Three Rivers Community College offers a comprehensive array of programs of study as listed and described here.  The specific curricular patterns in the associate degree programs lead either to the degree of Associate in Arts (AA), the degree of Associate in Science (AS), or the degree of Associate in Applied Science (AAS).  Career and transfer programs are available for many associate degree programs.  Certificates are also awarded in certain programs.

Architectural Design Technology, AS

Architectural Drafting Technology, Certificate

Aviation Maintenance Technology, AS

Civil Engineering Technology, AS

Computer-Aided Drafting, Certificate

Computer Applications, Certificate

Computer Science Technology, AS

Electrical Engineering Technology, AS

Environmental Engineering Technology, AS

Fiber Optics, Certificate

Fire Technology and Administration, AS

General Engineering Technology, AAS

Manufacturing Engineering Technology, AS

Mechanical Engineering Technology, AS

Nuclear Engineering Technology, AS

Photonics Engineering Technology, AS

Architectural Design Technology Associate in Science

Program Coordinator:  Mark Comeau - 885-2387

The Architectural Design Technology Associate Degree Program is designed to expand opportunities for those interested in the drafting/design fields.  The program serves those seeking entry-level positions and those who plan on continuing studies at a university. The program exposes students to the fundamentals of traditional drafting and incorporates leading edge technology of computer-aided drafting (AutoCAD).  Graduates of the program will be qualified to fill many diverse positions in the industry or transfer to a baccalaureate or professional degree program.  Positions may include:  design and production under the supervision of a registered architect, draftsperson for construction or development firms, architectural representative for vendor sales, and designer/draftsperson for facility planners.

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGN TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM (Suggested two year sequence.)

Shaded courses, as well as the additionally named courses in the description of the Architectural Drafting Technology Certificate Program must be taken to complete the 28 credit hour certificate program.

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Architectural Drafting Technology Certificate Program

The Architectural Drafting Technology Certificate program is designed to expand opportunities for those interested in the drafting/design fields. The program serves those seeking entry-level positions and those who plan on continuing studies in the  associate degree program. The program exposes  students to the fundamentals of traditional drafting and incorporates leading edge technology of computer-aided drafting (AutoCad). Graduates of the program will be qualified to fill many diverse positions in the industry or transfer into an associate degree program. Positions may include: drafting and production under the supervision of a registered architect, draftsperson for construction or development firms, architectural representative for vendor sales, and draftsperson for facility planners.

Students may complete this certificate by completing the courses that are shaded on the Architectural Design Technology Program.

ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTING TECHNOLOGY CERTIFICATE CURRICULUM

Aviation Maintenance Technology Associate in Science

Program Coordinator:  Timothy Wentzell - 885-2347

Aviation Maintenance Technology is an Associate in Science degree program.  Requirements include successful completion of a Federal Aviation Administration approved Airframe and Powerplant Mechanics Program.  The student must also have an active license for which 22 semester hours of college credit will be granted.  In addition, 48 semester hours of college instruction will be required as prescribed in the following curriculum.  Graduates of this program have obtained employment as mechanics at airports or technicians with aircraft and powerplant companies.  Students may also continue their education towards a B.S. degree in the industrial or manufacturing field.

AVIATION MAINTENANCE TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM (Suggested two year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

**To obtain a FAA License you must complete 6 semesters (Fall, Spring) at Ellis Regional Vocational-Technical High School

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Civil Engineering Technology Associate in Science

Contact person:  Alisa Morrison - 885-2388

This program prepares students with skills necessary for employment as Civil Engineering Technicians with consulting firms, testing laboratories, utilities, and local, state and federal government agencies. Emphasis is placed on such tasks as: surveying, materials testing, drafting, construction inspection, design and erection of structures, transportation, water supplies, and sewage treatment. Presently Three Rivers concentrates its efforts in the area of transportation and provides the student with a blend of physical concepts and present day applications.

CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM (Suggested two year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite.  Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Computer-Aided Drafting Certificate Program

Program Advisor:  Ron Greenier - 885-2380

This Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) one-year Certificate Program prepares students with modern skills in drafting. There is a strong concentration on computer applications in each drafting concentration. A unique feature of this certificate is that it pairs drafting with a technology such as: Architectural, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, or Industrial (Manufacturing, Mechanical). This provides a more meaningful education for the students. Students may complete this certificate and go to work as draftspersons or they may enter into an Associate Degree program of their choice.

COMPUTER-AIDED DRAFTING CURRICULUM

* Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

@Course must be approved by program advisor

Computer Applications Certificate Program

This 30 credit certificate program has been designed to prepare students for employment in various computer support positions from designing the screen layout for a data entry operation to a web page for a small company.

Students may complete this certificate by completing the courses that are shaded on the Computer Science Technology program in addition to:

Computer Applications Curriculum

*Course has a prerequisite.  Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

Computer Science Technology Associate in Science

Program Coordinator:  Joyce Parker - 885-2395

This 67 credit program is designed to provide students with skills consistent with entry level computer programming and related jobs. The core curriculum combined with technical electives gives the student the flexibility to design a preferred track of concentration. Many students will seek employment as entry level programmers immediately upon receiving the Associate Degree in Computer Science, however others will use this as the first step in their pursuit of higher degrees at other institutions.

COMPUTER SCIENCE CURRICULUM (Suggested two year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite.  Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

Shaded courses plus courses listed in the Computer Applications curriculum must be taken to complete the 30 credit Computer Applications Certificate Program.

Electrical Engineering Technology Associate in Science - TAC/ABET Accredited

Program Coordinator:  Richard Picard - 885-2399

For over 25 years, the Electrical Engineering Technology program has been supplying qualified technicians for Connecticut industry as well as for firms throughout the New England area.  The Electrical Engineering Technology program is one of four programs accredited by the Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (TAC/ABET).

In the program, an intensive study is made of the fundamentals of electric circuits, solid state electronics, and their application in electronic circuits and control systems.  This study prepares the graduates for employment in a variety of electronic technology positions, as well as transfer to baccalaureate engineering technology programs.

Due to the major impact of the computer in our society, the curriculum includes a concentration on digital circuits, and digital control systems.

In addition to the electrical specialties, the student in this technology studies a core of related courses such as physics, and advanced mathematical applications.  To meet the requirements of the degree, the student also pursues studies in the humanities and social sciences.

Excellent transfer programs exist throughout New England for graduates who wish to continue on to a four-year degree.

ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM - TAC/ABET ACCREDITED (Suggested two-year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Environmental Engineering Technology Associate in Science

Program Coordinator: Anthony Benoit - 885-2386

The Associate Degree Program in Environmental  Engineering Technology is designed to educate students in the general and technical aspects of environmental issues and common practice environmental procedures. The degree focuses on practical education with classes covering the basic quantitative and conceptual skills required of environmental engineering technicians. The student population for this program varies from recent high school graduates to retraining students to post-associate degree students looking for career change. The curriculum is broad-based to meet the demands of a range of environmental positions. Graduates have gone on to work for manufacturing firms, regulatory agencies, and consultants or have continued their education at baccalaureate institutions. Due to the expanding environmental industry and high levels of environmental concern in Connecticut, this program has been in great demand.

ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM (Suggested two-year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

@Students must complete ENV 2210* or other 40-hour HAZWOPER training before graduation.

( )#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

**Students may take any other CIV or ENV course, DFT 1104/1105, or MEC 1106.

Fiber Optics Certificate

The Fiber Optics Certificate will prepare students for entry-level positions in the photonics/fiber optics field.  Students will become familiar with the basic optical, laser and fiber optic principles identified in a recent CONN/STEP study as being essential to entry-level photonics workers.  In particular, photonics/fiber optics manufactures have indicated a pressing need for entry-level production workers with the skills and knowledge provided by this curriculum.  Students who whish to advance to the Associate Degree program in the College of Technology will be able to do so, and are encouraged to take MAT K109* as their elective course.  Students may use all of the credits earned in this certificate toward the A.S. degree in the College of Technology: Technological Studies.

FIBER OPTICS CERTIFICATE CURRICULUM

  * Course has a prerequisite.  Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.               

Fire Technology and Administration Associate in Science

The program in Fire Technology and Administration is designed to provide advanced training and education on the college level that develops competent technicians who are, or will become, leaders in fire protection, prevention, and administration.  It also provides training and education for personnel of  insurance companies and of industries involved in fire prevention and protection practices.

Working in career and volunteer fire departments, in local, state and federal government agencies, in industry, in architectural and construction firms, insurance organizations, and in related groups, the fire technologist knows the need for fire prevention activities, the necessity to educate both children and adults in fire safety, and the importance of enforcing fire prevention codes.

The program of study, which leads to the Associate in Science Degree in Fire Technology and Administration, is planned to help students meet the professional standards established by the National Fire Protection Association, the Connecticut Commission on Fire Prevention and Control, and the Connecticut Fire Marshal’s Training Council. Call the Academic Dean’s Office at 885-2609 for more information on this program.

FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ADMINISTRATION CURRICULUM

*Course has a prerequisite.  Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

**Elective credits may be granted for Connecticut certification as an Emergency Medical Technician, Firefighter III, Fire Instructor II, and Fire Marshal/Fire Inspector and for some National Fire Academy Courses.  Appropriate transfer credits may also be accepted from other accredited colleges.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

General Engineering Technology Associate in Applied Science

Program Coordinator:  Robert Lantz - 885-2385

The General Engineering Technology (GET) program was developed to meet industry’s need for generalists as opposed to technicians educated in a specific discipline.  It also provides a program for students who wish to design an engineering technology  curriculum to meet their own individual needs, and for students who are unsure of the specific technology discipline they want as a major.

Each student takes a core of courses in mathematics, science, technology, humanities and social sciences.  The remainder of the program consists of courses chosen by the student to best meet personal goals.  For example, an elective concentration in optics can provide the background for an entry-level position in Connecticut’s photonics industry. Approved military coursework may also be used to fulfill the elective requirements.

General Engineering Technology students are currently employed by Electric Boat, Pratt & Whitney, Connecticut Municipal Electrical Energy Co-op, the US Navy, and other Southeastern Connecticut industries.  Students have also successfully transferred to four-year institutions in Engineering Technology, such as Central Connecticut State University School of Technology.  Students considering transfer are advised to see their advisor early in their studies to maximize transfer credit.

GENERAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM (Suggested two-year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

Manufacturing Engineering Technology Associate in Science - TAC/ABET Accredited

Program Coordinator:  Robert Lantz - 885-2385

Program Advisor:  Harry Ogden - 885-2371

The Manufacturing Engineering Technology program is an excellent example of the merger between the traditional “hands on” learning concepts and the newer computer application techniques in today’s engineering technology education.

The student learns the basics such as the standard methods and practices of Tool Design, Production Planning, and Statistical Process Control. The student’s knowledge is expanded by exploring the more revolutionary techniques of CAD/CAM, Computer-Aided Manufacturing and Robotics in an automated system through concept and practical  applications.

This new emphasis on the computer includes CAD (Computer-Aided Drafting), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), and FMS (Flexible Manufacturing System). FMS includes the applications of robots, automated storage/retrieval, material handling      systems, automated process control and inspection systems and work cells (such as integrated machining, special processing and assembly). Global manufacturing competition is taught through methods of increasing productivity in engineering technology and business functions as well as the production plant.

The Manufacturing Engineering Technology program has TAC/ABET (Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) accreditation and a very active student chapter of the Society of Manufacturing Engineers on campus.

Local industries advise and work with the department on keeping the curriculum and equipment  current to maintain a state-of-the-art program.

MANUFACTURING ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM -  TAC/ABET ACCREDITED (Suggested two-year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Mechanical Engineering Technology Associate in Science - TAC/ABET Accredited

Program Coordinator:  Robert Lantz - 885-2385

The Mechanical Engineering Technology program involves a broad range of subjects related to the  design, manufacture, testing, and development of various products, machines, and systems.

The Mechanical program provides a learning experience in state-of-the-art laboratories on the most sophisticated equipment available. It is geared toward a practical hands-on experience that makes the Mechanical graduate a highly respected and  marketable individual for many different types of industries.

Graduates of the Mechanical program can start immediately by working along side of engineers in research, sales or manufacturing industries. Typical types of starting positions include CAD operators, Quality Control Specialists, Robotic Technicians, Sales Representatives, Design Technicians, Testing Technicians, etc.  Building on a foundation of math, physics, humanities, and social sciences, the program trains and educates the student toward statics, machine design, fluid and thermodynamics with emphasis upon the computer as a special tool to perform the task at hand.

The Mechanical Engineering Technology program also has a co-op option that allows the student to work while substituting the work experience for a technical elective.  Many local industries are actively seeking and obtaining the Mechanical co-op student.

The job market for Mechanical graduates is very   favorable. Currently, the number of mechanical job openings far exceeds the number of graduates on a nationwide trend.  This situation means respectable and stable income for many years in the future.  An investment of two years can turn into a lifetime of job security for the Mechanical graduate.

The Mechanical Technology program is accredited by TAC/ABET (Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology) which means that graduates of our program are recognized by other schools, colleges and universities nationwide. This accreditation is a valuable asset for transferring credits and also for obtaining employment.

The primary goal of the Mechanical Engineering Technology Program is to prepare technicians and designers for employment in industry. However, many students continue on to four-year institutions, especially four-year engineering technology programs.

MECHANICAL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM - TAC/ABET ACCREDITED (Suggested two-year sequence.)

*Course has a prerequisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

**The technical elective may include additional CAD courses or specialized courses such as Welding Engineering Applications (with approval of program coordinator).

***May substitute another electrical elective with prior approval of Program Coordinator.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Nuclear Engineering Technology Associate in Science - TAC/ABET Accredited

Program Coordinator:  James Sherrard - 885-2393

The Nuclear Engineering Technology program operates in cooperation with Northeast Utilities to produce entry-level technicians primarily for the commercial nuclear power industry. Northeast Utilities offers full scholarships through the College up to 15 full-time freshmen enrolling in the Nuclear Engineering Technology program. However, the program is open to all qualified students, with or without Northeast Utilities scholarship aid.

Using classroom, laboratory, and simulator instruction, students are educated in the theories underlying the actual safe operation of nuclear power generating stations. Additional hands-on experience may be gained through 12 weeks of summer co-op employment at Northeast Utilities’ nuclear power plants.

Potential job areas upon graduation include health physics, nuclear chemistry, reactor engineering and power plant operation/maintenance.  The program also provides academic preparation for a career as a reactor operator. This career path involves further training by the utility and  successful completion of a license examination administered by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. For many students, the Associate Degree in Nuclear Engineering Technology is but one step in their academic career as they move on to pursue higher degrees upon graduating from Three Rivers.

The Nuclear Engineering Technology program is accredited by TAC/ABET (Technology Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).

NUCLEAR ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY CURRICULUM - TAC/ABET ACCREDITED 

(suggested two-year sequence)

*Course has a prerequisite or co-requisite. Students should check course description in the catalog or semester class schedule.

**Students may select another 3 credit technology elective to replace NUC K2100/2101 to better meet their employment/ future education goals with the approval of the Program Coordinator.

#Course is considered a prerequisite for this technology degree.

Photonics Engineering Technology Associate in Science

Program Coordinator:  Judy Donnelly - 885-2353

Photonics Engineering Technology is the newest technology program. The program was created to meet the critical need for photonics (laser electro-optic) technicians in Connecticut, which has the third highest concentration of photonics firms in the nation.

The program has a solid core of electronics courses, including electric circuits, solid state electronics, digital circuits, and electronic communications. Proficiency in laser optics is gained through courses in geometric and wave optics, lasers, and fiber optics.

In addition to the major specialty courses, students also study mathematics, English communications, and humanities.

Students who complete the program have the opportunity to transfer to baccalaureate programs in engineering technology, or to find immediate employment in the burgeoning photonics field.

Photonics Engineering Technology Curriculum (Suggested two-year sequence.)