Technical Diploma | Page 4 | Western Technical College

Technical Diploma

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Dental Assistant

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Take on an important role in the healthcare sector by becoming a dental assistant. In this career, you'll do more than traditional chairside assistance; you'll actively engage with patients, guiding them toward optimal oral health practices. Your responsibilities will extend to assisting dentists in various dental procedures, including general dentistry, oral surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, and pediatrics. You may also have opportunities to work in a dental lab, perform x-rays, schedule appointments, and manage office tasks.

Western's comprehensive technical diploma courses are designed to equip you with the skills necessary to excel in private practices, dental groups, or governmental agencies focused on dental services. The program covers essential skills, including four-handed dentistry, dental anatomy, radiography techniques, oral hygiene principles, adherence to OSHA standards, and effective communication.

Upon completion, you'll have the chance to enhance your credentials by pursuing certification through the Dental Assisting National Board examination. This opens doors to a fulfilling and impactful career in dental healthcare.

Career Cluster: 

Videos: 

Program Image: 

Dental Assistant

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Dental Assistant
Dental Office Manager
Chairside Dental Assistant
Dental/Ortho Assistant
Dental Review Coordinator

Program Credits: 

34.00

Total Cost: 

$5 581.10

Additional Information: 

For more information, view the Dental Assistant Program Handbook.

Program Contact

Lisa Mikkelson
Program Chair, Dental Assistant
608-785-9137
MikkelsonL@westerntc.edu

Additional Admission Requirements: 

To enroll in the Dental Assistant program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards and complete a background check. You can find links to these documents below. In addition, you must complete a Job Shadow at a dental office. 

Accreditation: 

The program in Dental Assisting is accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation. The Commission is a specialized accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. The Commission on Dental Accreditation can be contacted at 312-440-4653 or at 211 East Chicago Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611-2678. The Commission’s web address is: http://www.ada.org/en/coda.

CODA Logo

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Transcript: 

High School or GED/HSED Transcript

Application: 

Application

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c58b9767a392d53ab7f58b80d9f9fd50

Program Code: 

DEAT

First Term: 

Dental Health Safety
Dental & General Anatomy
Oral/Interpersonal Comm
Dental & General Anatomy
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)

Second Term: 

Dental Radiography
Dental Materials
Dental Chairside
Dental Assistant Clinical

Third Term: 

Dental Office Management
Dental Assistant Professional
Dental Chairside - Advanced
Dental Laboratory Procedures
Dental Radiography - Advanced
Dental Assistant Clinical - Adv

Graduates: 

30

Graduates Responding: 

17

Employed in Related Occupation: 

13

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

0

Seeking Employment: 

1

Continuing Education: 

2

Not in Labor Market: 

3

Part Time: Responding: 

1

Full Time: Responding: 

5

Part Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

34

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

37

Part Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$18.00

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$20.38

Part Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$18.00

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$18.00-$25.00

Full Time: Median Annual Salary: 

$42,000

Related Occupations: 

Dental Assistant

Program Number: 

315081

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.

Secondary Description: 

You will refine patient care techniques through realistic simulation experiences in our state-of-the-art Simulation and Extended Reality (XR) Labs. Learn more about the Simulation and XR Labs. 

Program-specific courses are held in the Health Science Center, a shared facility located a few blocks from the La Crosse main campus. Check our maps page for specific location information.

Typical Start: 

Summer

Featured Program: 

Yes

Accounting Assistant

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

If you find satisfaction in maintaining records and managing finances, a career in accounting may be the right fit for you. As an accounting assistant, you could handle bookkeeping functions in a small business or focus on specific tasks within a large accounting department. Our program combines hands-on computer training with classroom instruction, providing a strong foundation in accounting concepts and procedures.

Every course in this technical diploma is transferable to Western's Accounting associate degree, offering a seamless pathway for further education. Choose your preferred learning style as classes are available in traditional face-to-face settings, online formats, computer conferencing, or a combination of these formats.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Accounting Assistant Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Accounting Assistant
Bookkeeper
Account Clerk
Payroll Clerk
Teller
Accounting Aide
Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk

Program Credits: 

28.00

Total Cost: 

$4 596.20

Pathway: 

Accounting Assistant

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

cd5f0250e941e08c204b9fe58c191194

Program Code: 

ACAS

First Term: 

Principles of Accounting 1
Principles of Accounting 2
Business Concepts
Computer Apps for Business
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Payroll Accounting
Principles of Accounting 3
Accounting Spreadsheets
Technical Reporting

Third Term: 

Math w Business Apps

Graduates: 

15

Graduates Responding: 

7

Employed in Related Occupation: 

0

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

1

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

6

Not in Labor Market: 

6

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

0

Program Number: 

311011

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

Emergency Medical Technician - Advanced

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

If you are already certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), this course provides additional training that allows you to provide even more lifesaving care. Advanced patient assessment, communication, and beginning advanced life support interventions are among the topics covered.

Career Cluster: 

Videos: 

Program Image: 

Emergency Medical Technician - Advanced Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

EMT-Basic
EMT - Advanced
Emergency Medical Technician
EMT - Ambulance Service
Telecommunicator 911 Dispatch

Program Credits: 

4.00

Total Cost: 

$656.60

Pathway: 

Emergency Medical Technician - Advanced

Additional Admission Requirements: 

To enroll in the Advanced EMT Certificate program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards, complete a background check, provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test), read and return a signed copy of the supplemental information document, and complete American Heart Association BLS Healthcare Provider CPR certification. You can find links to these document below. In addition, you must hold a Wisconsin EMT-Basic License. Please see the details below.

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

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Program Code: 

EMIV

First Term: 

Advanced EMT

Graduates: 

24

Graduates Responding: 

6

Employed in Related Occupation: 

0

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

1

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

5

Not in Labor Market: 

5

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

0

Program Number: 

305316

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.

Secondary Description: 

To view the Emergency Medical Technician - Advanced program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here.

Typical Start: 

Fall, Spring, Summer

Emergency Medical Technician - Basic

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

As an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), you're on the front lines providing lifesaving care to people in need. You'll learn how to assess a patient's illness or injury, render aid, and use proper procedures and precautions when treating a patient. This 180-hour course covers all the situations you are likely to encounter as an EMT, including emergency childbirth, airway obstruction, bleeding, fractures, shock, heart attack and stroke, and other medical emergencies, as well how to stabilize and safely transport the patient to a medical facility.

Although most EMTs work for ambulance services, fire departments and hospitals also employ them.

Students are required to take a practical and written exam to become nationally registered, and then apply for a license to work as EMTs in Wisconsin. Continue your education to earn a technical diploma or associate degree for further job opportunities and earning potential.

Career Cluster: 

Videos: 

Program Image: 

Emergency Medical Technician - Basic Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

EMT-Basic
Emergency Medical Technician

Program Credits: 

5.00

Total Cost: 

$820.75

Pathway: 

Emergency Medical Technician - Basic

Additional Information: 

Our Health and Public Safety programs are required to report additional information to prospective students, including certification exams, licensure, program completion rates, etc. You can find this information in the documents below:

Additional Admission Requirements: 

To enroll in the Emergency Medical Technician – Basic program, first apply for admission to the College, then electronically sign the program's Technical Standards, complete a background check, provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test*), and read and return a signed copy of the supplemental information document. You can find links to these document below.

* Tuberculosis (TB) Test - One of the following is required:

  • Two step TB skin test (1-3 weeks apart) OR
  • Two consecutive annual tests (no more than 12 months between tests) OR
  • QuantiFERON Gold blood test (lab report required) OR
  • If positive results provide a lab report or physician verification of a clear chest x-ray.

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

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Program Code: 

EMTB

First Term: 

EMT Basic

Graduates: 

228

Graduates Responding: 

79

Employed in Related Occupation: 

11

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

3

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

62

Not in Labor Market: 

65

Part Time: Responding: 

1

Full Time: Responding: 

2

Part Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

24

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

45

Part Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$14.00

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$19.25

Part Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$14.00

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$17.50-$21.00

Related Occupations: 

EMT, Patient Care Assistant, Operator

Program Number: 

305313

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.

Secondary Description: 

The Emergency Medical Technician course is offered in a variety of ways. Learn more about your options.

To view the Emergency Medical Technician - Basic program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here.

Typical Start: 

Fall, Spring, Summer

Automotive Service Technician - Level 2

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

The knowledge and skills gained from this program will prepare you for a position as an automotive technician with responsibilities that are above entry-level. Coursework includes steering and suspensions, brake systems, and overall engine performance.

Emphasis is placed on hands-on experiences and includes the use of diagnostic equipment and emission control devices, computerized engine control systems, input sensors, output devices, and exhaust systems.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Automotive Service Technician - Level 2 Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Automotive Technician
Automotive Mechanic
Quick Lube Technician
Parts Specialist

Program Credits: 

23.00

Total Cost: 

$3 775.45

Pathway: 

Automotive Service Technician - Level 2

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

4daed03b206ea684c8fba087591f5def

Program Code: 

AUST

First Term: 

Applied Communication for Transportation
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)
Applied Career Skills
Intro to Auto Technology
Basic Electrical Systems
Basic Maintenance

Second Term: 

Applied Math 1 - Transportation
Applied Math 2-Transportation
Steering and Suspensions
Automotive Brake Systems
Engine Performance 1

Graduates: 

52

Graduates Responding: 

44

Employed in Related Occupation: 

1

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

1

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

40

Not in Labor Market: 

42

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

0

Program Number: 

304042

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.

Secondary Description: 

Classes are held at Western's state-of-the-art Automotive Center, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2721 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician - Level 1

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

You can be ready for an entry-level position at a repair shop, dealership, or service station after earning this technical diploma. It covers eight areas of automotive maintenance with an emphasis on learning by doing. The program provides training in diagnosis, maintenance, and repair of heating and cooling systems, shop safety, wheel balancing, vehicle safety, and shop management. You will also learn techniques to develop good study habits and improve personal effectiveness.

Build upon these foundational skills by continuing with Western's Automotive Service Technician - Level 2 technical diploma.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician - Level 1 Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Automotive Technician
Automotive Mechanic
Quick Lube Technician
Parts Specialist

Program Credits: 

12.00

Total Cost: 

$1 969.80

Pathway: 

Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician - Level 1

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

0f63f04eac8aaabd2cf12cfcff649017

Program Code: 

AMLR

First Term: 

Applied Communication for Transportation
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)
Applied Career Skills
Intro to Auto Technology
Basic Electrical Systems
Basic Maintenance

Program Number: 

304041

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.

Secondary Description: 

Classes are held at Western's state-of-the-art Automotive Center, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2721 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Typical Start: 

Fall

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