Carpentry & Construction
Grace Christian University and the West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI) have joined forces to create an innovative educational pathway that bridges Bible-centered higher education and hands-on trade skills. This partnership is a game-changer for students seeking to combine their passion for skilled trades with the transformative impact of a biblical education.
On-Campus Start Dates
Shaping Ministry Leaders for Meaningful Impact
At Grace, you are more than just a student. You are a person with unlimited potential made in the image of a loving God. We understand that your calling and career path will be as unique as you are. At Grace, we will help you align your calling with the skills needed for your future careers so you can confidently impact the world, well beyond your time with us.
Experience an Education with a biblical foundation
Develop Godly Friendships that will last a lifetime
Feel Confident and Prepared for your ministry career
Learn from instructors who really care
Why choose between a degree and the trades when you can have both?
Earn a Degree from Grace and a Carpentry & Construction Certification
At Grace Christian University, in partnership with the West Michigan Construction Institute (WMCI), you can learn valuable hands-on skills, grow academically and spiritually with an Associate of Arts in Business from Grace, and serve your community with a strong foundation rooted in Christian values. Earn a degree and a Certificate in Carpentry, equipping you to build your future with purpose and passion!
In this program, you’re a Grace student, whether living on campus or commuting; you’re part of our compassionate and nurturing community, you can still participate in sports at Grace and fully immerse yourself in everyday college life while attending one ‘trade’ class per week at WMCI.
Associate’s Degree
from Grace Christian University
+
General Construction or Carpentry / Construction Certification
from West Michigan Construction Institute
Degree Pathways
Grace Christian University honors work completed at WMCI, allowing students to apply their certifications toward an Associate or Bachelor degree. Students can combine WMCI’s training and Grace Christian University coursework to align with their academic and career goals.
Program Options:
- Dual Enrollment: Students earn prescribed credits at Grace while completing WMCI certifications in carpentry or construction trades.
- Transfer Pathway: Students will simultaneously pursue an Associate degree (60 credits) at Grace Christian University while enrolling at WMCI to earn a trade certification, allowing them to integrate academic learning with hands-on training.
- Trade to Degree Pathway: Grace Christian University accepts up to 24 WMCI credits toward a Bachelor’s degree (and up to 18 credits toward an Associate degree) as block transfers into On-Campus Associate or Bachelor’s Programs or Online Undergraduate Bachelor’s Programs, helping students accelerate their academic journey.
All degree programs require completion of Grace’s Arts and Sciences and Bible and Theology Core requirements, ensuring students graduate prepared to serve as courageous ambassadors for Christ in their chosen fields.
Certifications at WMCI
WMCI provides NCCER-accredited training and certifications in trades such as Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing, along with other specialized programs. Each program combines classroom instruction with hands-on lab experience, equipping students with the practical skills and industry knowledge needed for success in the construction field.
Certification Highlights:
- Carpentry Program: Two years covering general and advanced carpentry, with classes held once a week for eight hours. Students learn framing, insulation, and more.
- Construction Core: A foundational course that includes safety, construction math, and essential tool usage.
Students receive nationally portable certifications, ensuring flexibility and job readiness in both commercial and residential construction.
What Students Can Expect at WMCI
- Facilities: WMCI’s state-of-the-art labs and interactive classrooms are located just 2.6 miles from Grace Christian University.
- Flexible Scheduling: Day and evening classes accommodate diverse student needs, including those balancing work and education.
- Career Support: WMCI connects students with local employers and offers career services such as resume support, job search strategies, and career assessments.
The Purpose Behind the Partnership
In today’s evolving job market, many students are seeking alternatives to traditional four-year degrees. At the same time, employers in industries like carpentry & construction are searching for candidates with both technical skills and leadership capabilities. Recognizing these trends, Grace Christian University and WMCI formed this partnership to meet a growing need: offering students the opportunity to earn a college degree while gaining nationally recognized trade certifications.
What to Expect
At Grace, You are More Than Just a Student
You are a person with unlimited potential made in the image of a loving God. We understand that your calling and career path will be as unique as you are. At Grace, we will help you align your calling with the skills needed for your future careers so you can confidently impact the world, well beyond your time with us.
2024–25 Tuition Cost
An Affordable Associate of Arts Degree
Unlock your potential with an A.A. degree from Grace. Our affordable tuition ensures that investing in your future is within reach. Join us on campus and embark on a journey toward academic excellence without breaking the bank.
Tuition and billing for Grace Christian University and WMCI are handled separately. The Grace Enrollment team will assist students through admissions and connect them with WMCI’s Admissions team. Students will work with both institutions to understand costs, explore financial aid, and coordinate their training and academic schedules.
$750
Tuition Cost
per Credit Hour
$2,250
Tuition Cost
per 3-Credit Course
Career Paths
Possible Career Paths
An Associate of Arts degree coupled with a certification in Carpentry or General Construction allows you to build a future throughout a wide variety of careers options. The program provides a firm educational base while allowing you to pursue work in the trades with the skills you’ve learned. With this dual enrollment degree and certification, you can pursue a career in Construction and Carpentry; Construction Management and Supervisory Roles; Skilled Trades; and Entrepreneurial Opportunities. Some Common Careers include:
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Carpenter
-
Construction Technician
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Cabinet Maker
-
Roofing Specialist
-
Construction Supervisor/Foreman
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Site Inspector/Building Inspector
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Estimating Technician
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General Contractor
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Facilities Maintenance Technician
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Handyman Business Owner
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Custom Furniture Maker
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Home Renovation Specialist
Course Descriptions
Associate of Arts Courses
Every program at Grace is focused on intertwining spiritual and academic growth. The school aims to develop passionate servants of Jesus that emphasize the integration of character transformation, ministry experience, and biblical truth.
The Associate of Arts (60 credit hours) is comprised of:
- Arts and Sciences Core (24 credits)
- Bible and Theology Core (12 credits)
- Approved Electives or A.A. Emphasis* (21 credits)
- A.A. Capstone (3 credits)
*With the Associate of Arts program students have the option of declaring an Emphasis. Emphases are not required. Here are the emphases that are offered:
- Business
- Communication
- Leadership & Ministry
- Social Science
If students have transfer coursework, they will be able to apply the accepted transfer electives toward their A.A. degree and will supplement (as needed) with lower division electives offered at Grace. Elective courses may be swapped in consultation with the student’s Academic Advisor.
Testimonials
What Our Students Are Saying
We believe education is more than just academics. Check out firsthand accounts from students like you who have been impacted by our vibrant community, transformative education, and unwavering commitment to faith.
Take the Next Step
Your Calling Awaits
Join the Grace community and embark on a transformative journey of faith, learning, and personal growth as you pursue the next level of your career.