Some professions require employees to become certified or licensed. If you completed formal training that resulted in an industry-recognized credential, you may be eligible for college credit. The state of Ohio has programs like the Associate of Technical Studies (ATS) Pathway for graduates of career-technical centers and ITAG for anyone who holds one or more approved industry-recognized credentials, regardless of how and where the credentials were earned.

COTC will need a copy of your professional license or certification and a form must be completed.  Accepted certifications and licensure include, but are not limited to:

• Chemical Dependence Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification
• CompTIA A+ certification
• Cosmetology license
• Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification

Associate of Technical Studies (ATS) Pathway

Take your career-technical education to the next level toward a college degree. Through the Ohio statewide guarantee, COTC awards college credit toward an Associate of Technical Studies after completion of an eligible Ohio Technical Center training program.

If you have completed a 900+ clock-hour program, you will receive 30 technical credits — enough to be halfway done with an associate degree. If you completed a 600-899 clock-hour program, you’ll receive 20-29 credit hours. View eligible OTC programs and credit options.

Industry Recognized Credential Transfer Assurance Guides (ITAGs) 

Industry Recognized Credential Transfer Assurance Guides (ITAGs) guarantee the awarding of college credit for anyone who holds one or more approved industry-recognized credentials, regardless of how and where the credentials were earned. 

Students who apply to COTC and have a professional certification or license will need to submit a copy of their current professional certification or license to be reviewed and awarded college credit. You may be eligible for college credit through ITAG if you have obtained certification or licensure in the following professions:

• Practical nursing
• Information technology