North tech programs receive exemplary status
North's three technical programs recognized
James Whitaker
Issue date: 11/24/08 Section: News
The North campus received Exemplary Workforce Education Program ratings from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board for three technical programs.
Information technology, real estate and paralegal programs were rewarded this status which is only awarded every five years and to few programs in the state of Texas.
The college's real estate program prepares students for a future in a very competitive field of business.
"It's difficult and challenging to earn this state recognition," Gary Friery, dean of technical education, said. "The rating is awarded every five years to only a few programs, and it's only after careful examination of every aspect of the programs."
"Recognizing the value of on-the-job experience, San Jacinto College's real estate department provides students with internships and practicum opportunities," Kevin Morris, real estate professor, said. "The college's internship program has opened doors for many students, leading to more job opportunities and a quicker learning curve."
The paralegal program is instructed by attorneys and paralegals.
"Our goal is to graduate students who will make us proud," Ernest Davila, paralegal professor, said. "We are one of an elite group of programs that is approved by the American Bar Association, and we constantly strive to maintain and exceed the association's requirements."
The information technology program provides a positive learning environment for students interested in working in the field of technology.
"A student's formal education is just the starting point for learning in this rapidly changing field of computer information technology," Gail Mason, IT department chair, said. "I believe it is important for me to give students the tools for a lifetime of learning independently."
The IT Advisory Committee evaluates the curriculum annually to provide inputs which ensure degrees and certificates reflect the current needs of the industry.
"We equip our labs with the type of hardware and software students will find in the industry," said Mason. "We personally meet with each student throughout their time at the college about their academic goals."
"My personal philosophy on teaching is that the material must be presented to the student in a practical and sometimes fun manner," Morris said. "The student can hear the lectures on theoretical concepts and terminology, but it is important to explain how this works in the real world with employer and client relationships."
Information technology, real estate and paralegal programs were rewarded this status which is only awarded every five years and to few programs in the state of Texas.
The college's real estate program prepares students for a future in a very competitive field of business.
"It's difficult and challenging to earn this state recognition," Gary Friery, dean of technical education, said. "The rating is awarded every five years to only a few programs, and it's only after careful examination of every aspect of the programs."
"Recognizing the value of on-the-job experience, San Jacinto College's real estate department provides students with internships and practicum opportunities," Kevin Morris, real estate professor, said. "The college's internship program has opened doors for many students, leading to more job opportunities and a quicker learning curve."
The paralegal program is instructed by attorneys and paralegals.
"Our goal is to graduate students who will make us proud," Ernest Davila, paralegal professor, said. "We are one of an elite group of programs that is approved by the American Bar Association, and we constantly strive to maintain and exceed the association's requirements."
The information technology program provides a positive learning environment for students interested in working in the field of technology.
"A student's formal education is just the starting point for learning in this rapidly changing field of computer information technology," Gail Mason, IT department chair, said. "I believe it is important for me to give students the tools for a lifetime of learning independently."
The IT Advisory Committee evaluates the curriculum annually to provide inputs which ensure degrees and certificates reflect the current needs of the industry.
"We equip our labs with the type of hardware and software students will find in the industry," said Mason. "We personally meet with each student throughout their time at the college about their academic goals."
"My personal philosophy on teaching is that the material must be presented to the student in a practical and sometimes fun manner," Morris said. "The student can hear the lectures on theoretical concepts and terminology, but it is important to explain how this works in the real world with employer and client relationships."
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