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Individualized Technical Studies

108251
AS
60.00

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
$10,069
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

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.
  • 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.

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.

1
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

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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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3D Design & Prototyping

90664B
CERT
3.00

This certificate program is an introduction to 3D modeling and rapid prototyping. Utilizing Solid Works, you will create 3D parts and assemblies which can later be printed using manufacturing processes on our 3D printers. Learn how to create models, set up a 3D printer and connect it to Wi-Fi, troubleshoot the system, and prepare the model for printing.

$503
Location
La Crosse
Location
Tomah

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.

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.

Junior CAD Technician

Prototype Technician

Entry-level Manufacturing Technician

Product Development Technician

Fabrication Support Technician

CAD Designer

Mechanical /Product Designer

Drafter

Mechanical CAD Support Technician

Technical Designer (entry-level)

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.

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With a technical diploma or certificate in an Advanced Manufacturing program, you can open doors to a high-demand industry that's waiting for you to shape the future of manufacturing — from welding to fabrication.

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ECE: Professional Development

90307G
CERT
6.00

As a child care provider working in the field, this certificate will expand your skills, provide new insights, and meet state licensing and quality criteria through credit-based courses for professional development. It's not necessary to be enrolled in the Early Childhood Education (ECE) program to participate, but credits will transfer to the ECE associate's degree program if you choose to continue your education.

$1,007
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Child Care Assistant

Child Care Teacher

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.

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Open doors to rewarding careers helping people, young and old. From early childhood education to social services, when you choose one of these programs you prepare to work in roles that uplift individuals and strengthen communities.

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Desktop Publishing

90204A
CERT
12.00

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.

$2,014
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Desktop Publisher

Flexographic Press Operator

Offset Press Helper

Prepress Technician

Estimator

Customer Service Representative

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.

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Digital Photography

90203A
CERT
9.00

Take your creativity to the next level with Western's Digital Photography Certificate. In this short-term program, you'll master the essentials of digital imaging-from composition and lighting to image editing and visual storytelling. Whether you're an aspiring photographer or a creative professional in marketing, design, or media, our hands-on curriculum will help you produce impactful visual content. Build your skills, expand your portfolio, and open the door to new career opportunities in today's image-driven world.

$1,510
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Photographer

Photo Editor/Retoucher

Social Media Content Creator

Assistant Photographer

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.

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Building your career in the business and professional world starts with learning essential skills through hands-on experiences. Western's Business & Professional Services programs provide you with a degree, technical diploma, or certificate that can help get to your career fast.

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Web Design

90201A
CERT
12.00

The Web Design certificate gives students and working designers experience with the software, methods, and best practices for designing web content and online experiences. You'll take hands-on courses in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop to gain the skills and techniques needed to create and modify graphics for web and mobile. You'll explore front-end web design programming, including CSS and HTML.

$2,014
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Website Designer

Web/Graphic Designer/Developer

Graphic Designer

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.

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Building your career in the business and professional world starts with learning essential skills through hands-on experiences. Western's Business & Professional Services programs provide you with a degree, technical diploma, or certificate that can help get to your career fast.

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Digital Content Specialist

90104B
CERT
22.00

If you're considering a career in marketing, an understanding of effective digital content is essential. This certificate program will provide an introduction to marketing principles, with an emphasis on developing quality content for various digital formats. You will also explore elements of promotional campaigns, including design basics, media buying, and the use of analytics to measure results.

Courses are offered in several flexible delivery methods, including face-to-face one evening per week, at our La Crosse campus or our regional locations, or completely online.

The Digital Content Specialist certificate is an embedded credential within the Digital Marketing Specialist certificate and the Digital Marketing associate degree. Continue your education for more earning potential.

$3,692
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Content Specialist

Content Coordinator

Social Media Specialist

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.

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Building your career in the business and professional world starts with learning essential skills through hands-on experiences. Western's Business & Professional Services programs provide you with a degree, technical diploma, or certificate that can help get to your career fast.

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Computerized Accounting

90101A
CERT
15.00

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.

$2,517
Location
La Crosse
Location
Online

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.

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.

Office/Account Clerk

Accounting Assistant

Bookkeeper

Data Review Clerk

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.

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Building your career in the business and professional world starts with learning essential skills through hands-on experiences. Western's Business & Professional Services programs provide you with a degree, technical diploma, or certificate that can help get to your career fast.

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Solar Installation Technician

614815
CERT
14.00

Solar energy is a growing industry in western Wisconsin. The Solar Installation Technician certificate is designed to address the needs of regional utility power suppliers that offer renewable energy options, as well as private companies that provide solar solutions for residential, commercial, non-profit, and government sectors.

Western has several solar panel systems that not only provide power to buildings, but offer the perfect, real-life training opportunity.

This certificate is a pathway into the Building Science and Energy Management associate degree, which can lead to career advancement opportunities.

$2,349
Location
La Crosse

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.

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.

Solar Installer/Service Technician

Solar Site Evaluator/Permit Technician

Solar Electrician

Electrical Technician

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.

Solar Installation Technician
Building Science & Energy Management
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Choose to design innovative spaces, manage energy-efficient buildings, master the art of carpentry, and so much more. Join a program taught by experienced instructors in state-of-the-art facilities.

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Health Office Assistant

611601
CERT
15.00

Healthcare Office Assistants are at the front lines of a medical office and play an integral role in the patient's experience. This certificate prepares you to perform specialized administrative tasks in a healthcare setting such as registering patients, scheduling patient appointments and procedures, communicating professionally, maintaining electronic health care records, operating computer software and office equipment, and maintaining supplies for the office. Choose to work in a variety of healthcare facilities including clinics, hospitals, dental offices, chiropractors, and many more.

Courses are offered in a convenient online format.

To further your career opportunities, continue your education by moving seamlessly into the Health Office Professional technical diploma or the Medical Administrative Professional associate degree.

$2,517
Location
Online

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.

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.

Special Requirements

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

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.

Medical Service Coordinator

Medical Office Clerk

Medical Office Receptionist

Medical Secretary

Health Office Assistant

Patient Coordinator

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.

Health Office Assistant
Medical Administrative Professional
Health Office Professional
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Building your career in the business and professional world starts with learning essential skills through hands-on experiences. Western's Business & Professional Services programs provide you with a degree, technical diploma, or certificate that can help get to your career fast.

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