Holyoke Community College

Accounting

The Accounting Certificate prepares students to pursue entry-level employment in the field of accounting and bookkeeping. Credits earned through the certificate program may be applied toward the A.S. in Accounting as well. A majority of the certificate program requirements may be taken online. In order to obtain the Accounting Certificate, students may be required to earn the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers' (AIPB) Certified Bookkeeper (CB) Designation through an exam.

Accounting

Accounting is an associate degree program that includes foundational business courses and specialized accounting courses. Students will have the opportunity to obtain national certification through the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. The program is appropriate for the student who is ready to enter the workforce directly from HCC. Moreover, most, if not all credits within this degree will transfer to four year institutions*.

Addiction Studies

Addiction exacts a toll on individuals, families, and communities across the nation. Anyone whose life has been impacted by the disease of addiction knows the far-reaching effects this epidemic has. The Addiction Studies certificate prepares students with foundational knowledge to enter the treatment and recovery fields which are so critical to supporting our communities today. Students are encouraged to enter this certificate program in the Fall semester.

Applied Technology Option, Liberal Studies

This program was developed for students who wish to create a program of study that will enhance and support their occupational interest with a specific focus on science and technology. Students will select and design their program after meeting with an advisor. This design will become a contract agreement. Students must meet the general education requirements but may select courses that complement their employment and provide them with a college degree.

Behavioral Neuroscience Transfer Option, Arts and Science

The Behavioral Neuroscience Transfer Option is a transfer curriculum within the Psychology Department that prepares students for transfer to a four-year college with a major in behavioral neuroscience, neuroscience, neuropsychology, or a related field. The Behavioral Neuroscience Transfer Option provides students with a strong foundation in psychology, while also ensuring a substantial background in biology and chemistry.

Biology Option, Arts and Science

For students who want a strong foundation in the life sciences and who intend to pursue their interest in biology beyond the associates degree. Possible areas of concentration at the four-year college include: biology, genetics, botany, zoology, microbiology, biochemistry, marine biology, and wildlife conservation. Program flexibility allows students to follow their interests and to match coursework with the requirements of their selected transfer institution.

Biotechnology Option, Arts and Science

This program is intended for the student who is interested in pursuing a baccalaureate degree in the life sciences utilizing the basic principles of biotechnology. This technology is based on recent advances in the discipline of recombinant DNA technology. Students completing this option will have acquired the necessary laboratory skills and theoretical background for transfer to state or private colleges.

Business Administration MassTransfer Option, Business Administration

The Business Administration MassTransfer Option is for students who plan on transferring to the University of Massachusetts Amherst or any other Massachusetts State College or University. Students who are unsure of their future transfer plans should also enroll in this program.

Business Administration Option, Business Administration

The Business Administration Program focuses on general business and prepares students for entry level managerial positions within various types of organizations. The program is appropriate for the student who is ready to enter the workforce directly from HCC. Moreover, most if not all credits within this degree will transfer to four-year institutions. * *These determinations are specific to the transfer institutions

Chemistry Option, Arts and Science

An A.A. degree in chemistry will allow students to transfer to a program offering either a B.A. or B.S. degree in chemistry or related science. The A.A. degree in chemistry also leads to work as a laboratory technician in such areas as biotechnology, environmental studies, and food technology. Transfer students must determine their electives, particularly the foreign language, based on the requirements of the institute to which the student is transferring.

Child and Family Studies, Liberal Studies

Child and Family Studies is an exciting interdisciplinary major that prepares students to make positive impacts in the fields of child and family advocacy, family services, youth development, early intervention, human services, social work, and nonprofit leadership. When you complete this degree, you can either enter the workforce directly or transfer into a Bachelor's degree in Child and Family Studies.

Child Development

This certificate offers early educators working with children ages birth to 5 years old the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the early childhood education field through coursework preparation for the CDA credential. The CDA credentialing program assesses candidates using multiple sources of evidence, including an exam, observation, and professional portfolio with resources and competency statements prepared by the candidate.

Communication, Media and Theater Arts Integrated Studies (Cmta) Option, Arts and Science

The CMTA Integrated Studies Option is designed to allow students to create their own program of study integrating different areas within Communication, Media, Theater Arts, and other fields. Students interested in this option must meet with a member of the Communication, Media, and Theater Arts Department to design their course of study that will provide the best foundation for transferring to a four-year institution, or for entering the job market.

Communication Option, Arts and Science

The communication option provides a foundational understanding of communication in society and in our everyday lives, as well as the opportunity for students to develop skills in digital media production. Goals of the program are both skills-based and analytical:

Community Leadership

The purpose of the Community Leadership Certificate is to provide future and current community activists and organizers the skills and knowledge in the field of community organizing in non-profit organizations in Western Massachusetts, especially Holyoke, Chicopee and Springfield. The Community Leadership Certificate is for community activists and organizers who want to supplement their existing experience.

Computer Science Option, Computer Information Systems

This two-year program prepares students to enter the field of computer programming in an entry-level position, or transfer to a four-year Computer Science program.

Creative Writing Option, Arts and Science

HCC's Creative Writing Option is one of only a few of its kind in the country for students pursuing an Associate Degree. It's a solid academic program that allows students to explore a personal interest, while at the same time following the guidelines of a typical Associate of Arts degree, including the MassTransfer general education transfer block, which guarantees credit transfer to Massachusetts state colleges and universities.

Criminal Justice

The mission of the Criminal Justice Program is to educate and mentor students in a learning community which fosters ethical decision-making and the skills necessary to transfer to a four-year institution. Grounded in the social sciences, the program seeks to inspire a commitment to public service through a comprehensive academic understanding of criminal legal systems.

Critical Social Thought Option, Arts and Science

This program meets the freshman and sophomore requirements of most colleges and universities. It is especially designed to develop the reading, writing, speaking, and thinking skills of students by engaging them in critical examinations that cross disciplinary boundaries to raise fundamental questions, often marginalized in traditional academic discourse, about the complex power dynamics, inequalities, and inequities of both past and present societies.

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts Certificate Program prepares students for various types of cooking positions in the diverse field of foodservice. The program is accredited by the American Culinary Federation Education Foundation Accrediting Commission (ACFEFAC). HCC is the only Massachusetts community college with this designation. The certificate serves as the first year to HCC's A.A.S. in Culinary Arts. The Culinary Arts Certificate Program begins only in the fall semester.

Culinary Arts, Applied Science

The A.A.S. in Culinary Arts provides a degree-earning pathway for students who have completed the Certificate in Culinary Arts. The A.A.S. builds upon fundamental culinary techniques and principles developed in the certificate program and provides academic instruction in general education. Students graduating with an A.A.S. are positioned for professional growth within the food service industry. The A.A.S. in Culinary Arts is not designed as a transfer program.

Cyber Security

This certificate introduces students to the foundational concepts of modern computer security. This can function as a stand-alone certificate program, or be continued into the full Cyber Security and Digital Forensics associate program.

Cyber Security and Digital Forensics Option, Computer Information Systems

With the world making the move to become a truly digital society, we can now see the cracks that exist within today's technology. Without cyber security professionals, the world would be at the mercy of cyber criminals.

Data Science Option, Mathematics

This is a two-year program that prepares students for an entry- level position in the field of data science, or transfer to a four-year institution in pursuit of a bachelor's degree in a quantitative field such as: data science, statistics, computer science, the natural sciences or education.

Deaf Studies

The Deaf Studies Certificate is designed for students holding a degree in another field who already have basic American Sign Language skills.

Deaf Studies Option, Arts and Science

The two-year program prepares students to work with the deaf and hard-of-hearing population in a variety of entry-level positions.

Developmental Disabilities Direct Support

The Developmental Disabilities Direct Support Certificate was created in collaboration with the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) to offer college education to staff at agencies providing residential and employment programs and recreational, personal, and family support for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Students are encouraged to enter this Certificate Program in the Fall semester.

Early Childhood Education (ECE) Foundational

The Early Childhood Education (ECE) Foundational Certificate prepares students for entry level work in early education and care settings including family childcare and center-based programs. Students will develop knowledge of child development, an understanding of theories and philosophies of the field as well as familiarization with program types. Students will experience academic study, field-based observations, and practical learning opportunities.

Early Childhood Education, Grades PreK-2, Early Childhood Education

This program is designed for students interested in beginning the pursuit of a license in Early Childhood Education (Pre-K through Grade 2) in the Massachusetts Public School System through the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). Students in this program will be on a track to transfer to a four-year institution to continue toward eligibility for public school licensure.

Early Education and Care Option, Birth-age 8, Early Childhood Education

Graduates of this program more than satisfy the course and experience requirements for “Lead Teacher” status in programs licensed by the Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care (DEEC).

Education - Elementary Education Option, Grades 1-6, Liberal Studies

This program is designed for students interested in teaching elementary school, Grades 1 through 6. These students will transfer to many state and private institutions after receiving their Associate's Degree. Students who want to teach special education (PreK-8) can use this degree for transfer as well as students who want to work as paraprofessionals in elementary (1-6) classrooms.

Education - Secondary Education Option, Grades 5-12 and Specializations, Arts and Science

For transfer students interested in receiving a teaching license for middle school, high school, and specialized subjects from the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. These students will transfer to many state and private institutions after receiving their Associate's Degree.

Engineering

This certificate will help contribute to the national need for a diverse engineering workforce by supporting the recruitment, retention, graduation, and transfer of students in engineering programs at Holyoke Community College (HCC). The engineering department will work with students who express an interest in engineering, offering a series of courses that can be completed in one year. All certificate courses apply towards A.S. Engineering degrees at HCC.

Engineering Option, Engineering Studies

Provides the first two years of a traditional engineering program, in which the student chooses a particular engineering field: Mechanical/Civil/Industrial, Electrical, or Computer Systems.

Engineering Science Option, Engineering Studies

This program offers an alternative Engineering option to those students who are interested in Engineering, but not yet committed to one of the traditional engineering fields.

English Option, Arts and Science

The English option is designed for students who wish to broaden and deepen their love of literature while earning an associate's degree in liberal arts. Students who pursue the English option will discover important literary works in a variety of voices, genres, and styles while gaining valuable skills in critical thinking and effective communication.

Environmental Science Field Technician Option, Environmental Science

This option emphasizes environmental field investigation and includes strong laboratory preparation. Students gain an understanding of environmental science principles as they relate to the movement of contaminants through the ecosystem. Practical experience in the use of specialized sampling and analysis equipment and the methods to assess, control, and prevent environmental contamination are included.

Environmental Science Transfer Option, Environmental Science

The Environmental Science and Technology Transfer Option is focused on providing a strong foundation in environmental science and equipping the student for an efficient transfer to a 4-year institution by fulfilling the Massachusetts statewide transfer policy known as MassTransfer. Graduates of the program are trained in a wide spectrum of sophisticated technical procedures used in the laboratory and in the field.

Foundations of Health

The Foundations of Health Degree is designed for students with an interest in working in Allied Health. Although the program is geared towards health careers, it allows students a degree of flexibility within the curriculum to prepare for:

Geoscience Transfer Option, Environmental Science

The Geoscience Transfer Option provides a strong foundation in the earth and environmental sciences, and equips the student for an efficient transfer to a four-year institution by fulfilling the MassTransfer policy requirements. Graduates of the program receive a solid background in both the geosciences (physical and historical geology, oceanography) and environmental sciences that interface the Earth's atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.

Graphic Design

In the Graphic Design Certificate program, students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the dynamic and rapidly changing field of graphic design. Students successfully completing the Graphic Design Certificate will produce a portfolio preparing them for entry-level design positions. An interview with the program coordinator is required for acceptance into the Graphic Design Certificate program.

Graphics Option, Visual Art

The Graphics Option prepares students for transfer, leading to a BA or BFA degree and for the workplace. Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary for success in the dynamic and rapidly changing field of Graphic Design. Students successfully completing the Graphics Option will produce a portfolio that demonstrates an understanding of the elements and principles of Graphic Design.

Human Resource Management

Students who successfully complete this certificate program are prepared to begin entry-level positions in human resource management. Credits earned through the certificate program may be applied toward the Human Resource Management Option as well.

Human Resource Management Option, Business Administration

This two-year associate degree option prepares students for careers in human resource management. Students will learn fundamental concepts of human resource management, including but not limited to: job description, recruitment, interviewing and selection, hiring, training, compensation and incentive packages, and retention. Organizational culture and behavior is also a focus of this program.

Human Services

The Human Services Certificate is appropriate for those who may want to upgrade their skills and knowledge or are considering a career change into the human services field. The certificate is also part of a career ladder leading toward the Associate Degree in Human Services. Students are encouraged to enter this certificate program in the Fall semester. If they do so, it is possible to complete this certificate in one year, in consultation with their advisor.

Human Services

The Human Services program provides the academic work and field experience needed for successful careers in human services, as well as a strong foundation for transfer to four-year colleges and universities for programs in social work, human services, or other related majors. This program has been developed to align with the Mass Transfer Pathways Human Services to Social Work pathway.

Information Technology Management Option, Computer Information Systems

This two-year program prepares students to enter the field of Information Technology in an entry-level position, or transfer to a four-year CIS, MIS, or IT program.

LatinX Studies Option, Arts and Science

Latinx Studies is the interdisciplinary study of the historical, social, cultural, political, and economic forces that have shaped and continue to shape the development of Americans of Latinx origin and ancestry over the last 500 years. People of Latinx origin include a diverse population; these are communities who trace their ancestry to Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean.

Liberal Arts and Science Option, Arts and Science

Meets the freshman and sophomore requirements of most colleges and universities. Suggested for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution and who contemplate a major within the liberal arts and sciences. Also an excellent preparation for the workplace, civic engagement, and a successful, meaningful life in a rapidly changing, increasingly diverse and interconnected world.

Marketing

This certificate option prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and retail management. Students will learn marketing principles, advertising strategies, sales and customer service skills, and retail management objectives.

Marketing Option, Business Administration

This associate degree option prepares students for careers in marketing management, advertising, and retail management. Students will learn marketing principles, advertising strategies, sales and customer service skills, and retail management objectives.

Mathematics Option, Arts and Science

This option prepares students to transfer to mathematics programs at four-year colleges and universities within or outside the Massachusetts state system. With a bachelor's or graduate degree in mathematics, one can qualify for a broad range of careers in industry, business, government, and teaching. The primary function of this program is to prepare the student to transfer to a four-year college and major in mathematics.

Mental Health Studies

The Certificate in Mental Health Studies will serve as a professional development tool for those employed in the mental health and human services field, for those seeking to begin work in entry level roles, and as an academic stepping stone toward the Associate of Science degree in human services with transfer options to Bachelor of Science degree programs in human services and social work. Students are encouraged to enter this certificate program in the Fall semester.

Music

This program, designed for transfer to bachelor's degree programs in music at other colleges and universities, provides students with a comprehensive foundation in music. Upon completion of the program, students will be prepared for further college- level study in music. Students receive a rich perspective of music through exposure to many artistic and culturally diverse styles.

Music Performance

The purpose of the certificate is to acknowledge college-level work in Music for those who are not completing the full A.A. degree in Music. Upon completion of the certificate, when combined with another associate degree program, students will be prepared to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (rather than a Bachelor of Music) degree, or minor in Music, at their transfer institution.

Natural Resources Studies Transfer Option, Environmental Science

This program applies towards a Natural Resources Conservation degree at four-year colleges. In particular, this program is designed for direct transfer to the Natural Resource Conservation, Wildlife Conservation, and Fisheries Conservation majors in the Department of Environmental Conservation at the University of Massachusetts.

Nursing

Nursing is the art and science of caring. Nursing is an interpersonal process based on values, beliefs, and standards of the profession. Nursing is a profession which utilizes nursing knowledge and principles from the humanities and the biological, behavioral, and social sciences to assist individuals, groups, and communities in promoting, maintaining, and restoring health. The Associate in Science in Nursing Program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

Physics General Transfer Option, Arts and Science

The Physics General Transfer Option prepares students for transfer to public or private four-year colleges or universities with a major in physics. Physics majors can also transfer into programs in other areas of science and non-science. Physicists find employment opportunities in industry, government, and education in fields such as, physics, engineering, computer software, and business.

Physics MassTransfer Option, Arts and Science

The Physics Mass Transfer Option prepares students for transfer to public or private four-year colleges or universities with a major in physics. This option satisfies the requirements of the MassTransfer Program, facilitating transfer to four-year baccalaureate programs at state universities and the University of Massachusetts. Physicists find employment opportunities in industry, government, and education in fields such as, physics, engineering, computer software, and business.

Practical Nursing

Nursing is the art and science of caring. Nursing is an interpersonal process based on values, beliefs, and standards of the profession. Nursing is a profession which utilizes nursing knowledge and principles from the humanities and the biological, behavioral, and social sciences to assist individuals, groups, and communities in promoting, maintaining, and restoring health. The Practical Nurse Certificate Program is approved by the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Nursing.

Psychology Option, Arts and Science

The Psychology Option is designed primarily to prepare students to transfer and achieve academic success at four-year colleges and universities. The program addresses the student learning goals and outcomes developed by the Psychology Department in accordance with the American Psychological Association's Guidelines for the Undergraduate Psychology Major (Version 3.0, 2023).

Radiologic Technology

The HCC Radiologic Technology Program prepares graduates to immediately enter the workforce as a professional in the field of diagnostic medical imaging. The Radiologic Technology Program provides a well-structured, academic, and competency-based curriculum that prepares students to practice in the discipline of radiography.

Sociology Option, Arts and Science

The Sociology Option is intended for students desiring a solid liberal arts education as well as those interested in transferring to four- year colleges in the social sciences. Students select courses from areas such as family, religion, government, the environment, social changes, social deviance, social problems, substance abuse, social inequality, diversity, disability, race, class, and gender.

Sport Management

This degree prepares students to transfer to a four-year baccalaureate institution.

Theater Arts Option, Arts and Science

The theater option is committed to providing students with broad- based training and study in theater arts, including foundational classes in acting, technical theater, and dramaturgy. The faculty at HCC is committed to providing students with a practical application of study by collaborating on the production of various theater performances on campus. The program prepares students for transfer to a 4-year institution, and is suited for students who wish to pursue careers in the fields of:

University Without Walls Option, Liberal Studies

This option was designed to prepare students to transfer into University without Walls programs at UMass and other colleges and universities that grant credit for prior learning. The program also meets the Mass Transfer requirements, which guarantees transfer to all state colleges and universities.

Veterinary Assistant

The Holyoke Community College Veterinary Assistant Certificate program prepares students to become effective, knowledgeable, and compassionate members of the veterinary medical team in a variety of animal healthcare settings. The HCC Veterinary Assistant Certificate program is approved by the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).

Veterinary Technician Option, Veterinary and Animal Science

The Holyoke Community College Veterinary Technician program equips paraprofessional personnel to become effective, knowledgeable, and compassionate members of veterinary medical teams in a variety of animal healthcare settings. The HCC Veterinary Technician program is fully accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities.

Visual Art

The Visual Art program prepares students for transfer leading to a BA or BFA degree and continued studio practice. Students successfully completing the Visual Art program will produce a portfolio of two-and three-dimensional artwork that demonstrates an understanding of form and content.