College Removes Obstacles to Non-Traditional Learners

Getting ahead isnt what it used to be. In todays cell phone-addled, computer-driven, breakneck-paced economy, carving out time to sharpen or learn new skills can be a challenge. At Peru State College in Peru, Nebraska, a new series of online courses seeks to clear a path through any obstacles which potentially block students from continuing their education.

(PRWEB) May 27, 2004 -- Getting ahead isnt what it used to be. In todays cell phone-addled, computer-driven, breakneck-paced economy, carving out time to sharpen or learn new skills can be a challenge. At Peru State College a new series of online courses seeks to clear a path through any obstacles which potentially block students from continuing their education.

Beginning in Fall 2004, Peru State College offered online certificates of achievement in several key areas. The certificate of achievement is a non-degree course path, accelerated to run in eight-week increments with two classes per semester. After four eight-week courses are completed, a certificate is issued stating that the student is proficient in a specific field. Courses enhance the skills or knowledge of participants, which can help them advance at work, improve personal satisfaction and increase productivity.

These four-course of achievements of study are perfect for those who are unable to pursue a full degree at this time, but who want some evidence they have enhanced their capabilities," said Dr. Korinne Tande, Vice President for Academic and Student Affairs at Peru State College. Theyre also perfect for the individual who is considering promotional opportunities or career transitions-like starting ones own business."

This is an excellent way to provide education and skill-improvement classes quickly to meet the demands of the job market," said Dr. Ben Johnson, President of Peru State College. These certificates also have the added value of being offered for college credit, which can be applied to a regular degree program here at Peru State and many other higher education institutions."

Its about flexibility as much as anything else," said Dr. Johnson. One of the most important demands on people is their hectic schedule. We see it as part of our educational mission to find ways to offer our quality courses to as many students as possible in the most logical and accessible ways. Certificates of achievement are a result of that way of thinking."

Johnson added that persons enrolled in these online courses can complete assignments on their own schedule-on their lunch hour, after putting the kids to bed or even at three a.m. The only stipulation is that you do your weekly assignments and take your exams as scheduled," Dr. Johnson said. Beyond that-it is on your schedule-not the instructors."

Another feature is the low cost-among the lowest online course costs in the nation. Each of the online certificate undergraduate courses is three credit hours, at a cost of only $110 per credit hour.

For a total of $330, you get the benefit of our nationally-recognized curriculum and instructors. With no hidden fees or surprises--the only other cost is for textbooks," Dr. Johnson said. Peru State Colleges advanced courses also are three credit hours, at a cost of $138 per credit hour.

Many companies offer tuition reimbursement to employees just for of achievements like this," Dr. Johnson added.

Course offerings have something for everyone, including certificate of achievement courses in Accounting, Retail Management, Criminal Justice, Office Management, Retail Management, Human Services, Writing for Publication and Human Resources Management. Advanced, graduate courses-aimed at professional teachers and trainers-include Classroom Behavior Management and Instructional Technology.

One thing we have done is ask ourselves and our communities what we can do to help businesses and their employees," said Todd Drew, Dean of Professional Studies at Peru State. Thats why we selected these courses-all being taught online at Peru already, and adapted them to this accelerated certificate of achievement."

We also want to play to our strengths," Drew said. Since Peru is a recognized leader in the fields of criminal justice and loss prevention, we wanted to offer courses in those fields and business first, but we have plans for further growth in the near future."

For more information about the certificates of achievement, call 1-888-258-5558 or visit Peru State on the web at www.Peru.edu .

Peru State Colleges Campus of a Thousand Oaks" is nestled in historic Southeastern Nebraska. The states first college, Peru State offers Bachelors degree of achievements in arts and sciences, pre-professional fields, professional studies and teaching. The School of Education and Graduate Studies offers a Master of Science in Education degree. Peru State is a member institution of the Nebraska State College System.

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