TECHNICAL DIVISION

The technical programs offered through the Technical Division are college-level programs of study which have been developed by advisory committees comprised of representatives from the fields of education, business, and industry. Students who complete all courses prescribed in a particular curriculum receive an Associate of Applied Arts degree, Associate of Applied Science degree or Certificate of Proficiency. These courses are not intended for transfer to a university for credit toward a baccalaureate degree. However, many universities accept certain technical courses for transfer. Students should contact the transfer university to verify acceptance of technical courses for credit.

Students who enter the Technical Division and work toward an Associate of Applied Science degree have the option of receiving the Enhanced Skills Certificate in specific Tech Prep articulated programs. Students holding the Enhanced Skills Certificate will have advanced technical skills combined with a strong academic foundation that will enhance the transition to either the world of work or further education.

Additionally, South Plains College offers a number of occupational programs which award a Certificate of Proficiency upon successful completion. These college-level certificate programs are designed to provide specialized training for a particular career field in a relatively short period of time. Most certificate programs can be completed in one year. The courses in these programs are designed to prepare persons for employment in the current job market or in emerging occupations. All occupational programs are approved by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the State Approval Agency for the Veterans Administration.

With the recommendation of the instructor, a student may be given advanced standing in certain certificate programs. The student is not expected to repeat training in which he or she exhibits sufficient skill and expertise.

Minimum competency levels for graduation have been established for all technical and occupational programs. These competency levels have been established by business and industry advisory committees comprised of employers and representatives from local business, industry and the professional community. Competency levels generally are acquired over the prescribed course length unless the program instructor grants a student advanced standing on the basis of previous experience and/or education or certifies the student has reached a demonstrated proficiency level sufficient for early graduation.

Technical programs on the Levelland Campus are under the supervision of the Dean of Instruction. Technical programs offered at the Byron Martin Advanced Technology Center and the SPC Reese Center are under the supervision of the Dean of Technical Education.