The MKC Academic Model
Small classes. Structured support. Real-world learning.
At Maximilian Kolbe College, academics are designed around how students actually learn best. Our model combines small learning communities, structured support, hands-on learning, and real-world experience to help students grow academically, socially, and professionally.
Cohort Learning
Students learn in small cohorts of 10–12 peers who take courses together and build strong relationships throughout the program. Cohorts create a supportive environment where students collaborate, build confidence, and develop communication and teamwork skills.
Learning Therapists
Each cohort works with a dedicated Learning Therapist who provides structured guidance in executive functioning, study strategies, and social communication. This built-in support helps students stay organized, confident, and engaged in their learning.
Innovation Labs
Courses connect through collaborative studio projects where students explore real-world challenges and design creative solutions.
Experiential Learning
Learning extends beyond lectures. Students apply their knowledge through projects, community engagement, and real-world problem solving. These experiences help students connect academic ideas to practical challenges .
"At MKC, students aren't just attending college — they are building the community they learn in."
- Heather Hanvy, Dean of Experiential Learning & Work Integrated Programs
Associates of Applied Science (AAS) in Pragmatic Studies The Associate of Applied Science degree provides the foundation for the MKC experience. During the first two years, students build essential academic skills while developing confidence through cohort learning, experiential projects, and structured support from learning therapists. Students also begin participating in Kolbe Works, gaining professional experience while contributing to the campus community.
DEGREE
PROGRAMS
Maximilian Kolbe College offers a two-stage degree pathway designed to support students as they develop academic confidence, leadership skills, and real-world experience. Students begin with the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) and may continue into the Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences (BAAS) program.
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Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences (BAAS) in Social Innovation The Bachelor of Applied Arts & Sciences program builds on the AAS foundation and focuses on leadership, systems thinking, and applied problem solving. During the final two years, students explore complex social issues, develop professional skills, and deepen their learning through advanced coursework, pathway specialization, and experiential projects. Graduates of the BAAS program leave prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities and careers.
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DEGREE
PLANS
The following degree plans illustrate the typical course sequence for students enrolled at Maximilian Kolbe College. Individual pathways may vary slightly depending on student interests and program development.
AAS - Pragmatic Studies
Year 1
(Fall)
Year 1 (Spring)
Year 1 (Summer)
Year 2
(Fall)
Year 2
(spring)
KBWX 1300 Designing Your Life
COMM 1310 Public Speaking
BIOL 1305 Nutrition, Health & Wellness
POLI 1310 Political Structures in America
TECH 1300 Digital Literacy & Workplace Technology
KBWX 1305 Experiential Learning I
ENVT 1335 Environmental Science & Sustainability
PSYC 1320 Healthy Relationships
MATH 1315 Quantitative Reasoning & Personal Finance
HIST 1345 U.S. Social History Since 1450: Capitalists, Rebels, Zombies & The Slave Machine
HIST 2325 Ancestral Appetites & Culinary Chronicles
MATH 2300 Financial Health & Retirement
ENGL 2300 Great Books & Big Ideas
BIOL 2315 Biological Systems & Health
​
POLI 2315 Social Change in America
ARTS 2310 Humanities: Culture, Identity & Society
SOCI 2340 Criminology, Law & Civil Rights
KBWX 2300 Experiential Learning II
PHIL 2305 Ethics, Power & Moral Decision Making
NSCI 2350 Earth, Weather & Human Origins
ENGL 2325 Magic, Myth & Meaning: Witches, Wizards, and Storytelling
ARTS 2350 Digital Media & Game Design
DEGREE
PLANS
The following degree plans illustrate the typical course sequence for students enrolled at Maximilian Kolbe College. Individual pathways may vary slightly depending on student interests and program development.
BAAS - Social Innovation
Year 1
(Fall)
Year 1 (Spring)
Year 2
(Fall)
Year 2
(spring)
STAT 3300 Introduction to Social Statistics
CRIM 3315 Law, Justice, & Social Work
​
SOCI 3305 Emergency Management & Community Resilience
​
COMM 3345 Social Communication
​
Pathway Course 1
​
*Students develop foundational skills in data literacy, communication, and social systems.
SOCI 3350 Leading Nonprofits & Social Ventures
​
BUSN 3335 Introduction to Social Entrepreneurship
​
HUMN 3335 Humanitarian Issues
Pathway Course 2
​
Pathway Course 3
​
*Students explore leadership, nonprofit management, and social innovation.
BUSN 4320 Urban Planning & Community Development
COMM 4310 Documentary Film Making for Social Change
​
SOCI 4325 Nonviolent Movements in Historical & Contemporary Contexts
Pathway Course 4
​
*Students examine community change, social movements, and storytelling for impact.
BIOL 4335 Public Health & Community Wellness
BUSN 4335 Financial Planning for Nonprofit Organizations
Pathway Course 5
​
Pathway Course 6
​
*Students focus on systems-level problem solving and professional preparation.