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LONG BEACH, Miss. (AP) — Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's Transition Academy will combine GED classes with college-level programs beginning this fall.
The classes will be offered at the West Harrison County Center in Long Beach. Classes begin in August.
The Transitions Academy will provide an opportunity for adults without a high school diploma to simultaneously earn a GED credential and 15 hours of college credit in a career field.
Course offerings include Adult Basic Education/GED prep and a choice of either welding or early childhood development.
"When they finish the academy in one semester, they will have completed their GED certification, will receive their first semester of college credit in a career or technical program, and will have industry certification that will help them get a job," Becky Layton, director of adult basic education, told The Mississippi Press (http://bit.ly/1n8acOS ).
A second academy in Jackson County is planned for next year.
Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula has already committed to offering entry-level jobs to the academy's successful welding completers, according to school officials.
"Most jobs now require a high school diploma," Layton said. "And those with diplomas and some college have a better chance at a job and at making a significantly better salary. Add the industry certification to that, and they will have a much greater potential for success in a career and in life."
Beginning in January 2015, Layton said two additional career and technical programs would be offered as part of the academy — banquet and catering services and business and office technology.
To qualify, students must be at least 18 years old and Mississippi residents.
Classes at the West Harrison County Center will begin Aug. 21, and students must be committed to attending classes Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for the entire semester.
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Information from: The Mississippi Press, http://www.gulflive.com
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