That’s when Rosen, a resident of League City, chose to enroll at San Jacinto College, which has campuses in Houston and Pasadena. In addition to pursuing an associate degree, Rosen took every Computer Information Systems course available and was able to work part-time as a CIS tutor, thanks to a grant from the Texas Workforce Commission.

Now, at age 31, Rosen is transferring his credits from San Jacinto College to the University of Houston Clear Lake to pursue a bachelor’s degree in computer science. “San Jacinto’s CIS program opened a lot of doors for me, particularly the grant which guarantees me a tutoring job in computer science while I finish my degree,” said Rosen. “Plus, I’m making a lot of contacts in the industry. I hope my experience will show others that it’s never too late to go back to school.”

According to Jim Meeks, the CIS department chair for the south campus, San Jacinto College works hard to stay abreast of new and upcoming technology. For instance, computer security and computer gaming are two areas where information systems have changed dramatically in the last several years. Meeks stated that the amount of identity theft has tripled in just the past 12 months, which is one reason both certificate and associate programs in computer and information security are offered.

San Jacinto College also offers several certificate programs for simulation and game programming or design. Students can join The Gaming Guild, a club that helps its members stay abreast with the gaming industry. “There’s a lot of money in the gaming industry,” said Meeks.  “This is the first year it has surpassed Hollywood.”
 
The CIS program is just one of a wide variety of programs offered by San Jacinto College, now in its 46th session. Along with academic courses transferable to a four-year college or university, the college offers technical certification and degree programs, as well as continuing education classes. 
 
San Jacinto College also provides students with opportunities to develop their job skills. Such is the focus in their Vision Care Technology program. According to department chair Debra Clarke, this program is one of only a few in the country and the only technician-level program in the state of Texas. With more than 20 sub-specialties and three major career areas, students can choose to earn an occupational certificate, certificate of technology or an Associate of Applied Science. The curriculum is a balance of theoretical and technical courses with practice in a vision care office.

When asked about employment potential in this field, Clarke explained, “There is a large demand for all areas of vision care. About 50 percent of our students are employed prior to graduation and the remainder within weeks of graduation.”
 
Dr. Catherine O’Brien, Dean of Teaching and Learning, said through San Jacinto’s transfer articulation agreements with many different universities, students can easily transfer their credits toward four-year degrees. A big selling point for the college is their guaranteed admission programs with Texas A&M and Sam Houston State University, and a guaranteed tuition program with the University of Texas at Dallas. Reverse transfer is also available for students who desire to complete their associate degrees while simultaneously attending university classes. Undergrads may also receive fixed tuition at UT Dallas.

In the world of rising tuition costs, community colleges provide many people with the opportunity to pursue quality education at a fraction of the cost charged by universities and private colleges. This year, on Feb. 21, please join San Jacinto College and community colleges throughout Texas to show your support for Community College Student Day and educational excellence.