Certifications
Lake Area Technical College offers certifications for individuals who are interested in learning a new skill and for working individuals who wish to stay competitive in their field. Earning a certification may allow an individual to advance in their current position by demonstrating new expertise and job commitment.
Certifications through Lake Area Tech are generally completed in two semesters and are offered on-campus or through hybrid (a combination of on-campus and online) learning, depending on the certification. Specific details for the delivery of each of the certifications are included in the course descriptions below. Most certifications qualify for Financial Aid.
Non-Degree Certificates
Community Health Worker
Lake Area Tech offers the online Community Health Worker certificate in one or two semesters. After completing the program, participants will be equipped with the necessary skills to be employed in medical or social service positions focusing on client advocacy, health system navigation and resource coordination, health promotion, coaching and education. Students choosing the online full-time or part-time Community Health Worker certificate program at Lake Area Technical College may begin in the fall semester or spring semester (begins March 24). The full-time option is completed in one semester and the part-time option is completed in two. Part-time spring starts will complete their second semester during the summer session of the same year. This certificate is not financial aid-eligible. The estimated cost of this 12-credit certificate is $3,512.00.
CNC Operator
Industry’s high demand for entry-level Computer Numerical Control (CNC) Operators is the driving force for the CNC Operator certificate. This certification can serve traditional students or upskill those currently in the workforce who need basic training for proficiency. Classes include blueprint reading, precision measuring, mill and lathe operations, machine tool fundamentals, computer concepts, and CNC operations/production. The two-semester, 16-credit course is offered part-time, on-campus beginning fall 2025. Classes transfer seamlessly to the Precision Machining AAS degree at LATC. The estimated cost of this certificate is $7,907.00.
Conservation Officer
Lake Area Tech worked closely with SD Game, Fish, and Parks in the creation of the Conservation Officer certificate to ensure LATC Law Enforcement graduates are prepared for success in the Conservation Law Enforcement field. This one-semester certificate is only offered during the summer semester and is only available to LATC Law Enforcement students and Certified Law Enforcement Officers. Students will receive hands-on training in topics including conservation and park laws/regulations, plant and wildlife identification, land management, and wildlife management. Students will also learn how to safely operate and maintain field-related equipment. As a stand-alone certificate, it is not financial aid-eligible. The cost of this 12-credit, on-campus certificate is $2,928.00.
Manufacturing Maintenance
Join the ranks as a trained maintenance technician and help close the skills gap in the vital manufacturing industry with a Manufacturing Maintenance certificate. Beginning fall 2025, the coursework will train individuals to identify problems and determine the best and safest means to troubleshoot and repair manufacturing systems. The training offers a strong foundation in safety, mechanical drives/pumps/design, and operations. The cost of this 18-credit, two-semester, on-campus certificate is $5,826.00. At this time, this certificate is not financial aid-eligible.
Phlebotomy
Earning a phlebotomy certificate can be a valuable asset for those interested in entering or advancing in the healthcare field. Students will learn foundational phlebotomy skills including blood collection techniques, safety procedures, and communication skills. The curriculum also includes a 120-hour practicum in a hospital or clinic lab. Phlebotomy is a two-semester, 16.5-credit course with an on-campus option and a hybrid option. It is offered in the spring and fall semesters. Estimated cost of the phlebotomy certificate: $6,258.00.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones)
There is a fast-growing demand for workers who can operate and maintain uncrewed aircraft systems in our region. The Uncrewed Aerial Systems (Drones) Certificate coursework will equip students with the necessary skills to be employed as uncrewed aerial system operators/pilots and technicians. Graduates will learn the laws and ethical procedures for operating Uncrewed Aerial Systems and will have the knowledge and skills to become a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Certificated Remote Pilot (Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate). Beginning fall 2025, Uncrewed Aerial Systems is an 18-credit, one or two-semester certificate delivered in a hybrid format with both online and on-campus components.
Non-Degree Courses
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
Take advantage of this high-demand career opportunity by letting Lake Area Tech help you earn your CDL. We also offer endorsements and refresher training. Our professional instructors use the latest equipment and techniques to provide second-to-none CDL and transportation training classes. We offer reasonable rates for Written Test Preparation Classes, Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection Video, ELDT Theory and Course, CDL Exams or Refresher Training, School Bus/Passenger endorsements, etc.
Individuals interested in signing up for the CDL course will apply through our Corporate Education page. Click the button below.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
The exciting and fast-paced healthcare field is in need of skilled healthcare workers including Emergency Medical Technicians. The EMT course can be completed online in one semester. Students in this option will complete most of the coursework online, but will visit campus for testing, skill practice, and hands-on learning. The estimated cost of this six-credit course is $3,281.00.
Individuals interested in signing up for the EMT course will apply through the EMT Application Form. Click below.
Application Process*
- Individuals interested in applying for one of the certificates should click on the Apply For… button beneath each certificate description.
- Enter your information and select the desired certificate from the drop-down list of programs and certificates.
- Before submitting the form, you will be prompted to pay the $25 registration fee.
- After you’ve submitted the form, you will receive a confirmation email from Lake Area Tech.
- Your application will be reviewed and you will be contacted.
* Individuals interested in applying for the CDL or EMT courses will follow the application process as outlined in the red “Apply For” button beneath those course descriptions.
