The APT Program
The Accelerated Programmer Training (APT) program was created with funding from a Department of Labor TAACCCT grant and was designed to speed entry into tech careers. Students have the flexibility to study and accelerate their course completion and earn credits for prior knowledge.
The program is particularly beneficial to military veterans as well as unemployed and underemployed adults who have previous technical knowledge or interest. Participants receive personalized guidance and tutoring with a student support specialist when needed. Students also receive career services support upon completion of their degree.
Competency-Based Education
Competency-based education (CBE) allows students to accelerated toward a degree or certificate. CBE focuses on content mastery, rather than semester-based completion. This means students can apply their prior learning to move through courses as fast as they are able to show mastery of content.
Ideal CBE student
The ideal CBE student is self-disciplined, able work independently, and can complete coursework online. CBE is especially beneficial to students who need a flexible schedule to earn their degree around family or work obligations.
CBE at ACC
Austin Community College has initiated rolling start dates so that, if desired, students can begin new APT courses much sooner than the traditional model of waiting for the next semester to begin.
The APT program at ACC offers CBE courses in Computer Programming, Computer User Support, Database Administration, and Web Development.
How to get started
You need to be admitted to the program to take the accelerated classes. Although you are able to view courses in the Semester schedule, the APT sections are “locked” and enrollment is handled by the Student Support Specialist of Department Chair and only for students admitted to the program.
Please follow the steps below to get enrolled and to ensure this program is right for you.
Step 1 – Admission to Austin Community College
If you are a new student, get enrolled at ACC.
All Students: Please check for any holds on your account using Student Online Services.
Step 2 – Complete the APT Intake Form
APT Intake Form. (Must have ACC student ID# provided via Step 1)
Step 3 – Complete the APT Interest Card
APT Interest Card. (Must have ACC student ID# provided via Step 1)
Step 4 – Attend an Information Session
Once you have completed Steps 1, 2 and 3, attend an APT Information Session.
Dates for upcoming APT information sessions are posted on this site.
Once you have completed the intake process and become an APT student, you will assisted with enrollment into courses.
APT Announcements
APT Nominated for 2017 THECB Star Award
The APT program honored with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board nomination.
Contact
Department Chair
Mary Kohls
kohls@austincc.edu
(512) 223-3185
Student Support Specialist
Suanna “Ellie” Hernandez
suanna.hernandez@austincc
(512) 223-3194
Dean
Linda Smarzik
lsmarzik@austincc.edu
(512) 223-9214