PACE-IT: Free tuition for two new IT certificates this fall

08/08/2013
Edmonds College’s new PACE-IT (Progressive Accelerated Certifications for Employment in Information Technology) program offers two new information technology certificates this fall.

PACE-IT — a federally funded $3 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor — will provide online instruction and services for adult learners pursuing certificates in technology and integration support, network security, web development and design, ethical hacking, and data management.

The program is designed to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications while strengthening pathways to high-wage, high-demand IT jobs across high-growth industries.

The program features free tuition for students; however, they are still responsible for the cost of books, enrollment fees, and certification exam fees. Students will have to submit a cover letter and resume to apply and pass an assessment test to be admitted into the program.

The first two certificates — offered completely online and 44 credits each — are Technology and Integration Support and Web Developer. Three more certificates — Network Security, Ethical Hacker, and Data Management — will be rolled out throughout the 2013-2014 academic year.

Instructors serve as mentors while employers serve as subject matter experts in an innovative, self-paced unique online training model. PACE-IT will offer internships and help students find jobs.

Veterans and active duty military personnel are highly encouraged to apply. There are additional residency and eligibility requirements. Those interested are encouraged to contact the PACE-IT program office at 425.374.1680 or paceitonline@edmonds.edu.

Edmonds CC is among 27 recipients of individual college awards chosen in the second $500 million round of grants to community and technical colleges around the country. The grant is part of the Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Initiative. The U.S. Department of Labor is implementing and administering the grant program in coordination with the U.S. Department of Education.

Learn more about PACE-IT or how to apply at www.edmonds.edu/pace-it.