Career and Technical Education Programs

Riverside City College offers Associate of Science Degrees and certificate programs with an occupational emphasis. Both provide instruction in skills and knowledge needed to enter a skilled or professional occupation. Associate of Science Degree programs require completion of at least 60 units of credit, which normally takes four semesters. Certificate programs, leading to an associate in science degree, require a minimum of 18 units, but vary in number of units required; most can be completed in two semesters. Certificates can lead to employment. Each course required for a certificate must be completed with a “C” grade or better. All certificate courses can be counted toward the degree as well as the major.

Need for Specialized Training
Many find it difficult to secure employment or to advance in current positions and better-paying jobs without specialized training. General education coursework has its value, but in the early stages of a career it is specific, technical skills employers seek. A certificate is the best evidence specialized training has been secured. At times employers actually require certificates as a condition of employment or reclassification for higher pay.

Certificate Course Requirements
Students should plan to enroll in the specific courses listed under the certificate desired. If a required course for a certificate program is no longer offered, please see the department chair to ascertain an acceptable course substitute. Fifty percent of the coursework required for any certificate pattern must be completed at Riverside Community College District.

Career and Technical Education Program Maps
The Career and Technical Education Program Maps are designed to provide students with the most direct route to certificate and degree completion. Each certificate pattern references the classes that are required, and references when the classes are normally scheduled. Each map provides a period of time a full time student can anticipate completing the certificate or degree. For students who attend part-time, please see a counselor. Please note that the scheduling patterns may be modified based on student need.

Associate of Science Degree
The Associate of Science Degree consists of course work totaling 60 units or more. This includes coursework in a specific college certificate pattern plus general education and elective courses.

State-Approved Certificate (Certificate of Achievement)
The state-approved certificate consists of coursework totaling 16 units or more (sometimes 8 units or more) completed in a specific occupational college certificate pattern. State-approved certificates may lead to employment competency and may lead to an associate degree.

Locally-Approved Certificate (Certificate of Career Preparation)
The locally-approved certificate consists of coursework totaling between 4 to 15 units completed in a specific occupational certificate pattern. Locally-approved certificates may lead to employment competency, but do not necessarily lead to an associate degree.