Individualized Technical Studies

Degree Type

Associate of Arts and Science

Typical Start Term

Program code

ITS

Program Number

108251

Credits

60.00

Estimated Cost

$10,069

Location

La Crosse

The Individualized Technical Studies (ITS) associate degree is a flexible program intended for students with specific career goals that can’t be met by other degree programs at Western. It is a customized program that allows you to draw from a variety of existing courses in traditional disciplines and programs. You are encouraged to explore credit for prior learning (CPL) based on previous work experience, coursework, and military service training. CPL enables you to accelerate the completion of your educational goals.

Examples of an ITS degree could be:

Childcare Administration: Combining Early Childhood core program classes with Human Services and Business and Management courses
Marketing and Design: Pairing courses from Marketing with Art, A/V Technology, and Communications courses
Criminal Justice Management: Combining Law, Public Safety, and Security courses with Business, Management, and Administration courses
Business Management & Sales: Coupling Business and Management with Administration and Marketing courses
Computer Support Manager: Pairing Information Technology courses with Business or Management with Administration courses

Admissions Requirements

Apply at www.westerntc.edu/how-to-apply
Western’s Admission Coaches are available to help you through the application process. Have questions or need advice? Call 608-785-9200 or email AdmissionsCoach@westerntc.edu.
Western must comply with a Waiting List Policy when academic programs meet capacity. This policy adheres to Wisconsin Administrative Code Chapter TCS10.07.

Additional Requirements

To determine if the ITS program meets your needs, contact Kim Panzer, Credit for Prior Learning Specialist/ITS Program to schedule an appointment to review the ITS self-assessment and begin the process of completing the ITS Program Plan. You can reach Kim by phone at 608-785-9873 or by email at CPL@westerntc.edu.

Software & 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.

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.

Prior Learning

Previous education and work experience could qualify for Credit for Prior Learning, saving you time and money. Find out more about what may apply to this program.

Course Intro Information

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 the 7-week sessions page 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.

General Studies: 21-30 credits

Behavioral Science – 3 credits (select one)
- 809-198 Introduction to Psychology
- 809-199 Psychology of Human Relations
- Other 809 courses may be permitted
Communications – 6 credits (select two)
- 801-195 English Comp 1
- 801-198 Speech
- 801-197 Technical Communication
- Other 801 courses may be permitted
Math/Science – 3 credits (select one)
- 804-107 College Math
- 804-123 Math with Business Applications
- Other 804 or 806 courses may be permitted
Social Science – 3 credits (select one)
- 809-195 Economics
- 809-196 Introduction to Sociology
- 809-122 Introduction to American Government
- Other 809 courses may be permitted
General Studies Electives – 6-15 credits
- Additional courses electives

Individual Technical Studies: 39-40 credits

Core Credits – 20 credits (focused in one discipline)
Additional Credits – 19-20 credits (additional credits earned in other disciplines)

Total Credits: 60-70

Additional Information

A minimum of 20 Core Credits must be focused in one discipline. A discipline is described as an area of interest:
- Advanced Manufacturing
- Agriculture & Natural Resources
- Business & Professional Services
- Design & Construction Technology
- Education & Human Services
- Health Sciences
- Liberal Arts
- Public Safety
- Science, Technology, Engineering, & Math
- Transportation
A minimum of 25% of the total program requirements must be earned at Western Technical College.
Time and completion of the ITS program is dependent on course offering options and your individual schedule.
The program is intended for currently employed individuals who have specific career objectives not met by Western Technical College’s existing degree programs.
The Adult Learning Specialist and an Occupational Advisor are required to assist with the development of the curriculum sequence and guide the student toward their career goals.

Is financial aid available?

Yes

Learning Format

In-Person

Area of Interest

Liberal Arts

Teaser description

The Individualized Technical Studies (ITS) associate degree is a flexible program intended for students with specific career goals that can’t be met by other degree programs at Western.

Programs In this Area of Interest

Other Programs in This Area of Interest

Choose from an Associate of Arts or Associate of Science track, or if you’re looking for something more hands on, consider Individualized Technical Studies. Graduates are prepared to continue their education at a school of their choice.

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