Degree Completion Time: Academic Degree (2 years)

The Network Technology program focuses on the use of computer technology and information management methods to solve business problems. The knowledge base of this degree program will prepare students for the Cisco CCNA, Microsoft's MCP, Security+, Network+, and A+ certifications.

General Studies offers students the ability to explore various areas of interest before pursuing a more specific educational goal. Students can earn an Associate in Liberal Studies degree or even obtain basic certificates covering everything from health & safety to cultural studies and civic development.

Software Applications Programming at Richland prepares students for designing, writing, testing, debugging, and implementing software, according to user/customer specifications, in process-oriented, data-oriented, and object-oriented coding environments. Graduates enter careers such as Programmer, Programmer/Analyst, Data Modeler, Database Designer, Systems Analyst, Website Designer, Web Consultant, or Web Applications Developer.

The Mechanical Systems specialty prepares the student to install, monitor, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical systems found in industrial plants, public buildings, and utility stations. This concentration is suited for students interested in areas such as rigging and cranes, mechanical drives, compressors, pump systems, pipe systems, and lubrication systems.

The Instrumentation Systems specialty prepares the student to install, calibrate, maintain, tune, troubleshoot, and repair instrumentation, components, and control loops in such industries as food processing, pharmaceuticals, aluminum, chemical manufacturing, semiconductor manufacturing, petroleum refining, pulp and paper, and power generation

The Electrical Systems specialty prepares the students to repair, install, maintain, and fix complex electrical equipment found in the manufacturing environment. In addition, they help plan, install, and test the setup of new equipment. Many technicians may travel to customer sites to maintain and/or repair equipment.

Students in the Crop Production program focus on the agronomic side of the Agribusiness industry. By earning a degree in crop production at Richland Community College, graduates can enter the workforce in a variety of positions. Examples of jobs in this area include crop application specialists, crop research assistants, and farm managers.

Criminal Justice is a program that allows you to deliver emergency response and investigative services or even provide close monitoring and accountability systems for those accused or convicted of crimes. After completing this program at Richland, graduates earn titles like Patrol Officer, Correctional Officer, Probation and Parole Officer, and Emergency Telecommunications Specialist.

The Culinary Arts program prepares individuals for an exciting career as a chef, cook, and/or food preparation worker for a variety of hospitality industries, including hotels, restaurants, convention centers, hospitals, and corporate dining facilities. The curriculum covers all aspects of culinary preparation including meats, poultry, fish, vegetables, sauces, soups, bread and pastry baking, desserts, specialty cooking, and international cuisine

To be successful in the diesel truck industry, mechanics need to be equipped to maintain and repair modern, more sophisticated engines. Richland Community College’s program introduces advanced diagnostic, maintenance, and repair tools - preparing students for entry-level positions and career advancement.

Childcare and preschool teacher assistants and workers play a vital role in the development of children. As an Early Childhood Education major, graduates enjoy a variety of career options, including a child care teacher, an assistant director or director of a child care facility, a private preschool teacher, nanny, director of a preschool program, an elementary school assistant, or Head Start assistant.

Engineering is the practical application of science and math to solve problems, and it extends everywhere in this world. From computer chips and satellites to medical devices and renewable energy technologies, engineering makes modern life possible.