Programs | Page 11 | Western Technical College

Programs

Programs

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Programs

Desktop Publishing

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

Expand your skill set and tap into your creativity by learning how to use desktop publishing software. Create professional-looking newsletters, brochures, booklets, fliers, illustrations, and more for internal and external customers.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Desktop Publishing Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Desktop Publisher
Flexographic Press Operator
Offset Press Helper
Prepress Technician
Estimator
Customer Service Representative

Program Credits: 

12.00

Total Cost: 

$1 969.80

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

ed67ff909e970851bae4763f4d9205e4

Program Code: 

EDPC

First Term: 

Publication Design 1
Adobe Illustrator

Second Term: 

Publication Design 2
Adobe Photoshop

Program Number: 

90204A

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

Computerized Accounting

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

A background in accounting is highly valued by employers. You can enhance your skill set with a certificate in Computerized Accounting. Included is a basic overview of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and training in accounting software, Microsoft® Word®, and Excel® programs. This certificate allows you to learn skills in your current employment or apply the credits toward the Accounting Assistant technical diploma or Accounting associate degree program for more earning potential. Classes are offered in a traditional setting, online, and via Interactive Television for some locations.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Computerized Accounting Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Office/Account Clerk
Accounting Assistant
Bookkeeper
Data Review Clerk

Program Credits: 

15.00

Total Cost: 

$2 462.25

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

08521df7e1bd02433541535c3c07f77e

Program Code: 

CACC

First Term: 

Principles of Accounting 1
Computer Applications for Business

Second Term: 

Computerized Accting Syst
Payroll Accounting
Accounting Spreadsheets

Program Number: 

90101A

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

Customer Service Representative

Financial Aid Available: 

Not Financial Aid Eligible

When you have solid customer service skills, your value to prospective employers increases. Our Customer Service Representative pathway certificate is a great starting point if you're planning a career that puts you in front of the public.

Earned in just one term, this certificate tells prospective employers that you know how to work with people, have good computer skills, and understand the sales process.

The pathway represents a laddered approach to career preparation. Graduates can enter the workforce directly, or use the certificate as the first rung of the ladder that can lead to a Sales Representative technical diploma or Sales Management associate degree.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Customer Service Representative Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Customer Service Clerk
Sales Associate
Merchandiser
Customer Sales & Service Representative
Inside Sales
Sales Professional

Program Credits: 

6.00

Total Cost: 

$984.90

Pathway: 

Customer Service Representative

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

1e851b75074083234d856a56dee3cd82

Program Code: 

CUSR

First Term: 

Business Concepts
Quality Customer Service

Program Number: 

611041

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

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

As a diesel and heavy equipment technician, your role is instrumental in keeping businesses and industries operational by diagnosing and repairing diesel engines, heavy trucks, and heavy equipment. Western's hands-on program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in this field, covering essential areas such as powertrains, electrical/electronic systems, chassis systems, brakes, and hydraulics of these equipment. Throughout your training, you will stay up-to-date with the latest industry technology and practices.

Our program takes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from welding and general studies to provide you with a comprehensive foundation for entering the field. Through applied, general, and specialized training, you will gain the expertise necessary for success. Most students complete the program within 21 months, and upon graduation, you will find excellent career opportunities in a secure and fulfilling industry. Your work will play a crucial role in keeping essential equipment running smoothly and contributing to the efficiency of various businesses and industries.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Diesel Technician
Diesel Mechanic
Field Service Technician
Fleet Mechanic
Heavy Equipment Mechanic

Program Credits: 

55.00

Total Cost: 

$9 028.25

Pathway: 

Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician

Accreditation: 

The Diesel and Heavy Equipment Technician program is accredited by the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF).

NATEF Logo

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

8be7154fbd2a05b63059961d33ed5c03

Program Code: 

DHET

First Term: 

Applied Communication for Transportation
Strengths Seminar (Technical Diploma)
Diesel Truck Brake Systems
Diesel Truck Powertrains
Diesel Truck Chassis Systems
Diesel Online Service Utilization
Truck Familiarization and CDL

Second Term: 

Applied Math 1 - Transportation
Applied Math 2-Transportation
Applied Career Skills
Diesel Basic Engines
Diesel Electricity Fundamentals
Diesel Electricity Troubleshooting

Fourth Term: 

HVAC - Diesel
Diesel Engine Rebuilding
Diesel Advanced Electricity
Diesel & Heavy Equipment Internship
Diesel Engines Advanced
Intro to Electric Power Generation

Fifth Term: 

Diesel Heavy Equipment Powertrains
Diesel Hydraulic/Hydrostatic Systems
Diesel Heavy Equip Inspec & Prev Maint
Diesel Heavy Equipment Live Repair
Welding-Transportation
Welding for Diesel and Heavy Equipment

Graduates: 

26

Graduates Responding: 

12

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

0

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

0

Not in Labor Market: 

0

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

12

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

46

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$22.00

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$11.72-$26.79

Full Time: Median Annual Salary: 

$46,796

Related Occupations: 

Diesel Mechanic, Diesel Mechanic/Road Technician, Diesel Tech, Diesel Technician, Driver/Mechanic, Mechanic, Shop Mechanic

Program Number: 

324121

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 Truck and Heavy Equipment Facility, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2719 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Automotive Technician

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Mechanically inclined? Like solving problems? If so, you might find a career as an automotive technician challenging as well as rewarding. With a focus on hands-on experiences in this technical diploma program, you'll learn to diagnose and repair problems in engines, drive trains, brakes, electrical systems, steering, suspension, transmission systems, as well as hybrid and alternative fuel systems. Coursework covers the basics of operating an automotive repair business. You'll learn skills that will help you communicate with customers and gain valuable experience by making repairs on student and faculty vehicles in an actual shop.

The program prepares you for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification. Graduates find jobs in car dealerships, independent repair shops, and other related areas.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Automotive Technician Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

Automotive Service Technician
Automotive Mechanic
Fleet Maintenance Mechanic
Service Manager
ASE - Automotive Specialist
Certified Master Technician

Program Credits: 

55.00

Total Cost: 

$9 028.25

Pathway: 

Automotive Technician

Accreditation: 

The Automotive Technician program is accredited by the ASE Education Foundation.

ASE Logo

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

f087484ed61316096a4eab7c62e10ff7

Program Code: 

AUTC

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

Third Term: 

Drive Systems 1
Automotive Climate Control
Intro to Hybrid & Alt Fuel Veh

Fourth Term: 

Auto Occup & Bus Operations
Chassis Electrical & Elect Sys
Automotive Trade Simulation
Drive Systems 2

Fifth Term: 

Engine Repair
Automatic Transmissions
Engine Performance 2
Internship - Automotive

Program Number: 

324042

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 Facility, located in La Crosse's industrial park, 2721 Larson Street. Check our interactive map for specific location information.

Program instructors accept vehicle work from the public that fits with the topic they are covering in class. To apply for this service, complete the Automotive Repair Request Form.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

You can have a hand in designing products with your education in Computer Aided Design (CAD). CAD technicians work closely with engineers as they prepare and revise technical drawings and documentation used to build products for a variety of industries.

Courses include instruction in 2D and 3D CAD software, Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software, and other technical tools used in the field. You might find this a rewarding field if you are strong in algebra and have an interest in manufacturing processes and engineering materials. Also important are good communication skills and an eye for details. Hands-on experiences complement classroom learning.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

CAD Drafter
AutoCAD Operator/Drafter/Designer
CAD Technician
Mechanical Drafter
CAD Design
Detailer
Structural Drafter

Program Credits: 

31.00

Total Cost: 

$5 088.65

Pathway: 

Computer Aided Design (CAD) Technician

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

3d14048d02f7faa96ced81674c948894

Program Code: 

CADT

First Term: 

Applied Calculations in Engineering
AutoCAD
Geometric Dim & Tolerance
Solidworks
English Composition 1
College Technical Math 1A
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Mfg and Eng Materials
Mfg Processes/Machining CAM
Fund Of Elecs&Fabrication
Parametric Design 1
Parametric Design 2

Program Number: 

316062

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 - Paramedic

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Save lives as an EMT-Paramedic. Paramedics respond to emergencies and provide aid to victims of accidents or those experiencing a medical emergency such as cardiac arrest. Under direct medical control, these professionals render advanced aid by administering medication, performing and interpreting diagnostic tests such as EKGs, and intubating patients, in addition to performing the basic lifesaving measures of an EMT. The program offers a combination of classroom learning and field experiences.

Increased job opportunities will be available to you as a paramedic. In addition to ambulance services and fire departments, paramedics can find themselves working in industrial settings, in correctional facilities, and in hospital emergency rooms.

After successfully completing the program, you're ready to take the National Registry Paramedic written and practical examination in order to be eligible for a license in Wisconsin. You may also choose to continue at Western to earn a Paramedic Technician associate degree for increased earning potential.

The Paramedic program's minimum expectation is to prepare Paramedics who are competent in the cognitive (knowledge), psychomotor (skills), and affective (behavior) learning domains to enter the profession.

Career Cluster: 

Program Image: 

Emergency Medical Technician - Paramedic Image

Degree Type: 

Location: 

Page Section: 

Career Opportunities: 

EMT - Paramedic
Firefighter/Paramedic
Critical Care Technician/Paramedic

Program Credits: 

39.00

Total Cost: 

$6 401.85

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 document below:

Program Contact

Debra Slaby
Program Chair, EMT Paramedic
608-789-4761
SlabyD@westerntc.edu

Additional Admission Requirements: 

To enroll in the EMT – Paramedic program, first apply for admission to the College, then read the program’s Essential Functions, complete a background check, provide proof of immunization (including a TB Test), and complete American Heart Association Healthcare Provider CPR certification.  You can find links to these document below.  In addition, you must hold a Wisconsin EMT-Basic or Advanced License.  The last step for admission to the program will be to complete an Intent to Enroll form. Please see the details below.

Accreditation: 

The Western Technical College EMT – Paramedic program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP).

Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs
9355 – 113th Street North, #7709
Seminole, FL  33775
727-210-2350
www.caahep.org

To contact CoAEMSP:
8301 Lakeview Parkway
Suite 111-312
Rowlett, TX 75088
214-703-8445
FAX 214-703-8992
www.coaemsp.org

Application Fee: 

$30 Application Fee

Application: 

Application

Import Uniquifier: 

60e4b9f97985eeced4635f5b3aebcccf

Program Code: 

EMTP

First Term: 

EMS FUNDAMENTAL
Paramedic Medical Principles
Adv. Patient Assess Principles
ADV. PRE-HOSPITAL PHARMACOLOGY
PARAMEDIC RESPIRATORY MGT.
Paramedic Cardiology
Paramedic Portfolio 1
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Adv Emergency Resuscitation
Paramedic Trauma
Special Patient Populations
Medical Emergencies
Paramedic Portfolio 2

Third Term: 

EMS Operations
Clinical/Field Experience
Capstone

Program Number: 

315311

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 - Paramedic program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here.

The Paramedic Program core courses are held at the Sparta Public Safety Training Facility in Sparta, Wisconsin.

Typical Start: 

Fall

Dental Assistant

Financial Aid Available: 

Financial Aid Eligible

Take on an important role in the healthcare sector by becoming 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: 

Program Image: 

Dental Assistant Image

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 read 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.  The last step for admission to the program will be to complete an Intent to Enroll form. Please see the details below.

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

Import Uniquifier: 

c58b9767a392d53ab7f58b80d9f9fd50

Program Code: 

DEAT

First Term: 

Dental Health Safety
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: 

8

Graduates Responding: 

6

Employed In Non-related Occupations: 

0

Seeking Employment: 

0

Continuing Education: 

0

Not in Labor Market: 

0

Part Time: Responding: 

0

Full Time: Responding: 

6

Full Time: Average Hours Per Week: 

37

Full Time: Median Hourly Wage: 

$17.50

Full Time: Hourly Wage Range: 

$16.50-$19.00

Full Time: Median Annual Salary: 

$35,565

Related Occupations: 

Dental Assistant, Lead 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: 

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

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 Applications for Business
Strengths Seminar

Second Term: 

Payroll Accounting
Principles of Accounting 3
Accounting Spreadsheets
Technical Reporting

Third Term: 

Math w/ Business Applications

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: 

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 read the program’s Essential Functions, 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: 

34c051c67ac858cc900255e5e68f01d7

Program Code: 

EMIV

First Term: 

Advanced EMT

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

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