OPEN FOR TWO MONTHS AND ALREADY EXPANDING: SWFC offers even more opportunities by adding early childhood education into program offerings.

Port Charlotte, Fla. (April 20, 2009) –The fourth and newest Southwest Florida College campus, located in Port Charlotte, opened its doors in February. There are 61 students currently enrolled in programs within the Allied Health field including: Medical Assistant, Medical Billing & Coding Technology, Health Information Technology and Surgical Technician.

Just two months later, Southwest Florida College throws even more into the mix by offering a diploma program in Early Childhood Care & Management.

Upon completion of the program, graduates will earn a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, formerly known as a CDA or a Child Development Associate, through the Florida Department of Children and Families.

For every 20 children in a licensed child care facility, the state requires at least one worker with a Florida Child Care Professional Credential, or a credential equal or greater than the FCCPC. Southwest Florida College is now an approved provider through the Florida Department of Children and Families to offer the FCCPC upon completion of the Early Childhood Care & Management diploma program.

The Early Childhood Care & Management diploma program promotes collaborative learning and critical reflection as a way to develop a community of life-long learners who respect diverse perspectives, make informed decisions, and are responsive to the changing needs of children in our society.

Classes for the new Early Childhood Care & Management program will begin June 29 for enrollment into the summer term. As a career college, SWFC’s programs are directly related to employment and Southwest Florida College takes it one step further by offering lifetime career placement assistance to all qualified graduates. Faculty members bring both academic preparation and industry experience to the classroom, which also helps students make the transition from the classroom to the real world.

The Port Charlotte campus also serves as a regional student service center for the college’s many fully online degree and diploma programs. Financial aid is available for those who qualify. For more information, visit www.swfc.edu or call 1-888-526-7973 to speak with a representative.
Southwest Florida College is an accredited, private institution of higher learning centrally located in Fort Myers, Tampa, Port Charlotte, and includes the Institute of Interior Design located within the Miromar Design Center in Estero. The College has been providing post secondary education to Floridians since 1974 and offers programs in Allied Health, Business, Design, Education, Information Technology and Legal Studies. Its mission is to provide educational opportunities for individuals to acquire knowledge and skills that will help prepare them for rewarding careers in fields with high growth potential. For more information, call toll free 888-526-7973 or visit http://www.swfc.edu.