $15 an hour. This course will also prepare you to work as a material handler or warehouse operator at any number of manufacturing, supply, or logistic companies. Safety requirements prohibit open-toe, cloth, and high heeled shoes.

General Studies and Transfer Programs

Mid-State Technical College offers programs in general studies and university transfer, providing students with a solid academic foundation and pathways to further education.

English

English students gain the analytical reading, communication, and research skills needed to pursue a four-year degree in majors such as Literature, Linguistics, Journalism, Secondary Education, Pre-Law, or Library Science.

Geography

Geographers learn how to think globally, interpret and create maps, work with quantitative and qualitative data, and decipher natural and human landscapes.

History

Studying the past can give students the research, communication, and analytical skills needed for careers as high school social studies teachers, lawyers, government employees, researchers, or editors.

Information Technology Programs

Mid-State Technical College offers a range of IT programs that provide students with skills to excel in the tech industry.

Data Analytics

Students learn to become data analysts, collecting, preparing, and interpreting data, then visualizing new insights. They use current analysis languages, models, machine learning and visualization tools, to stretch the intelligence of analysis.

Software Development

This associate degree program is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to work as computer software developers, selecting from a variety of different tools and platforms. The Application Programming Certificate provides the foundation for an entry-level programmer to gain access to the information processing field. Students will be able to code in two high-level languages found in the business environment.

Cloud Networking Solutions

Cloud Networking Solutions refer to the set of technologies, services, and infrastructure that enable the efficient and secure transfer of data between various components within a cloud computing environment.

Computer Technician

Computer technicians provide technical assistance to computer users and resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone, or electronically.

Cybersecurity Analyst

A cybersecurity analyst (also called information security analyst) is a professional trained to detect and prevent attacks to their organization systems or network. They closely monitor threats and their organization’s networks for any breaches in security.

Database Analyst

A database analyst installs computer databases, adds users, tests systems, and ensures a database performs as it should. They work with database software to find ways to store, organize, and manage data by identifying user needs and testing databases.

Network Systems Management

Networking is the common factor in distributed processing, online systems, teleprocessing, terminal-based systems, and real-time systems. The Network Systems Management curriculum is designed to prepare students to successfully pass several major industry certification exams while completing the degree.

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