You’ve driven by it and it’s one of your landmarks for direction. It’s Paradise Valley Community College (PVCC). And what you may not know is plenty.
PVCC offers expected core classes and programs in fields including technology, behavioral sciences, education, business, health science, and visual and performing arts.
Stage Combat
PVCC is the first college in the nation offering a Stage Combat CCL and the only school in Arizona. Students and working professionals receive training and come back often to keep certifications current.
“I feel lucky to be able to share my love for this art with my students,” says Andre Robertson, program director. “So many plays and movies depict violence … we are making it look real so it helps tell the story of characters to the audience.”
Clinical Research
To support the person with a clinical mind and goal for a career in this field, PVCC offers options in the Clinical Research Program with two specialized certificates of completion: Clinical Data Coordination and Clinical Research Coordination.
In the data program, a person gains the necessary skills of collection, cleaning and management of data in clinical trials.
The research program helps a person to actively support, facilitate and coordinate daily activities within clinical trials, which includes managing recruitment processes, monitoring and communicating with participants, collaborating with investigators and preparing essential documentation.
Business Entrepreneurialism
The training offered in the business program is ready-made for the demands of workforce development and designed to meet the ever-evolving job market. PVCC has strategic partnerships with local businesses to create a dynamic learning environment extending beyond the campus.
This pathway leads to careers in accounting, marketing, small business and more. Students dive in deep in this program and then dive right into their careers.
EMT and Paramedicine
The EMT and paramedicine program is recognized nationally and the accredited programs give students an upper advantage in entering their careers in emergency medical services. As a bonus, students’ practical experience involves a functioning, training ambulance.
“The ambulance serves as a powerful symbol of the exciting opportunities in this line of work,” says Kevin Taussig, program director. “It [allows] our students to hone their skills in the educational setting while also providing real-life, hands-on experience.” PVCC is just one of a few select programs in the state that has an emergency vehicle.
New Four-year Degree and “Sprint” Schedule
Now the institution offers a four-year degree. Future teachers can earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary and Special Education at a fraction of the cost of a university. This program prepares pre-service teachers to educate diverse learners.
Also new is the Puma Sprint Schedule – an accelerated program for students who want to fast track their college courses. Courses are designed to meet the AGEC (Arizona General Education Curriculum core courses) to transfer to a university and are taught in a hybrid, eight-week format with math and sciences spanning 16 weeks.
All this makes for more than a landmark to drive past. This institution is all about educating the whole person so you’re ready for opportunities coming your way.
