The paper deals with certificate programs in community colleges in which students are required to complete 15-32 credits, usually in one year. The paper argues in favor of technical as opposed to nontechnical programs, suggesting that the former are more meaningful to the majority of students who are career oriented than the latter. Three appendixes are included: a two-page certificate program in data processing (to which a sample drafting technology curriculum is attached); a one-page general studies certificate program; and a four-page partial listing of certificate program offerings in New York State. (JR)