New offerings respond to workforce needs in community health, therapeutic services and tree care
Mid-State Technical College is expanding its career-focused education with three new programs designed to prepare students for emerging and in-demand roles in the region: Community Health Worker, Therapeutic Activity Specialist and Tree Health Specialist.
The additions reflect Mid-State’s continued focus on developing education and training that responds to changing workforce needs while creating flexible pathways for students to quickly build skills and enter or advance in meaningful careers.
“Employers and communities are continually telling us where workforce needs are evolving, and our responsibility is to respond with education that prepares people for those opportunities,” said Dr. Chris Severson, provost and vice president of academic affairs at Mid-State Technical College. “These programs are very different from one another, but they share an important purpose—giving students practical skills they can put to work while strengthening the communities we serve.”
The new Community Health Worker technical degree prepares students to connect individuals and families with health care, social services and community resources. Students develop skills in outreach, service coordination, resource navigation, advocacy and culturally responsive health education. The 25-credit, one-year program is offered completely online and prepares graduates for roles including community health worker, wellness coach and community health liaison.
The Therapeutic Activity Specialist certificate prepares students to create meaningful and inclusive experiences for individuals with diverse abilities. The 10-credit online certificate focuses on therapeutic recreation, person-centered approaches and holistic well-being, with students developing skills in program planning, ethical facilitation, advocacy and outcome evaluation. The certificate can be completed in less than one year.
Mid-State’s new Tree Health Specialist technical degree expands the College’s education and training opportunities related to arboriculture and tree care. The 18-credit, one-year program provides hands-on, field-based experience assessing tree health, soil and root conditions, insects and diseases. Students develop practical skills in diagnostics, plant health care, safe treatment applications and field-based inspections, preparing them for specialized roles in tree health and plant health care.
Together, the programs demonstrate the range of career pathways available through Mid-State—from helping individuals navigate health and community resources, to supporting people with diverse abilities, to developing specialized skills needed to care for the region’s trees and natural resources.
Applications are now being accepted for all three programs. Prospective students are encouraged to explore program requirements, financial aid opportunities and career outcomes.
To learn more about Mid-State programs and career pathways, visit mstc.edu/programs.
