Since its program began in the 2014-2015 school year, Northeast Community College has graduated two semesters of students who received certificates in Diversified Manufacturing Technology. If you aren’t familiar with Northeast Community College, we’ve highlighted the educational programs at NCC before: Think electromechanical technology, industrial facility drafting, and welding, to name a few.

The school takes great pride in working to serve students interested in learning specific skills to help support future manufacturing careers. However, the 2015-2016 school year will bring a new development: students who hope to be the first in a pioneering diploma program in at NCC are now welcome to apply.

What is a diploma, and why would you prefer to work for a diploma instead of a certificate? Diplomas and certificates are both commonly known as the shortest course of study, and the least expensive type of academic credential you can receive. This low cost is due to the course selection: Students learn a very specific career competency in one subject, and either a certificate or a diploma can almost always be completed within a year-and-a-half of study.

In NCC’s program, the difference between a diploma and a certificate is just a matter of time. A diploma requires 33.5 credit hours, and a certificate requires 18. Now that NCC offers the diploma, those looking for a more intense, concentrated education can extend their learning period over a longer period of time.

There’s no specific profile of a student seeking a diploma, or even a certificate. Applicants come from far and wide, and from all walks of life. Many diploma students may already hold a bachelor’s degree, and are looking to expand or update their skills. Generally, certificate and diploma programs offer open admissions–a major perk for those who aren’t all that thrilled at the prospect of long and complicated application processes.

Enrolling in a diploma program is a fantastic way to refocus your career and learn if you like the industry before officially switching your job. On the other hand, a student who knows they want to adjust their career would be well served in job application situations by the addition of a diploma. Think of it as a trial period, in which you can become certified in diversified manufacturing technology with relatively little red tape or hassle.

Along with the new diploma program, NCC will be upgrading their technology: Welding and robotic assembly applications, CNC machining centers, and a computerized coordinate measuring system are all on the docket. “Diversified manufacturing is preparing to experience a significant boost in technology used in the instructional labs,” Steve Wagner. “Our program advisory committee, comprised primarily of industry leaders, has endorsed the direction of the diploma program, as well as the proposals or additional equipment and the technologies that will be introduced.”

The program will also move to new and expanded digs in NCC’s new 67,000 square foot Applied Technology Building on the Norfolk Campus.

If you aren’t ready to commit to a full two, four, or six years worth of education, the new diploma program may be the right fit for you! You can find the full list of requirements and classes included in the degree .

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Photo Credit: NCC