Overview
The Virtual College of Texas is an association that represents community colleges all across the State of Texas, and helps them offer degree programs to students in an online format. The College helps students earn associate's degrees and technical certificates online, in areas that include sociology, speech, multimedia design, psychology, office technology, occupational safety, management, language, cultural studies, philosophy, hospitality, health sciences, government, education, general studies, criminal justice, computer science, and business. Students who graduate from the network of schools will be able to go on to one of Texas' many universities.
Student Appeal
Students who are enrolled through the Virtual College of Texas, rather than through an individual community college, will have access to many more course offerings and degree options. They will also have access to more library, research, internship, and support services than individually enrolled students. Furthermore, students have access to the best technology learning opportunities around the state, as well as CARAT, a peer-review program that allows students to rate courses and view others comments.
School Facts & Figures
- Accreditation: SACS
- Size: Medium (<5,000 students)
- Type: Public
- Religious Affiliation: N/A
- Academic Affiliation: N/A
- Career Services: Yes
- Course Schedule: Semester
- Credit Options: Transfer
- Scholarships Offered: Yes
- Loans Offered: Stafford, Pell, PLUS
- AAS in Child DevelopmentAAS in Child Development
An associate's of applied science in child development is the perfect way to begin one's way toward a career in elementary education or child psychology. Earning such a degree from the Virtual College of Texas means that a student will have completed a standardized curriculum that includes courses to introduce students to learning and developmental disabilities, family and parenting dynamics, theories of child learning, and behavioral management. These degrees will be recognized all across Texas and around the country.
- AA in EnglishAA in English
Earning an English degree means mastering the fundamentals of literacy: writing and reading. Students who are enrolled in an AA in English program through the Virtual College of Texas will complete a wide array of early and modern literature courses, featuring a sampling of American and British literature. They will also take courses that allow them to develop an array of writing skills, through courses in research writing, technical writing, academic writing, and in general composition.
- Certificate in Child Development -- Intervention SpecialistCertificate in Child Development -- Intervention Specialist
The Virtual College of Texas offers a number of different certificates that allow people to begin working in their chosen profession. Some of them, like the Certificate in Child Development, are usually intended to complement another degree. The certificate that is specific to a future Intervention Specialist in the area of child development will require that students take classes exploring topics like domestic violence, child nutrition, and child counseling.
- Certificate in Early Childhood and Family StudiesCertificate in Early Childhood and Family Studies
A certificate in early childhood and family studies from the Virtual College of Texas is a professional certificate that allows graduates to work in certain social work, counseling, and child care centers. In order to earn such a certificate, students must commit to at least two semesters worth of full time study, and demonstrate an understanding of chlid psychology, family social studies and sociology, counseling science, and childhood education.
- Certificate in Architectural Computer-Aided DesignCertificate in Architectural Computer-Aided Design
Architects need assistants, and a qualified individual who holds a certificate in architectural computer-aided design will be eligible for these careers. Very few community colleges and universities offer these certificates, which makes the Virtual College of Texas a very valuable asset, as even if a person does not live in a community in Texas that offers such a degree, they will have access to it. Courses that explore a variety of computer programs will be required of candidates for these certificates.
- Certificate in Computer-Aided Design OperatorCertificate in Computer-Aided Design Operator
In order to earn a computer aided-design operator certificate from the Virtual College of Texas, students need to successfully pass a variety of computer classes. They will study such programs as InDesign and JavaScript, learning how to work with a variety of computer design mediums. The certificate typically requires about two semesters of full-time study, and students will have to succeed in a fixed curriculum.
- Certificate in General Drafting (CAD)Certificate in General Drafting (CAD)
A certificate in General Drafting prepares students for careers in Computer-Aided Design (better known by its abberviation: CAD). Students will take courses in both manufacturing and engineering, with a specific focus on 3-D graphic design. Earning this certificate online through the Virtual College of Texas will allow students the chance to work with a variety of computer programs, which qualifies them for careers in many types of design offices.