The division of continuing education offers opportunities for individuals of all ages.

http://www.pvc.maricopa.edu/ce/

Opportunities begin with the Paradise Pumas Kids College, which targets youngsters between 5-14 years of age during the summer months when both children and parents seek creative outlets to fill the long, hot Arizona days. The Kids College emphasizes reading, science, and computer literacy and blends academic and experiential learning. The program has grown steadily over the past three years. And an enrollment of approximately 400 students is projected for summer, 2000.

For the grandparents and great-grandparents of PVCC's youngest students, the division offers a senior college. The senior college has grown rapidly since its inception in 1998 when it began with 223 seniors enrolled. More than 1100 seniors are projected to enroll during the 2000-2001 year.

Serving the business community in the service area has been one of the division's highest priorities. The Center for Business and Workforce Development was created in January, 1999. Center personnel specialize in offering totally customized training programs to meet the specific needs and objectives of the moderately sized businesses which operate throughout the service area.

Courses in software applications, leadership, teamwork and team performance facilitation, conflict resolution, trainer effectiveness and personal management strategies are among the most popular of the Center's semi-customized courses.

For the past five years, the Center has occupied a unique niche in providing ISO 9000/QS9000/AS9100/ISO 1400 to area firms and also to Mexican companies through a cooperative arrangement with Gladhill Associates International. The use of modern technology and on-line courses provides many businesses and their employees the opportunity to gain understanding and competency without leaving their offices.

Another significant area of emphasis is training in environmental health and safety technology. Many programs can be modified (semi-customized) to meet the specific needs of an industry and are offered on-site.

In addition, the division offers professional development courses in such areas as electronic commerce, accounting, business, and education. Finally the division offers a full array of personal enrichment courses ranging from to alternative medicinefrom computerized genealogy to RV Safety.

The 300% increase in enrollment (1,458 in 1995-1996 to 4,055 in 1999-2000) provides a stong indicator of the division's success in meeting its mission of providing life long learning opportunities.

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