Start Your Career: By the Numbers
Apply To This ProgramBuild skills for leadership roles.
Small class sizes allow you to build strong relationships with your instructors and classmates.
Hone and perfect your current skillset.
Advance Your Skills
Already working in a skilled trade and want to take the next step? The Apprenticeship Skilled Trades program helps you grow your career and move into leadership roles.
We offer two tracks for journey-level workers. Most of your learning happens through a federally-approved apprenticeship, and you’ll earn college credit based on your exam results.
In this program, you’ll:
- Complete general education courses
- Strengthen your leadership abilities
- Build strong management skills
Your courses will help you move forward with your career without repeating trade classes you’re already skilled in. Ge the education you need to grow – on a schedule that works for you.
Program Information
Explore our accreditation information, find program contacts and learn more about how to apply for the program.
General Admissions to Ozarks Tech
Admission to Ozarks Technical Community College is open to all individuals who can benefit from its educational programs. A focus of the college mission is on the academic, career and personal goals of the student. OTC may admit you as a First-Time student just completing their high school, GED or HiSET requirements or as a Transfer student coming from another institution finishing up a certificate or degree. For more information, visit OTC Admissions.
Wondering how you’re going to pay for college? At OTC, we believe that cost shouldn’t be a barrier to earning a degree. Our staff will work with you to make a financial plan. To browse the resources available to you, see paying for college.
Accreditation
OTC is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Our current accreditation status with the HLC is displayed on the page linked below. Our next comprehensive evaluation will be in 2030-2031. View more on OTC Accreditation.
Program Outcomes
Department Chair for Heating, Refrigeration & Air, Electrical Trades and Construction Trades
417-447-8275
Find Your Community
Getting involved is a great way to build connections and find your community on campus. With a variety of clubs and organizations and campus events it’s easy to find your people.
Thinking about earning your bachelor’s degree?
After your A.A.S., you may continue your education at a four-year institution. Bear in mind:
- Admission requirements vary
- Credits may transfer on a course-by-course basis
Course Information
Discover overview information, course sequences and specific course descriptions. Or, view the full catalog to see all the details.
Apprenticeship Skilled Trades: Apprentice Leadership (A.A.S.)
A.A.S. Degree: 63 Hours
The Apprenticeship Skilled Trades program will provide the opportunity for journey-level trades people to develop general education, managerial and technical skills needed to advance in their chosen career, typically management level. Many companies are requiring their management team to have a degree above the high school level and apprenticeship training. The AST degree would give a qualified trades person the opportunity to advance their education without repeating the trades classes that they would already be proficient in.
Apprentice Leadership
Apprentice Leadership
- Articulated (Transferred) Credits: 36 credits
- Federally approved apprenticeship program such as provided by the Department of Labor (DOL) Bureau of Apprenticeship Training (BAT) consisting of a minimum 4,800 hrs on-the-job training (OJT) and a minimum of 480 classroom training hours.
- Transcripted upon completion of 17 hours of OTC coursework and documentation of certificate and/or journeyman card for the approved craft. Example: Journeyman Certificate from Heavy Construction Laborers’ Union
- All certifications or licenses must be current and valid. Training must be documented with transcript
Apprentice Leadership Program Requirements – 18 Credit Hours
Apprentice Leadership Program Requirements – 18 Credit Hours
- BUS 115: Personal Finance
Personal Finance
The course is a survey of personal financial planning. Topics covered include: personal budgeting, investments, insurance, credit, housing and retirement planning. The goals are for students to learn the fundamentals of financial planning so they can make informed choices related to spending, saving, borrowing and investing that lead to long-term financial security.
- BUS 140: Business Communications
Business Communications
This course will help students develop business communication skills by composing and writing letters, memos, reports and electronic mail messages. The students will develop a writing portfolio of business documents and prepare and present oral reports. In their preparation of business communications, the students will have opportunities to use word processing software, to use computer skills in searching the Internet and sending email messages and to learn useful communication practices for a career in business.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101 or concurrent enrollment. - BUS 150: Principles of Management
Principles of Management
This course examines various techniques and theories of management and their effects on current practices. Students will study management functions, relating them to organizational structures. Discussions cover the basic elements of management: planning, organizing, leading and controlling and how the manager relates to personnel issues and organizational change and conflict. Consideration is given to the changing business environment where diversity of personnel, geographic dispersion of work locations, e-commerce and global activities will dominate the work place.
- BUS 170: Human Resources Management
Human Resources Management
This course provides an introduction to human resource management and its impact on the success of the business. Topics include the strategic planning process, human resource planning, equal employment opportunity, selection, training and development, performance appraisal, compensation, safety and health, and employee and labor relations. The role of managers in dealing with human resources is emphasized.
Prerequisite(s): BUS 150. - BUS 200: Leadership
Leadership
This course involves examination of all aspects of leadership, including the foundations of individual and group behavior, supervision, motivating and rewarding employees, interpersonal skills and communication in a group environment, and an understanding of the work team and the dynamics of such a group.
Prerequisite(s): BUS 150. - CIS 101: Technology & Digital Literacy
Technology & Digital Literacy
This course provides an overview of digital literacy topics such as computer hardware, software, programming, security, safety, and information systems. This is a “hands-on” class learning to use the most common computer software programs and information resources facilities. This course provides a look at the structure and components of computers, their operating systems, and an introduction to various applications with emphasis on word processing, spreadsheet applications, presentation software, and Internet usage.
Prerequisite(s): Keyboarding skill of 25 WPM or BUS 101 or CIS 100 recommended. - TEC 108: Applied Technical Mathematics
Applied Technical Mathematics
Course content includes the fundamental processes of mathematics with emphasis on problem-solving techniques. This course covers mathematical principles and concepts applicable to the technical trades utilizing introductory algebra, geometry, elementary trigonometry, and basic statistical methods.
- TES 140: Technical Physics
Technical Physics
This course entails a survey of basic physics for students majoring in technical fields. Students will learn how the concepts of force, work, rate, resistance, energy, power, and force transformation are related to mechanical, fluid, thermal, and electrical systems. Laboratory activities will give the students an opportunity to demonstrate the principles of physics, as presented in lecture.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in TEC 108 or higher
General Education Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
General Education Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
The Missouri Department of Higher Education has identified a common set of general education courses that have been adopted statewide. These courses are called the “CORE 42.” CORE 42 courses are guaranteed to transfer to any Missouri public college or university to satisfy general education requirements.
Courses in knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo indicates courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.
Courses that do not have this designation may still transfer to public and private colleges and universities in Missouri and elsewhere, but students are encouraged to check the transfer equivalency website of the institution to which they plan to transfer to confirm.
Please refer to the MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.
Written Communication – 3 Credit Hours
Written Communication – 3 Credit Hours
- ENG 101: Composition I
Composition I
This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.
or - ENG 100: Composition I With Support
Composition I With Support
This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives. English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.
- ENG 101: Composition I
- ENG 102: Composition II
Composition II
This course continues developing students’ abilities to use research and writing to make informed and ethical arguments; effectively communicating these arguments to professional and expert audiences in a research-supported project. Moreover, the course further develops students’ skills in critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions.
Emphasis is placed on honing skills of audience analysis, analytical reading, problem solving, research methods—including both primary and secondary research—and persuasive writing. Also, this course will acquaint students with patterns and conventions of multiple disciplinary communities. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and applying rhetorical strategy) prepares students for their academic and professional futures.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 150: Technical Writing
Technical Writing
This course emphasizes developing the student’s ability to write clearly, concisely and accurately. Students practice collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting information in a variety of technical documents used in professional settings while using proper research and documentation techniques, sound visual design principles and effective writing styles suitable for a specific communicative context. Throughout, emphasis will be placed on honing skills in audience analysis, analytical reading, critical thinking, research methods and clear writing.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours
Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours
- COM 100: Introduction to Communication
Introduction to Communication
This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.
- COM 105: Public Speaking
Public Speaking
This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.
- COM 200: Interpersonal Communication
Interpersonal Communication
This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students learn how to become both effective and appropriate communicators in a variety of contexts. Students also develop good listening and responding skills, conflict management strategies, sensitivity to language and an understanding of cultural and gender differences.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better inENG 100 or ENG 101.
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours
- HST 120: U.S. History I: to 1865
U.S. History I: to 1865
This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.
- HST 130: U.S. History II: 1865-Present
U.S. History II: 1865-Present
This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.
- PLS 101: American Government and Politics
American Government and Politics
This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.
Apprenticeship Skilled Trades: Carpenters Journeyman Apprenticeship (A.A.S)
A.A.S. Degree: 63 Hours
The Apprenticeship Skilled Trades program will provide the opportunity for journey-level trades people to develop general education, managerial and technical skills needed to advance in their chosen career, typically management level. Many companies are requiring their management team to have a degree above the high school level and apprenticeship training. The AST degree would give a qualified trades person the opportunity to advance their education without repeating the trades classes that they would already be proficient in.
Carpenters Journeyman Apprenticeship
Carpenters Journeyman Apprenticeship
- Credit by Examination Credits: 45
- Federally approved apprenticeship program that contains a minimum of 560 clock hours of classroom instruction and 5600 clock hours of on-the-job training. Transcripted upon completion of 15 hours of OTC coursework and documentation of certificate and/or journeyman card for the approved craft
Carpenters Journeyman Apprenticeship Program Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
Carpenters Journeyman Apprenticeship Program Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
- BUS 110: Principles of Business
Principles of Business
This course provides a survey of business in the United States and also global considerations, including its background, functions, objectives, ethics and opportunities for careers. Various aspects of business will be covered: marketing, management, human resources, production, accounting, finance, administrative services, technology, computerization of the workplace, regulations, international trade and the impact of e-commerce on businesses around the globe.
- BUS 150: Principles of Management
Principles of Management
This course examines various techniques and theories of management and their effects on current practices. Students will study management functions, relating them to organizational structures. Discussions cover the basic elements of management: planning, organizing, leading and controlling and how the manager relates to personnel issues and organizational change and conflict. Consideration is given to the changing business environment where diversity of personnel, geographic dispersion of work locations, e-commerce and global activities will dominate the work place.
- CIS 101: Technology & Digital Literacy
Technology & Digital Literacy
This course provides an overview of digital literacy topics such as computer hardware, software, programming, security, safety, and information systems. This is a “hands-on” class learning to use the most common computer software programs and information resources facilities. This course provides a look at the structure and components of computers, their operating systems, and an introduction to various applications with emphasis on word processing, spreadsheet applications, presentation software, and Internet usage.
Prerequisite(s): Keyboarding skill of 25 WPM or BUS 101 or CIS 100 recommended.
General Education Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
General Education Requirements – 9 Credit Hours
The Missouri Department of Higher Education has identified a common set of general education courses that have been adopted statewide. These courses are called the “CORE 42.” CORE 42 courses are guaranteed to transfer to any Missouri public college or university to satisfy general education requirements.
Courses in knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo indicates courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.
Courses that do not have this designation may still transfer to public and private colleges and universities in Missouri and elsewhere, but students are encouraged to check the transfer equivalency website of the institution to which they plan to transfer to confirm.
Please refer to the MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.
Written Communication – 3 Credit Hours
Written Communication – 3 Credit Hours
- ENG 101: Composition I
Composition I
This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives.
or - ENG 100: Composition I With Support
Composition I With Support
This course introduces students to college-level reading, thinking, and writing through a series of composition-rhetoric assignments and activities that culminate in a research-supported project. Specifically, students apply critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions. As part of this process, students learn to evaluate sources and emerging digital tools for currency, feasibility, truthfulness, credibility, and accuracy. Ultimately, students learn to synthesize knowledge to solve problems. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and persuading) helps students to develop an essential skill set they can use in their future academic, civic, and professional lives. English 100 will be driven by the same course objectives as English 101 and satisfy the same requirement.
- ENG 101: Composition I
- ENG 102: Composition II
Composition II
This course continues developing students’ abilities to use research and writing to make informed and ethical arguments; effectively communicating these arguments to professional and expert audiences in a research-supported project. Moreover, the course further develops students’ skills in critical and creative thinking to evaluate problems, interpret evidence/data, and draw conclusions.
Emphasis is placed on honing skills of audience analysis, analytical reading, problem solving, research methods—including both primary and secondary research—and persuasive writing. Also, this course will acquaint students with patterns and conventions of multiple disciplinary communities. This writing process (thinking, researching, evaluating, and applying rhetorical strategy) prepares students for their academic and professional futures.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 150: Technical Writing
Technical Writing
This course emphasizes developing the student’s ability to write clearly, concisely and accurately. Students practice collecting, analyzing, interpreting and presenting information in a variety of technical documents used in professional settings while using proper research and documentation techniques, sound visual design principles and effective writing styles suitable for a specific communicative context. Throughout, emphasis will be placed on honing skills in audience analysis, analytical reading, critical thinking, research methods and clear writing.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101.
Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours
Oral Communication – 3 Credit Hours
- COM 100: Introduction to Communication
Introduction to Communication
This course provides an introduction to the study of communication, including interpersonal communication, small group dynamics, and public speaking.
- COM 105: Public Speaking
Public Speaking
This is an introductory course in research, composition, delivery, and evaluation of speeches for a variety of purposes and occasions. Students develop skills in critical listening and analysis through small group and individual activities.
- COM 200: Interpersonal Communication
Interpersonal Communication
This course is designed as an introduction to the theory and practice of interpersonal communication. Students learn how to become both effective and appropriate communicators in a variety of contexts. Students also develop good listening and responding skills, conflict management strategies, sensitivity to language and an understanding of cultural and gender differences.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better inENG 100 or ENG 101.
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 3 Credit Hours
- HST 120: U.S. History I: to 1865
U.S. History I: to 1865
This course is a survey of the history of the United States from pre-Columbian societies through the Civil War, including formative political, social, economic and cultural developments. It also introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 120 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.
- HST 130: U.S. History II: 1865-Present
U.S. History II: 1865-Present
This course is a survey of the history of the United States from Reconstruction to the present, covering the political, economic, social and cultural developments that have shaped modern America. It introduces students to history as an academic discipline and requires analysis, synthesis and evaluation of primary and secondary materials in reading, discussion and writing. HST 130 will satisfy the Missouri state law requiring instruction in the United States and Missouri Constitutions.
- PLS 101: American Government and Politics
American Government and Politics
This introductory course familiarizes students with American and Missouri government constitutions, institutions, policies and processes. Students develop an understanding of the foundations, environment, and principles of democracy with key concepts about voting, political parties, campaigns, and interactions between the branches of government. The course emphasis is on the values, rights, and responsiblities that shape public decision making of active and informed citizens in the American political system. This course meets instruction requirements (Missouri Revised Statute 170.011.1) in the Constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri.
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Notices & Disclaimers
*Costs displayed are based on current tuition and fee rates for the program’s required credit hours, as approved by the OTC Board of Trustees, and are subject to change without notice. Estimates reflect both in-district and out-of-district residency rates. Actual costs, degree completion time, and credit requirements may vary based on residency, prior credits, elective courses, program updates, and enrollment factors. For additional information on attendance costs, visit Cost of Attendance, tuition and fees or contact us at 417-447-6900.
**Graduation rates vary by individual. For details on program enrollment, retention, exam/certification, and employment rates, visit Student Outcomes / Student Right-to-Know. Some careers on this list may require additional education and training. For program-specific accreditation visit OTC Accreditation.