Trimesters

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Beginning in Fall 2010, Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College implemented a new trimester class format. What does this mean for students? A full array of classes will be offered for 14 weeks instead of 16 weeks, allowing students to complete a trimester in a shorter amount of time. Students will spend an average of 10 extra minutes in each class since the new trimesters are condensed.

A full schedule of classes will be available to students during the fall, spring and summer trimesters. President Joanne Jaeger Tomblin said students will complete course work quicker and earn a degree or certificate sooner.

"Our students will graduate earlier in the year than those at other colleges. Southern's graduates will be ready to enter the work force sooner as well, giving them an edge when applying for jobs," President Tomblin said. Trimesters will be offered during the 2010-2011 term.

The new trimester schedule will also be advantageous for adult students, especially stay at home mothers. This fall, Southern's classes will start after the county school systems open. Youngsters will already be in head start or elementary school, which will allow moms to enroll in college classes.

"By offering a flexible schedule, and online classes, we hope to attract more adult students," President Tomblin said. Southern currently offers approximately 139 online classes.

Also, the trimester schedule may entice more university students to enroll in summer classes. By offering a full schedule during the summer, instead of the usual scaled down version, students who are home for the summer, can pick up additional classes at Southern for a fraction of the tuition cost at other colleges or universities.

For a complete course schedule, visit the college’s web site at www.southernwv.edu/trimesters.

Southern operates four campuses and two sites located in Boone, Logan, Lincoln, Mingo, Raleigh and Wyoming counties. Kentucky students residing in Pike, Martin, Boyd and Lawrence counties are eligible for in-state tuition rates.

The college's toll free number is 1-866-798-2821.

Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College is a member institution of the Community and Technical College System of West Virginia and accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges.