Frequently Asked Questions

 

What makes MATC different from other colleges?
MATC does not operate on a traditional college semester calendar.   Programs offered on an open entry/open exit enrollment allows students to enter on a bi-monthly basis as openings become available.  Students take only courses that lead to their end goal, and will progress on a self-paced schedule.  Motivated and hard working students may complete their training in less time.

 

Are all courses taught at all campuses?
Not all courses are taught at all campuses, however depending on the specific course some are taught at multiple locations.  Please refer to the Areas of Study section of our website to find information identifying the location/s where the training you are seeking is offered.

 

What is the difference between a course and a program?
A course would be an individual class which will give you a specific set of skills.  Courses may be taken separately or as part of a program.  When taken as part of a program, a course becomes part of the whole educational experience designed to prepare you for success in the workplace.  A program is a set of one or more specialized courses which, when added together, gives you the skills you will need to be successful in the workplace.  Programs often prepare you for state professional licensing examinations and industry specific licensure exams.

 

What is the difference between open-entry/open-exit and defined course schedules?
Open entry/open exit means when you have met the entry requirements, you may enroll, space available, to start the 1st or 3rd Monday of each month.  Students attend class according to an established three-hour daily schedule.    You will progress at your own pace through the course work and exit when the skills competencies have all been met.  There are some defined entry/defined exit courses/programs at MATC.  This means the training has a set start date and end date, fixed class times, and a flat tuition and course fee.   This information will be listed in the course description.  Enrollment in these courses/programs is offered on a first-come basis until the course is at maximum enrollment.  

 

Do I receive anything when I complete my program?
Each program/course has a set of skills competencies which must be met before you will be considered complete and eligible to receive a certificate.   As a Utah College of Applied Technology (UCAT) campus, MATC is responsible for providing education that results in appropriate licensing, certification or skill training for employment in business and industry.  MATC provides certificates listing the competencies achieved on the back of the certificate which may be used to present to potential employers.

 

What types of certificates will I receive from MATC training?
MATC awards the following certificates:
Certificate of Completion:
  A certificate that validates all the competency for the program/course has been met and the student is prepared for employment.
Certificate of Proficiency:
  A certificate that validates that a set of competencies or modules within a program have been predetermined by regional employers to be sufficient for their employment needs.
Certificate of Skills Competence
:   A certificate that validates a single course has been completed (i.e. computer course in Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, Auto Fundamentals, Auto Brakes, etc.).

 

How much credit will I receive and will my credits transfer to another educational institution?
High school students who attend MATC training may receive high school credit upon successful completion of courses.  The MATC does not issue college credits.  All MATC training is designed to prepare students for employment; therefore, programs do not generally transfer to traditional colleges and universities.  There are some exceptions for Culinary Arts and EMT programs.   Interested students are encouraged to discuss possibilities and pathway with their course instructor.  Many MATC programs prepare students to pass industry certifications.   Some colleges and universities accept these industry certifications towards college credit.

 

How much will the program cost?
High school students do not pay tuition; however, there are course fees and textbook, workbook, equipment and material fees for which they will be responsible.  Adult students pay tuition, currently $1.55 per hour, for the number of hours they are enrolled.  Adults also pay a non-refundable application fee to be a student at MATC, plus course fees, books, workbooks, study guides, uniforms, test vouchers, etc.  Visit the Areas of Study section for information provided on individual programs.

 

Why is the cost at MATC so low in comparison with other Colleges?
As a campus of the Utah College of Applied Technology (UCAT), the Mountainland Applied Technology College is mandated by the Utah Legislature to provide low-cost training to adults and tuition -free training to high school students.