16 Credits CERT3286/CERT2259, Academic Catalog 2025-2026
This entry-level certificate introduces students to production technologies and information to start on a manufacturing career pathway. Additionally, students are given opportunities to enhance or develop important work-place knowledge and skills in the areas of communication, math, and physics.
Campuses: Faribault and North Mankato
Program Start Semester: Fall
Base estimate for 16 credit program
Tuition is paid on a semester by semester basis and will vary depending on the courses and total credits you take.
Tuition and Fees: $3,431
Tools and Equipment: $ n/a
Total Estimated Cost: $3,431 *
Compare the costs and you'll see that tuition at South Central College is much more affordable than other institutions.
*Based on 2025-2026 tuition and fees rates. Does not include extra expenses for online delivery, course fees, or course differential. Books, transportation, and living expenses also not included.
The course requirements listed below are specific to the current school year (noted above). If you need to view the program from previous years view our Catalog Archive.
Required Technical Courses (8 Courses)
Complete all of the following courses:
CMAE1512 Introduction to Manufacturing (2 credits)
Explore the exciting world of Manufacturing and begin your training for a great career! This course provides an overview of different fields within Manufacturing and the opportunity for students to learn basic skills in a variety of high-demand fields, including Carpentry, Machining, Mechatronics, and Welding. In addition to the hands-on activities that will be completed throughout the course, students will also have the opportunity to earn a Precision Measuring credential.
CMAE1514 Safety Awareness (2 credits)
This course is designed to align with the National Skill Standard assessment and certification system for Safety Awareness. The course curriculum is based on federally-endorsed national standards for production workers. This course will introduce OSHA standards relating to personal protective equipment, Hazard Communication, tool safety, confined spaces, electrical safety, emergency responses, lockout/tagout, and others. (Prerequisites: None)
CMAE1518 Manufacturing Process and Production (2 credits)
This course is designed to align with the National Skill Standard assessment and certification system for Manufacturing Processes. The course curriculum is based on federally-endorsed national standards for production workers. The course emphasizes Just-In-Time manufacturing principles, basic supply chain management, communication skills, and customer service. (Prerequisites: None)
CMAE1522 Quality Practices (2 credits)
This course is designed to align with the National Skills Standard assessment and certification system for Quality Practices. The course curriculum is based upon federally-endorsed national standards for production workers. Emphasis is placed on continuous improvement concepts and how they relate to a quality management system. Students will be introduced to a quality management system and its components. These include corrective actions, preventative actions, control of documents, control of quality records, internal auditing of processes, and control of non-conforming product. (Prerequisites: None)
CMAE1526 Maintenance Awareness (2 credits)
This course is designed to align with the National Skills Standard assessment and certification system for Maintenance Awareness. The course curriculum is based upon federally-endorsed national standards for production workers. The Maintenance Awareness course introduces the concepts of Total Productive Maintenance and preventative maintenance. Students will be introduced to lubrication, electricity, hydraulics, pneumatics, and power transmission systems. (Prerequisites: None)
CMAE1528 Career Success Skills (1 credits)
This is an introductory career success skills course. The primary goal of this course is to help individuals acquire a solid foundation in the basic skills for a successful career. This course will identify the skills important to businesses and help the student assess his/her level of skill. The course will provide suggestions for how the student can improve his/her level of skill. (Prerequisites: None)
MATH1050 Mathematics for Technical Careers (3 credits)
Designed primarily for those entering the technical fields, this course develops a number of essential mathematical techniques in algebra, trigonometry and geometry. Among other things, the participant will learn how to simplify and factor algebraic expressions, solve linear and quadratic equations and systems of linear equations, evaluate and use the six trigonometric functions in computing triangle results, and apply geometric concepts to the measurement of both two- and three-dimensional objects. This course is not a prerequisite for college level math courses. (Prerequisite: Next-Generation Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 250 to 300 and a Next-Generation Accuplacer QAS score of 200 to 236 or Classic Accuplacer Arithmetic score of 56 or higher or completion of MATH 0075 with a grade of C (2.0) or higher.)
OTEC1001 Computer Software for College (2 credits)
This course covers basic information about computer hardware and software and the use of computer software as a business productivity tool. Students will be given introductory training on a Windows operating system and the common business applications of word processing, spreadsheets, database, and presentation graphics. This course is designed to equip the student with knowledge of hardware and software applications. This course will cover the business application software that will be used in more advanced courses. (Prerequisites: Basic computer skills or Computer Basic class; mouse proficiency, keyboarding skill of 25 words per minute)
PLEASE NOTE: All program plans are preliminary and curriculum may change without notice. Your catalog of record may have different requirements.
