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Learn the differences as you plan your educational journey

Learning, of course, is the goal of any college experience. Part of that education means familiarizing yourself with some unfamiliar terms. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Through our monthly “Say What?” series, we’ll explain phrases, lingo or topics to add to your college vocabulary. If there’s something you’d like to see covered, please send suggestions to [email protected].

Today, we take a look at the difference between two items that are part of overall college expenses: tuition and fees.

What is tuition?

Tuition is, simply, the cost of instruction. At its most basic, tuition covers the cost of the professor or instructor teaching the course and the cost of offering the class in the first place. At Schoolcraft College, tuition rates are based on residency, which is whether you live in the College’s district or out of the district.

Schoolcraft College’s district includes cities and townships within the following public school districts: Clarenceville, Garden City, Livonia, Northville and Plymouth-Canton. The district also includes a small sliver of Novi. Residents in these districts pay a millage, or tax, to help maintain Schoolcraft College. Because they’ve already paid into the College, they receive a lower tuition rate.

calculator, piggy bank wearing a graduation cap
Tuition is the cost of instruction. Fees are generally used to cover the cost of buildings, facilities and services.

The tuition rates for 2022-23 are as follows:

  • Resident: $131 per credit hour
  • Non-resident: $188 per credit hour
  • Out of state: $265 per credit hour
  • International: $265 per credit hour

What are fees?

Fees are separate from tuition. They are used to pay some of the other expenses related to higher education, including buildings and facilities. Here is the fee schedule:

  • Application fee: $0
  • Transcript fee: Varies according to delivery method
  • Parking fee: $0
  • Registration fee: $43 per semester
  • Instructional equipment fee: $10 per credit hour
  • Service fee: $8 per credit hour
  • Infrastructure fee: $8 per credit hour
  • Learning management fee: $12 per class
  • Lab fee: Varies according to individual class
  • Excess contact hour fee: Varies according to individual class

Explanation of fees

Registration Fee

This fee is a refundable fee charged one time per semester regardless of how many credit hours a student registers for during the semester. This fee is $43 per semester.

Instructional Equipment Fee

This fee is used to defray the increasing cost of maintaining, upgrading, and replacing the wide variety of electronic equipment and personal computers used in our classrooms. Software purchases, maintenance agreements, and upgrades are also covered by this fee. Every student is charged $10 per credit hour for this fee.

Service Fee

This fee defrays the cost of several free services that Schoolcraft provides to students, such as career services, student activities, graduation, parking and admittance to the SC Fitness Center each semester the student is registered. This fee is $8 per credit.

Infrastructure Fee

This fee is used to defray the increasing costs associated with maintaining and enhancing the College’s buildings, facilities, and campus grounds. Deferred maintenance and depreciation of campus infrastructure is also covered by this fee. Every student is charged $8 per credit hour for this fee.

Lab Fees/Learning Management Fees

This fee is used to cover the cost of special materials, equipment, student assistants, specialized support and other services. Our learning management system fee (currently Blackboard) is $12 per class, with an additional fee of $10 for classes held in computer labs, allowing the use of additional technology that is otherwise not available in a standard classroom.

Excess Contact Hours Fees

The College charges $131 per excess contact hour per class with a maximum of 4 excess contact hours per class.

An excess contact hour occurs when the weekly class meeting hours exceed the class credit hours. For example, if Biology meets 4 hours per week, but Biology is a 3 credit hour class, the student is charged a $131 excess contact hour fee. If a Nursing class meets 10 hours per week, but the Nursing class is a 4 credit hour class, the student will be charged a $524 excess contact hour fee.

Paying for higher education can be a challenge. Fortunately, Schoolcraft College offers a variety of scholarships. Learn more here.

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Certificates lead to more opportunities

Professionals in the field of medical imaging can further their careers by earning advanced certificates through three new programs offered by Schoolcraft College starting in the Fall 2022 semester.

The three new programs are:

  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging Post Associate Certificate
  • Computed Tomography Post Associate Certificate
  • Mammography Post Associate Certificate

To pursue any of these new certificates, an Associate Degree is NOT required. These post associate certificate opportunities are for professionals in the field who have already obtained primary certification and are looking to be eligible to take their advanced certification exam.

person using a technology device
Programs leading to Post Associate Certificates in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography and Mammography will be available starting in the Fall 2022 semester.

“Earning a certificate allows technologists to become more specialized, which would increase their demand and job opportunities,” said Jufauri Ely, Program Director/Instructor for Radiologic Technology (RAD), and Faculty Representative for Medical Imaging Programs. “They also could work in multiple areas and be uniquely skilled.”

As a part-time faculty member and subject matter expert, Donna Moir RT(R)(CT) MBA, has been instrumental in developing these post-associate programs and will have an important role in these programs going forward. “Currently, there is a labor shortage of Imaging Technologists. Schoolcraft College has partnered with leading healthcare systems to provide a quality clinical experience for our students,” she said.

“Imaging professionals can advance in the profession by pursuing one of these advanced certifications. Post Associate Certifications allow technologists to earn a significantly higher salary. Technologists can earn $10,000 to $25,000 more annually with an advanced certification,” Moir said.

Here’s a closer look at each program

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists are healthcare professionals who use specialized, powerful magnets to produce images of organs and structures within the body that aid in the diagnosis of diseases and injuries. Unlike X-rays or Computed Tomography, MRI does not use ionizing radiation.  

an imaging machine
Programs leading to Post Associate Certificates in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography and Mammography will be available starting in the Fall 2022 semester.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Post Associate Certificate

  • Applicants must be registered with one of the following:
    • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists – ARRT
    • Radiation Therapists – ARRT
    • Nuclear Medicine Technologists – ARRT or NMTCB
    • Sonographers – ARRT or ARDMS
    • 16 credits, including lecture and clinical instruction
    • Clinicals include 47 procedures across 6 categories
    • Students must complete 25 procedures
    • Each procedure must be repeated between 3 to 6 times

What Is Computed Tomography (CT)?

Computed Tomography Technologists are healthcare professionals responsible for producing detailed 3D images of the inside of the body utilizing ionizing radiation. These images are used for diagnostic testing and radiation therapy treatment planning.

Computed Tomography Post Associate Certificate

  • Applicants must be registered with one of the following:
    • American Registry of Radiologic Technologists – ARRT
    • Radiation Therapists – ARRT
    • Nuclear Medicine Technologists – ARRT or NMTCB
    • 16 credits, including lecture and clinical instruction
    • Clinicals include 59 procedures across 6 categories
    • Students must complete 25 procedures
    • Each procedure must be repeated between 3 to 6 times

What is Mammography (M)?

Mammography uses low-energy radiation to produce images of the breast that play a key role in early detection of breast cancer.  

Mammography Post Associate Certificate

  • Applicant must be registered with American Registry of Radiologic Technologists – ARRT
  • 9 credits, including lecture and clinical instruction
  • Complete 25 mammography procedures required by Mammography Control Standards Act under direct supervision of a technologist
  • Complete 75 supervised mammographic procedures (screening and/or diagnostic) on 75 patients addressing patient preparation/education and documentation tasks

The new Post Associate Certificate programs are a strong complement to Schoolcraft College’s two Medical Imaging programs that award Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degrees – Radiologic Technology (X-rays) and Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ultrasound).

Both debuted in the Fall 2021 semester and are 67-68 credits, of which 26-27 credits are prerequisites and the other 41 credits are program requirements. A full-time student can complete the requirements in two years. Up to 45 Prior Learning Credits are available. 

an imaging equipment
Programs leading to Post Associate Certificates in Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Computed Tomography and Mammography will be available starting in the Fall 2022 semester.

“Our Radiologic Technology and Diagnostic Medical Sonography programs are off to a strong start, so we’re pleased to add Post Associate Certificate programs as well to help industry professionals take a step forward in their careers,” said Dave Kesler, D.C.*, Associate Dean of Health Professions. “Medical imaging is a vital part of today’s health care, and trained individuals in this field are needed more than ever.”

Learn more about Schoolcraft College’s Medical Imaging programs.

Registration for Fall 2022 is now open.

* RT(R)(CT) stands for Registered Radiologic Technologist, Computed Tomography

** D.C. stands for Doctor of Chiropractic

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There is a shortage of qualified instructors

When it’s cold in Michigan, riding a motorcycle isn’t exactly top of mind. But if you’re an experienced motorcyclist, this is the right time to think about sharing your experience and improving your skills by becoming a certified RiderCoach through Schoolcraft College this spring.

“Becoming a certified RiderCoach is a great way to share your passion for motorcycling with new and experienced riders, get more involved in the motorcycling community, and make some extra money,” said Sean McGlinn, Motorcycle Safety Coordinator for Schoolcraft College’s program, which is part of Personal & Professional Learning (PPL).

This video explains the benefits of becoming a certified RiderCoach.

RiderCoach Prep (the instructor-training course) is approximately 90 hours long. Course schedules will vary, but students should plan on 7 to 11 days of intensive classroom and hands-on (range) activities. There are three classes between the months of April, May and June. 

Applicants must have their own motorcycle and their CY endorsement for at least one year, and they must successfully complete a Basic RiderCourse. Cost is $75 and an additional $50 if the applicant has yet to take a Basic RiderCourse.

motorcycle class group
The motorcycle training classes historically have been some of the most popular at Schoolcraft College.

Candidates who successfully complete the course will become certified Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) RiderCoaches. Certification lasts for two years, and RiderCoaches apply for recertification by teaching a minimum of four classes, completing professional-development courses, and submitting these records directly to the MSF.

In addition, the Detroit Metro Motorcycle Safety Consortium (which includes Macomb Community College, Monroe County Community College, Oakland Community College, Schoolcraft College, and Wayne County Community College District) highly recommends that candidates familiarize themselves with the curriculum they will be teaching by shadowing the instructors of a Basic RiderCourse (BRC) prior to RiderCoach Prep.

McGlinn completed his BRC at Schoolcraft in 2011 and obtained his MSF RiderCoach Certification in 2021. He has been the Motorcycle Program Coordinator at Schoolcraft College since January 2018.

“I have been riding motorcycles since I was a kid,” he said, “and I am privileged to work for the program that has benefitted countless motorcyclists, including myself, in Metro Detroit and beyond.”

The motorcycle training classes historically have been some of the most popular at Schoolcraft College.

“Motorcycle sales continued to boom last year,” McGlinn said. “While we are tremendously proud of training approximately 2,600 students last year, we weren’t able to accommodate everyone who inquired about our courses.

“We typically train around 3,000 students every year, and there will be a backlog of students who weren’t able to take a course last year. A shortage of RiderCoaches exists throughout the State of Michigan, so consider enrolling and helping others to experience life on two wheels.”

RiderCoach applications are currently being reviewed. To request a RiderCoach application, contact [email protected] or call 734-462-4448.

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Staff, faculty help students succeed

STEAMzSchoolcraft: Bridging the Arts, Humanities, and Sciences will be held virtually this Friday, March 25, at 1:00 p.m. Previous years facilitated 26 student presentations with over 200 attendees. 

This year’s virtual summit theme is: Transforming Lives Through Storytelling. Specifically, how can we transform the world we live in through data-driven storytelling? Students will be encouraged and mentored by Schoolcraft College faculty and staff to explore this question. 

Behind the scenes, Schoolcraft College staff, faculty and leadership worked together to make this event possible. The STEAMz Committee and student mentors team comes from various departments across campus:

  • Sharon Christian, Director of Learning Support Services, STEAMz Committee Chair
  • Elizabeth Kenney, Learning Center Coordinator
  • Olga Martinez, PTAC Program Manager
  • Emily Podwoiski, Scholars Honors Coordinator
  • Jennie Rokakis, Learning Support Services Assistant
  • Annika Sholander, Academic Success Coach for International Learning
  • Deborah Taracuk, Communication Arts Faculty
  • Katie Webber, Administrative Assistant III
  • Dr. Carmen Wilson, Academic Success Coach for Reading
  • Christopher Wood, Physics Faculty and Department Chair
young professional smiling
Students will vie for awards in a number of categories.

Selected students received a scholarship provided by a generous grant through the Schoolcraft College Foundation and will be mentored by faculty and staff to strengthen their presentation, research, and story. To align with this year’s theme, students are encouraged to combine a meaningful story with research findings to drive curiosity and inspiration with their audience.

The event will open with a welcome from Dr. Michele Kelly, Dean of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and share a special video message from Dr. Glenn Cerny, President of Schoolcraft College. In addition, several faculty and staff played a key role in this year’s event. Scott Davis, Curriculum Technologist; April Harden, English Faculty; and Christina Stansell-Weaver, Communication Arts Faculty; will serve as presentation judges. Judges review all presentations and evaluate them on a series of criteria, which they later use to award students on their presentation or lightning talk. Categories students can win awards are:

  • Best Presentation
  • Best Lightning Talk
  • Out of the Box
  • Top Investigator

An additional award will be presented to the student who captivates the audience – the People’s Choice. Attendees can vote for their favorite presentation to award the presenter or lightning talk. Students who are awarded will receive an e-certificate to add to their professional portfolio.

STEAMzSchoolcraft Virtual Summit will take place this Friday, March 25, at 1: p.m. via Blackboard Collaborate. The event is free to attend – registration is not required. Visit the website and click on the “Attend STEAMzSchoolcraft” button to attend this year’s event during the designated date and time.

If you have questions, please contact Sharon Christian, Director of Learning Support Services and STEAMzSchoolcraft Committee Chair, at [email protected]. 

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Today for our Staff Spotlight story we’re sitting down with Bernadette Bacero, one of our Instructional Designers, or IDs for short. She shares more about this important role and also gives us some insight into our Distance Learning team.

Schoolcraft College: Hello, Bernadette Bacero! Please tell us a little about your background and what led you to Schoolcraft College.

Bernadette Bacero: Hello! Feel free to call me Bee. I started my career as a secondary history teacher, teaching first at Mumford High School in Detroit and then my alma mater Divine Child High School in Dearborn. I loved sharing my passion for history and watching students grow throughout the school year. When COVID-19 arrived, I discovered I also had a knack for supporting my colleagues as we made the switch to online spaces. When the opportunity arrived to do similar work at Schoolcraft College, I leapt at the opportunity to contribute something new!

Schoolcraft College: Can you please explain what an Instructional Designer does?

Bernadette Bacero: We partner with Schoolcraft College’s faculty to design and build the best possible version of our online courses. Faculty create drafts of their online courses, and then we work with them to polish the course into its first-rate final version. The Instructional Designers approach each development in two ways:

First, we go through the course as the stand-in student. Does the material flow in an intuitive way? Does it feel welcoming (especially if the students aren’t familiar with the subject matter)? Does the workload feel manageable? Does it feel like there’s a person on the other side of the screen?

Next, we put on our Instructional Designer hats. As IDs, we’re always keeping up with the latest educational technology trends and research-based best practices. We use this expertise to keep our online courses as up to date as possible, empowering our Ocelot students to take control of their learning using the latest tools in the best ways. We also work hard to ensure that all our courses meet accessibility standards so that all students are able to actively engage in their courses.

At the end of the day, if we’re doing our job well, most people won’t notice that we’re there.

Schoolcraft College: What does a “typical” day look like for you?

Bernadette Bacero: You can usually find me working in BTC 140, affectionately nicknamed “The ID Bunker.” I’ll start my day by going over courses that are currently in development. Faculty send me the first and second drafts for their online courses. I look them over to make sure they’re properly aligned with course competencies (i.e., Are students learning exactly what we want them to learn?) and meet accessibility standards (i.e., Will all students be able to interact with this course?). I’ll offer feedback and suggestions and then send the course drafts back to faculty. We’ll continue this process several times over the course’s development until it’s ready to be built in Blackboard.

My day will also include brainstorming sessions with the other Instructional Designers and sometimes the larger Distance Learning team. The IDs consistently work as a team to troubleshoot problems common to more than one course, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of such an energetic think tank. If one of us doesn’t have the answer, Jason Kane or Kaylynn Mortensen (our other two IDs) will be more than ready to offer a helping hand. We work as a team as much as a possible, and we wouldn’t be nearly as effective without the level of trust and professionalism between us.

Schoolcraft College: What are some of the challenges for you and your team?

Bernadette Bacero at a computer
Bernadette Bacero, Instructional Designer, is part of the team that partners with Schoolcraft College’s faculty to design and build the best possible version of our online courses.

Bernadette Bacero: I think the most obvious challenge is that we’re working with a wide variety of disciplines throughout the college. I could start my day working on a course in Microbiology and after lunch change gears to Spanish. This variety is what makes our partnerships with faculty so important! Our faculty are experts in their fields, and they know what students need to learn in their classrooms. We meet in the middle and collaborate on the best ways to deliver the best learning experiences for our students. What will work well in French might not translate well into a class for Criminal Investigations. We do our best to learn from every successful course development but also tackle each new course in its own unique context.

I think another challenge that comes to mind is less of a challenge and more of an opportunity. Distance Learning is taking the lead as Schoolcraft College transitions from Blackboard to Blackboard Ultra. We’re very excited to make this update as Blackboard Ultra will offer students and faculty improved course design and navigation, and Blackboard Ultra’s mobile app has been redesigned to provide a better student experience overall. There’s plenty of work ahead of us in this project, but ultimately, I think it’s work that is incredibly necessary for Schoolcraft College to stay relevant and current in the education field.

Schoolcraft College: What are some highlights for you so far?

Bernadette Bacero: I came on board to Schoolcraft at the end of June 2020. It was still early(ish) days in the pandemic, and I was working entirely remote. It would have been all too easy to feel isolated from the rest of the Distance Learning team, but they worked hard to ensure that I felt included and supported as I grew into my role. I’m incredibly grateful to each and every one of them for reaching out to me, supporting my questions, and (digitally) showing an interest in getting to know me as a person.

I’ve also really enjoyed getting to know other members of the college, particularly through the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Task Force. It’s a topic I’m particularly passionate about as a first-generation Filipino-American, and getting to know colleagues outside of Distance Learning has made me feel an even stronger connection to the Schoolcraft community. 

Oh, and I can’t forget to mention my first meal at American Harvest. Just thinking about it makes me and my stomach happy. 

Schoolcraft College: The COVID-19 pandemic put an even greater focus on Distance Learning. This is an area Schoolcraft College has excelled at for many years – in fact, we’re celebrating 40 years of Distance Learning. What are your thoughts about this milestone and what’s next for Distance Learning? 

Bernadette Bacero: In my mind, Schoolcraft College has always been a positive fixture of the community, and so much of that can be credited to the work Distance Learning has accomplished in the past 40 years. From mailing coursework to students to broadcasting faculty lessons on public TV stations, Distance Learning has earned its reputation as a leader in the field. As a member of the Livonia community and now working here as an Instructional Designer, I can confidently say that the spirit of Distance Learning has been a combination of enthusiasm to try new things and the expertise to ground these new ideas in solid pedagogy. I hope that this attitude will continue to drive Distance Learning forward for another 40 years, and I’m thrilled to be part of it. 

What’s next for us? I mentioned that Blackboard Ultra is on the horizon. We’re elbow-deep in converting current and future courses to the new format and working on the next season of Distance Learning’s award-winning series What’s Your Problem?

Schoolcraft College: Thank you, Bernadette! Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Bernadette Bacero: I’m looking forward to getting to know more of my Schoolcraft Colleagues as we transition to a post-COVID19 world. Feel free to stop me in the hallways to chat or pop by the ID Bunker in BTC. I would be very happy to show off my office plants. (I’m very proud of them.)

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Deadline to apply is this Friday

Individuals working in schools who are interested in becoming a certified teacher, or currently certified teachers who wish to add endorsements, can take advantage of a new program that provides a $10,000 grant.

The Grow Your Own grant is part of the Michigan Department of Education’s Future Proud Michigan Educator initiative to support K-12 personnel. 

Schoolcraft College has been approved by the state of Michigan to offer an Alternative Route to Interim Teacher Certification (ARC) Program. This program is designed for college graduates, who meet specific admission requirements, to be able to become certified classroom teachers using a rigorous, accelerated preparation program. 

Teacher working with young students
Aspiring or current teachers can take advantage of the $10,000 Grow Your Own grant.

The teaching certificate will enable program completers to teach in Michigan’s public, charter, and parochial classrooms in a wide variety of disciplines. An individual can become certified to teach in as little as one semester. Unlike the traditional teacher preparation program, the alternate route candidate’s certification is not contingent on their academic major or minor.

In addition, currently certified teachers can now also use the ARC program to add additional endorsements to their teaching certificates. Candidates will be provided an Individual Program Plan (IPP), which will allow them to use prior coursework to satisfy specific ARC program requirements. As in the case of initial certification, a major or minor is not required for the new endorsements.

Applications: Interested individual staff members should speak with their building and/or district administrator to coordinate an application. Deadline for the application is March 18, 2022. Funds can be used to pay for expenses incurred between February 1, 2022, and August 30, 2022.

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Neil Simon Comedy is a Classic

Schoolcraft Theatre will return to live performances in the James R. Hartman Theatre on the Livonia campus this month with the presentation of Neil Simon’s Barefoot in the Park. The play is designed and directed by faculty member Paul Beer and will feature performances and technical support from Schoolcraft College students and alumni. 

Paul Beer, director.

“We are thrilled to welcome a live audience back to the James R. Hartman Theatre,” Beer said. “We‘ve missed the interaction with our live audiences, and hope to charm them with this classic Neil Simon comedy.” 

The play observes Corie and Paul Bratter in the second week of their marriage as they settle into life after their honeymoon, when they are confronted with apartment problems, Corie’s mother and an eccentric neighbor. Audiences will relate to adjustments that all the characters make under new circumstances.

Performances will be Friday and Saturday on March 25 and 26 and April 1 and 2 at 8 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on March 27 at 2 p.m. All performances are $20, and tickets are available at www.schoolcraft.edu/theatre or by calling 734-462-4596. Please note that, consistent with other live venues in the Detroit area, all audience members will be required to wear masks in the theatre.

  • From left, rehearsing a scene are Maddy Fohey, Bryan Lamance and Marion Beer.
  • From left, cast members Maddy Fohey, Bryan Lamance, Sophie Tyler, Marion Beer and Aaron Vensko.

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Training leads to careers to work in a surgical unit or behind the scenes

Schoolcraft College is offering two new rigorous, exciting health care programs. If your goal is to become an important member of a surgical team, there are two very different options. The first is to train to become a key behind-the-scenes worker. The second is the opportunity to work directly in the operating room. 

Each program is set up so that students can start in one option and decide to go into the other option. With an aging population leading to an increase in surgeries, each position is in demand and will continue to be in the future.

Taught in the brand-new Health Sciences Center, Surgical Services offers the Sterile Processing Skills Certificate and the Surgical Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. The new facilities feature the Surgical Services Suite, which is used for training and has all the equipment found in a real-world working environment. 

“There is a huge demand for these jobs. The need for trained surgical support professionals continues to grow,” said Mary Jo Nowicki, BHSA, CST, FAST* and subject matter expert, who helped develop the Surgical Services programs. “These new programs at Schoolcraft College are a great fit for students graduating from high school, other professionals seeking a second career, or anyone looking to enter the medical field.”

Behind the scenes or hands-on?

The Sterile Processing Skills Certificate prepares graduates for a career as a Certified Registered Central Service Technician (CRCST), commonly referred to as a Sterile Processing Technician. In this role, they work with the Surgical Service department to inspect, process and distribute safe instruments and equipment to the surgical unit and the healthcare facility. Central Services is the department responsible for decontamination, disinfection, sterilization, packaging, storage and distribution of medical supplies and equipment.

Preparing for surgery
Certified Surgical Technologists assist with instruments and supplies during surgical procedures.

“The sterile processing technician’s work is one of the most important pieces in preventing infection and there are not enough certified registered central service technicians to fill the open jobs,” Nowicki said. “The CRCST’s work means a much lower post-infection rate with best patient outcomes and is a vital role.”

Successful students are prepared to sit for the national Certified Registered Central Service Technicians (CRCST) exam. The CRCST is an integral part of a multidisciplinary health care environment that works as a division of Surgical Services.

The Surgical Technology AAS degree prepares graduates for a career as a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST), commonly referred to as a Scrub Tech. This person works under the surgeon to establish and maintain a sterile field while assisting with instruments and supplies during each surgical procedure. Surgical Technologists are responsible for preparing the operating room and surgical field as well as making sure all necessary items are available for surgical procedures. During the case, they pass instruments and supplies to the surgeon while working in the sterile role. They are the specialists of sterile technique.

“Becoming a surgical technologist is the fastest entry into operating room patient care. Surgical technologists scrub in, and it is the surgical technologists who are part of the sterile surgical team,” Nowicki said.

Students are prepared to sit for the national Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam to earn their credential. Students must demonstrate competency knowledge of perioperative case management prior to entering a clinical internship. 

Surgical tools and equipment
Sterile Processing Technicians inspect, process and distribute safe instruments and equipment to the surgical unit.

The clinical experience offers students hands-on surgical patient care through multiple surgical service specialties. Students will work under the auspice of the surgeon as well as the surgical team to gain the scrub experience required for eligibility to sit for the national Certified Surgical Technologist exam (CST) credentialing exam offered through the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA).

A closer look at the career outlook and programs

Sterile Processing Skills Certificate

  • Typical employers include hospitals, surgery centers and medical offices. Further education and training can lead to a career as a Surgical Technologist, or work in health care management or materials management.
  • The Sterile Processing Skills Certificate is 19-21 credits. 
    • Full-time students can complete this in two semesters following the curriculum guide. 
    • Not all courses are offered each semester. Students should work with an Academic Advisor to develop a schedule that will work for them.

Surgical Technology AAS degree

  • Typical employers include hospitals, surgery centers and medical offices.
  • Further education and training can lead to careers as a Surgical Assistant, Surgical PA, or work in health care management, materials management and teaching.
  • The Sterile Technology AAS degree is 65.5-70.5 credits.
    • Full-time students can complete in two and a half years (including Spring/Summer terms) following the curriculum guide.
    • The educational and clinical learning experiences requires approximately 40 hours of participation per week in the second year of the program.
    • Not all courses are offered each semester. Students should work with an Academic Advisor to develop a schedule that will work for them
    • Students planning to transfer should check the transfer institution’s requirements/guides or discuss their options with an academic advisor. Number of credits may vary depending on the course selection.

“The new Health Sciences Center is exceptional, and I have never heard of a school supporting the training in Surgical Services as thoroughly as Schoolcraft College,” Nowicki said.

Learn more information on these programs at Schoolcraft College.

*BHSA stands for Bachelor of Health Service Administration. CST stands for Certified Surgical Technologist. FAST stands for Fellow of the Association of Surgical Technology.

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The free event will be held in a virtual format

After 26 student presentations and over 200 attendees in the past two years, STEAMzSchoolcraft, a student-led conference that bridges the arts, humanities, and sciences, returns for its third year on Friday, March 25. 

This year’s theme is “Transforming Lives Through Storytelling.” Specifically, the theme examines how to transform the world we live in through data-driven storytelling. Students will be encouraged and mentored by Schoolcraft College faculty and staff to explore this idea. The STEAMz presentations focus on ideas, findings, and experiences highlighting academic and professional successes. Presenters address specific values, skills, and experiences needed to set and achieve thoughtful and actionable goals as they transition into university life or the workforce.

Maria Cielo Robles
Cielo Robles, a Schoolcraft Scholars Honors Program alumni and medical student at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine, will deliver this year’s keynote presentation.

Cielo Robles, a Schoolcraft Scholars Honors Program alumni and medical student at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine, will deliver this year’s keynote presentation. Prior to MSU, she conducted cardiovascular health disparities research at the University of Michigan and pediatric neurosurgery clinical research at Albert Einstein College of Medicine (Bronx, New York). 

Robles has led multiple NIH*-funded substudies, published multiple co-authored papers, including first-author publications, and presented her work at numerous national conferences. She received an Associate of Science degree from Schoolcraft College in 2014. She was the recipient of the Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship and transferred to Cornell University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology, Health and Society in 2016. 

The event also will feature in-depth and lightning talk presentations facilitated by Schoolcraft College students. Selected students received a scholarship provided by a generous grant through the Schoolcraft College Foundation and will be mentored by faculty and staff to strengthen their presentation, research, and story. To align with this year’s theme, students are encouraged to combine a meaningful story with research findings to drive curiosity and inspiration with their audience. During the event, students will be evaluated and recognized for creatively addressing this year’s theme.

STEAMzSchoolcraft Virtual Summit will take place on Friday, March 25, at 1 p.m. via Blackboard Collaborate. A link to attend can be found on the STEAMz website closer to the conference date. The event is free to attend – registration is not required. 

If you have questions, please contact Sharon Christian, Director of Learning Support Services and STEAMzSchoolcraft Committee Chair, at [email protected]. 

*NIH stands for National Institute of Health.

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Matthew Sweeney earned three credentials, including two Associate Degrees, at Schoolcraft College

Schoolcraft College graduate Matthew Sweeney personifies the need to be flexible, determined and adaptable during challenging times. His path to success has been a bit circuitous to say the least, but now he enjoys a career as working for a company, KCS Advanced Machining Services, that supplies parts to a wide variety of high-tech industries.

Describing Sweeney only as an SC graduate actually does him a disservice – he’s earned three credentials from Schoolcraft College, including two Associate Degrees. The native of Farmington Hills started here in the fall of 2002 after being graduated from Schoolcraft Christian Secondary School.

“I had a great experience at Schoolcraft! It was excellent having so much hands-on training from instructors who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subjects.”

Matthew Sweeney, Schoolcraft College alumni and 5-axis machinist at KCS Advanced Machining Services

“I had considered Engineering, but really wanted to go into the skilled trades,” Sweeney said. “I chose Schoolcraft because it offered a lot of what I was interested in at the time; what interested me especially was the huge investment the school was making into its welding lab. So, I enrolled in the Welding and Fabrication program and graduated soon after with Schoolcraft’s Certificate in Welding & Fabrication.

“I had a great experience at Schoolcraft! It was excellent having so much hands-on training from instructors who are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about their subjects.”

Sweeney put his skills to good use as a fabricator until a slowdown in the automotive industry led to a layoff. As a next step, he considered joining the military before an ad for the Farmington Hills Fire Department caught his eye. So it was back to Schoolcraft College, where he earned his Associate Degree in Firefighting Technology.

Another career reinvention

He enjoyed working as an On-Call Firefighter/EMT for six years, but also wanted a full-time position. Unfortunately, no departments were hiring. “So I want back to Schoolcraft once more to reinvent myself,” as Sweeney put it.

Skilled trades were still appealing, but this time he was intrigued by the Machining Lab run by Gene Keyes. 

“He helped me get into a special Department of Defense Grant class being offered at the time that taught G&M code, the programming language CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines use,” Sweeney said. “So I took that as I attended my other classes and earned my second Associate Degree from Schoolcraft – an Advanced Manufacturing Technology Degree.”

Sweeney then worked for a few different manufacturing companies making plastic injection molds, gears, components and tooling. He joined KCS Advanced Machining Service in Livonia in 2019 as a 5-axis machinist. (A very basic description of a 5-axis machine is one that can reach five sides of a part and machine features on it in one setup.)

Sweeney describes KCS as a high-mix, low-volume 5-axis machine shop that creates prototype parts for a wide variety of industries, including consumer robotics, aerospace, automotive, marine and firearms.

“We make a range of components for all of them,” Sweeney said. “All of the work here is interesting, generally complex and often requires innovative fixture designs and creative approaches to machine them.”

These high-tech industries need parts created on high-tech machines by skilled professionals.

Matthew Sweeney
Schoolcraft College graduate Matthew Sweeney was featured on the cover of the January 2022 issue of “Modern Machine Shop” magazine.

“We use hyperMILL, which is top-of-the-line CAD/CAM software, to create out G&M code for our 5-axis machines,” Sweeney said. “Our machines are made by HURCO and MATSUURA, cutting-edge multi-axis machining centers. They are fast, powerful, and extremely accurate, capable of mass-production as well as short product runs. 

“It’s great having new, state-of-the-art machines and software to work with — and a lot of times we push the envelope with both. Because of that we frequently find ourselves host to other industry leaders who are interested in what we do and how we do it.”

One particularly interesting project involves NASA.

“Two of our customers are developing NASA’s next-generation flight suits and extra-vehicular spacesuits as part of the Artemis program that’s headed first to the moon, then to Mars,” Sweeney said. “We’re the sub-suppliers making virtually all of the difficult components for the suits.”

Involved throughout the process

Sweeney said a unique aspect of KCS how one person will see a project through completion – being handed a print and a CAD model and taking it all the way to a finished part.

“All of us make programs, set up the machining centers, and then run the job,” he said. “Each of us programs, designs and builds fixtures, sets up machines, runs parts, and inspects them for accuracy. 

“KCS’s owner, Kyle Szczypienski, continually invests in new technology, software and upgrades that constantly add to what we can do. He encourages all of us to continue learning as much as we can and it’s a very stimulating place to work because of it. I’ve been at KCS for three years now and have seen it grow rapidly. We don’t have worn-out machines and we don’t do things one way just because that’s how it’s always been done.”

Sweeney said manufacturing is a dynamic career with many opportunities.

“Automation is becoming more and more common even in small businesses, so learning about that is very important and offers more room for growth,” he said. “The impact of automation is only going to grow and accelerate.

“New manufacturing processes, techniques and increasing capabilities of software are all happening at once and so the overall impact is magnified. Employers are eager for talented and enthusiastic employees. It’s an exciting environment and young machinists are getting into the industry at a great time. Anyone with a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a desire to learn and grow can do really well!”

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Today for our Faculty Spotlight story we’re profiling Carlin Wilson, an adjunct professor in our Movement Science program. A version of this story appeared on BLAC Magazine’s digital site.

Carlin Wilson’s path to Adjunct Professor in the Movement Science program at Schoolcraft College included a few twists and turns. 

“As we know, most college students will change their major at least two times,” Professor Wilson said. “Well, try three for me.”

In Professor Wilson’s case, the more he started to learn about a particular subject, the more he wanted to challenge himself and discover more. A native of Saginaw, Professor Wilson’s interest in the human body first was spurred as he studied Sports Management at Hampton University in Virginia. 

“It was then I started putting more effort into fitness and began to see the positive effects training had on me physically and mentally,” he said. “I also started studying muscle groups and actions, realizing the capabilities of muscle tissues and how the body adapts. 

“That interest led me into pursuing amateur bodybuilding for the next 10 years. The desire to learn how to train and how to diet for my competition then prompted me to major in Physiology (curriculum very similar to that of movement science) and minor in dietetics at Western Michigan University and pursue a degree in Health Sciences.”

Person standing next to a treadmill
Carlin Wilson teaches Fitness Facility Management and Operations in the Movement Science program.

His work at Western Michigan included being the stretch and flexibility coach for football and gymnastics. 

“This experience enhanced my knowledge of muscle actions and injury prevention, which sparked an interest in Physical Therapy,” Professor Wilson said. “While learning rehabilitation practices, I decided I did not want to be limited to restrictions of mainly joint rehabilitation without the training of the muscle tissue. So within my final year I made the switch to Physiology and was able to graduate on time.”

His variety of skills and education made it easy for Professor Wilson to hone his professional career through fitness director positions with a variety of clubs and facilities. At each stop, he focused on helping clients help themselves.

“I would always push my clients to understand the why and how so they could eventually train themselves properly without my assistance,” Professor Wilson said. “Helping people see the body’s ability through the same lenses I do has always been an innate goal of mine.”

This in turn led to a desire to teach at the college level.

“I wanted to be a part of a program that educated and prepared students for real-world experience and/or advanced degrees,” he said. “I was afforded that opportunity at Schoolcraft College, where I serve as an adjunct professor in the Movement Science program teaching Fitness Facility Management and Operations. I also serve as an Advisory Board member for Movement Science Curriculum Development at Schoolcraft College.”

About the Movement Science program

As the name suggests, Movement Science students study how the human body moves as well as how it is affected by disease, age and exercise. 

Schoolcraft College’s program offers a solid foundation for graduate school and/or careers in medicine, pharmacy, public health, fitness training, exercise physiologist, and physical and occupational therapy. The College offers both a one-year certificate (8 courses, 24 credits) and an Associate Degree (18 courses, 60-63 credits).

In addition to teaching theory and practice of human body movement, the curriculum also includes facilities operations, budgeting and entrepreneurship courses, as well hands-on lab testing (metabolic and body composition) on state-of-the-art equipment and work experience. In addition, those pursuing the Associate Degree are eligible to test for fitness certifications with top fitness organizations.

Read more about the Movement Science’s high-tech equipment.

“The two-year Movement Science program includes classes that are not offered at some four-year schools,” Professor Wilson said. “We equip our students with the need to be able to enter the workforce at a high level in a variety of settings and organizations in only two years.”

Learn more about Schoolcraft College’s Movement Science program.

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They can earn certifications to advance their careers

To help better serve students and prepare them for an increasingly competitive job market, Schoolcraft College has comprehensively revamped its Mechatronics program. 

Mechatronics describes the relationship between mechanical machines regulated by electrical control systems. It also encompasses computer engineering, systems engineering and programming.

Students using equipment
The Motor Control workstation teaches electric machines commonly found in industrial, commercial, and residential applications: single-phase AC motors, three-phase AC electric motors, and DC electric motors.

Starting with the Winter 2022 semester, the program will be known as Mechatronics Technology to reflect the increased hands-on classes and alignment with important industry standards. 

“We’ve retooled our new Mechatronics Technology program to better help our students master an array of equipment in a variety of industries,” said Amy Jones, Associate Dean of Occupational Programs, Engineering & Technology. “Also, students will have the opportunity to earn important industry certifications.”

New Robotics course

Leading the new course offerings is ROBAT101, Robot Tool Handling Operations and Programming. It serves as an applied introduction to HandlingTool™ software with an emphasis on safety, setup, recording and troubleshooting. It also includes basic applications of the HandlingTool™ software, including terminology, testing and refining the program. Further, robotic operations and hands-on application are covered to simulate and run robotic programs.

Computer and machinery board
The Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) is a computer that monitors inputs and outputs and makes logic-based decisions for automated processes or machines.

A key benefit in taking this course is that it is aligned to both Smart Automation Certification Alliance (SACA) and FANUC* standards.

“Earning these industry certifications can help students advance in their careers,” Jones said. “Schoolcraft College students can take the exams at no extra charge. Because we are now a SACA-certified location, we also can offer training to industry professionals to earn these certifications.”

What’s taught and where you can apply those skills

Schoolcraft College’s Mechatronics Technology program focuses on the integration of mechanical, electrical (electronics), fluid power (hydraulics or pneumatics) and computer technologies to control machine movements. The students’ studies begin with courses in mechanics, sensors, basic electronics, pneumatics, control logic and robot programming and control.

Machinery equipment
The Mechatronics trainer is a component-based system that prepares learners for mechatronics operation, hands-on PLC programming, and industrial maintenance and problem solving for real-world manufacturing environments.

The program is not directly aimed at specific products. With the multiplicity of equipment presently in use, and the rapid advance and change in technology, the department stresses the development of a broad background that will enable students to find employment and be able to further their skills in a diversified number of industries, including:

  • Aerospace 
  • Energy
  • Equipment manufacturing (including computers) 
  • Plastics

According to federal government data, the average median salary for a person skilled in mechatronics technology is $60,000.

Credentials and degrees

The College offers a Skills Certificate (18 credits), a Certificate (35 credits) and an Associate in Applied Science degree (62-68 credits) in Mechatronics Technology.

Read further information on Schoolcraft College’s Mechatronics Technology program.

*FANUC is a Japanese company with American headquarters in Rochester Hills, Michigan. It is a leading supplier of robots, CNC systems and factory automation.