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Build your portfolio (or just your appreciation of art) at Columbus State
Learn to express yourself through painting, drawing and design with Columbus State’s studio art courses. Students learn the practical techniques needed to bring their creative vision to life, as well as learning about the history of art. Whether you’re looking to build your portfolio, transfer to a four-year art program, fulfill an elective or just deepen your appreciation of art, these classes will help you get there. Topics range from beginning drawing to color composition and 3-D design.
Ethan Tracey is studying to be a city and regional planner – but part of the foundation is Columbus State. The Hilliard native says he chose Columbus State because of the affordable tuition and one-on-one attention. “My CState experience has been great,” Tracey says. “I feel like the professors really care and they enjoy what they teach.”
Students who start at Columbus State and transfer save up to 60% on the total cost of their bachelor’s degree.
Through her lessons on literature and composition, Clark aims to inspire a love of lifelong learning
Crystal Clark has been teaching English at Columbus State for more than 20 years. She focuses on composition, literature and creative writing, but no matter what class she’s teaching, she aims to equip students with the critical thinking skills they need to help them navigate life. “I would like to believe that opportunities have been awakened in you, that insight has been awakened in you, this quest for wanting to know and understand more has been awakened,” she says.
Communication is key to Andrew Nielsen's role at Nationwide - a skill he honed at Columbus State.
Nielsen started his higher education at Columbus State, earning an associate of arts degree. He credits his Columbus State faculty for their high standards and willingness to work with him outside of class times. The associate of arts fulfills the first two years of a bachelor's degree, and Nielsen went on to earn a bachelor's in the History of Art at Ohio State. That got him in the door at Nationwide.
Now, Nielsen works with a network of brokers, salespeople and underwriters to sell insurance solutions to employers.
"A lot of courses at both Columbus State and Ohio State focused on writing and communication, which helped set me up for my role at Nationwide," Nielsen says. "I’m glad that I was held to a high standard so that I could be ready to get a job that has helped provide for my family financially."
The Columbus State 2020 spring graduating class included 17 high school seniors who earned a high school diploma the same month they earned a college degree. The feat is made possible by Ohio’s College Credit Plus (CCP) program. CCP allows students to take Columbus State classes and earn high school and college credits simultaneously. Abel Kifle Andebrhan, who received an Associate of Science degree, is one of those students.
The 18-year-old from Pickerington North High School began taking Columbus State classes his freshman year. “College Credit Plus was a great option for me,” says Andebrhan. “I had to learn a lot about time management and to balance everything with work and social life, but I made it happen because it's important to me.”
Expand your worldview by studying the inner workings of individuals and societies.
The social sciences – anthropology, criminology, economics, geography, political science, and sociology – help us understand ourselves and the world better. These courses can help you choose a major, and often count toward the general education credits you need to transfer to a bachelor’s degree. In these classes, you’ll learn to think critically about questions like, “How does scarcity influence economics?” and “How do geographers understand the relationship between people and places?” and even, “Where do we come from?”
Mackenzie Grady earned her associate of arts degree from Columbus State in spring 2021 and transferred to Ohio State. She’s already well on her way to a degree in psychology.
“Going to Columbus State was so helpful in my transition into college. Coming from a small town near Toledo, Columbus State gave me friendship and an education all at the perfect size,” Grady says. “I graduated with the help of my advisor and professors that really came alongside me to help me get transferred to Ohio State! I am eternally grateful for the opportunities Columbus State gave me.”
Bio Modal
Bobby Diamond, 19, arrived at Columbus State from Olentangy High School with a strong academic record and sharp volleyball skills. While her athleticism dominated the court, earning her an All-American award for performance, Diamond’s mental skills were just as refined. The STEM student was named an All-American in academics as well. Diamond graduated with an Associate of Science with an emphasis in welding and engineering – two of her passions.
“Being surrounded by passionate students that are wanting to do well in school helped create an environment of dedication,” says Diamond. “I realized who I am as a person and who I want to become thanks to the Columbus State experience.”
Basic Mathematics, Geometry, Algebra, Statistics, Calculus
Whether you’re planning a career in the field of mathematics, or you struggle with math anxiety (yeah, it’s a thing!), we’ve got the math courses, experienced instructors, and student support to help you conquer the next level. Classes are offered from basic to advanced levels in all mathematical disciplines, including math classes specialized for the needs of specific fields. All augmented with tutoring at all levels, provided at no charge for Columbus State students.
Full tuition for two years at Columbus State
Funded by both the National Science Foundation and Choose Ohio First, the Future Scientists of Ohio program (FSO) provides full-tuition scholarships for incoming freshmen. Students must be enrolled in the Associate of Science major and planning to transfer after earning an associate degree to pursue a bachelor’s degree in a STEM field. The scholarship is renewable for a second year, allowing students to complete their first two years of a bachelor’s degree tuition-free. Students with required grade point averages also have the opportunity to take their FSO scholarship with them for reduced tuition at many four-year universities.
Astronomy, Chemistry, Physics, Engineering, and Geology
Courses in the physical sciences provide an in-depth understanding of the nature and properties of energy and nonliving matter. Our small class sizes and personal attention from instructors provide the hands-on environment to cultivate learning and discovery of intricacies of the inanimate world around us.
Columbus State’s low tuition rate – the lowest in the region – lets you complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree, often debt-free! This significant savings lets you cut up to 60% off the cost of your college education. And with scholarships offered at Columbus State, as well as at many of our Preferred Pathway partner schools, your savings could be even greater.
The Louis Stokes Alliances for Minority Participation at Columbus State
The mission of the Columbus State LSAMP program is to increase the number of underrepresented minority students who complete associate degrees in STEM disciplines (science, technology/computer science, engineering, and mathematics) and transfer to a four-year institution to continue their STEM education.
LSAMP provides resources, education and support to address academic, personal, emotional, social, financial, cultural and ethnic issues that may affect students’ academic performance and persistence toward a college degree.
Columbus State LSAMP participants benefit from:
For additional information and to apply to the LSAMP Program, email program coordinator Dr. Randle at mrandle2@cscc.edu.
After homeschooling, Adeina Davis wasn’t ready to start at a large four-year university. Columbus State is turning out to be the perfect place to start.
Davis started her college career at Columbus State to take advantage of small classes and individual attention from professors. She says her favorite classes so far have been biology, anthropology and African-American Studies. She’s getting a well-rounded education in science and social issues.
The North Carolina native has her eyes on the next step: She says she plans to transfer to Ohio State University and study veterinary medicine.
A community of students in STEM majors.
Students interested in exploring the STEM fields find kinship, direction and exploration through the STEM Club at Columbus State. The group meets each month to engage in activities career exploration, field trips, and guest speakers. It’s the ideal way to forge friendships, share experiences, and build your professional network.
Business Modal
Discovering new opportunities with Columbus State’s Honors Program
Shandon Mitchell almost didn’t go to Columbus State. He started at a four-year college in 2014, but had to leave after a problem with scholarships. Luckily, a spot was still open in Columbus State’s Honors Program. "At first, it seemed like the end of the world, but I'm glad I ended up at Columbus State," Mitchell says. "The Honors Program has helped me in ways I couldn't have imagined."
That program also led to an internship at COSI, which led to a job as a research assistant on a project to compare regional accents around Ohio. And if that wasn’t enough, Mitchell helped his brother and some friends start an apparel company while he was still a student as Columbus State. StarStrukt has a thriving online trade and maintains a storefront in Reynoldsburg.
After earning his associate degree, Mitchell transferred to Ohio State’s Fisher College of business, where he’s decided to focus on business and IT for his bachelor’s degree. “I’m on track to graduate, on time, and with half the cost,” Mitchell says, noting the value of Columbus State’s low tuition.
Earn a bachelor’s degree in less than four years with this streamlined business program
Whether you want to advance your career or prepare for a new one, The Exact Track Business program can get you there. This accelerated program from Columbus State and Franklin University allows candidates to earn a bachelor’s degree in less than four years. The program is convenient and affordable, with preplanned classes and free textbooks. After completing the program, you’ll have an Associate of Applied Science in Business Management from Columbus State and a B.S. in Business Administration and Management & Leadership from Franklin University.
According to the National Restaurant Association, the food service industry is expected to grow rapidly in Ohio. Columbus State’s hospitality program is widely recognized as one of the best in the state.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, property, real estate and community association managers earn an average of almost $60,000 a year. Columbus State’s real estate major offers flexible certificate that prepare you to work as a property manager.
Professors at Columbus State are here because they love to teach
Business management professor Reuel Barksdale calls the environment at Columbus State “addictive.” He’s passionate about teaching, and thrives on the relationships he’s able to build with students. “At Columbus State Community College, teachers get rewarded or get applauded because of their ability to teach,” he says. “Not because of research. Not because of journaling. Not because of publishing, but because of the ability to teach.”
Autumn Spitler’s recipe for success includes a big heaping of hard work and a pinch of Columbus State.
Spitler graduated with an associate degree in Baking & Pastry Arts, with a Foundations of Business Certificate, in winter 2018. Today, she’s running Autumn’s Sweet Shoppe, a small-batch bakery specializing in tantalizing treats.
She credits her time at Columbus State for not only building her baking skills, but also her leadership. While on campus, she was a diversity peer educator, social media ambassador, and received an Outstanding Woman Leader of the Year award. “The opportunities provided to me as a student were amazing and far beyond what I expected from a community college,” Spitler says.
From event planning to restaurant management, we prepare graduates for a wide range of careers in the food and tourism industry.
If you’re looking to start your career (or take it to the next level) in the food and hospitality industry, there’s a program for you in Columbus State’s hospitality program. Our widely respected Culinary Apprenticeship major blends classroom instruction with on-the-job experience in local restaurant kitchens, while the Baking and Pastry Arts major balances baking fundamentals with business management instruction. Students who aspire to management will get the skills they need in the Restaurant and Foodservice Management major. And if you love planning and organizing events, the Hotel, Tourism and Event Management major prepares students for a variety of careers in the hospitality industry, including meeting and event planning.
Ever heard of forensic accounting? It’s one of many career options in the surprisingly diverse accounting field.
If you love numbers, you’re in luck — accounting consistently ranks as one of the top career opportunities in business. Investors, creditors, business managers, and government agencies all rely on accurate and complete financial statements so that they can make good decisions, and the accounting major at Columbus State gives you the conceptual and practical knowledge you need to start your accounting career. Job opportunities in this field range from internal auditing, cost accounting, budgeting, financial forecasting, and even forensic accounting, which focuses on detecting fraud.
Computer Modal
Learn to troubleshoot hardware and software
Every business in every field needs qualified IT professionals who can analyze and develop strategies to debug networks and network devices. Graduates from the IT Tech Support Technician program have the tech skills to support both proprietary and Open Source systems, combined with the “soft skills” to communicate well, making them invaluable in today’s tech-focused workforce.
Students from the Digital Design and Graphics, Digital Photography, and Video Game Art and Animation programs make up the staff of Studio 413.
Studio 413 is Columbus State's student ad agency that provides advertising and promotional materials to businesses and companies outside of Columbus State, as well as departments and service organizations here on campus. Students deliver everything from graphic design and brand identity to web page development and digital photography for brochures, logos, posters, web advertising and marketing services. This gives students a unique opportunity to participate in all aspects of an advertising agency from initial concept to working directly with the client on the final product. Along with the valuable experience, students produce creative work that they can add to their resume and portfolios.
Plugged in. Career connected.
Highly trained experts are needed to create innovative solutions to prevent hackers from stealing critical information or causing problems for computer networks. In collaboration with the National Science Foundation and with support from the National Security agency, Columbus State has created a program that is educating the next generation of cybersecurity experts. The field is expected to grow faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Starting at Columbus State can save 30-60% off the total cost of a bachelor’s degree
When you earn an associate degree at Columbus State, your credits are guaranteed to transfer to any state college or university in the State of Ohio. Our Preferred Pathway partners provide even more benefits like guaranteed admission, academic advising.
Mobilize your career as an app designer or developer
In the last decade, the percentage of Americans who own a smartphone jumped from 35 to 85 percent. The mobile industry has created a wide range of career opportunities — companies need tech professionals who can build engaging, easy-to-use mobile apps. Columbus State’s Mobile App Design and Development program offers the opportunity to launch a career in this growing field.
Already got an IT certificate? Apply it to an associate degree!
Students with industry-recognized credentials have a head start on an associate degree at Columbus State. Our Computer Science department awards college credit for a number of IT certificates from recognized vendors like Cisco and CompTIA. Check out the list of certificates to see if you qualify.
Digital Photography has grown into a world-class degree
Columbus State’s Digital Photography program was named one of the top photography degrees in the country by Intelligent.com in both 2020 and 2021. The site ranked programs based on student readiness, return on investment, cost, and other factors. Columbus State’s program was singled out for excellence in an online program.
The program emphasizes the fundamentals, says program coordinator Gene Strickland. Many grads transfer to photography bachelor’s degree programs, where their mastery of craft is a distinct advantage.
“Four-year schools love our grads because they really learn their aesthetic and technical skills,” Strickland says, “and their portfolios are rock-solid.”
Close partnerships with area businesses means increased opportunity for our graduates
The demand for IT professionals is huge and two-year degrees are critical to fill the skills gap between the numbers of open jobs and individuals able to fill them. Columbus State students are learn marketable skills that employers are looking, Manifest Solution counts on Columbus State grads to fill their IT positions.
Construction Modal
Employers demand skills beyond the basics.
Heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers work on heating, ventilation, cooling, and refrigeration systems that control the temperature and air quality in buildings. Candidates familiar with computers and electronics and those with good troubleshooting skills — important skillsets emphasized in Columbus State’s HVAC program — will have the best job opportunities as employers continue to have difficulty finding qualified technicians to install, maintain, and repair complex new systems.
As environmental awareness grows, so do career opportunities.
Environmental and safety technicians apply the principles of science, engineering, communication, and economics to protect and enhance the safety and health of humans and of our natural resources. Job opportunities are very diverse with many graduates of the program being employed with environmental consulting firms, water and wastewater treatment plants, industrial facilities, construction companies, and governmental agencies. Careers opportunities in this field are growing faster than average and expected to continue growing through 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
3D Visualization
Columbus State helped Shaun Barber visualize a great career. Barber earned an associate degree in Construction Management, which helped him land a job as an estimator at Lang Masonry & Restoration Contractors. There, he uses his skills in 3D modeling to bring his clients' dreams to life. Accurate renderings help the business estimate costs and ensures clients get exactly what they're looking for.
"Columbus State gave me the knowledge to take my career to the next level," Barber says. "By learning 3D modeling and how to write a good business plan, I have been able to assist Lang Masonry succeed digital age."
Landscape students pitch in at the Columbus Zoo
In the spring of 2019, Columbus State established a collaboration with the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium to provide horticulture support to the zoo while giving students a valuable hands-on learning opportunity.
Landscape Design and Management students meet regularly at the zoo throughout the semester, where they perform important horticulture tasks such as seasonal cleanup, corrective pruning, as well as edging landscape beds and mulching. Students put the concepts they learn in class into practice, and the Columbus Zoo benefits from the students’ work. In the spring 2019 semester, Columbus State students were largely responsible for planting new landscaping around Conservation Lake, a main focal point when guests walk into the zoo.
Columbus State costs just $4,000 a year, offering an affordable path to earning your degree
The structure of society is shaped by welders
Welding is a skilled trade that, when mastered, transforms the student from rod burner to skilled artisan. From the metal beams that support skyscrapers to rods that power automobiles to the puddle that shapes a child’s toy, welders’ work is an essential part of creating all aspects of modern existence.
Students in the Skilled Trades Associate Degree Program in Welding acquire knowledge and skills that qualify them for commercial, industrial, and manufacturing jobs in the welding industry. Students successfully completing their degree will also have the opportunity to earn up to a LEVEL II Advanced Welder Certification through the American Welding Society.
Construction Manager, Fischer Homes. Adjunct Instructor, Construction Management, Columbus State.
Jez Alogla enrolled at Columbus State to obtain an associate degree in Construction Management. “I’d previously worked in the construction industry for eight years, so I felt that I knew most everything there was to know about construction,” he said. “Boy, was I wrong!”
The Construction Management program helped Alogla become a well-rounded construction manager who understands all facets of a construction project. It helped him solidify skills he already learned on the job, like blue print reading and field management, and taught him new ones, like how to use Timberline estimating software, Auto CAD drafting software, and Primavera scheduling software.
Alogla appreciated that his instructors at Columbus State had backgrounds in the industry, and were able to challenge students at every level of experience. “They had such a huge impact on me that, after I graduated, I came back to Columbus State as adjunct professor in construction sciences,” he said.
Perhaps now more than ever, skilled trades professionals are in high demand
No matter how technical the field, every industry counts on facilities management professionals to keep buildings and equipment up and running. More than just training students for a job, we educate you in preparation for a career in the following skilled trades:
Education Modal
If you see a first responder, chances are they're a Columbus State grad. And if you're in the City of Columbus, that goes all the way to top.
Tracy L. Smith, who is both a graduate of and an adjunct professor in Columbus State's Fire Science department, was recently named assistant chief for emergency services at the Columbus Division of Fire. Smith oversees 1,300 public safety employees, including all firefighters, EMS workers, the hazmat unit and the bomb squad.
In her current role as assistant chief, Smith is the highest-ranking woman in the history of the Columbus Division of Fire. She credits her position to her hard work and guidance from great leaders in the division. During her 22-year career, Smith has seen more women and minorities enter the profession, and as an instructor at Columbus State she's in a position to inspire even more to rise through the ranks.
“It’s not significant that it’s me. It’s significant that over the years, the city has changed in the opportunities it gives all people to succeed,” Smith said. “I hope this sends a message to young women everywhere that if they work hard and stay focused, they can do anything.”
Live burn simulations are vital for firefighters in training
Until recently, students in Columbus State’s Fire Science program had to travel to the Ohio Fire Academy in Reynoldsburg or to surrounding departments to get live burn training. Now, the department has its own two-story fire training lab simulator, located at the Southwest Regional Learning Cetner at Bolton Field.
The simulator is built from shipping containers and can accommodate up to 20 students. The Fire Science department conducts three live burn trainings every semester, allowing students to practice fighting fires fueled with natural materials as well as liquid ignition sources.
A Columbus State grad is the new public information officer (PIO) for the Columbus Division of Police. Born and raised on Columbus’ South Side, Sgt. James Fuqua said he decided to become a police officer after six years in the armed forces and a stint as a security guard.
“I met special duty police officers, and they suggested I do a ride-along with an officer. I fell in love with the job right away.” Fuqua graduated from Columbus State with a Law Enforcement degree in 2000 and has served 14 years with the police department.
Earn your associate degree at Columbus State, then your bachelor’s at Kent State
Paralegals form an important part of the legal profession. Under the supervision of lawyers, they conduct a variety of legal business, such as drafting documents and doing research. Whether you’re just entering the paralegal field or you’re an established professional looking to add to your credentials (and earning potential), the ABA-approved Paralegal Program at Columbus State prepares you for a great career.
Columbus State and Kent State have teamed up to offer the 3+1 Paralegal Studies program, allowing you to complete three years of study at Columbus State’s low tuition rate, then stay on Columbus State’s campus for the fourth year of Kent State courses to complete your bachelor’s degree.
Lauren Davis says she was “scared and hesitant” to apply at Columbus State. At 27 years old, she had been out of school for a decade. However, she says, “With the support and encouragement of friends, I dove in.”
She started slow, taking only seven credit hours the first semester in 2018 as a part-time student. Working full-time in sales made it difficult to take more classes. But then Davis had an epiphany. “I realized the sales job was not my end goal,” she says. “So I left a job I loved and took a part-time job which allowed me to take hold of my education goals and be a full-time student.” Davis graduated magna cum laude with an Associate of Arts degree and will transfer to Ohio State-Newark to obtain her bachelor’s degree in Middle Childhood Education followed by a master’s degree in Psychology.
Program offers independence and a dream job
Two Licking County women are on the path to a rewarding career with Columbus State’s Early Childhood Aide Certificate, a program to train students with developmental disabilities to work with young children. Ellen Roudebush and Jordyn Hubert are carpooling together as they complete the yearlong program.
Students spend some time in the classroom, but also get hands-on experience at different childcare centers. The pair have learned to navigate college and use the resources Columbus State offers, such as getting a quiet place to take exams. “Working with children is my dream job,” Ellen said.
David Janning is bringing the experience from two deployments fighting COVID-19 back to the classroom.
David Janning graduated Columbus State Community College with an associate degree in Emergency Medical Services/Fire Science in 2011, and has taught in that department for seven years. He's also currently a student in the RN Nursing Associate Degree program.
So, when the pandemic started, Janning knew that he had skills that could be useful. He reached out to a company recruiting for health care professionals to work in COVID-19 hot spots. Janning took a brief sabbatical from his studies and teaching and immediately went down South with 50 pounds of medical supplies for his first deployment.
“When we can say, ‘Not only are we are teaching this, we are living it,’ it makes teaching that much more effective,” Janning says.
Thanks to grant funding, Columbus State’s Emergency Medical Services (EMS) program has three new simulation rig ambulances. Known as “sim-rigs,” they are replicas of the back of an actual ambulance. They were constructed in a lab classroom where the EMS program is based.
Previously, students used what you might consider “make-believe” ambulance setups. For example, they would place a stretcher in an area surrounded by chairs to act as shelves for medical items that you would need in an ambulance. Staring with this semester, students will have an actual replica of the back of an ambulance.
State Rapid Grants provided nearly $28,000 for each of the three sim rigs. Additional grant funding provided just over $14,000 for the three stretchers and special equipment. They are used by students in the Emergency Medical Services Technology associate degree program, the Paramedic certification program, and the Emergency Medical Technician certification program.
Health Modal
Successful nursing careers begin at Columbus State
Nurses work closely with patients to perform physical exams, administer medication, interpret patient information and much more. Our five-semester Associate of Applied Science in Nursing prepares graduates to work in a variety of settings, with an emphasis on critical thinking, decision making, delegation and care management skills. Columbus State also offers certificates for those seeking entry-level jobs or for nurses to expand their credentials.
Starting at Columbus State and transferring can help you save up to 60% on your bachelor’s degree
Why pay more for the same degree? When you start at Columbus State, you can transfer your associate degree to one of our many partner institutions and save big. That way, you can graduate ready to tackle your future, rather than paying off the past.
Channel your compassion for pets and people.
“If you want to work in a vet’s office, you’re probably an animal person. Columbus State’s Veterinary Technology program teaches you to care for pets and interact with their owners, too. Courses range from veterinary anatomy to business communication. Students get hands-on experience in our lab and through clinical experience, and graduates are able to conduct physical examinations, administer anesthesia, communicate with clients and keep records under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian.”
Start your career in this high-demand industry with help from Columbus State
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the health care industry is projected to add 2.3 million jobs between 2014 and 2024 — that’s more job openings than any other occupation. Many careers in the health care field require only an associate degree, and range from nursing to dental hygiene to respiratory therapy. If you plan to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in the medical field, starting at Columbus State and transferring can save you thousands of dollars in student loans.
Abby Kirov is one of Columbus State’s many non-traditional students. As a 29-year-old working adult, she turned to the College to earn a degree many years after high school. She graduated with an Associate of Science in nursing.
Before arriving at Columbus State six years ago, Kirov was already working in the health care field as a medical assistant at OhioHealth Heart & Vascular. “The program was challenging as a new mom and full-time medical assistant. I shed a lot of tears, I missed important family moments, and worked harder than ever.”
To the heart of the pandemic
Allyson Stought went where she was most needed: To New York City, to the center of a pandemic.
Stought, who graduated in 2018 with an associate degree in Respiratory Care, went to New York City at the end of April to help operate ventilators for patients suffering from COVID-19. She was deployed to NewYork-Presbyterian / Weill Cornell Medical Center and hit the ground running.
"As respiratory therapists, we really are the front lines of this," Stought says. "We have our hands in anything cardio-pulmonary related. They are really relying on us to help treat this virus."
Networking helped this Columbus State student engage in scientific research and discover a new passion
A sports-lover all her life, Zea’annah Slack knew she wanted to major in exercise science. Slack took some courses at Columbus State during her junior year of high school, and she enjoyed the experience so much that she decided to enroll here to earn her associate degree. That decision allowed her to forge connections with advisors and teachers early on, and opened the door to new opportunities. Slack’s advisor helped her land a research assistant position at Ohio State University where she’s worked on a study looking at the effects of nutrition and exercise for minority students in college.
“The thing I like the most about Columbus State is that you really get to know you professors on a name-to-name basis,” Slack says. “It helped me stay focused and get good grades because it was easy for me to get the help and tutoring I needed.”
Slack plans to transfer to a four-year school to earn a physician’s assistant degree with a minor in herbal science — a passion she’s developed during her time at Columbus State. Slack aspires to own her own herbal remedy business one day, so she can educate others about the benefits of herbal treatments and create her own affordable yet effective remedies.
Earning an Associate of Science degree set Emily Holbrook up for success
Initially, Emily Holbrook assumed she would attend Ohio State University her freshman year of college. But when she discovered the resources available to her at Columbus State — including tuition assistance, one-on-one counseling, and an active STEM Club — it was an easy decision to start here before transferring to Ohio State to study medical dietetics.
Engineering Modal
Alternative Energy Automotive Technician Certificate
In the last decade, the number of alternative-fueled vehicles on the roads has risen dramatically and continues to increase. From individuals to corporate and government fleets, more and more Americans are choosing these energy-efficient modes of transportation. That creates a high demand for automotive technicians with the technical skills to maintain and repair vehicles powered by electricity, alternative fuels, or a hybrid of conventional fuels and new technology.
Funded in part by a grant from the National Science Foundation, the new Alternative Energy Automotive Technician Certificate prepares automotive students and professionals to step into this up-and-coming specialty.
Working together to build career pathways for high school and college students
Columbus State is committed to working with employers to bridge the gap between what students learn and the skills companies look for in a candidate. Honda’s work-study program gives Columbus State students real-world experience in the field before they even leave school, setting them up for success after graduation.
Columbus State’s Modern Manufacturing Work-Study program helped Miller learn on the job
Erica Miller’s first foray into engineering and robotics was in middle school, when she participated in the First Lego League. “As a kid I was always fascinated with figuring out how things worked. I really liked thinking through problems and evaluating solutions,” she says. Today, she’s channeling that passion for problem-solving into her job as a technician with Stanley Electric US, Inc.
Miller gained the knowledge and skills she needed through Columbus State’s Modern Manufacturing Work-Study program, which gives students an opportunity to work with a local company while they’re still in school. For Miller, that meant servicing and maintaining robots and equipment at Honda. “It’s great how what you learn at school and what you learn on the job build on each other,” she says. “They ask me to do things at work for the first time and I’m like ‘Hey, I know how to do this!’ The classes and lab work really teach you the basics so you can jump in when you get a job.”
Preparing students for the workforce and beyond
For professor Shane Bendele, there’s nothing more satisfying than know he’s prepared his students well. “Probably my favorite thing that I hear over and over again is somebody who’s been working in the field for maybe six months, they come back and they tell me ‘I use everything you taught me,’” he says.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, mechanical engineering technicians earn a median $54,480 per year working with mechanical engineers to design, develop, test, and manufacture mechanical devices, including tools, engines, and machines. In this career, you’ll might do everything from creating sketches and rough layouts to recording and analyzing data.
Nadine Reece loves figuring things out — and Columbus State's Automotive Technology department is a piece of that puzzle.
Reece became interested in cars through a high school internship with Alternative Auto Care for a semester. "I love the puzzle aspect of the work, and figuring out the exact root cause of an issue is very satisfying," she said.
Columbus State's program gives students a solid understanding of how every part of the car works, Reece said. And although she was one of the few women in the program, she always felt respected and included. "The camaraderie we had as classmates was one of my favorite parts of the program. Even on long and hot days, it was a delight to be there with friends."
The logistics of beer, from the hops to the dock
As a graduate of Columbus State's Supply Chain and Logistics Program, Miranda Dietz gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her field of study and current role as BrewDog USA's Supply Chain Manager.
Learn to take building projects from concept to completion
Columbus State’s Associate of Applied Science in Architecture teaches students how to make a building come to life by piecing together a building project and developing the drawings necessary for it to be constructed. The program covers skills used daily in the field, such as manual and CAD drafting, Building Information Modeling (BIM), detailing, product selection and specification, design, the study of architectural history, and code evaluation. Graduates find positions with architectural and engineering firms, builders, developers, product manufacturers and others.
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At Columbus State, you can choose from a wide range of programs that will prepare you to transfer to a four-year college or jump right into the workforce. Start here to discover your path.
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