WORKING MEN AND WOMEN HAVE OPTIONS AT PANOLA COLLEGE

 Many people need a college degree but because of hectic work schedules and family commitments don’t have time to take traditional daytime classes. In response to this need, Panola College will launch several new programs this fall designed to help working men and women to earn their Associate degree.  

In June 2000, counselors at Panola College approached the administration with a proposal to create a program that would give working men and women an opportunity to earn an Associate degree taking only evening and Internet based courses. The administration liked the idea and from that meager beginning, the Degree in 3 program was created.  

The Degree in 3 program consists of a rotating sequence of courses offered over a three-year period. Students taking 6 hours each semester will be able to graduate with an Associate of Science degree in a little less than three years. If the course load is too much, students have the option of taking a single class and picking up other courses at a later time. “This is a great option for students just starting out and for those who lack a few courses but haven’t had time to get back to school to complete their degree,” said Dr. Gregory Powell, President of Panola College. 

Panola College is also improving services to better meet the needs of students taking evening courses.  Dr. Powell stated, “ Beginning August 12, offices directly serving students and/or faculty will be staffed Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. Offices will close at 12:30 on Fridays.  This change is intended to attract, serve, and retain evening students.”  Evening students will be able to meet with counselors, purchase materials in the bookstore, and receive financial aid information without having to take a day off from work or hurry through their lunch break. Students will also have the option of registering online. This service is relatively new and will allow students to register at their convenience. 

Panola College is expanding its Flex Scheduling plan to include additional courses. Flex scheduling gives students the opportunity to take a full course load over a four-day period, typically Monday thru Thursday. Students enjoy this “four-day” or flex schedule because they can work an additional day and save money on travel and childcare expenses.  

This fall will also see the opening of the Shelby Regional Training Center (SRTC) in Center Texas. Industrial Maintenance Technology courses offered at the facility will allow students to obtain a strong background in electrical, refrigeration principles, hydraulics, welding, computer applications, safety, and various other related areas.  Students can choose to enroll in Certificate programs or earn an Industrial Technology Associate of Applied Science Degree.  

The Degree in 3 program, Flexible Scheduling, Online Registration and the Shelby Regional Training Center are just a few examples of how Panola College continues to meet the educational needs of East Texans. Fall registration begins August 15 at the main campus in Carthage. For information about registration dates and times at our centers in Jefferson, Marshall and Center, call (903) 693-2000 or visit us on the web at (www.panola.edu).