Fresno Pacific University is expanding its presence in Visalia.
The Fresno Pacific University Visalia Center opens August 4, 2003, for fall semester. The center allows FPU to provide more complete programs for graduate students and working adults seeking to complete their bachelor's degree.
A master of arts degree in mathematics education, a master's and credential in special education and a credential in teacher education will be offered through Fresno Pacific Graduate School. Bachelor's degrees in liberal studies and organizational management and development will be offered through the Center for Degree Completion, part of the Fresno Pacific School of Professional Studies.
Classes will meet at the new El Diamante High School for the 2003-2004 school year. The university plans to move to a permanent campus in the summer of 2004.
"The need for expanding our Visalia Center has been apparent for quite some time," said Larry Perryman, Visalia Center director. "We are excited to be able to serve the South Valley with more complete programs."
FPU started a part-time teacher education program in Visalia in the fall of 1996 in partnership with the Visalia Unified School District. The goal was to provide district teachers with the quality education for which Fresno Pacific University is known. In addition, some degree completion courses have been offered in Visalia at various sites. The new center brings the entire program to a centralized location.