Technological Sciences
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Tech Sciences

You’ve put in the time—on the job, in the classroom, or in your studio or workshop. Did you know you can earn a degree based on that practical drive and curiosity? A Tech Sciences AAS adapts to your experience and interests. 

Here are 3 common scenarios where you might choose this degree: 

  • You’re working and want an associate degree for a promotion
  • You want to wrap things up to start a bachelor’s degree
  • You want to explore several areas—yet take the most efficient route to a degree 

It’s time to finish your degree. Tell us what ignites your interest and what your goals are —we’ll help you reach them. 

Complete the required 30 credits for your general education requirements. Then you get to decide how to spend your remaining 30 credits. Business + Fire Fighter, Graphic Design + Welding – you set the scope. 

Create the AAS degree of your dreams at OCC. 
Did you know?

Maximum Flexibility + Plenty of Room to Explore 

You can tailor this versatile, 60-credit associate degree to match your interests in technology, manufacturing, emergency services, or art and design. Mix and match these 18 major focus areas to create your degree. 

Technical & Manufacturing 

  • Automobile Servicing 
  • Collision Auto Repair 
  • Computer Information Systems (CIS) 
  • Electrical 
  • Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) 
  • Mechatronics 
  • Machine Tool 
  • Robotics 
  • Welding 

Emergency Services Training 

  • Emergency Medical Services (EMS) 
  • Fire Fighter Academy 
  • Fire Fighter Technology 
  • Oakland Dispatch Academy 
  • Oakland Police Academy 

Art & Design 

  • Computer Aided Design (CAD) 
  • Graphic Design 
  • Interior Design 
  • Photography 

Inspired Instructors Committed to Your Success 

Your OCC instructors and mentors are experienced practitioners in the courses they teach. They are passionate about your success. Classes are small and focused. 

Many of your classes can be taken 100% online. Learn in a convenient setting that works best for you. 

You can expect an engaging, valuable, and consistent learning experience here. Each OCC faculty member who teaches online completes a mandatory faculty distance learning training and development program. 

Upon graduation, you have plenty of options. Reach your goals and get promoted, start a new job, or transfer on to earn a bachelor’s degree – it’s really up to you. 

Job Market Outlook

Elevate Your Options With An AAS 

Yes, an AAS degree is valuable. Fast facts about associate degree holders: 

  • $1.7 million:  On average, that’s the amount they earn during their careers. That’s $400,000 more than individuals with a high school diploma only. 
  • Up to 50%:  On average, they earn a higher salary — up to 50% more — than someone with a high school diploma only. 
  • More jobs: Associate degree holders have access to more jobs. Their unemployment rate is 3.8%, compared to an unemployment rate of 5.4% for those with a high school diploma only. 

Coursework Preparing You for Work & Life 

Your coursework blends foundational courses in humanities, math and science, and communication, plus specialized training in the areas you choose. 

Throughout your Tech Sciences program, you build the skills employers seek, such as learning to communicate, listen, reason, and lead others. These skills also demonstrate your emotional intelligence — a valuable commodity for any employer. 

In addition, earning this degree proves your numerous other skills, including an ability to manage your time, research, and make informed decisions. Throughout this program, you build specific job-ready skills — and you reinforce the best parts of yourself. 

Contact an OCC counselor to discuss this plan of study and your career goals. 

Think Bigger: Keep Going to Earn a Bachelor’s Degree 

Want to advance your career even further? OCC partners with Eastern Michigan University, Lawrence Tech, Oakland University, Wayne State University, and more to offer seamless transfer options for a bachelor's degree. OCC Tech Sciences transfers have gone on to major in: 

  • Construction Management 
  • Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technology 
  • Industrial and Mechanical Engineering 
  • Integrative/Interdisciplinary Studies 
  • Manufacturing Engineering Technology 
  • Technology Management 

Work closely with your counselor at OCC and your transfer school. Each school and each major has its own requirements. This degree is so flexible, you want to plan your transfer carefully. 

Why OCC? 

You belong here. Choose OCC for your degree: 

  • Small class sizes: Lectures are capped at 30 students, and labs max out at 27 students. You build meaningful relationships and learn from your fellow students. 
  • Personalized instruction: Our faculty members know you by name, and they care about your success. 
  • Academic rigor: Your classes are challenging and relevant. They prepare you for the next step in your career and, if you want to keep going for a bachelor’s degree, for a four-year university. 
  • Strong reputation: Universities are familiar with our programs, and they respect the work of our faculty members. 
  • Support services: From counseling services to tutoring, you’re never alone. You have everything you need to graduate and succeed. 
  • Affordability: You get the first two years of your education for an outstanding price. Plus, you benefit from generous financial aid resources, including grants and scholarships. 

Finish Your Associate Degree Fast 

If you’re brand new to college, most students complete this degree in five semesters by taking 12 credits per semester. If you already successfully completed a portion of the 60 credits for this program, you could finish faster. 

This AAS degree is made for career-focused students. It also includes enough flexibility to meet the Michigan Transfer Agreement if you decide to continue your education with one of our many four-year partner institutions. See an OCC counselor for courses that may be required at the college you plan to attend. 

Degree – Program 
Technological Sciences (TSC.AAS)

Enroll Now 

Begin your studies with these steps: 

  • Apply to OCC. If you’re not already an OCC student, create a profile and complete our online application. 
  • On the application, select career pathway Online Degree Programs (100% Online) and academic program Technological Sciences (100% Online). 
  • Existing OCC students can update their academic program using the Student Update Information Request form.