Panola College announces new courses and programs 

Beginning in August Panola College will offer new choices for students in their schedule of classes designed to accommodate diverse interests. Online registration is currently under way for previously enrolled students or transfer students from other colleges.

Agriculture - Rodeo

 University transfer students can now choose to take agriculture courses in Horsemanship and Rodeo Production, as well as Western Activities for physical education credit.  Jeb Barney, the new rodeo coach, will teach the Western Activities and supervise the rodeo to be produced in the spring.  Shane Pennington will teach the other agriculture courses.

Environmental Technology (GIS)

Also this fall students may choose a new certificate program in Environmental Technology.  The program includes three courses in geographic information systems (GIS) and courses in soil and water sampling and analysis, as well as courses in environmental science and conservation.  According to those in industry, students with skill in these areas, especially in the use of GIS software, will be in demand in the workplace.  Tom Kesterson will be working with Dwayne Ferguson, Joe Pate, and the present Biology staff to develop the Environmental Technology program.

Criminal Justice

Tom Tiefenwerth will teach Introduction to Criminal Justice as a college transfer course this fall.  Along with the general core curriculum, this course will be useful for any student who wants to get into a four-year criminal justice program.  In addition it will be a useful elective for students who aspire to any kind of public service career, such as social work, psychology, sociology or public administration.

Online General Business

Panola College now offers a completely online General Business A.A.S. degree.  Containing both applied hands-on courses and university transfer core courses, this program promises to be valuable to those who want a two-year degree and to those who want to transfer to a university for more educational work.  Dwayne Ferguson, a veteran distance learning instructor with excellent credentials, will direct the program.

Communications – Journalism

            Communications courses in journalism are back on the schedule for fall with the return of an introductory communications course and other courses in writing and editing. These courses will teach writing and critical thinking skills that will help students succeed in a variety of fields. Students will also have the opportunity to work on The Pony Express, which will be entering its 49^th year as the student publication for Panola College. Teresa Cage will teach the courses and serve as publications advisor.

For more information about these exciting courses of study, please contact Dr. Lillian Cook, Dean of Instruction, at 903-693-2028 or email her at lcook@panola.edu.