Program Description - Pellissippi State Community College

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The mission of Business and Community Services (BCS) is to support
economic and community development by providing a range of services,
training programs, and cultural activities in response to the needs
of the community.
Programs are offered both on and off campus, during the day, evenings, and
weekends and in a variety of delivery modes, including Web-based. They are
structured to serve the various needs of a diverse clientele. The off-campus programs
may be conducted at a variety of sites including public schools, community
centers, business and industrial sites, technical training centers, and other
convenient locations. BCS provides a broad range of programs and services
including advanced technology and industry-specific training, personal and professional
development, business support, specialized technology centers, work
force development, services for special community groups, cultural enrichment,
summer camps, and industrial and economic development.
Most of the continuing education programs offered by BCS are eligible for
continuing education units (CEUs). CEUs are awarded for those non-credit activities
that meet the criteria established by the Southern Association of Colleges
and Schools. A CEU is defined as “10 contact hours of participation in an organized
continuing education experience under capable direction and qualified
instruction.” Eighty percent attendance is the minimum requirement for awarding
CEUs. Permanent individual records are maintained indicating the number of
CEUs awarded to each participant. CEU transcripts may be obtained through
Admissions and Records. Certificates of completion are also awarded in certain
areas.
Many of the courses offered by BCS are also eligible for continuing professional
education (CPE) credits, as well as credit through the American Institute
of Architects/Continuing Education System (AIA/CES).
Charges for public non-credit courses are established on an individual course
basis, depending on such elements as length and type of the course, amount of
materials furnished, and instructional costs. Charges for other programs and services
are determined on an individual basis.
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Personal Enrichment Programs. A wide variety of courses are offered to the
community that provide opportunities for cultural enrichment, and a vocational
pursuit, general interest, family and personal growth, fun and recreation, and
enhancement of the ability to function effectively in society.
Advanced Technology Programs. Highly specialized, advanced technology
programs are available that allow persons working in today’s rapidly changing
technical fields to maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills. These courses may
be offered on-site for a company in customized formats. A wide array of CADD
( c o m p u t e r-aided design and drafting) courses, including AutoCAD and
Microstation, are offered through the Computer Training Institute. Pellissippi
State is also a FeatureCAM Training Center and offers a number of courses in
the area of computer aided machining and manufacturing. Additional advanced
technology programs include programmable logic controllers, automated manufacturing,
microelectronics and others.