HCC to offer new accelerated, online classes

HILO — Beginning this August, Hawaii Community College will offer a new set of accelerated, online, for-credit classes that will lead to credential certificates.

Students will be able to study a variety of topics, including Business Foundations, Retail Foundations, Business Essentials, Entrepreneurship and Geographic Information Systems.

Classes are accelerated eight-week sessions that begin in the fall semester. Students will receive support services that include tutoring, academic counseling, internships and job development.

HCC was one of four University of Hawaii campuses to receive a Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training grant to develop the classes. The grant aims to align academic programs with industry needs and increase the number of adults who attain certificates, degrees and other industry-recognized certificates.

Grant director Jessica Yamamoto is spearheading this program and has been meeting with business leaders and HCC faculty.

“We have joined forces with industry to put in place a series of classes that will result in work-ready individuals,” said Yamamoto. “We have a great team of faculty and instructional designers, and all of their hard work will soon come to fruition. These courses have the potential to change lives on our island.”

“This grant provides a tremendous win-win opportunity,” said HCC Chancellor Noreen Yamane. “These new programs will provide valuable skills and college credentials to community members while giving the business community access to a more skilled workforce.”

In addition, the grant has also accelerated HCC’s Prior Leaning Assessment program, and adults can now earn credit for work experience. If awarded credit, students will shorten their time in school as they get on the fast-track to degree completion.

The application deadline is Aug. 1. For more information, contact William Tehero Jr., Business Program coordinator, at myfuture@hawaii.edu.