Academic Programs
Unlock your potential and achieve your career aspirations at Lake-Sumter State College!
We offer a comprehensive range of programs designed to meet you where you are and take you where you want to go. From Associate’s Degrees and Bachelor’s Degrees to short-term College Credit Certificates and specialized Advanced Technical Certificates, LSSC provides the education you need. Explore our practical Workforce Career Training options or give K-12 students a valuable head start with our Early College Programs.
Find the program that fits your goals and start building your success story today!
Programs
Associate in Arts
Advertising Pathway
Your creative career starts with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Advertising. This degree prepares you for the junior and senior-level coursework required in advertising.
Associate in Arts
Art Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Art prepares students to complete the lower-division courses needed for a bachelor’s degree in art. Whether you prefer online or in-person classes, you have the flexibility to select electives that align with your interest and goals.
Associate in Arts
Computer Science
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Computer Science provides the fundamental courses for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Criminal Justice
Begin your career in public safety with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Criminal Justice
This program includes the first two years of coursework for students planning to earn a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to transfer into a bachelor’s program.
Associate in Arts
Digital and Performing Arts
The Digital and Performing Arts Pathway prepares students for careers in performance, directing, and theatre production. Students receive hands-on training in acting, stage and production management, voice and movement, script analysis, and directing.
Associate in Arts
DirectConnect to UCF
Lake-Sumter State College is proud to partner with the University of Central Florida to offer the DirectConnect to UCF® program to LSSC students. This nationally recognized program provides guaranteed admission and a smooth transition from LSSC to UCF after completing your Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree.
Associate in Arts
Early Childhood Education
Start your teaching journey with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Early Childhood Education. This program prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program.
Associate in Arts
Elementary Education
Prepare for a career in teaching with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Elementary Education. This program provides the foundation for students planning to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in elementary education.
Associate in Arts
Engineering
Start your Path to innovation with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Engineering
This program provides the first two years of coursework toward a bachelor’s degree in engineering. After completing the A.A., students are prepared to transfer into upper-level engineering courses
Courses are offered online or in person, with elective choices tailored to your interests and career goals.
Associate in Arts
English and Literature
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in English & Literature Degree is designed to provide students with the courses needed for the freshman and sophomore levels of a bachelor’s degree. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Environmental Science Pathway
Begin your environmental career with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Environmental Science. This program provides students with a foundation in environmental science.
Associate in Arts
General Studies (Pathway to Bachelor’s)
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in General Studies offers a solid liberal arts education, focusing on five key areas: communications, humanities, mathematics, science, and social science. The program also provides ample elective options, allowing students to tailor their studies toward a specific major or explore a variety of subjects.
Associate in Arts
History Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in History is designed to provide students with the essential coursework for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in history. Upon completing this degree, students are ready to continue their studies in advanced history courses as they work toward their baccalaureate degree.
Associate in Arts
Hospitality Management Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Hospitality Management provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in hospitality. Upon earning the A.A. degree, students are well-prepared to advance to junior and senior-level courses in hospitality management.
Associate in Arts
Information Technology Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Information Technology equips students with the foundational knowledge required for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in IT. Upon completing the A.A. degree, students are prepared to continue their studies in advanced IT courses as they pursue their baccalaureate degree. Students can complete their courses online or in person, with the flexibility to choose electives that match their interests and goals.
Associate in Arts
Journalism Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Journalism provides students with the foundational knowledge and skills needed for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree in journalism or related fields. Upon completion, students are prepared to continue their studies in advanced journalism courses.
Associate in Arts
Mathematics Pathway
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Mathematics provides the essential coursework to help students progress toward a bachelor’s degree in mathematics. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Medical Laboratory Technology
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree is designed to provide students with the courses needed for the freshman and sophomore levels of a bachelor’s degree. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Nursing
The A.A. Nursing pathway is designed for students planning to pursue a career in nursing. It provides the necessary prerequisite courses for those intending to apply to Lake-Sumter State College’s A.S. Nursing (RN) program, continue into the RN to BSN program, or transfer directly into a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program at a state university.
Associate in Arts
Pharmacy Pathway
Start your path to a pharmacy career with the Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Pharmacy prepares students to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program that supports future application to pharmacy school. This pathway is ideal for students interested in pharmaceutical sciences, healthcare, and patient care.
Associate in Arts
Physics
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Physics provides students with a foundation in the principles of physics, preparing them for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. Upon completion, students will be ready to continue their studies at the upper level in a variety of physics-related fields.
Associate in Arts
Political Science
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Political Science prepares students for transfer into bachelor’s degree programs in political science. It offers a strong academic foundation in understanding government, political systems, and public policy.
Associate in Arts
Professional Health
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Professional Health prepares students for transfer into bachelor’s degree programs focused on health-related careers. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Psychology
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Psychology provides students with the core principles and practices of psychology, preparing them for the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. preparing them for a transition into upper-level coursework in psychology.
Associate in Arts
Respiratory Care
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) Degree is designed to provide students with the courses needed for the freshman and sophomore levels of a bachelor’s degree. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Secondary Education
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree in the Secondary Education Pathway provides students with the foundational courses required during the freshman and sophomore years of a bachelor’s program in education. Upon completion of the A.A. degree, students are eligible to continue their junior and senior-level coursework for their baccalaureate studies.
Associate in Arts
Social Work
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Social Work equips students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to pursue a career in social work. Upon completing this program, students will be prepared to continue their education at the bachelor’s level and engage in meaningful social work practices.
Associate in Arts
Sports and Exercise Science
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) in Sports and Exercise Science provides students a foundation in the principles of exercise science, preparing them for further study in sports and health-related fields. Upon completion, students will be ready to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree in exercise science or a related field
Courses are available online and in person, giving students the flexibility to tailor their electives to their interests and professional aspirations.
Associate in Science
Applied Artificial Intelligence
The Applied Artificial Intelligence AS degree is designed to prepare students to apply AI skills to the growing number of careers that will utilize this technology. Students will discover core AI applications and explore the ethical considerations involved in their design and implementation.
Associate in Science
Business Administration
The Associate in Science degree program in Business Administration is a dual-purpose program designed for students who aim to enter the business workforce or transfer to a four-year college or university. This program provides the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for students seeking employment or advancement in a business career, while also preparing them for further business education.
Associate in Science
Computer Information Technology
The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Computer Information Technology degree program provides a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with the technical knowledge and skills essential for success in the ever-evolving Information Technology field. This program aligns with challenging academic standards and prepares students for IT careers or further education.
Associate in Science
Construction Management
Take advantage of Central Florida’s growing construction market with the A.S. Construction Management, designed for students in Lake and Sumter counties. Our program provides students with the expertise to understand project planning, cost estimating, building codes, and safety practices.
Associate in Science
Criminal Justice
The Associate in Science in Criminal Justice provides students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in law enforcement and related fields. It prepares students to work as criminal justice practitioners, supervisors, and managers within law enforcement agencies and other criminal justice organizations.
Associate in Science
Cybersecurity
The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Cybersecurity provides a foundation in network security, ethical hacking, and digital forensics. This degree is designed for students interested in launching a career in information security or continuing their education in the field.
Associate in Science
Digital Media: Creative Video Production
The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Digital Media: Creative Video Production prepares students for a dynamic career in the growing audiovisual industry. Through hands-on training with professional equipment and software, you'll master video production, content creation, storytelling, and film industry throughout Lake and Sumter Counties.
Associate in Science
Engineering Technology
Engineering Technology is a high-demand applied technical field typically involving implementing and maintaining energy, manufacturing, construction, or transportation systems. The Engineering Technology Substation and Relay Technology specialization degree program will prepare students for careers that involve a wide variety of technology processes.
Associate in Science
Health Services Management
The Health Services Management (A.S.) degree at LSSC equips you with the knowledge and practical skills needed to keep healthcare facilities and systems operating effectively to ensure the highest quality of care. You’ll learn how to manage efficient healthcare organizations and positively influence public and community health outcomes.
Associate in Science
Management Technology
The Management Technology, Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree is tailored for the post-secondary adult vocational (PSAV) technical college completer to offer a sequence of courses that provides coherent and rigorous content aligned with challenging academic standards. Topics that are covered with this degree include communication skills, leadership skills, human relations and employability skills, principles of management, personnel management, and general business procedures.
Associate in Science
Medical Laboratory Technology
The Medical Laboratory Technology, Associate in Science (A.S.) Degree prepares students for a career as vital members of the healthcare team, providing diagnostic information crucial for patient care. This comprehensive program includes coursework in clinical hematology, immunology, immunohematology, clinical chemistry, serology, and microbiology, along with a semester of clinical rotations to prepare students for certification.
Associate in Science
Nursing
The Associate in Science (A.S.) in Nursing degree program at Lake-Sumter State College offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for a successful career as a registered nurse. This program aligns with high academic standards and equips students with the essential skills needed to excel in healthcare.
Associate in Science
Respiratory Care
The Associate in Science in Respiratory Care (AS-RC) program at Lake-Sumter State College prepares students for careers as respiratory therapists through high-quality classroom, lab, and clinical instruction. Graduates are eligible to sit for the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) exam and apply for state licensure.
Advanced Technical Certificate
Criminal Justice Leadership
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) in Criminal Justice Leadership is designed for students who have completed an associate degree and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This program equips students with the skills needed to advance into supervisory roles or further their careers in the human resource field.
Advanced Technical Certificate
Health Services Administration
The advanced technical certificate in Health Services Administration prepares students for supervisory roles in revenue cycle operations and to advance their career in any healthcare organization. This certificate offers courses at the baccalaureate level and is designed for students with an associate degree and experience in healthcare services.
Advanced Technical Certificate
Human Resources Management
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) in Human Resources Management is designed for students who have completed an associate degree and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This program equips students with the skills needed to advance into supervisory roles or further their careers in the human resource field.
Advanced Technical Certificate
Organizational Management
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) in Organizational Management is designed for students who have completed an associate degree and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This program equips students with the skills required to advance into supervisory roles or enhance their careers in various organizational settings.
Advanced Technical Certificate
Project Management
The Advanced Technical Certificate (ATC) in Project Management is designed for students who have completed an associate degree and are pursuing a bachelor’s degree. This program provides students with the skills needed to manage projects across various industries, including government, business, information technology, and healthcare.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Criminal Justice Leadership
The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Leadership with a concentration in Criminal Justice Leadership program offers a dynamic and comprehensive curriculum designed to empower individuals at any stage of their leadership journey. This program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to drive change and make a meaningful impact in their workplace, community, and beyond.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Health Services Administration
The Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.S.) in Leadership, with a concentration in Health Services Administration, prepares students to lead effectively in healthcare environments. The program builds essential leadership skills to manage teams, streamline resources, and enhance patient outcomes contributing to healthier communities.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Human Resources Management
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership with a concentration in Human Resources Management prepares students to lead in HR-focused roles. Develop skills in talent management, employee training, benefits management, and creating positive work environments.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Organizational Management
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership with a concentration in Organizational Management prepares students to excel in leadership roles across various industries. Develop skills in communication, problem-solving, strategic thinking, and teamwork.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Project Management
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership with a concentration in Project Management prepares students to lead projects and teams effectively in any industry. With a curriculum based on the Project Management Institute’s PMBOK Guide, students will learn industry best practices, project quality evaluation techniques, and information systems management.
Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership
Sports Leadership
The Bachelor of Applied Science in Leadership with a concentration in Sports Leadership provides specialized training for those pursuing careers in sports leadership and management. Students will develop the leadership skills necessary to excel in this competitive field, with a focus on teamwork, communication, and critical thinking.
Bachelor of Science
Elementary Education
The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Elementary Education program prepares you for state licensure to teach kindergarten through sixth grade, with additional endorsements in Reading and ESOL to increase your teaching versatility. The program provides foundational training in education theory and practice, emphasizing hands-on learning through paid opportunities for students to learn through experiences at local schools, giving them direct involvement in the classroom from the start.
Bachelor of Science
Exceptional Student Education
The Bachelor’s in Exceptional Student Education is a four-semester program designed to connect theory to practice through a unique, paid on-the-job learning experience. .
Bachelor of Science
Nursing (RN to BSN)
The RN to BSN program is designed for registered nurses seeking to advance their careers. Focused on leadership, research, ethics, health policy, and population health, the program offers flexible online courses that can be completed in as little as two semesters.
College Credit Certificate
Artificial Intelligence Practitioner
The Artificial Intelligence Practitioner College Credit Certificate is designed to prepare students to apply AI skills to the growing number of careers that will utilize this technology. Students will discover core AI applications and explore the ethical considerations involved in their design and implementation.
College Credit Certificate
Business Management
This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in a variety of business environments, or to provide supplemental training for person previously or currently employed in management and supervisory occupations. The courses within this certificate can stack into our A.S. degree in Business Administration program should you choose to continue into a more advanced credential.
College Credit Certificate
Business Operations
This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in a variety of business environments, or to provide supplemental training for person previously or currently employed in management and supervisory occupations. This certificates stack within our A.S. Degree in Business Administration program, and completion of them provides you with the associated credits into that A.S. Degree.
College Credit Certificate
Business Specialist
This program is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in a variety of business environments, or to provide supplemental training for person previously or currently employed in management and supervisory occupations. This certificates stack within our A.S. Degree in Business Administration Program, and completion of them provides you with the associated credits into that A.S. Degree.
College Credit Certificate
Chemical Laboratory Specialist
The College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Chemical Laboratory Specialist provides students with exposure to chemistry, mathematics, biological sciences, and/or physics necessary for success in a scientific lab setting. The content includes but is not limited to the development of chemical and other scientific skills.
College Credit Certificate
Criminal Justice Leadership
The Criminal Justice Leadership College Credit Certificate (CCC) is integrated into the Associate in Science in Criminal Justice program, offering specialized coursework to prepare students for leadership roles within the criminal justice field. Students who have completed the Basic Corrections or Basic Police Recruit Training at any FDLE/CJSTC-approved training center and hold current state criminal justice certification may be eligible to receive college credit.
College Credit Certificate
Cybersecurity Analyst
The Cybersecurity Analyst College Credit Certificate program equips students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills to thrive in the ever-growing field of cybersecurity. This program focuses on building a solid understanding of cybersecurity, networking technology, routing and switching, web programming, and server administration, preparing graduates for entry-level cybersecurity analyst positions and industry certifications.
College Credit Certificate
Digital Media Production
The Digital Media Production 15-Credit Certificate builds on core video production skills, offering advanced training in content creation, video editing, and industry techniques. Students will gain hands-on experience in video production, multimedia studio operations, and digital content creation, preparing them for diverse roles in the digital media industry.
College Credit Certificate
Digital Media: Video Production
The Digital Media Video Production 12-Credit Certificate equips students with foundational skills in video production and content creation. Through hands-on training, students will master video equipment, editing techniques, and industry terminology, preparing them for entry-level roles in the digital media field.
College Credit Certificate
Engineering Technology Support Specialist
The Engineering Technology Support Specialist College Credit Certificate (CCC) provides foundational skills for entry-level roles in engineering technology. With a comprehensive curriculum, hands-on learning, and industry-relevant training, it prepares students for immediate job readiness and career advancement.
College Credit Certificate
Information Technology Analysis
The College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Information Technology Analysis provides students with advanced skills for in-depth IT support and system administration. Students learn comprehensive hardware and software analysis, advanced networking concepts, server administration, and troubleshooting, while preparing for the industry-standard Network+ and Server+ certifications.
College Credit Certificate
Information Technology Support
The College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Information Technology Support prepares students for careers in IT support and network technology. This program will provide supplemental training for persons previously or currently employed in these occupations as well as for those new to the Information and Network Technology fields.
College Credit Certificate
Medical Information Coding and Billing
The College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Medical Information Coding and Billing College is designed to provide students with the skills necessary to review and analyze health records to identify relevant diagnoses and procedures for patient healthcare encounters. The certificate also covers healthcare reimbursement methodologies.
College Credit Certificate
Scientific Workplace Preparation
The College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Scientific Workplace Preparation equips students with foundational skills for laboratory work, focusing on communication, mathematics, and technical abilities needed for scientific environments. The certificate serves as a pathway to health and STEM degree programs, with courses applicable to the College Credit Certificate (CCC) in Chemical Lab Specialist and the Associate in Arts degree.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Dual Enrollment
Dual enrollment is a type of Early College Program that allows secondary students to take postsecondary coursework and simultaneously earn credit toward a high school diploma, a career certificate, an industry certification, or an associate or baccalaureate degree at a Florida public or eligible private institution.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Early Admission
Early Admission is a specialized dual enrollment option for high-achieving high school students. This program allows eligible students to complete their first full year of college one year early while enjoying the full Lakehawk experience.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Health Sciences Collegiate Academy
The Health Sciences Collegiate Academy (HSCA) is an accelerated program for Lake County students to explore STEM and health science careers while earning college credits. It offers a four-year program for 9th graders and a two-year program for 11th graders.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Lake County Early College Academy
The Lake County Early College Academy offers a fast-track pathway to earning an Associate in Arts (AA) degree. This structured dual enrollment program allows students to complete an associate degree or a college credit certificate through a cohort-based model.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Sumter County Early College Academy
The Sumter County Early College Academy provides a fast-track program to a college degree (AA). The Early College Academy is a structured dual enrollment program that provides students an opportunity to acquire their associate’s degree or college credit certificate through a cohort class model.
Dual Enrollment Programs
The Villages Early College Academy
The Villages Early College Academy is an accelerated program offered through a partnership between Lake-Sumter State College and The Villages High School. Students can earn credits toward an AA degree while participating in a specialized high school academy.
Early Opportunity Programs
Talent Search
The Talent Search Program, funded by the U.S. Department of Education, prepares middle and high school students for college by providing free, ongoing support. It helps students graduate high school, enroll in college, secure financial aid or scholarships, and complete a postsecondary degree.
Youth Programming
Kids’ College
Join Kids’ College and give your 1st–9th grader a smart and engaging summer at Lake-Sumter State College. Our Kids' College program is an enriching early college experience that seamlessly blends academic fundamentals with creative exploration.
Youth Programming
Leaders-in-Training (LIT) Program
The Leaders in Training (LIT) Program empowers high school students (10th–12th grades) to translate their potential into actionable leadership skills that can inspire action and positive change in their communities. Participants gain real-world experience and build core competencies in mentoring and teamwork while completing 75+ public service hours and serving as essential role models for younger students during the summer.
Youth Programming
Xploration Youth Development Courses
Xploration Youth Development Courses offer engaging non-credit courses and programs for students in 4th through 12th grade. Choose from flexible online or in-person options, ranging from one-hour workshops to multi-week programs.
Workforce Career Training / Non-Credit
CDL CLASS A & B
The Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) program provides comprehensive training for aspiring commercial drivers, including classroom and hands-on instruction to prepare for the licensing test. Students gain skills in safe driving practices as well as the ability to remove an automatic restriction or upgrading licenses.
Workforce Career Training / Non-Credit
English for Workforce Success Next Level Business Institute
Our courses start frequently throughout the year. Review Our Schedule for Details and Register Today.
Workforce Career Training / Non-Credit
Florida Child Care Professional Credential (FCCPC)
The Florida Child Care Professional Credential non-credit certificate program helps students develop the skills to meet the needs of children and work with parents to support children’s growth. It covers the eight content areas identified by the Council of Professional Recognition.
Workforce Career Training / Non-Credit
Lineworker Boot Camp
The Lineworker Boot Camp is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions as Lineworker Apprentices, with the potential to advance to Journeyman Lineworker roles.
Workforce Career Training / Non-Credit
Operation of an Early Childhood Center – Director’s Credentials
The Operation of an Early Childhood Center – Director’s Credentials course is a 45-hour, noncredit program that provides students with the foundational director credentials required by the Florida Children’s Forum. The course covers key topics such as childcare leadership, financial and legal responsibilities, non-discrimination, cultural sensitivity, and health and safety monitoring.
State and Partnership Programs
Florida Shines – Statewide Online Course Search
Florida’s online course catalog lets you search for online courses offered at colleges and universities across the state. Florida also makes it easy for students to take a course at another college or university without worrying if the credit is transferable.
State and Partnership Programs
LakeWorks Partnership
Start your future close to home with Lake-Sumter State College and Lake Technical College. Gain hands-on training, real‑world experience, and the skills you need for a high‑demand career—while saving time, saving money, and staying local.
State and Partnership Programs
Money-Back Guarantee Program
The Money-Back Guarantee (MBG) Program is a tuition refund initiative created by the Florida Legislature in 2021 through the Reimagining Education and Career Help (REACH) Act.
State and Partnership Programs
Open Door Grant
The Open Door Grant supports your pursuit of in-demand career education programs at LSSC. With generous funding from the Florida Department of Education, the Open Door Grant assists students in paying their tuition, fees, and book charges for the approved programs.
