Business Specialist

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Technical Diploma

Program Number:

311024

Credits:

30.00

Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start:

Fall, Spring

Gain a strong foundational understanding of business management as well as enhanced skills in leadership, business communications, critical thinking, and problem solving with Western's Business Specialist technical diploma. This program emphasizes fundamental business knowledge through exposure to broad areas such as human resources, finance, leadership strategies, process control, computer applications, and basic business law.

You'll come away with relevant skills and abilities to achieve your professional and personal goals. This technical diploma program is a pathway to the Business Management associate degree for those who are interested in further advancement. Courses are offered entirely online or in a blended format that combines in-person and online learning to meet your preferred learning needs.

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Estimated Program Costs

Graduation Employment Stats

	Part Time	Full Time
Responding	1	5
Average Hours Per Week	12	41
Average Hourly Wage		$18.68
Hourly Wage Range		$17.00-$20.00
Average Annual Salary	$42,000	$68,500

Career Opportunities

Administrative Officer/Specialist

Business Manager

Business Administrator

Program Outcomes

Implement operational plans across functional areas
Direct processes related to making products or providing services
Direct individuals to meet organizational goals
Coordinate activities to meet organizational goals

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application

$30 Application Fee

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools.
Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page.
The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

Need Assistance?

Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Career Pathways

This program is part of a career pathway, a laddered approach to career education. It allows you to earn employer-recognized credentials that lead to job and career advancement.