Start Your Career: By the Numbers
Apply To This ProgramOpportunities
Participate in a research course to complete a personal project and present findings to your peers.
Variety
Find roles in medicine, environmental science, research and more.
Transfer
Meet course requirements to jump into chemistry programs at four-year institutions.
From Fundamentals to Four-Year Degree
Understand the principles behind the matter that makes up our universe. Chemistry is the starting point to many important careers. Start your education at Ozarks Tech and prepare for transfer into bachelor’s programs. As a Chemistry student you can look forward to:
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Course flexibility
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Small class sizes
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Hands-on lab work
Use your knowledge to pursue careers in medicine, research, forensics and more! You’ll build a strong foundation with general chemistry and physics courses, preparing you to jump into bachelor’s programs. Reinforce your knowledge with hands on lab work and opportunities for undergrad research.
Program Information
View our accreditation information and learn more about how to apply to Ozarks Tech
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.
At Ozarks Tech, we want your transfer process to be easy. We accomplish this goal through articulation agreements. These agreements are an official partnership to match coursework between schools. This gives you a more seamless transition from Ozarks Tech to a four-year institution.
We have established an agreement for this program. This will simplify the transfer of your credits to partner schools. To understand how this degree will transfer, review the current articulation agreements. Be sure to consult with your transfer school to ensure you’re on the right path toward completing your four-year degree.
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
Dana Sherman
Physical Sciences Department Chair
417-4447-8980
Get Involved
Find your community and get involved on campus. Student clubs are a great place to build friendships and professional connections in the field.
Thinking about earning your bachelor’s degree?
After your 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.
Chemistry (A.S.)
A.S. Degree: 62 Hours
The Associate of Science degree in Chemistry is designed for students who plan to transfer and complete a Bachelor of Science degree at a four-year institution. The degree requirements allow students more flexibility in course selection allowing them to focus on their discipline requirements.
Note: Completion of this degree does not guarantee that all lower-division general education requirements have been met for a baccalaureate degree. In selecting courses for this degree, students are highly encouraged to consult their faculty advisor and the institution to which they intend to transfer to determine if it is an appropriate choice.
General Education Requirements – 32 Credit Hours
General Education Requirements – 32 Credit Hours
CORE 42 is a statewide general education course of study intended to ensure that all graduates possess a common core of college-level skills and knowledge. CORE 42 specifies the basic competencies and knowledge areas that all students completing degrees at a Missouri public institution of higher education must complete. CORE 42 is comprised of dozens of courses distributed across five knowledge areas. These courses are designated with a Missouri Transfer (MOTR) course number, which guarantees the one-to-one transfer of these courses among all Missouri public institutions of higher education. Please refer to MDHE Core Transfer Curriculum for detailed information on CORE 42 courses.
All knowledge areas below, designated with the CORE 42 logo indicate all courses in that area have been evaluated and provided a MOTR number for transfer to all Missouri public institutions of higher education.
Mathematical Sciences – 5 Credit Hours
Mathematical Sciences – 5 Credit Hours
- MTH 140: Analytic Geometry and Calculus I
Analytic Geometry and Calculus I
This is the first course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include an introduction to analytic geometry, limits and continuity, the derivative and differential, the definite integral and applications.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 131 or MTH 138 or satisfactory score on the ACT.
Written Communications – 6 Credit Hours
Written Communications – 6 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 Communications – 3 Credit Hours
Oral Communications – 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.
Humanities and Fine Arts – 3 Credit Hours
Humanities and Fine Arts – 3 Credit Hours

- ART 100: Art and Experience
Art and Experience
This course introduces the visual arts in the context of history and culture providing students with knowledge and practice in the skills necessary to make art a greater part of everyday life. It involves analysis of art works and introduces terminology and concepts for understanding the study of style, design, technique, iconography and function of art within various cultural matrices. This course provides an introduction to the western artistic and cultural tradition and provides students with knowledge of and practice in the skills necessary to make art a greater part of everyday life. In addition to learning to recognize and explain art from the major periods and styles in the western tradition, students also practice describing and reflecting upon their experience of particular works and investigate the creation of art.
- ART 101: Art History I
Art History I
This course covers an illustrated study of the history of art. Vocabulary of the basic art elements will be covered as well as the study of prehistoric art through the Gothic period. Major works of paintings, sculptures and architecture will be explored.
- ART 105: Art History II
Art History II
This course covers an illustrated study of the history of art. Vocabulary of the basic art elements will be covered as well as the study of the Renaissance through Contemporary movements. Major works of paintings, sculptures and architecture will be explored.
- ART 120: Drawing I
Drawing I
This course introduces basic visual art concepts, ideas and techniques that emphasize design principles and hand-eye coordination. The student will solve a variety of drawing problems with different methods and media. Students will become familiar with the basic vocabulary of the drawing process.
- ASL 101: American Sign Language I
American Sign Language I
This course introduces students to the basic structural principles of American Sign Language and emphasizes visual reception and expression of signed concepts.
- ASL 102: American Sign Language II
American Sign Language II
This course continues development of the basic knowledge and understanding of conversational American Sign Language and expands on the cultural features of the language and the deaf community.
Prerequisite(s): ASL 101. - CHN 101: Beginning Chinese
Beginning Chinese
This is an introductory course in Mandarin Chinese (Putonghua) designed for students who have little or no prior exposure to Chinese language. The emphasis of this course is on the four basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing using both Pinyin phonetic system and simplified Chinese characters. The course will focus on correct pronunciation, accurate tones, and grammatical structures. Content appropriate Chinese social and cultural background and history will be presented in order to promote an understanding of Chinese language and its culture.
- ENG 180: Introduction to Literature
Introduction to Literature
In this course, students read a wide selection of literary works from a variety of cultures and times. The primary characteristics of fiction, poetry and drama will be introduced, as students analyze the impact of social, cultural, linguistic and historical circumstances upon the literary imagination.
- ENG 260: Survey of World Literature I
Survey of World Literature I
Students in English 260 read and discuss a wide selection of the greatest literary works ever written, from the beginnings to 1600. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature are considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 265: Survey of World Literature II
Survey of World Literature II
Students in English 265 read and discuss a wide selection of the greatest literary works ever written, from 1600 to the present. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature are considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 240: Survey English Literature I
Survey English Literature I
Students read and discuss major works of English nonfiction, fiction, poetry and drama written before 1790. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature is considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 241: Survey English Literature II
Survey English Literature II
Students read and discuss major works of English nonfiction, fiction, poetry and drama written since 1790. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature are considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 270: Survey American Literature I
Survey American Literature I
In this course, students read and discuss major works of American nonfiction, fiction, poetry and drama written before 1870. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature is considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - ENG 271: Survey American Literature II
Survey American Literature II
In this course, students read and discuss major works of American nonfiction, fiction, poetry and drama written since 1840. The impact of the historic and cultural environment upon the literature is considered as students read for both critical analysis and appreciation.
Prerequisite(s): ENG 100 or ENG 101. - FRN 101: Beginning French I
Beginning French I
This course introduces students to the basic structures and vocabulary of the French language as well as French-speaking cultures. All four skills are addressed: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
- FRN 102: Beginning French II
Beginning French II
This course broadens the basic communication skills of French. Using a four-skills approach that emphasizes meaningful communication in cultural context, students will build upon existing knowledge to interact effectively with course members to accomplish a variety of everyday tasks in culturally astute ways.
- GRM 101: Beginning German I
Beginning German I
This course provides an introduction to pronunciation, syntax, vocabulary and speech patterns through aural-oral practice of the German language. The course is conducted in German as far as is practical.
- GRM 102: Beginning German II
Beginning German II
This course presents the essentials of German grammar through aural practice, reading and writing, with the emphasis on learning to use German in a variety of situations for a specific purpose.
Prerequisite(s): GRM 101. - HUM 101: Introduction to the Humanities
Introduction to the Humanities
This course provides an introduction to the Humanities, emphasizing the major periods, persons, stories and works that constitute Western Culture. Visual arts, music, literature, theatre and architecture form the basis of the course.
- MUS 101: Music of the World
Music of the World
This course explores and practices the music listening skills that enable the student to listen to music of other cultures with understanding and enjoyment. Students will examine what it means to be human through the exploration of various world music. Students will also learn how the element of organized sound distinguishes humans from other species. Additionally, the elements of music, world music history, and the relationship of music and culture will be explored. Students are required to attend at least one live musical performance during the semester culminating in a written review of the performance.
- MUS 105: Western Music Appreciation
Western Music Appreciation
Western Music Appreciation explores the development of music from the Medieval Period to the present. Through this class students gain skills to listen and understand different types of classical music. The elements of music, music history and the relation of music and culture are explored through recorded and live performances of music.
- MUS 106: Jazz Appreciation
Jazz Appreciation
This course is a look at the art form of Jazz and how it relates to the American experience. It is an introduction to basic terminology using the elements of music as well as terminology unique to Jazz. Students will not only learn about the instruments involved in Jazz; but will also develop a vocabulary and ability to listen, understand and discuss Jazz using proper terminology. This class will explore the evolution and transformation of Jazz from the 19th century to the present including social, political and cultural conditions in which this music grew.
- MUS 110: Music Fundamentals
Music Fundamentals
Music Fundamentals is a general survey of basic music, including the rudiments of music such as notation, rhythmic understanding and chordal structures. The basic elements of music are taught and explored through the use of a textbook, recordings and live performances. Students are expected to attend musical events during the semester.
- MUS 235: OTC Concert Choir
OTC Concert Choir
Performance choir is a choral ensemble open to any singer from within the college who is dedicated to performing to the highest standards possible and passes the vocal audition. Students practice and perform choral works throughout the semester. Emphasis on vocal technique and performance practice is an integral part of the choral experience. A live performance is mandatory. This course may be repeated up to 6 times.
Prerequisite(s): Vocal Audition. - PHL 101: Introduction to Philosophy
Introduction to Philosophy
This course examines the some of the questions and arguments which have influenced the western tradition of philosophical inquiry. Among the areas of philosophy we will explore are epistemology (What can I know?), metaphysics (What is real?), ethics (What makes a right action right?), philosophy of religion, and social and political philosophy.
- PHL 105: Introduction to Ethics
Introduction to Ethics
This course is an investigation of the morals and values confronting the individual and society and an examination of the major systems, both traditional and modern, of ethical thought. An analysis of current topics will include the nature of morality and ethics and the criteria for evaluating actions.
- REL 100: Intro Religions Of The World
Intro Religions Of The World
This course explores religion as a significant part of human experience and introduces the student to the historical development and the current beliefs and practices of diverse religious traditions in the United States and around the globe.
- REL 101: Intro to Old Testament
Intro to Old Testament
This introductory course to the Old Testament emphasizes its literary structure and development, the philosophical themes which run through it and the larger historical world from which it emerged. No previous familiarity with the Old Testament is expected.
- REL 102: Intro to New Testament
Intro to New Testament
This introductory course to the New Testament emphasizes its literary structure and development, the philosophical themes which run through it and the larger historical world from which it emerged. No previous familiarity with the New Testament is expected.
- SPN 101: Beginning Spanish I
Beginning Spanish I
This course covers the essentials of pronunciation, verb construction, vocabulary, and speech patterns through aural-oral practice. This course serves as introduction to Spanish speaking cultures. Class will be conducted in Spanish to the extent that is practical.
- SPN 102: Beginning Spanish II
Beginning Spanish II
This course is a continuation of Beginning Spanish I. Pronunciation, verb construction, vocabulary and speech patterns will be emphasized. This course serves as introduction to Spanish-speaking cultures. Class will be conducted entirely in Spanish.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in SPN 101. - THR 101: Introduction to Theater
Introduction to Theater
This interactive course is a study of the collaboration and contributions that various theatre artists make to the process of transforming drama to the stage. Combining lecture, creative projects, and reflection on live theatre events, students will develop their ability to think critically about the artistic experience. Purchasing tickets and attending local productions required.
Natural Sciences – 9 Credit Hours
Natural Sciences – 9 Credit Hours
- BIO 160: General Biology I
General Biology I
This course is an introductory biology course for biology majors and minors. It provides an introduction to the concepts of biological structure and function at the molecular and cellular level, genetics and evolution. Students have the opportunity to demonstrate in the laboratory the principles presented in lecture.
- CHM 160: General Chemistry I
General Chemistry I
This course is a study of the fundamental laws and theories of chemical structures and reactions. Topics include: atomic theory, stoichiometry, aqueous reactions, properties of gases, liquids, and solids, periodicity, bonding, thermodynamics, and properties of solutions. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT. - CHM 161: General Chemistry I Lab
General Chemistry I Lab
The lab emphasizes proper laboratory technique, synthesis, physical studies, qualitative and quantitative analysis, and data manipulation and statistical analysis. This course is recommended for all those majoring in Science as well as Chemistry majors and minors.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 110 or higher, or satisfactory score on the ACT.
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 6 Credit Hours
Social and Behavioral Sciences – 6 Credit Hours
- 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.
- 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.
Specific Program Requirements – 18 Credit Hours
Specific Program Requirements – 18 Credit Hours
- CHM 170: General Chemistry II
General Chemistry II
This science majors course will include topics such as kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base equilibrium, solubility equilibrium, complex ion formation, acid-base theory, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 160. - CHM 171: General Chemistry II Lab
General Chemistry II Lab
This science majors course will include topics such as kinetics, chemical equilibrium, acid-base equilibrium, solubility equilibrium, complex ion formation, acid-base theory, thermodynamics, and electrochemistry
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 160 & CHM 161. - MTH 141: Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
Analytic Geometry and Calculus II
This is the second course in a three-semester sequence. Topics include techniques of formal integration, applications of definite integration, infinite sequences and series, parametrized curves and polar coordinates.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140. - PHY 120: General Physics I
General Physics I
This is an algebra based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students an opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. This course is designed for earth science, biology, chemistry, health and medical majors.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or equivalent (MTH 131 recommended).or - PHY 220: Physics Engrs & Scientists I
Physics Engrs & Scientists I
This is a calculus based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of mechanics, wave motion and heat. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to develop the basic skills in data collection and analysis required in physics. This course is designed for pre-engineering, physics, chemistry and pre-med majors.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140.
- PHY 120: General Physics I
- PHY 130: General Physics II
General Physics II
This is an algebra based physics course. Students learn about the principles and applications of electromagnetism and optics. Laboratory activities give students the opportunity to demonstrate physics principles presented in lecture. This course is designed for earth science, biology, chemistry, health and medical majors.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in PHY 120 and grade of "C" or better in MTH 130 or equivalent (MTH 131 recommended).or - PHY 222: Physics Engrs & Scientists II
Physics Engrs & Scientists II
This course is a continuation of the calculus based physics course, PHY 220. Students learn about the principles and applications of electromagnetism and optics.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in MTH 140 and PHY 220.
- PHY 130: General Physics II
Program Electives -12 Credit Hours
Program Electives -12 Credit Hours
- CHM 225: Environmental Chemistry
Environmental Chemistry
Students in this course study the sources, reactions, transport and fate of chemical entities in the air, water and soil environment as well as their effects on human health. Topics of interest include: environmental chemistry of water pollution, water treatment, geochemistry, atmospheric chemistry, air pollution, hazardous materials, resources. The lab component consists of field activities, experiments and demonstrations to reinforce the concepts and ideas presented in lecture.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 101 or CHM 160 and CHM 161. - CHM 242: Organic Chemistry I
Organic Chemistry I
A lecture/lab course that studies the chemistry of carbon compounds from a functional group perspective. Emphasis is placed on reaction mechanisms and synthetic application in lecture while analytical and synthetic techniques will be emphasized in lab.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 170 and CHM 171. - CHM 243: Organic Chemistry II
Organic Chemistry II
This course will further develop knowledge of organic chemistry with a greater emphasis on functional group reactivity, mechanisms, and multistep synthetic sequences. The topics include: aromatic compounds, including phenols and aryl halides as well as a thorough discussion of delocalized chemical bonding; aldehydes and ketones; amines; carboxylic acids and their derivatives. There will be enhanced requirements for naming compounds, elucidating structures via spectroscopy and actual synthesis in the lab.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 242 - CHM 250: Intro to Analytical Chemistry
Intro to Analytical Chemistry
The lectures in this course present the theory of analysis performed in the laboratory. Laboratory includes gravimetric analysis, volumetric analysis, chromatography, colorimetry, spectroscopy, complexometric and ion-exchange analysis as they apply to chemical analysis. This course is heavily weighted on the laboratory skills of the student.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of "C" or better in CHM 170 and CHM 171. - ATS 100: Introduction to Scientific Research
Introduction to Scientific Research
This course is an interdisciplinary investigation into scientific research. The various processes of scientific inquiry will be studied to provide students with a better understanding of the scientific method. Guest speakers, field trips, and journal articles will allow students to experience the critical thinking of research problems.
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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.
