Coastal Carolina University's Division of Extended Learning and Public Services has formed a partnership with I/Tech Services, Inc., to provide training for information technology certification programs. I/ Tech is a Microsoft Certified Technical Education Center based in Frederick, Md. Courses will be held in the state-of-the-art computer labs located in the Society House on Coastal's campus during the spring 2001 semester and will be taught by some of the nation's top certified instructors.

Two free information sessions about the new information technology programs will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 10 and Thursday, Jan. 18 at 7 p.m. in Wall Building 119 on the Coastal campus.

Programs offered through the partnership include:

- The Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer certification program - a professional credential for aspiring information technology industry professionals who are qualified to analyze the business requirements for system architecture, install infrastructure components, and troubleshoot system problems. A series of new Windows 2000 courses is being offered this spring.

- The A+ Certified Computer Technician Program, sponsored by the Computing Technology Industry Association, certifies the competency of service technicians in the computer industry. Students will learn how to upgrade, repair and troubleshoot PCs and much more.

The courses will be held in the evening to accommodate individuals with busy schedules.

Financial aid is available for the courses through the SLM Financial Center Training Loan.

To register for an information session or for more information, contact I/Tech's Kari Francella at 381-6552.