360° Center of Excellence adds new distance certificate programs

BEMIDJI, Minn. (Jan. 31, 2011) — Bemidji State University’s 360 Degrees Manufacturing and Applied Engineering Center of Excellence is now offering distance education certificate programs in production and automation technologies, machine technologist and welding technology.

The courses are designed for working professionals and offer those in the workforce an opportunity to start on a career pathway that allows for stops and starts as life and career may dictate. These programs offer skills and knowledge to gain employment in the dynamic and well-paying advanced manufacturing industry.

• Production technologies: This 15-credit certificate will provide an introduction to production technologies. Courses include: technical mathematics, introductory computer skills, print interpretation, manufacturing processes, quality control, maintenance and safety.

• Machine technologist: This 30-credit certificate will provide an introduction to production technologies and machining technology. Courses include: technical mathematics, introductory computer skills, print interpretation, manufacturing processes, quality control, maintenance, and safety. Students will also learn machine tool print reading, machine tool technology theory and lab principles.

• Automation technologies: This 30-credit certificate will provide an introduction to production and automation technologies. Courses include: technical mathematics, introductory computer skills, print interpretation, manufacturing processes and quality control.

• Welding technology: This 30-credit certificate will provide an introduction to production technologies and welding fundamentals. Courses include: technical mathematics, introductory computer skills, print interpretation, manufacturing processes and quality control.

Most courses last eight weeks; the length of time needed to complete a certificate depends on the number of courses a student enrolls in during each eight-week course period. The production technologies certificate is not a pre-requisite for the other three programs; however, some courses do have additional pre-requisites established each semester.

Online coursework is supported through 360’s online support center at http://www.360distance.org

Courses are offered at a tuition rate of $199 per credit, plus applicable fees and the cost of textbooks. Tuition reimbursement may be available through a student’s employer; interested persons should check with their employers on the availability of tuition reimbursement benefits.

For registration information or to gain additional information, visit http://www.360mn.org.

On the Web
360 Degrees: http://www.360mn.org

About 360 Degrees
The 360° Manufacturing and Applied Engineering Center of Excellence, part of the Institute of Technology, Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Bemidji State University’s College of Business, Technology and Communication, is a partnership of 10 institutions led by Bemidji State University. Partner institutions include Central Lakes College, Lake Superior College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, Northland Community and Technical College, Northwest Technical College, Pine Technical College, Riverland Community College, Saint Paul College, and St. Cloud Technical and Community College. The center cultivates a potential future workforce through more flexible educational opportunities via its seamless career pathway.