Washtenaw Community College is introducing four new academic programs this fall to prepare students for careers in public service, public policy and artificial
intelligence applications, while addressing Michigan's evolving workforce needs.
Specifically, the new offerings include programs in Early Childhood Administration, Paralegal Studies, Public Policy and Artificial Intelligence Applications. They join WCC's more than 140 degree and certificate programs, including 50 that are offered completely online.
Fall classes begin August 31, with four start dates available to fit students’ schedules. Students can apply, enroll and register at wccnet.edu/enroll.
WCC continues to offer Michigan's lowest in-district tuition at $99 per credit. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, the college serves more than 25,000 students annually through affordable, high-quality education that prepares graduates for employment or transfer.
“Our mission is to prepare students for the careers that are shaping tomorrow’s economy while keeping a college education affordable and accessible,” said WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “These new programs respond directly to employer demand and create additional pathways for students to build meaningful careers that strengthen our community and region.”
Click the program name below for more information.
NEW FALL 2026 PROGRAMS
Early Childhood Administrator Certificate
Designed for current and aspiring child care leaders, this certificate combines early childhood education with business and administrative training in supervision, staffing, compliance and program operations.
Workforce Demand: Michigan's approximately 8,000 licensed child care centers continue to need qualified administrators.
Students develop the legal research, writing, ethics and communication skills needed for entry-level legal support positions. The certificate also provides a pathway into WCC's Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies/Pre-Law.
Workforce Demand: Southeast Michigan continues to experience strong demand for paralegals and legal assistants, exceeding the national average.
Public Policy Associate of Arts
Students explore how public policy is developed and implemented through coursework in political science, economics, history and related disciplines, preparing them for careers in government, nonprofit organizations and public service.
Workforce Demand: Government agencies, nonprofit organizations and private employers increasingly seek professionals who understand public policy, regulation and community issues.
Artificial Intelligence Applications Certificate
Students gain practical skills to develop and deploy AI-powered software applications while building a foundation in programming, databases and Linux systems. Graduates are prepared for entry-level and project-based roles using widely adopted AI technologies.
Workforce Demand: Artificial intelligence skills are among the fastest-growing workforce needs across industries, including technology, manufacturing, healthcare, finance and logistics.
FALL 2026 SEMESTER
WCC offers four start-dates this fall:
• Session I: August 31
• Session II: September 23
• Session III: October 7
• Session IV: October 23
Later-start classes cover the same material in an accelerated format.
The Student Welcome Center provides assistance with free applications, registration, financial aid and enrollment questions for prospective and current students.
Tags: Academic Pathways, Artificial Intelligence, Early Childhood Education, Paralegal Studies/Pre Law Program, Public Policy