Technical Diploma | Western Technical College

Technical Diploma

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Special Education Teacher Assistant

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Make a difference in the lives of students with diverse learning needs. This technical diploma is designed for current or aspiring paraprofessionals who want to build specialized skills to support students with disabilities in PreK-12 school settings. Courses focus on behavior management, inclusive practices, and assisting students with special learning and healthcare needs. All courses apply directly to the Foundations of Teacher Education associate degree, making this a great option to start or advance your career in education. Whether you're working in the classroom or looking to enter the field, this flexible pathway helps you take the next step.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Special Education Teacher Assistant

Degree Type: 

Location: 

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Program Credits: 

12.00

Total Cost: 

$1 969.80

Pathway: 

Special Education Teacher Assistant

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

SETA

First Term: 

EDU: Behavior Management
EDU: Overview of Spec Ed

Second Term: 

EDU: Soc Emot Learning & Mental Hlth
EDU: Supporting Stu w/Disab

Program Number: 

305222

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Spring

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

IT-Web Programmer

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Start your career in IT by learning how to code. The Web Programmer technical diploma is a one-year program that teaches you the fundamentals of programming and software development, with an emphasis on designing and building websites and web applications. No prior coding experience is required - you'll learn everything from the ground up. Throughout the program, you will study HTML, CSS, JavaScript, C#, database design, DevOps, cloud computing fundamentals, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) skills.

You'll gain hands-on experience and build a portfolio of projects that showcases your knowledge of both front-end and back-end web development.

The program prepares you to enter the job market as an entry-level web developer, or it can serve as a pathway to further your education in IT. All of the classes in the program can be applied to the two-year Web & Software Developer associate degree. If you're interested in becoming a full-stack web developer or software/AI engineer, this program is a great way to get started on that path.

Career Cluster: 

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IT-Web Programmer image

Degree Type: 

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Career Opportunities: 

Application Developer
QA/Application Tester
Computer Programmer/Analyst
Software Engineer
Software Developer
Frontend Developer
Backend Developer
Full-stack Developer
AI Engineer

Program Credits: 

38.00

Total Cost: 

$6 237.70

Pathway: 

IT-Web Programmer

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

ITWP

First Term: 

Computer Apps for Business
Cisco 1: Networking Fund
Introduction to Cybersecurity
Web Programming 1
IT Exploration
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Web Programming 2
IT Dev Ops
Software Design 1
Database Foundations with SQL

Third Term: 

Web Programming 3
Web Programming 4
Software Design 2
Quantitative Reasoning

Program Number: 

311526

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

New Program: 

Yes

Typical Start: 

Fall

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

This program will be available starting fall 2026.

Get the skills you need to start making a difference in healthcare-fast. In just four credits, Western's Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor program equips you with hands-on training to collect and process patient samples, operate modern lab equipment, and support critical diagnostic testing. This short-term credential is also part of the Medical Lab Technician associate degree pathway, giving you the flexibility to continue your education and expand your career options. With strong job growth and competitive wages, this program offers a rewarding entry point into the healthcare field.

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Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor image

Degree Type: 

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Career Opportunities: 

Phlebotomist
Lab Assistant
Specimen Processor
Lab Support Staff

Program Credits: 

4.00

Total Cost: 

$656.60

Pathway: 

Phlebotomist/Specimen Processor

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Transcript: 

High School or GED/HSED Transcript

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

PHSP

First Term: 

Basic Lab Skills
Phlebotomy
Strengths Seminar

Program Number: 

305132

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

New Program: 

Yes

Typical Start: 

Fall, Spring

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

Early Childhood Professional

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

The Early Childhood Professional technical diploma provides the knowledge and experience necessary to truly make a difference in the lives of children. Hands-on fieldwork and related academic work will prepare you to work with children from birth through five years of age in a child care center setting.

Start your child care teaching career with this credential, or continue your education with Western's Early Childhood Education associate degree.

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Early Childhood Professional Image

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Career Opportunities: 

Day Care Aide
Nanny
Preschool Aide
Child Care Assistant

Program Credits: 

27.00

Total Cost: 

$4 432.05

Pathway: 

Early Childhood Professional

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

ECPF

First Term: 

ECE: Foundations of ECE
ECE: Professional Preparation
ECE: Field Experience 1
ECE: Hlth Safety & Nutrition
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

ECE: Early Language & Literacy
ECE: Soc S, Art, & Music
ECE: Infant & Toddler Dev
ECE: Field Experience 2
ECE: Child Development

Graduates: 

16

Graduates Responding: 

16

Employed in Related Occupation: 

1

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

0

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

15

Not in Labor Market: 

15

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

0

Program Number: 

313073

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Fall

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

Legal Studies/Paralegal Post Baccalaureate

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

A paralegal or legal assistant is a person qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency, or other entity to perform specifically designated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible. Paralegals are not authorized to practice law. The Post-baccalaureate diploma in paralegal is designed for those who already have earned a bachelor's degree. This program is offered in a blended format that combines face-to-face and online instruction.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Legal Studies/Paralegal Post Baccalaureate Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

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Career Opportunities: 

Paralegal
Legal Administrative Assistant
Court Clerk

Program Credits: 

27.00

Total Cost: 

$4 432.05

Pathway: 

Legal Studies/Paralegal Post Baccalaureate

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

LPPB

First Term: 

Intro to Paralegal & Ethics
Civil Litigation 1
Legal Research
Family Law
Real Estate Law

Second Term: 

Civil Litigation 2
Legal Writing
Administration of Estates
Paralegal Internship/Field St

Program Number: 

311101

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Intro Program Requirements: 

A bachelor's degree in any field is required for admission to this program.

Typical Start: 

Fall

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

Welding Technician

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

Are you ready to spark up a career in welding? In our one-term Welding Technician program, you'll master the core techniques and applications that make welding such an exciting field. Get hands-on experience with SMAW, Wirefeed, Tig, and Oxy-fuel welding. Plus, you'll become a pro at reading blueprints and fabrication-skills that are in high demand in today's industries.

This technical diploma is just the beginning! It's fully embedded within our comprehensive 2-term Welding and Fabrication technical diploma program. So, if you find that you love the heat, sparks, and satisfaction of welding, you can easily take your skills to the next level.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Welding Technician Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Welder
Production Welder
Fabrication Welder
MIG/TIG Welder
Metal Fabricator
Pipe Welder

Program Credits: 

15.00

Total Cost: 

$2 462.25

Pathway: 

Welding Technician

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

WLDT

First Term: 

Intro to Welding
Welding-SMAW 1
Welding Inspection
Wirefeed Welding 1
Welding-TIG 1
Wirefeed Welding 2
Blueprint Reading for Welding
Fabrication Welding 1
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)

Graduates: 

21

Graduates Responding: 

6

Employed in Related Occupation: 

0

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

0

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

6

Not in Labor Market: 

6

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Program Number: 

304571

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Fall

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

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

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

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

Foundations of Leadership

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

This seven-course program gives you the opportunity to develop skills to become an effective leader or manager. Course topics include diversity and change, supervision, team building, time management, coaching, and leadership. Classes include exercises to enhance learning and encourage you to draw from your and others experiences. You can choose to complete this program in one year by taking courses online. Or choose to continue on to the 14-course Leadership and Supervision Professional technical diploma or Leadership Development associate degree.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Foundations of Leadership Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Program Credits: 

18.00

Total Cost: 

$2 954.70

Pathway: 

Foundations of Leadership

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

FLDR

First Term: 

Professional and Leadership Development
Personal Leadership Strategies
Diversity & Change Mgmnt
Supervision
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Team Building
Leadership Development

Program Number: 

301966

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Spring

Building Construction & Cabinetmaking

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Our Building Construction and Cabinetmaking program helps you build on your knowledge and develop your skills to prepare for employment in the fields of construction and cabinet making.

You'll study fundamentals of building design, site development, building layout operations, concrete applications, cabinet design and construction, and materials used in the construction and cabinet making industries. You'll be instructed in safe and proper use of hand tools, portable power tools, and stationary power equipment. In addition, you'll have the opportunity to apply framing, interior finishing, and exterior finishing techniques at actual jobsites, and work on commercial framing and finishing projects in the cabinet shop and framing lab. Related mathematics, blueprint reading, estimating, building science principles, and OSHA 10 are part of the training.

Graduates are ready for a variety of careers, including cabinetmaking, residential and commercial carpentry, general construction, working at building supply stores or lumberyards, and other positions in the construction industry.

Career Cluster: 

Videos: 

Program Image: 

Building Construction & Cabinetmaking Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

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Career Opportunities: 

Carpenter
Cabinet Maker
Construction Crew/Foreman
Woodworker
Furniture Maker

Program Credits: 

37.00

Total Cost: 

$6 073.55

Pathway: 

Building Construction & Cabinetmaking

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

BCCM

First Term: 

Construction Industry Basics
Residential Cabinetmaking
Commercial Cabinetry
Site Layout and Concrete
Applied Math 1 - Wood
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)

Second Term: 

Interior Trim
Residential Blueprint Reading
Framing Techniques
Commercial Blueprint Reading
Commercial Systems

Third Term: 

OSHA for Woods
Estimating Bids & Specs
Residential Construction
Exterior Finishes

Graduates: 

41

Graduates Responding: 

12

Employed in Related Occupation: 

7

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

1

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

3

Not in Labor Market: 

4

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

5

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

41

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$23.84

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$23.00-$25.00

Full Time: Median Annual Salary: 

$44,000

Related Occupations: 

Carpenter

Program Number: 

314102

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Welding & Fabrication

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Skilled welders are in great demand, and the outlook for employment remains good in our region and nationwide as the manufacturing and construction industries continue to grow. If you possess good math skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to quality work, welding could be the career for you.

In Western's program, you will receive comprehensive training that covers both theory and practical aspects in all types of welding, including shielded metal arc, oxy-fuel, gas metal arc, and gas tungsten arc welding. You'll learn about the proper use of tools and equipment, safety, and blueprint reading as you practice welding joints in different positions and on various types of metals.

Heavy construction and manufacturing sectors depend on skilled welders and offer excellent wages to those who are up for the challenge.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Welding & Fabrication Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Welder
Production Welder
Fabrication Welder
Mig/Tig Welder
Metal Fabricator
Pipe Welder
Robotic Welder

Program Credits: 

31.00

Total Cost: 

$5 088.65

Pathway: 

Welding & Fabrication

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

WLDF

First Term: 

Intro to Welding
Welding-SMAW 1
Welding Inspection
Wirefeed Welding 1
Welding-TIG 1
Wirefeed Welding 2
Blueprint Reading for Welding
Fabrication Welding 1
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)

Second Term: 

Robotic Welding Operation
Welding - TIG 3
Welding-SMAW 2
Welding-TIG 2
Wirefeed Welding 3
Basic Study of Metals
Fabrication Welding 2
Fabrication Welding 3
Applied Career Skills

Graduates: 

67

Graduates Responding: 

20

Employed in Related Occupation: 

9

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

1

Seeking Employment: 

1

Continuing Education: 

5

Not in Labor Market: 

9

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

7

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

45

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$21.63

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$18.00-$27.50

Full Time: Median Annual Salary: 

$67,499

Related Occupations: 

Welder, Fabricator, Mechanic

Program Number: 

314421

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Software and Technology: 

This program requires specific software and technology to complete classwork. Click here to see the list of items you will need for your courses.

If you do not have access to the items listed for your program, or if the items you have do not meet the requirements, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Internet access is required to access student accounts from off campus. The Learning Commons can provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu or call 608-785-9198.

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

Digital Marketing Specialist

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Digital marketing is a key strategy for promoting a company's product or service. This technical diploma program provides an introduction to marketing principles and explores methods for developing and maintaining an online presence. As part of your coursework, you will complete the marketing research process for a business. You will explore how to create content for websites and manage digital advertising.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Digital Marketing Specialist Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Digital Marketing Specialist
Marketing Coordinator
Marketing Production Coordinator
Content Marketing Specialist

Program Credits: 

28.00

Total Cost: 

$4 596.20

Pathway: 

Digital Marketing Specialist

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Program Code: 

DIMS

First Term: 

Business Concepts
Computer Apps for Business
Marketing Principles
Digital Design Components
Technical Reporting
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Marketing-Research
Internet Marketing
Digital Advertising
Content Marketing
Math w Business Apps

Program Number: 

311045

Explore Courses Body: 

Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks for more information.

This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern self-service portal for academic planning.

Typical Start: 

Fall

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