Occupational Studies

Have you completed an apprenticeship and are looking to advance your career? Broaden your opportunities with an associate degree in occupational studies. It is designed specifically for students who have completed an apprenticeship program and received a certificate of completion from the U.S. Department of Labor/Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training. Gain background in business, entrepreneurship, sustainability and more with this degree.

young male sanding in workshop setting

Associate in Applied Science

This Associate of Applied Science is designed specifically for students who have completed an apprenticeship program and received a certificate of completion from the U.S. Department of Labor/Bureau of Apprenticeship and Training. Apprenticeship occupations accepted are carpenter, cement mason, structural draftsman, machine builder, machine repair and maintenance, millwright, wood model maker, mold maker (plaster and die cast), operating engineer, plumber, pipe fitter, tool and die maker. Other apprenticeship programs would need to be reviewed on a case-by-case for consideration by the lead faculty. The curriculum will provide students with a strong academic foundation and introduce them to new ideas in sustainability, business, entrepreneurship and computer systems.

Sample Courses

Enhance computer knowledge. The course covers computer system concepts with an emphasis on several software applications. Typing ability is necessary to be successful in this class.

There will be only one constant throughout your career, and that constant is change. The preferences of consumers are constantly changing, entire industries are rising and falling, and hard-working people often are finding themselves looking for a job. This course provides you with the foundation to design your own job, whether in the context of an existing organization (i.e., as an “intrapreneur”) or as someone who starts a new enterprise (i.e., as an “entrepreneur”). In this course you will learn more about your own strengths and weaknesses, as well as the key characteristics shared by successful entrepreneurs. You’ll also gain skills for matching your strengths with a business idea that fits you well, so that both you and your customers will benefit. Finally, you will begin developing analytical tools to help make sound decisions in a rapidly changing world.

Students will familiarize themselves with the environmental issues facing our community, state, country and planet. This course will provide meaning to the term “sustainability” in order to build skills that will help the leaders of tomorrow protect the Earth’s resources and meet the needs of humanity indefinitely. It is an introduction to both the scientific and social sides of the environmental problems the world faces, with a specific aim at establishing a foundation in environmental comprehension and for further learning within the topic of sustainability.

Associate Degree Details

Earnings

Earnings will vary depending on one’s field. For skilled trades in general, $54,00 is the median annual salary.


Outlook

Skilled trade workers are in demand across the U.S. A sizable professional trades shortage exists in Michigan. Professional trades will account for more than 545,000 jobs in the Michigan economy, and approximately 47,000 new job openings are expected annually in the state during that time.


Associate in Applied Science

Jackson County

If you reside in Jackson county, Michigan.

$10,414

In Michigan

If you reside in the state of Michigan.

$11,311

Out of Michigan

If you reside outside the state of Michigan.

$13,846

Estimated program costs include tuition, fees and digital textbooks based on 2022-2023 tuition rates. Please note that these costs are only estimates and an individualized financial plan will be created when a student meets with their Student Success Navigator.

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