After more than a decade of classes in different locations in the city, FPU's Merced Center opened this week at 3379 G Street, Building P, in the El Portal Plaza. Presently 45 students are enrolled in the bachelor's degree completion program in early childhood development. Bachelor's programs in liberal arts and business administration with an organizational leadership emphasis are coming in spring 2012.
"Fresno Pacific University Merced staff is here to serve and our commitment to excellence and success is the ultimate goal," said Cynthia Kaitfors, interim center director.
All programs are targeted to working adults with some college credit. Classes meet in the evening and are taught by expert university faculty committed to teaching and helping students succeed. Groups of 12-22 students go through each accelerated 14- or 18-month program together.
The 4,800-square-foot center offers four classrooms, admissions, financial aid, career support and other services. There is Internet access, a computer lab, an electronic library and places for students to relax and study.
Business Administration: Organizational Leadership Emphasis The bachelor of arts in business administration with an organizational leadership emphasis prepares graduates to guide enterprises of many kinds in the constantly changing business environment. Beneficial in any career, it is ideal for executive management, nonprofit and community leadership, health care, public administration, human resources, consulting and other positions that involve working directly with employees.
Early Childhood Development The bachelor of arts in early childhood development prepares graduates for positions in public and private preschools as well as churches and businesses that offer preschool for the children of their employees. Graduates may also pursue additional credentials and certificates to become educators in elementary schools and special education programs, or career counselors with child and family service organizations.
Liberal Arts The bachelor of arts in liberal arts provides a foundation for a variety of fields, including private and public education, business and industry, government agencies and nonprofit and faith-based organizations. Graduates serve as teachers, school counselors and school administrators, as well as in law enforcement, county and local government, private business and public agencies.
New cohorts start in March and September for business and in February and August for early childhood development and liberal arts. For more information, go to fresno.edu/merced or call the center at 207-777-2860.
In the photo above (from left) are: Cynthia Kaitfors, interim director; Krista Saxon, program representative; Laura Randoll, administrative assistant; and Christina Perez, student assistant and degree completion student