Excavator machinery at construction site

Heavy Equipment Operator (AAS)

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Heavy Equipment Operator (AAS)

Heavy Equipment Operator, AAS & Certificates



In this hands-on program, students will be operating motor graders, scrapers, front end loaders, bull dozers, water trucks, dump trucks, belly dump trucks, backhoes, excavators and other specialized equipment. The equipment in our fleet gives the student a feel for up-to-date equipment and for older equipment still used in the industry.

(AAS) Degree Map
HEO I Certificate Map
HEO II Certificate Map

Program Information

In this hands-on program, students will be operating motor graders, scrapers, front end loaders, bulldozers, water trucks, dump trucks, belly dump trucks, backhoes, excavators and other specialized equipment. The equipment in our fleet gives the student a feel for up-to-date equipment and for older equipment still used in the industry.

  • Heavy Equipment Operator A.A.S. Degree
  • Heavy Equipment Operator Certificate

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Health Information Technology (AAS)

Health Information Management (AAS)

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Health Information Technology (AAS)

Health Information Management, AAS



The CAHIIM accredited Health Information Management (HIM AAS Degree program prepares students with the knowledge and technical skills necessary for managing and improving the quality of information within the healthcare delivery system with an emphasis on Data Management or Revenue Management. The degree focal points are the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) entry-level competencies.

(AAS)
Degree Map

Program Information

The Health Information Management Program (HIM) prepares students for a career in the expanding arena of healthcare meeting the cutting edge of technology. Registered Health Information Technicians (RHITs) are HIM professionals who work to ensure the quality of health records and health care data by verifying their completeness, accuracy, and proper entry into computer systems. They use computer applications to assemble and analyze patient data to improve patient care and control healthcare costs. In addition, RHITs may specialize in specific HIM functions such as revenue cycle management, data management, research, or software development.

 Accepted students will start the program as part of a cohort in the fall semester.  After completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for the RHIT and CCA exams offered by AHIMA.

How do I get started?

  1. Apply to Central Arizona College for admission
  2. You may be required to take a college placement exam and/or bring with you a copy of your unofficial transcript from an accredited college.
  3. Contact the Health Information Management Director for advisement and course registration: sandra.brightwell@centralaz.edu OR Schedule an appointment.
  4. Determine which emphasis you desire:  Data Management or Revenue Cycle Management
  5. Complete and send your HIM program application and supporting documents to sandra.brightwell@centralaz.edu
  6. Complete HIM program prerequisites

Applications being accepted now for Fall 2025 Start.

Health Information Management Program (HIM) Application ( PDF )

HIM Program Checklist ( PDF )

HIM Handbook

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Program Contact

Sandra Brightwell

Dr. Sandra Brightwell, RHIA, FAHIMA
Director of Health Information Management
Phone: 480-677-7798
sandra.brightwell@centralaz.edu
Schedule an appointment.

Regina Kraus Image

Regina Kraus, MSA, RHIA, CDIP, BCSC
Professor of Health Information Management
Phone: 520-494-6621
regina.kraus@centralaz.edu

Business (ABUS) Program/Pathway

Business (ABus)

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Business (ABUS) Program/Pathway

Business, ABUS



Business pathway suits students who plan to transfer to the university to earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business-related areas, such as Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Economics, Finance, Human Relations, Marketing and Public Administration.

(Abus) Degree Map

Program Information

A vast array of careers awaits you with a degree or certificate in the field of business or commerce.  A degree in business leads to careers in Accounting, Consulting, Commerce, Business Administration, e-Business or e-Commerce, Finance, Marketing and Management.  Some people with a business administration degree will choose to work in private retail or wholesale businesses while others will select government work.  Fierce competition is expected for highly competitive and peak-earning positions such as management consultant or business analyst.

No matter where you choose to work, your business degree or certificate brings you to the eye of hiring employers.  It provides you with the flexibility to move among small or large firms.  Your skills combined with your education allows you to keep pace in today’s rapidly evolving business world.  Completion of a business educational program helps you maintain a higher employability status and propels advancement in a broad scope of industries.

CAC offers two pathways in business degrees.

The first is the Associate of Business (ABUS) transferable degree (60-64 credits) into State University Business Programs.  The Associate of Business (ABUS) Degree suits students who plan to transfer to the university to earn a baccalaureate degree in Business-related areas, such as Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Information Systems, Economics, Finance, Human Relations, Marketing and Public Administration.

The other is the Business Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree (64 credits) which, if completed, will also transfer all credits to a university, but will be evaluated depending on the program you select at the University.  The A.A.S. does not contain all the Arizona General Equivalency Curriculum (AGEC) and the higher math requirements of the ABUS degree.  See more details in each degree to compare course contents and possible transfer programs.  This A.A.S. degree allows you to stack a specialty certificate or courses, such as Accounting, Management, Hotel and Restaurant Management or Computer Information Science certificate courses towards its fourteen elective credit requirements.  If you plan accordingly, you could earn a certificate within the A.A.S. Business degree to become more marketable.

Two smaller certificates, one in Business (18 credits) and another in Management (24 credits) are also available and credits stack towards the Business A.A.S. degree.  Completing the certificate portion of a degree offers immediate employability in a shorter period of time and provides basic business skills for entrepreneurship ventures.  Students often feel more rewarded after earning a college graduation certificate and then advance to complete the additional degree requirements.  Individuals who already possess a degree, but desire to change career paths, may complete a certificate to enter business employment.

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Faculty


PROFESSOR MARK BUENAFE
Division Chair
Professor of Economics
Phone: 520-494-5383
mark.buenafe@centralaz.edu


DR CHRISTOPHER DEMALINE
Lead Faculty
Professor of Business & Accounting
Phone: 480-677-7778
christopher.demaline@centralaz.edu


PROFESSOR GAYLE HARO
Professor of Business
Phone: 520-494-5403
gayle.haro@centralaz.edu

peter kotrodimos

PROFESSOR PETER KOTRODIMOS
Professor of Economics and Business
Phone: 520-494-5312
peter.kotrodimos@centralaz.edu


PROFESSOR THOMAS CLEMENT
Professor of Business
Phone: 520-494-6444
thomas.clement@centralaz.edu

Chemistry pathway (AS)

Chemistry pathway (AS)

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Chemistry pathway (AS)

Chemistry pathway (AS)


The Chemistry pathway with an AS degree is for the student seeking a bachelor’s degree in chemistry


Students will discover principles of laboratory science and build foundations in organic and inorganic chemistry. Additionally, students will complete a broad array of math and science transferrable coursework in preparation for university transfer.

(AS) Chemistry Map

Program Information

The Chemistry pathway with an AS degree is for the student seeking a bachelor’s degree in chemistry. Students will discover principles of laboratory science and build foundations in organic and inorganic chemistry. Additionally, students will complete a broad array of math and science transferrable coursework in preparation for university transfer.

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Faculty/Staff

Dr. B. Jagadish - Chemistry Faculty

Bhumasamudram Jagadish, PhD
Professor of Chemistry
SPC S-232
520.494.5026
B.Jagadish@centralaz.edu

Dr. Wayne Pryor, Geology & Astronomy Faculty

Wayne Pryor, PhD
Science Division Chair
Professor of Astronomy & Geology
SPC  S-217
520.494.5351
Wayne.Pryor@centralaz.edu

Dr. Clark Vangilder, Physics Professor

Clark Vangilder, PhD
Professor of Physics
SPC  S-219
520.494.5324
Clark.Vangilder@centralaz.edu

Yegor Timofeyenko
Professor of Chemistry
STC D-108
480.677.7845
yegor.timofeyenko@centralaz.edu

Massage Therapy (AAS)

phlebotomy certificate

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white globes handling laboratory equipment

Phlebotomy Certificate



Jumpstart your future in the fast-growing healthcare industry with our hands-on, high-impact Phlebotomy program. Gain real-world experience, master essential skills, and become job-ready in just one semester. With expert instruction, clinical training, and a direct path to national certification, CAC’s Phlebotomy program is your gateway to an in-demand medical career.

Certificate Map

Program Information

The Phlebotomy program at Central Arizona College is designed to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies needed for entry-level employment as phlebotomists in a variety of healthcare settings. Phlebotomists are essential members of the healthcare team, specializing in blood collection and specimen handling, while ensuring patient comfort and safety.

This comprehensive program combines classroom instruction with hands-on laboratory experience and a supervised clinical externship. Students will learn proper venipuncture and capillary collection techniques, safety and infection control procedures, specimen processing, and professional communication. Emphasis is also placed on ethics, legal responsibilities, and quality assurance.

Upon successful completion of the program, students are eligible to sit for a national certification examination through agencies such as the American Medical Technologist (AMT) or the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP).

Program Highlights:

  • Short-term certificate program designed for rapid workforce entry

  • Combines theory with real-world clinical experience

  • Prepares students for national certification and immediate employment

  • Taught by experienced faculty with strong ties to local healthcare providers

  • High demand career field with opportunities in hospitals, laboratories, clinics, and blood donation centers

Whether you’re starting a healthcare career or looking to enhance your current credentials, the Phlebotomy program at Central Arizona College offers a fast and focused path into the medical field.

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

aesthetician certificate

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facial

Aesthetician Certificate



Comprehensive Training

The Aesthetician Certificate offers comprehensive training for aspiring Licensed Aestheticians, covering essential skills for a successful career in the beauty industry. This program blends theoretical knowledge with 600 hours of hands-on clinical experience in a state-of-the-art facility.

Wide range of skincare treatments

Students will learn a wide range of skincare treatments, including basic facials, body treatments, makeup application, skin resurfacing, hair removal, and advanced procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasion, microneedling, and dermaplaning.

Emphasizes safety

The curriculum also emphasizes safety, infection control, and business planning, ensuring graduates are well prepared to meet the demands of today’s aesthetics market while mastering both technical and professional aspects of the field.

Certificate Map

Program Information

Discover Your Future in Beauty with the CAC Aesthetician Program!

Step into the world of skincare and self-care with Central Arizona College’s Aesthetician Program — your gateway to a vibrant, in-demand career in aesthetics. Our dynamic curriculum combines expert-led theory with immersive hands-on training, giving you the skills, confidence, and real-world experience to shine in the beauty industry. From day one, we’re here to support your journey to licensure and long-term success in a professional, empowering learning environment.

Vision:

To be the premier aesthetician program, fostering innovation and excellence in skincare education.

Mission:

To empower students with the knowledge, skills, and ethics to thrive as licensed aestheticians

This program is Licensed by the Arizona Barbering & Cosmetology Board.

Arizona Barbering and Cosmetology Board Logo

*It is the student’s responsibility to understand and comply with all state licensing requirements.
We recommend visiting the AZ Barbering & Cosmetology Board for the most up-to-date information.

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Fine Arts-Music pathway (AA)

Fine Arts – Music (AA)

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Fine Arts-Music pathway (AA)

Fine Arts – Music, AA & Certificate



The Fine Arts AA Degree prepares students to transfer to a university BA, BFA or Bachelors of Teaching in Fine Arts degree programs. Those planning to continue on at the university level may need to take additional foreign language courses to complete their degree.

(AA) Music Emphasis Degree Map

Program Information

The Visual, Fine & Performing Arts Department at Central Arizona College offers an Associates of Arts in Music Performance & Education. The music program offers a variety of music history, theory, and performance classes intended to produce well-rounded musicians ready to enter the workforce. All students take piano class, private lessons and music theory, and also participate in performance ensembles: Choir, band, orchestra, handbells and guitar. Students are encouraged to participate in individual and small group recitals, master classes, and guest lectures.

Where will a Music degree take you?

The Music Concentration prepares students for careers in music. After receiving an A.A. degree, students can continue on to achieve a B.M. or B.A. in many diverse areas, including music education, music performance, music theory, music therapy, ethnomusicology, and composition. Our music degree program includes training in practical musical areas that hone skills for a variety of future job opportunities. With a music degree in hand, you may find yourself working as a band, choir or orchestra teacher, a performer, a church musician, a music therapist, a conductor, a music historian or more!

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Software Development (AAS)

Software Development (AAS)

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Software Development (AAS)

Software Development



The Software Development Program has two emphases: Computer Programming and Web Development. Both tracks focus on the programming skills necessary to prepare students for a career in the fast growing software industry or to transfer to a 4-year college or university.

AAS Degree Map
Software Development
Certificate Map
Programming
Certificate Map
Software Development
Certificate Map
Database Technician

Program Information

Computer Technology is an exciting and ever-changing field of study that is central to the functioning of all aspects of our society, business, government and our personal lives interconnected via the Internet. We are now seeing the convergence of entertainment, telephone, and business systems with common underlying digital platforms. Mobile and wireless connection options are increasing, along with options to access applications and data storage options through the cloud.

Keeping computer systems and resources functioning with the latest technology benefits, and designing future computer systems is a job category that is generating new jobs. Brad Smith, the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Microsoft reports a need to fill thousands of jobs in the areas of computer engineering and software development (Wall Street Journal, 10/19/2012). The demand for qualified employees with skills in network design and management, programming, business application utilization, and website development is outpacing the available pool of trained potential employees. Central Arizona College is providing Computer Technology classes to address this need in four program areas.

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Faculty


PROFESSOR ANDRES GONZALEZ
Professor of Computer Technology
Phone: 480-677-7844
andres.gonzalez@centralaz.edu


PROFESSOR RUI ZOU
Professor of Computer Technology
Phone: 520-494-5387
rui.zou@centralaz.edu


LINDA FRIEDEL
Instructional Specialist II
Phone: 520-494-5342
linda.friedel@centralaz.edu

Political Science pathway (AA)

Political Science pathway (AA)

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Political Science pathway (AA)

Political Science pathway, AA



The political science pathway allows students to specialize in the study of the organization and behavior of people, groups, and institutions which make up our governments and larger political system. This pathway is designed to assist students who wish to transfer to the university as a Political Science major and prepares them for a variety of careers.

(AA) Degree Map

Program Information

Political Science courses allow students to explore the organization and behavior of people, groups, and institutions that make up our government and larger political systems. Political Science focuses on people interacting with one another and the impact of their decisions and behavior.

Political Science majors have enormous career options available to them: Students may pursue careers in the social sciences, city and state government, public relations, and social and community service. With a graduate degree in Political Science, students can prepare for careers as political scientists, lawyers, and political science professors.

Faculty

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.

Pipe Welding Student

Pipe Welding (AAS)

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Pipe Welding (AAS)

Pipefitting/Pipe Welding Technology, AAS & Certificates



Prepares students for employment as an entry level pipe welder/fitter with an array of career opportunities within the industry. Topics include pipe welding processes of shielded metal arc welding, gas metal arc welding, gas tungsten arc welding, pipe fabrication, and trade math. A typical graduate seeks employment in power generation, cross-country pipeline, pressure vessel fabrication, process piping, and related maintenance and construction industries.

(AAS) Degree Map
Fall Start
(AAS) Degree Map
Spring Start
Fundamentals of Pipe Welding Certificate Map

Pipefitting/Pipe Welding Certificate Map

The Pipefitting/Pipe Welding Program emphasizes steel welding. However, all students are expected to become proficient welders on nonferrous materials such as stainless steel alloys. The primary focus is on stick electrode welding and fitting skills. Students train on SMAW (stick electrode), GMAW (MIG), GTAW (TIG), as well as related tools and equipment common in the field. Students qualify for NCCER Pipefitting Certification in addition to AWS, API and ASME welder qualification certification requirements.

Central Arizona College Welding shops are equipped with state of the art cutting and welding equipment, including computerized plasma cutting machines for plate and pipe. Students are trained in a jobsite setting using specialized pipefitting tools and equipment in a real-world environment common to the industry.

Note:

NCCER= National Center for Construction Education and Research

AWS= American Welding Society

API= American Petroleum Institute

ASME= American Society of Mechanical Engineers

SMAW= Shielded Metal Arc Welding

GMAW= Gas Metal Arc Welding

GTAW= Gas Tungsten Arc Welding

Related Occupations


Successful completion of this degree may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Below are examples of related occupations with associated Arizona-based wages* for this degree. Education requirements vary for the occupations listed below, so you may need further education or degrees in order to qualify for some of these jobs and earn the related salaries. Please visit with an academic advisor and/or program director for additional information. You can click on any occupation to view the detail regarding education level, wages, and employment information.

* Career and wage information provided by Pipeline AZ using data, reports, and forecasts which are generated using government data sources.