Educational Options

Muskegon Community College offers more than 80 degrees and certificates, short-term credentials and a variety of other options to provide our students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for today’s in-demand and emerging career fields. Our faculty are dedicated to providing MCC students with the knowledge and critical thinking skills they will need beyond the classroom.

MCC Offerings
Partnership Programs

Higher Education Partnership Programs

In addition to the many traditional transfer opportunities available to MCC students, the college also partners with three universities in unique programs allowing occupational students to transfer to a high quality baccalaureate program. In all transfer programs, be sure to see an MCC counselor for details.

Ferris State University

Ferris State University partners with MCC to provide opportunities to complete a bachelor’s degree locally and affordably. Some programs allow students to take up to 90 credits at MCC and 30 credits at Ferris to earn their bachelor’s degree. These programs are available through a combination of community college courses and Ferris State University courses delivered in Grand Rapids and/or online coursework.

Business Administration
This program prepares students for the rapidly changing nature of the work environment in business, government, and other nonprofit organizations. The program is designed to equip graduates not only for entry-level positions, but also for advancement as well. Building upon a core of business courses, the program features a tight sequence of major courses; however, the program also provides the flexibility to specialize in an area of interest for the student.

Business Administration-Professional Track
The Business Administration-Professional Track provides a degree completion program in Business Administration for students who have prior coursework containing a professional or occupational emphasis (i.e. Accounting, Human Resources, Marketing, Cosmetology and many others).

Computer Information Systems
Computers and information systems are essential in many aspects of business, industry, and life. Individual business departments, corporations, or multi-national enterprises need professional, highly skilled computer systems problem-solvers to keep them operating at peak efficiency. The CIS curriculum provides a broad understanding of core business functions, competency in computer programming, knowledge of information technology infrastructure, and a sound foundation in systems analysis and design.

Computer Information Technology
This curriculum prepares you for several industry certifications such as: CompTIA’s: A+, Network+, Linux+, Security+, and Microsoft’s System Administration Certification (MCSA). Transfer your MCC courses and complete your bachelor’s degree with a combination of Ferris courses in Grand Rapids and/or online.

Criminal Justice
This Generalist option prepares the student to seek federal, state and/or local Criminal Justice agency employment or admission to law school or graduate school, and it gives students an education with a broad focus in Criminal Justice. The program offers small class sizes, usually between 15 to 30 students, and our degreed faculty members have extensive Criminal Justice experience and utilize a pragmatic approach to prepare students for a career in Criminal Justice. The most common positions for graduates of this program are: police officer, corrections officer, community correction officer, probation officer, detective, federal agent, and investigator for a multitude of public and private agencies and/or corporations.

Early Childhood Education
In the Early Childhood Education program, students will study important topics such as early childhood development, nutrition, first aid, and children’s literature. Students will also receive a broad educational background by completing general education courses in English, mathematics, humanities and sociology. This degree does not prepare students to become certified teachers; however, graduates of the Early Childhood Education major find positions in Head Start programs, Great Start Readiness Programs, day care center, or family day care homes, elementary schools, hospitals, recreation centers, or other child related businesses.

Industrial Technology and Management
If you have technical education, technical training, an apprenticeship or military training in your background and you’re looking for a career move to production supervision, sales engineering, production planning, quality, engineering supervision, project management, continuous improvement, an administrative role or advanced technical position, this degree is for you.

Manufacturing Engineering Technology – Manufacturing or Quality Concentration
This curriculum offers instruction and practical experience in all facets of manufacturing engineering. Study through hands on applied coursework/projects in quality control, manufacturing methods, industrial engineering, plant layout, automation, and uses of lean allows graduates to participate in the design of a total product manufacturing system. A quality concentration is also available for those seeking to become Quality Engineers.

Product Design Engineering Technology
Focusing on all facets of the design process, our Product Design Engineering Technology program will provide you with versatile design skills that apply to a wide range of industries. You will begin with conceptual drawing and move through the creation of complex layouts, prototypes and the integration of manufacturing principles into your design.

Grand Valley State University

Transfer Connections provides services to students who transfer to Grand Valley State University from other colleges and universities with assistance including transfer advising and navigating the academic and cultural landscape of the university.

Services focus on supporting a successful transition, helping transfers build connections and community, and assisting students as they explore and pursue their academic and career goals.

For more information or to schedule an appointment go to Grand Valley State University, Transfer Connections or call (231) 777-0505 or (616) 215-9067 or visit Grand Valley State University our office on the MCC Campus Room 1309C, Stevenson Center for Higher Education.

Nursing-RN to BSN
This degree is designed for associate degree and diploma RNs who want to further their education. To participate in this program, you must have an RN license and a 2.5 minimum GPA. Financial aid is available and may include concurrent enrollment at both institutions (online format).

Michigan State University

Agriculture
Michigan State University partners with MCC to provide opportunities to students interested in Agriculture programs. MCC offers two degrees, the AAS in Agriculture and the AAS in Food Processing Technology, which combine MCC courses with one of four certificates available from MSU: Agriculture Operations, Fruit and Vegetable Crop Management, Landscape Management, and Food Processing and Safety. For more information, call (231) 777-0576 to speak with the Muskegon Program Coordinator of the Institute of Agricultural Technology.

Nursing-RN to BSN
A concurrent enrollment agreement provides a seamless pathway for MCC students to enroll at MSU while they are completing their associate degree program and to directly enter the MSU online RN to BSN program. MCC graduates who are accepted will benefit through the facilitation of a smooth transition from their associate degree in nursing into MSU’s online Bachelor of Science in nursing program.

Online Learning

Welcome

Welcome to Online Learning! Here at Muskegon Community College, we understand that each of our students comes to college with a diverse set of needs, schedules, and goals. To help you on your own unique educational journey, MCC offers an array of online learning opportunities, programs, and classes. We offer approximately 150 online sections each semester in the following modalities.

Online Asynchronous Classes

Online asynchronous classes do not have a scheduled meeting time or location and are taught entirely online using Blackboard. You will interact with your instructor, classmates, and course content through various learning activities and assessments, and you will be able to do so as your schedule allows. That said, online asynchronous classes have regular deadlines that students must meet, and your instructor may require live or proctored testing (see Student Planning for details). Online asynchronous classes are ideal for self-disciplined learners who are comfortable using technology and want more control over the time and location of their learning.

Online Synchronous Classes

Online synchronous classes are taught entirely online using Blackboard; however, these classes differ from asynchronous classes because they have a required, scheduled meeting time. Online synchronous classes utilize a web-conferencing platform for meetings such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams; therefore, you must have Internet access, a webcam, and a microphone to participate. In addition to the virtual meetings, you will complete learning activities and assessments online following your instructor’s deadlines. Online synchronous classes are ideal for students who want the flexibility of online learning but may also need some instructor support and interaction.

Hybrid Classes

Think of hybrid classes as a combination of online and in-person learning. Much like an online asynchronous class, you will use Blackboard to complete the online course requirements. The difference is that the required, scheduled meetings or exams for hybrid classes happen in person (and sometimes virtually). It is important to ensure that when you register for a hybrid class, the time and place of the classes and exams fit your schedule (all this information is detailed in Student Planning). Hybrid classes are ideal for students who learn best from regular instructor and peer interaction but can also manage completing assignments online.

Preparing for Online Learning

Online Readiness Check

Online learning has many advantages: flexibility, convenience, reduced commute expenses and time, technology skill building, and so much more. This does not mean, however, that online learning is a good fit for all students, and Muskegon Community College encourages each student to honestly evaluate their skills, learning preferences, self-discipline, needs, and competencies before enrolling in an online course. This online readiness check can help you determine if online learning is right for you. And if you still have questions about whether or not you should take an online/hybrid class, we encourage you to make an appointment with a counselor or reach out to an instructor. We want you to be successful!

Online Instruction Readiness Quiz Revised

Welcome – You are just a click away from beginning the Online Readiness questionnaire. Online and hybrid courses are great options for learning, but their unique requirements means that they may not be the best choice for everyone. After completing this short questionnaire, you will be given a score. Use that score to interpret your online readiness.

Technology Check

Depending on your program or course requirements, you may need to know exactly what software is running on your computer and which version. You can test your technology through the Michigan Colleges Online website. Click on the “Is My Technology Ready?” option. Scroll down and click on the “Detect My Technology Now” button to learn about your computer.

FAQ

What classes are offered online?

Go to our Search for Classes page and utilize the 3 ways available to search for classes. Also see courses by Academic Department.

Can I earn an associate degree or certificate 100% online?

Yes. We currently have several online programs. It is possible to earn other degrees 100% online; however, the electives chosen might not be the best fit for the area of study. MCC’s priority is to meet the needs of students, and our counselors are ready to assist you with developing a course of study to meet your needs. You can get online advice though our Online Advising page.

I just registered for an online/hybrid class. Now what?

Congratulations on braving the world of online learning! Your class will be made available either on the start date or earlier depending on your instructor. As the start date nears, check your MCC email for important updates, information, and requirements about the course from your instructor. If textbooks, technology, or other resources are required, you may have to obtain those before the start of class. You should also log into Blackboard through MyMCC a week before the class starts to address any to-do items assigned by your instructor.

Can I use a Chromebook for online coursework?

No, not usually. Chromebooks are not computers and are not compatible with many of the technology requirements needed to use Blackboard, access textbook publisher content, and download certain software. We urge those students with Chromebooks to plan on utilizing the computer and library labs on campus.

What browser should I use for online learning?

Google Chrome. We find that other Internet browsers such as Safari and Internet Explorer do not always interact well with our Learning Management System, Blackboard.

I’m having a problem with my technology. What should I do?

Call the 24/7 Central Help desk number: 1-866-718-5170.

How much time will I spend completing work for an online class?

Plan to spend 8-12 hours on coursework per course per week. Online classes often require more reading and writing than their in-person counterparts, potentially making them more challenging and time consuming. The idea that online classes are easier than in-person classes is a myth. 

Do online classes have a separate tuition structure?

No. Tuition for online/hybrid classes is the same as for in-person classes. See registration for tuition information.

How do I know if I need to come to campus for an exam or a test?

Any online section that requires on-campus testing will have a statement about this requirement in the additional notes sections within Student Planning. In Student Planning, you can access the notes by clicking on the section title; a box will appear with all the additional information. Always check the notes in Student Planning before registering for a class.

How will I take exams or tests in an online class?

Many online classes require room scans and webcam monitoring during online exams using a program called Respondus Lockdown Browser. Your instructor will guide you through the process of downloading and using Respondus. If you have privacy concerns, you may request to take online exams at the MCC Testing Center or make other arrangements with your instructor at the beginning of the semester.

Whom should I contact for questions about online classes?

If you have questions about a specific class, the best person to contact is the instructor or Department Chair. Students and prospective students can also contact a counselor with general questions about online learning.

How should I contact my instructor?

Your instructor likely has a preferred contact method listed in the course or the Simple Syllabus. Locate that and use it to communicate with your instructor. You will find that there are many ways in which your instructor can interact with you in an online class: discussion boards, Blackboard messages, email, Gradebook feedback, submission comments, group forums, and more. Prospective students can search for instructors on the MCC website to locate their email addresses.

Reverse Transfer

What is Reverse Transfer?

Reverse transfer is an agreement between Muskegon Community College and other four-year universities within Michigan that allows students to receive an associate degree by combining credits completed at Muskegon Community with credits earned at the four-year university. An associate’s degree from MCC requires 62 credits, with various requirements, depending on your elected program. Reverse transfer is not applicable to certificates offered at MCC, only associate’s degrees.

What are the benefits of Reverse Transfer?

Reverse transfer provides students with an opportunity to add a marketable credential to their resume that will help give them an edge in the workforce. Obtaining an associate degree also allows students to receive full credit for their academic achievements. Students who receive their associate’s degree are more likely to finish their bachelor’s degree, increase their earning power, and increase their hire ability by showing competency and a dedication to finishing an educational milestone.

Reverse Transfer Partners InstitutionMinimum MCC Credits
Ferris State University Agreement30
Grand Valley State University Agreement30
Western Michigan University Agreement45

How do I know if I am eligible?

If you recently transferred to a four year institution from Muskegon Community, the university’s Registrar Office will notify you via email that you are eligible for review based on the number of credit hours you have completed, typically at the end of a semester.

What happens next?

If you are eligible, fill out Reverse Transfer Release Form, included in your email and turn it into your university’s Registrar Office. The form and your transcripts will be released to Muskegon Community College and they will be reviewed to see if you have qualified to be awarded the associates degree. All correspondence regarding the results of the review will be sent directly to you from Muskegon Community College.

Am I guaranteed a degree from Muskegon Community College?

No. The sending of your transcript to MCC does not guarantee the granting of a degree. The courses you have completed will be evaluated and is subject to the degree and residency requirements of Muskegon Community College, which will be the degree granting institution. A minimum grade point average of a 2.0 is required.

How will I be notified to know if I qualify?

You will be informed by mail if you meet or do not meet the degree requirements.

MCC Reverse Transfer Statistics

The following statistics reflect MCC’s reverse transfers from Fall 2012 through Fall 2019:

Students Opted-In to Reverse Transfer – by University

University# Students
Grand Valley State University79
Ferris State University19
Western Michigan University19
Total117

Reverse Transfer Graduates – by University

University# Students
Grand Valley State University26
Ferris State University5
Western Michigan University2
Total33

Reverse Transfer Credentials Awarded – by Credential/Degree

Credential/Degree# Credentials Awarded
Associate in Science & Arts (A.S.A.)23
Associate in General Studies (A.G.S)8
Health Science A.S.A.1
Manufacturing Engineering Technology A.A.S.1
Total33

For more information:

Muskegon Community College
Email: officeoftheregistrar@muskegoncc.edu
Phone: 231-777-0519

Policies and Resources

Blackboard Ultra

MCC has transitioned to Blackboard Ultra starting Summer 2024 as a means of improving both faculty and student user experiences. This transition was several years in the making and required extensive planning, training, technology updates, and course design work to make it happen. Student success is our goal, and MCC believes that the Ultra experience will remove barriers for students, making success all the more attainable. Students who need help navigating Bb Ultra can select the question mark icon within Bb at any time or access the Blackboard Help Center. Faculty can also utilize the question mark icon within Bb or the Instructor Help Center.

MCC’s Statement on Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Muskegon Community College is dedicated to improving lives and communities through education. This mission includes developing proficiency in the use of innovative technologies such as generative AI. The advent of AI is full of promise, but it also calls into question some fundamental aspects of formal education such as the nature of learning, assessment, authorship and ownership. As an institution committed to integrity as well as learning, Muskegon Community College recognizes generative AI both as a useful tool and as a potential threat to scholarly values. Therefore, in the spirit of embracing emergent technologies while maintaining institutional excellence, the college empowers individual faculty members to create their own AI policies in accordance with the needs of their disciplines and the college’s policy on academic integrity. Students must adhere to college and instructor policies and cite any use of AI. The unauthorized submission of AI-generated work in place of a student’s original work is unacceptable and subject to the consequences outlined in MCC’s Academic Integrity Policy.

State Authorization for Online Students

The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is an agreement amongst member states, districts, and territories that establishes comparable national standards and streamlines regulations, fees, and approvals for institutions offering interstate distance education programs. NC-SARA makes it easier for students to access distance education programs across state lines, and provides a set of uniform policies for student consumer protections that otherwise would vary state by state. MCC voluntarily participates in this program.

ETOM

MCC is a member of ETOM: The Educational Technology Organization of Michigan. This is a “non-profit organization dedicated to the use of instructional technologies in higher education with an emphasis on distance learning.” Many MCC instructors have Online Teacher Certifications through ETOM.

ACUE

MCC partners with ACUE: The Association of College and University Educators. ACUE “offers the only teaching certification endorsed by the American Council on Education. Certifying faculty in ACUE’s Effective Teaching Practice Framework is proven to propel students’ success, increase retention of first-year students, and lower DFW rates.” Many MCC instructors have a full or partial certification through ACUE.

Copyright Compliance

The U.S. Copyright Office governs the use of copyrighted material, and Muskegon Community College supports these laws.

Accreditation

Muskegon Community College has been accredited or approved by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1929. Accreditation is important because it assures the public of the integrity and quality of MCC’s programs and services, enhances the College’s ability to hire highly qualified faculty and staff, enables students to obtain financial aid and veterans services, and allows the College to receive funding through federal grants.

Resources and Support Services

Students who choose online learning can take advantage of all of the student resources available at MCC.

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