Career Programs

Career degree programs provide career-specific coursework and typically result in an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree. You can complete these programs and immediately enter the workforce. Most programs can be completed in approximately two years.

Art

  • Digital Art/Design - This program prepares students for a career as a graphic artist/designer in information technology industries related to the visual arts. Students obtain a solid theoretical foundation in traditional art and design, in addition to developing advanced skills in Macintosh hardware and Adobe software for quality computer graphics and design production. Employment of graphic artists is expected to grow faster than the average for all occupations. Demand will be strong as producers of information, goods and services place even more emphasis on visual appeal in product design, advertising, marketing, and media. Further, the demand for design for the web and mobile devices will spur employment of graphic artists.

Business

  • Baking and Pastry - This program is designed to provide training essential to effective baking and pastry management in the hospitality industry. Graduates will be able to oversee baking and pastry food service operations including hotel, health care, cruise ship, catering, and manufacturing. They will gain expertise in menu planning, cost controls, marketing, nutrition, sanitation, and food preparation and production. This program prepares students for entry- to mid-level positions within the hospitality industry. This degree program is associated with the college’s 30 credit-hour certificate in Baking and Pastry Arts (curriculum code 1323).

  • Business Administration Associate - This program is designed to provide students with employment or advancement in business, industry, government, or service organizations. The curriculum is intended to serve the needs of students who want to enter management positions and to enable those already in management to upgrade their skills and potential for growth. This program includes an internship/seminar component.

  • Culinary Arts Management - This program is designed to provide small business management training essential to effective culinary arts management in the hospitality industry. Graduates will be able to oversee any food service operation, including hotel, health care, cruise ship, catering, and manufacturing; and will have expertise in menu planning, cost controls, marketing, nutrition, sanitation, and food preparation and production. The program prepares students for entry- to mid-level positions within the hospitality industry. Employment in restaurants is expected to grow rapidly as the average age of the population increases and demand for restaurant services and varied menus increases. Thus, more highly skilled chefs and cooks will be needed. Employment of institutional and cafeteria chefs and cooks will grow about as fast as average, and will be concentrated in educational and health service sectors.

  • Human Resources Management - This program is designed to prepare students for the operations, control, training, and development of personnel in the workplace. It examines the process of employee recruitment, selection and placement of individuals for appropriate areas of employment, equal opportunity, staffing, training, evaluations, maintaining the organization, and rewards. This program includes an internship/ seminar component. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the job market for human resources specialists and trainers is expected to grow much faster than average through the year 2018.

  • Marketing and Management - This program is designed to provide students with entry-level employment or advancement within businesses involved in the marketing of goods or services. This program prepares students for career opportunities as store managers, department and division managers, product managers, warehouse managers, and purchasing agents. This list is not inclusive of all occupations available to marketing and management graduates since management positions vary in fields such as product and production planning, advertising, sales, retailing, wholesaling, distribution, consumer research, small business ownership, and general business administration. An important feature of this program is the internship/seminar component. Jobs for retail supervisors and managers without college-level coursework are expected to be very competitive. Some retail companies have begun requiring their sales staff to report directly to upper-management personnel, bypassing the department-level manager. Many job openings will occur as experienced supervisors and managers move into higher levels of management.

  • Restaurant/Hotel Management - This program applies management training to the hospitality industry in general, and the restaurant and hotel industry in particular. Management operations include personnel, inventory control, accounting, menu planning, food preparation, marketing, layout and design, front desk procedures, and catering. In addition to growing demand for managers, the need to replace managers who transfer to other occupations or stop working for a variety of reasons will create many new jobs. Job opportunities are expected to be best for persons with associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in restaurant and institutional food service management.

Computer Information and Office Technology

  • Computer Information Systems - This program prepares students for careers in information technology. Graduates qualify for positions in application development, web design and development, technical support, software support, and/or database administration. Students may choose their specialty courses based on their interests and will use state-of-the-art technology to complete their coursework.

  • Office Technology - This program prepares students for careers in administrative support and first-line supervision. Graduates will qualify for positions as administrative professionals. Students may also choose an office manager, legal office professional or medical office professional path. Students completing this program are expected to possess excellent keyboarding, proofreading, and document formatting skills; advanced computer application skills; strong communication skills; broad administrative support skills; excellent interpersonal skills; flexibility; and professionalism. Students completing this program may be expected to supervise lower-level clerical staff. Students with work experience and advanced skills should contact the program coordinator for assessment and course substitution information. An important feature of this program is the internship/seminar component that provides on-the-job training and offers the student new to the field an opportunity to work in and evaluate a professional setting. The employer also can evaluate the student for possible full-time employment upon graduation. Students wishing to enroll in the internship/seminar should contact the internship coordinator prior to enrollment.

Computer Integrated Technologies

  • Automation and Engineering Technology - This program prepares students for a career in the production automation, robotics, and industrial networking. This program provides in-depth knowledge and practical experience in production automation, robotics, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). Students will be working with state-of-the-art equipment including industrial robotics systems and automation controllers. Students focus their studies in five high-demand tracks: CAD Automation, Electrical Automation, IT Automation, Mechanical Automation, and Mechatronics.

  • Computer and Local Area Technician - This program prepares students for entry-level positions as a data communications specialist in the information technology profession. Common career titles include PC support technician, LAN specialist, help desk support specialist, LAN system administrator, LAN design specialist, LAN engineer, and many others. The program prepares students for rewarding careers at the forefront of the information technological revolution. Students will examine the installation, maintenance, repair, and management of desktop PCs and local area networks. Students receive hands-on training in network operating systems, user administration, network security, and LAN switching and routing. The program also helps students prepare for CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Cisco CCNA certifications. Graduates of this program possess a wide range of product knowledge as well as hands-on experience in hardware and software installation and support. Employment for electronic and computer technicians is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations. New technologies and increased computer use will continue to stimulate the demand for such workers, and many will find employment in private and public industries.

  • Computer Graphics Imagery - This program provides students with contemporary training and experience in the emerging and high-employment field of computer graphics imagery (CGI). Engineering and architectural firms employ skilled workers in computer graphics to create photo-realistic renderings, two- and three-dimensional computer animations, and three-dimensional models for manufacturers, designers, customers and builders. Computer graphics imagery technologies focus on the possible relationships between parts, objects, people and environments. Computer-generated models are matched to real-world data in order to build simulations. Computer graphic architectural modeling tools allow designers to visualize space and generate interactive and virtual environments at the part, system and environment levels.

  • Electronic/Computer Controls Tech - This program prepares students for entry-level positions as an electronic and computer control technician found in manufacturing, chemical plants, process control environments, packaging and automated warehouse environments. Electrical, electronic, industrial, PC, and PLC controls will be examined. Lab exercises simulate real-world problems that technicians confront on the job daily. Employment for electronic and computer technicians is expected to grow. New technologies and increased computer use will continue to stimulate the demand for such workers.

  • Integrated Systems Technology - This program prepares students for entry-level positions as electrical and mechanical technicians found in bakeries, manufacturing, chemical plants and material handling and automated warehouse environments. Workers in this field maintain, calibrate, and repair the electrical, mechanical, and electronic equipment found in today’s industrial environments. This program involves cross-training in these areas of multiple, integrated systems.

  • IT Security Specialist - This program is designed to provide a comprehensive program to develop a skilled workforce in the emerging field of information technology security. Managing information security programs consists of preserving information confidentiality and protection, risk management, data and system integrity, availability, authenticity, and utility. The program is based on information security concepts, principles, methods, techniques, practices, and procedures that guide today’s IT security professionals. This program prepares graduates to become employed as IT security specialists, firewall and VPN specialists, and data assurance specialists. Additionally, the program concentrates on industry-specific requirements in the health care and financial areas, as well as other institutions that currently use electronic commerce. The degree program is designed with an IT Security core curriculum combined with a set of fundamental IT courses. In addition, the program requires the completion of a traditional group of general education courses.

Education

  • Early Childhood Educator - This program prepares students for careers in early childhood development. It provides mid-management skills needed to work in kindergartens, nursery schools, daycare centers, and special programs for children from infancy through age 8.

  • Paraprofessional Educator - This program prepares students for a career as a paraprofessional educator (teacher’s aide) in regular and special education classes in elementary and secondary schools and in social service agencies. Moraine Valley’s program provides students with a strong foundation for a career in education through classroom work and observation in the field. Employment of paraprofessionals is expected to grow.

Health Sciences

  • Addictions Studies - This program is designed to give students an opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become a certified addictions counselor in Illinois through the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association (IAODAPCA)/Illinois Certification Board (ICB). The Illinois Division of Alcohol and Substance Abuse (DASA), under the Department of Human Services, recognizes certification as a qualifying credential for Addiction Counseling staff working in licensed addictions treatment programs. Students who complete the Associate in Applied Science degree are eligible to take the credentialing exam for the Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC). It is especially important and valuable to note that upon completion of this degree, the normal two-year work experience requirement for Certified Addictions Counselor candidates is waived. This means that a student who earns an Associate's Degree in Addiction Studies will only have to take and pass the certification exam in order to become a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

  • Emergency Medical Services - This program is designed for students intending to go into the public or private sector as Paramedics. Individual lives often depend on quick reaction and competent care of paramedics. Incidents as varied as auto accidents, heart attacks, slips and falls, childbirth, and gunshot wounds all require immediate medical attention. Paramedics provide these vital services as they care for and transport the sick and injured to a medical facility. The Paramedic provides the most extensive pre-hospital care, which includes administration of medications orally and intravenously, endotracheal intubation, and defibrillations of patients in lethal arrhythmias. The Paramedic is employed in a number of industries, including the private ambulance service, municipal fire department or facility responses on helicopters and fixed wing transport vehicles. The Paramedic may also take the National Registry Examination for Paramedics, which will permit a graduate flexibility when seeking employment opportunities. The Paramedic certificate program is held at Advocate Christ Medical Center. Application to the program is made to The Center for Prehospital Care at Advocate Christ Medical Center.

  • Health Information Technology - This program prepares students for a career that places them right where the expanding arena of health care meets the cutting edge of technology. Health information technicians ensure the quality of medical records by verifying their completeness, accuracy and proper entry into computer systems. They also may use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data for the purpose of improving patient care or controlling costs. Health information technicians (RHITs) often specialize in coding diagnoses and procedures in patient records for reimbursement and research. RHITs may serve as cancer registrars, compiling and maintaining data on cancer patients. The Health Information Technology Program is a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree program that integrates medical science, diagnosis and procedure coding systems, computer technology, and health care management.

  • Nursing - This program prepares students for nursing careers in hospitals and other health care facilities. Admitted students who wish to earn an Associate in Science degree in addition to an Associate in Applied Science degree should consult with an advisor in the Academic Advising Center. Students learn to deliver nursing care to people of all ages using principles of the biological, physical and behavioral sciences, plus study how to assess nursing care needs of patients and how to make judgments in planning, implementing and evaluating appropriate nursing care. This two-year program starts in either the fall or spring of each year and continues for a total of five consecutive semesters, including prerequisites and excluding summer. The Nursing Program conducts a rigorous curriculum of lectures, labs and clinicals. Clinicals are conducted on site at a variety of hospitals during the day time or evening with no flexibility in scheduling. Therefore, holding a full-time job while in the program may affect student success and is not recommended. However, general education classes are available morning, afternoon or evening, and can be completed part-time, if necessary.

  • Radiologic Technology - This program prepares graduates for professional careers in the medical health field. Graduates are eligible for employment in hospitals, clinics and physicians’ offices. The program includes instruction in radiologic technique theory, patient positioning for diagnostic procedures and progressive clinical experience. Admitted students who wish to earn an Associate in Science degree in addition to an Associate in Applied Science degree should consult with an advisor in the Academic Advising Center. Employment of radiologic technologists is expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations, as the health care industry grows and because of the vast clinical potential of diagnostic imaging and therapeutic technology. However, while a significant increase in radiologic technologist employment is anticipated, job seekers are likely to face competition from many other qualified applicants for most openings.

  • Respiratory Therapy - This program prepares students as critical-care specialists to assist a primary-care physician in managing patients with serious heart and lung disorders. Respiratory therapists are responsible for administering medical gases, managing electronic monitoring equipment, controlling life-support systems, and handling various medical emergencies. Related responsibilities may include diagnostic testing of breathing disorders, rehabilitation of patients with long-standing pulmonary disease, and asthma education. Admitted students who wish to earn an Associate in Science degree in addition to an Associate in Applied Science degree should consult with an advisor in the Academic Advising Center. Job opportunities are expected to remain good. Employment of respiratory therapists is expected to increase much faster than average because of substantial growth of middle-aged and elderly populations.

  • Sleep Technology - This program prepares students for careers as sleep technologists. Sleep technologists are health-care professionals who work as part of a team under the general supervision of a licensed physician to assist in the education, evaluation, treatment and follow-up of sleep disorders patients. The scope of practice of sleep technologists enables them to work in sleep centers, laboratories for sleep related breathing disorders, home environments, and non-facility-based settings under the direction of the sleep specialist. This program includes instruction and experience in polysomnographic recording procedures, application of positive airway pressure and oxygen, sleep study scoring, patient care and education, pediatric sleep, sleep disorders, and sleep center management.

Mechanical Technologies

  • Automotive Technology - This program familiarizes the student with the technical aspects of operating and servicing various components and systems used in automotive applications. Classroom lecture is devoted to theory of operation, troubleshooting and repair. Lab work incorporates work on equipment in which safety, business ethics, testing procedures, and techniques are emphasized. Jobs are plentiful for automotive technicians with the strong electronics background needed to work on today’s vehicles. The growing complexity of automotive technology, the introduction of hybrid vehicles, the increased use of electronics and emissions control systems and the demand for increased fuel efficiency, all require that vehicles be serviced by highly trained technicians. Rising consumer purchase power; expansion of the driving-age population; and automobiles needing maintenance for pollution control, safety devices and air conditioning contribute to the growth of this occupation.

  • Stationary Engineer - This program is designed to prepare students for employment at the management level in the construction industry.

Public Service

  • Criminal Justice - This program prepares students for entry-level careers in the criminal justice system, including careers in policing, the courts and corrections. Employment of police officers is expected to grow faster than the average, while employment of correctional officers is expected to increase much faster than the average. Because of the attractive salaries and benefits, the number of qualified candidates exceeds the number of job openings in federal law enforcement agencies and in most state, local and special police departments, resulting in increased hiring standards and selectivity by employers.

  • Fire Service Operations - This program is designed to help students gain the entry level job skills needed for careers in the fire service. Students will cover all the topics and hands-on skills required for certification as a Basic Operations Firefighter within the State of Illinois. Students will also complete a mandatory internship which will allow them to be rostered members of a local fire department.

  • Paralegal Studies - This program prepares the next generation of educated, ethical legal professionals who provide support to lawyers, judges, and others in the legal community. The program aims to develop 21st century paralegals focused on access to justice, current trends in the law, and continuous learning and professional development. The program does so by developing paralegals’ skills in writing, research, and technology, which will result in exceptional support and assistance to those employing our graduates. The program also develops paralegals’ substantive and procedural paralegal skills in areas such as bankruptcy law, civil law, criminal law, family law, real estate law, and probate law, which will result in a value-added contributor to the legal support team. Finally, the program develops paralegals’ ethical and professional competencies, which will result in invaluable assistance to lawyers in the pursuit of access to justice for all citizens.

  • Recreation Therapy - This program prepares students for a professional career in recreation therapy. Recreation Therapy professionals help people in community and clinical settings. Recreation therapists plan, and implement therapeutic-based treatment programs for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses. These therapists use a variety of modalities including arts and crafts, drama, music, dance, sports, aquatics and community outings to help maintain or improve a person's physical, social, cognitive, spiritual and emotional well-being. Graduates are eligible for employment in physical rehabilitation centers, medical rehabilitation centers, hospitals, long-term care, skilled care, adult day care, alcohol and drug treatment centers, special recreation associations, and mental health agencies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment of recreational therapists is projected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average of all occupations. As the large baby-boom generation ages, they will need recreational therapists to help treat age-related injuries and illnesses and to help them maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Hospitals will provide a large number of recreation therapy jobs, with additional jobs provided by long-term rehabilitation and psychiatric hospitals. Continued growth is expected in community residential facilities, park districts and day care programs for people with disabilities.

  • Sport and Recreation Management - This program prepares graduates for professional careers in the recreation industry. Recreation and Sport Management professionals plan and implement recreation and sport programs, services, and activities for people from diverse backgrounds and a wide range of activities. Graduates are eligible for employment in park districts, corporate recreation, commercial recreation, and employee recreation. The program includes instruction in facility management, program planning, fiscal management, technology, human resource, marketing and public relations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of recreation workers is projected to grow 10 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. As more emphasis is placed on the importance of exercise, more recreation workers will be needed to work in local government parks and recreation departments, fitness centers, sports centers, and camps specializing in younger participants.