The Early/Middle College Program is designed to allow a student to earn a high school diploma and substantial college credit at the same time. The substantial college credit could result in a professional certificate, certificate of achievement, or an associate’s degree. Students could be involved in EMC for three to five years. The program of instruction for EMC mirrors the education pathway of EFE and dual enrollment. All classes are held on the campus of Kalamazoo Valley Community College (KVCC).

Transfer Degrees in Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Science (AS)

AA or AS degrees are for students planning to transfer to a four-year university. They require successful completion of a minimum of 62 credit hours.
The options listed below transfer to WMU. Students considering another four-year university, should discuss this with a KVCC Counselor to see if a transfer agreement is in place for their program of interest. Students planning to go to a four-year university out of state, the Early/Middle College program may not be in your best interest due to transferability of coursework.

Associate of Arts (AA) Degrees:
The Associate of Arts (AA) is a transfer degree that prepares students for a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college or university.

Business Administration
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
The study of business administration refers to all aspects of managing and operating a business organization. It is a broad field of study covering basic principles related to the area of business, such as accounting, economics, finance, management, and marketing.

Computer Information Systems
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
Computer information systems is the study of the application of computers in a business environment with an emphasis on the analysis and design of business information systems. This program differs from computer science in that it focuses more on the application of software programs rather than their design.

Criminal Justice
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
Criminal justice is the study of the system through which crimes and criminals are identified, apprehended, judged, and punished.

Elementary Education
63 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
The study of elementary education covers knowledge of basic skills in order to teach language arts, mathematics, sciences, and social studies, preparing the student for teacher certification in grades K-8

Secondary Education
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)

The liberal arts program is designed to meet the general education requirements for a secondary education major.

Social Work
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
Social work is a broadly defined profession encompassing many different kinds of professionals who all serve people in need. The International Federation of Social Workers calls social work “an interrelated system of values, theory and practice.” Social workers are unique in the way that they look at many different aspects of a problem, from the individual to the societal, from the psychological to the political. Common ways of serving clients include providing counseling, therapy, and education, as well as connecting clients to appropriate public or private resources.

Studio Art
62 Credits – Associate of Arts (AA)
This degree program is designed to be a transfer option for a Bachelor of Fine Arts, Bachelor of Arts, or Bachelor of Science in art education. A Bachelor of Fine Arts program in visual art and design focuses on intensive work in the visual arts supported by a program of general studies, whereas the Bachelor of Arts is broader with less studio art time required.

Associate of Science (AS) Degrees:
The Associate of Science (AS) is a transfer degree that prepares students for a bachelor’s degree program at a four-year college or university.

Automotive Undercar Systems
62 Credits - Associate of Science (AS)
Courses in this program are designed to give the student experience in base automotive technology with a focus on automotive mechanical drive-line, brakes, suspension. It can be used to prepare the student for entry level employment in the autocare industry.

Aviation Technology
62 Credits - Associate of Science (AS)
The study of aviation combines three pivotal areas within the aircraft industry: flight science (pilot), maintenance of avaiation equipment (technical operations), and management of aviation operations.

Biological Sciences
62 Credits – Associate of Science (AS)
The study of biological science is the study of all living organisms including anatomy, genetics, microbiology, and physiology. This degree program is designed to transfer to a bachelor’s degree with a major in any biology related field, including biology, biomedical sciences, molecular biology, medical laboratory science, and secondary education/biology. This major also prepares students for graduate degrees and professional programs in medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.

Computer Science
62 credits – Associate of Science (AS)
Computer scientists design and develop the software programs that IT professionals use and maintain. Computer science emphasizes the software aspects both in theory and application rather than the physical construction of computers (hardware aspects). The computer science program includes core courses in programming, systems, algorithms, databases, web technologies, and software product development.

Engineering
62 Credits – Associate of Science (AS)
Engineering is the use of science and mathematics to design or make things. Engineers work in the innovation, design, construction, operation, and maintenance of structures, machines, materials, devices, systems, processes, and organizations.

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degrees:
Unlike the Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Science (AS) degrees, which are designed primarily as transfer degrees, the AAS degree is designed for students who intend to enter the workforce upon graduation. Programs are occupational in orientation and are designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment. These programs require successful completion of a minimum of 62 credit hours.

Accounting
63 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
The AAS degree in accounting prepares students for entry-level accounting positions such as bookkeeper, accounts receivable, accounts payable, or payroll clerk; as assistants to line and staff accountants; or as a paraprofessional accountant in a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) firm. Both manual and computer integrated accounting systems are emphasized.

Administrative Assistant
64 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
This program prepares students to perform a wide range of administrative duties and information processing functions. It will provide expanded knowledge of business practices, procedures, and computer skills, as well as other technological skills that are being demanded in today’s business world.

Business Administration
62 Credits - Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
This program develops abilities and skills in organization and management, business procedures, leadership techniques and other fundamental aspects of business administration. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in business.

Culinary Arts and Sustainable Food Systems
67 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Students will spend most of their time working in a real production kitchen and food service environment, on a sustainable farm, and in an active food production and distribution facility. The curriculum is grounded at the intersection of food production, social justice, environmental sustainability, nutrition and health.

Emergency Medical Services
69 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Emergency medical technicians (EMT’s) and paramedics are trained to perform critical emergency medical intervention for both the traumatically injured and acutely ill patient. Upon successful completion, Kalamazoo Valley’s basic EMT and EMS programs qualify students to take the appropriate licensure exams. These programs have separate application processes and can be taken individually, however completion of a basic EMT program is one of the prerequisites for acceptance into the EMS program.

General Marketing
62 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
This program develops abilities and skills focusing on the marketing functions of a business. It includes a foundation in business as well as internet marketing while providing exposure to differing marketing aspects such as promotions and sales. The program provides the flexibility to allow a student to tailor the program for entry-level retail management, customer service management, and sales positions.

Graphic Design
66 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
The graphic design concentration is an interdisciplinary, career-focused program that helps students develop skills in design, typography, computer graphics, and new media design for print and web. This concentration is appropriate for students who wish to enhance their skills, retrain for new or added job skills, or enter the job market versed in design for print or web. The curriculum combines foundational and software-specific classes. Graduates may find work with advertising agencies, publishing and printing firms, art studios, television and radio stations, newspapers, and various businesses with in-house design departments.

IT Support Specialist
63 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
This hands-on program will prepare students for employment supporting operating systems along with networking and security requirements for local area networks (LANs). Students also learn to install, configure and troubleshoot PCs, networks, and hardware and software, including the Microsoft Office Suite applications. Database concepts, systems analysis and design, and writing and communication skills are also included in this program as it prepares students for several CompTIA and Microsoft certification tests.

Machine Tool Technology
62 Credits – Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
This program is designed to prepare students for machinist careers. Students are guided through a series of machine tool operation courses designed to challenge the process skills on manual and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. In addition to comprehensive hands-on skill development, students learn the various types of materials and processes used in today’s high-technology manufacturing industries.

Certificates (CERT):
This certificate program prepares the graduate for a specialized occupation. Completion of 30 or more credit hours is required.

Administrative Support
39 credits – Certificate (CERT)
This program provides the technical and basic skills needed for employment. Organizational, communication, and computer and software skills are emphasized.

Culinary Arts & Sustainable Food Systems
32 credits - Certificate (CERT) 
This certificate teaches hands-on culinary skills in a state of the art commercial kitchen. The certificate offers innovative course selection that reinforces sustainable core culinary fundamentals.

General Automotive Service
32 credits - Certificate (CERT) 
This certificate is designed to provide the starting technician with knowledge required to safely and ethically work in the automotive field as defined by local employers. It will prepare the student to pass the Michigan State Certification exams in Engines, Brakes, Steering, Suspension, and Air Conditioning as well as Mobile Air Conditioning Society (MACS) exam.

Graphic Design
30 Credits – Certificate (CERT)
The graphic design concentration is an interdisciplinary, career-focused program that helps students develop skills in design, typography, computer graphics, and new media design for print and web. This concentration is appropriate for students who wish to enhance their skills, retrain for new or added job skills, or enter the job market versed in design for print or web. The curriculum combines foundational and software-specific classes. Graduates may find work with advertising agencies, publishing and printing firms, art studios, television and radio stations, newspapers, and various businesses with in-house design departments.

Machinist
32 Credits – Certificate (CERT)
This certificate program prepares students to enter the job market as a machinist, toolmaker, mold-maker, or die-maker trainee. Earning a certificate is the first step in entering the machine tool trade

Office Management
34 Credits – Certificate (CERT)
This program is designed for those interested in supervision/management positions in a small business. Skills in business practices, telephone techniques, information processing and management, computer and software usage, communications, supervision, and office procedures will be emphasized.

Certificate of Achievement (COA)
A certificate of achievement requires fewer courses than a regular certificate program. Training is provided in a specific set of skills for employment in a specific occupation. COA programs require more than 3, but less than 30 hours of credit.

Auto Brake Systems
16 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
The National Automotive Technology Education Foundation (NATEF) certified Automotive Technology programs prepare students for a range of employment opportunities. Courses prepare students to test for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification and ASE master certification, entry-level and advanced-level employment, job enhancement for current positions, wage increase if already employed, and the possibility of supervisory or management positions.

Auto Suspension/Steering
12 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
The National Automotive Technology Education Foundation (NATEF) certified Automotive Technology programs prepare students for a range of employment opportunities. Courses prepare students to test for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification and ASE master certification, entry-level and advanced-level employment, job enhancement for current positions, wage increase if already employed, and the possibility of supervisory or management positions.

Emergency Medical Technology - Basic
10 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program prepares the student to work in the out-of-hospital setting as an entry level Emergency Medical Technician. Emphasis is placed on mastery of CPR, simple pharmacology for common medical emergencies, patient assessment, bandaging and splinting, vehicle extrication, and emergency childbirth. All credits in this program apply directly toward the emergency medical services AAS degree programs.

Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operator
8 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This is a hands-on practical skills drafting program that prepares students to learn more about automated manufacturing processes and products they produce. Students will be able to mount cutting tools, jigs, and fixtures onto CNC machine tools and set the machine parameters in preparation for the CNC machining process.

Desk Side Support
18 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program is taught in a hands-on environment to prepare students to provide computer support, trouble-shooting, and security services for PC hardware and software, and installation and management of operating components, and peripheral devices. Students also learn network installation, configuration, and support along with the ability to provide assistance with word processing, spreadsheet, and database and presentation software.

Dietary Manager
18 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program prepares to perform the responsibilities of a dietary manager. They work in non-commercial food service operations to design nutritious and delicious menus, document dietary care related information, supervise staff, and ensure safe food production. As a program accredited by the Association of Nutrition and Food Service Professionals (ANFP), graduates are eligible to take the nationally-recognized exam to earn the credential of Certified Dietary Manager (CDM), Certified Food Protection Professional (CFPP).

Machine Tool Operator 
7 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program is designed to prepare students for machinist careers. Students are guided through a series of machine tool operation courses designed to challenge the process skills on manual and Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machines. In addition to comprehensive hands-on skill development, students learn the various types of materials and processes used in today’s high-technology manufacturing industries.

Network Manager
15 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This hands-on program prepares the student for employment as a Microsoft network manager who can support operating systems, hardware, and software along with the ability to provide installation, configuration, security, and troubleshooting skills for Microsoft networking installations. Students with this certificate of achievement are also prepared for CompTIA and Microsoft certifications.

Office Support Specialist
23 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program is designed to develop skills essential to an entry-level office support position.

PC Support Technician
21 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program is designed to prepare students to provide computer support services including installation and management of operating systems; installation and configuration of computer components and peripheral devices; assistance in word processing, spreadsheet, database and presentation software problems; network installation; configuration and support; and troubleshooting problems with PC hardware, software, and security.

Software Specialist
19 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program prepares students for an entry-level position in an information processing environment. Emphasis is on software training.

Welding Constant Current (CC) Process
6 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program includes skill training in the Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) processes and welding symbols and print reading. Materials welded include mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Courses offered can provide the skill set necessary to successfully complete welder certification testing required by many welding companies

Welding Constant Voltage (CV) Process
6 Credits – Certificate of Achievement (COA)
This program includes skill training in the Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Flux-cored Arc Welding (FCAW) welding processes and welding symbols and print reading. Materials welded include mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum. Courses offered can provide the skill set necessary to successfully complete welder certification testing required by many welding companies.

Word Processing Specialist
18 Credits – Certificate of Achievement
This program is designed to prepare students for an entry-level position in a word/information processing environment. Emphasis is on communication skills, keyboarding, and software training.