Columbia College (Virginia)

Columbia College

File:ColumbiaCollege logo.jpg
Type	Private
Established	1999
President	Dr. Richard K. Kim
Students	600
Location	Fairfax, VA , USA
Campus	Fairfax, VA / Centreville, VA / Silver Spring MD
Website	www.ccdc.edu

Columbia College is a private vocational college located in Fairfax, Virginia. The college offers Associate Degree and Certificate programs in Cosmetology, Massage Therapy, ppDental Laboratory Technology]], Culinary Arts, Business Administration, Computer Science, Teaching English for Early Childhood, Technical and Business English, Nurse’s Aide (CAN), Computer Basic, TESOL, Paralegal, and QuickBooks, Columbia College also offers English as a Second Language (ESL) programs and have a large population of international students and staff.

History of Columbia College

Columbia College was first established in Manassas Virginia on October 17, 1999 to meet the region’s need to support the growing industry and business. Columbia College built its foundation as Columbia College, Inc., March 2000. It offered certificate programs approved by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV). The College moved to its current location in Fairfax in September 2004 and was approved by SCHEV for its associate degree programs in October 2005. The Silver Spring Campus (Maryland) was added in January 2006 to accommodate individuals who resided in the area. In February 2007, Columbia College was nationally accredited by the Council on Occupational Education (COE), and the Centreville Campus (Virginia) was added in June 2008. All of the programs offered at the Silver Spring and Centreville campuses were approved by the Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC) and SCHEV, respectively, and later accredited by COE as well. In May 2009, the College became a participant of Federal Student Aid Programs (Title IV). In September 2009, Columbia College opened a TOEFL test center sponsored by ETS, and in February 2010, a test center for various certifications sponsored by Prometric. The College was approved by the State of Virginia for providing veteran’s education in September 2010. The College was approved by the Federal USCIS and SEVIS to issue I-20 for F-1 and M-1 student visa and also approved by the US Department of State and SEVIS to issue DS-2019 for J-1 exchange visa. Over the years, Columbia College has been expanding its programs to offer to diverse populations of students, along with curriculum revisions as well as the addition of new facilities and equipment. Today, Columbia College offers ESL classes, 10 certificate and 8 associate degree programs to students from over 30 countries.

Mission

Columbia College is dedicated to providing quality workforce development programs and services to meet the needs of Washington Metropolitan area’s residents and employers through occupation-specific training and language training. Columbia College is also committed to helping students in their pursuit of higher education.

Academics

Outstanding academic is a point of pride at Columbia College and a key part of Columbia College’s reputation for educating successful students. Columbia College offers 2-year Associate’s Degrees and certifications in a variety of the country’s leading industries. Columbia College currently offers the following programs: Dental Laboratory Technology, Culinary Arts, Cosmetology, and Massage Therapy in both 2 years associate’s degree programs and certificate programs, Certified Nurse Aide, English as a Second Language, Computer Basic, and Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages only in certificate programs. Teaching English for Early Childhood, Business Administration and Technical and Business English are only associate degree programs.

Certificate Program

Columbia College is offering variety of certificate programs to students. The completion period varies depending on each program; ESL, Culinary Arts and Dental Laboratory Technology require 60 weeks, Cosmetology – 70 weeks, Massage Therapy – 30 weeks, Computer Basics – 40 weeks, TESOL, and Certified Nursing Aide (CNA) – 10 weeks.

Computer Basics

Computer Basics is designed for students who seek employment in the Information Technology (IT) industry or for those presently in the IT field who are seeking development of their abilities in Windows XP/2000, A+, MS Office XP and Internet. The program includes instruction in the use of text processing, spreadsheets and database software to complete requirements for MCSE and MCSD. This program consists of classroom instruction and laboratory classes totaling in 432 hours. Students learn the theoretical skills and techniques necessary for a successful career in the Information Technology (IT) industry.

Cosmetology

The Cosmetology program at Columbia College incorporates hair design, nail artistry, and facial makeup. The program provides extensive hands-on classroom training and teaches what it takes to become successful in the cosmetology field. Columbia College has its own clinic, so students may get hands-on experience with actual clientele. In addition to technical training, students will learn about sterilization and sanitation, as well as anatomy and physiology. Business communication and salon management courses are also included in the program. The cosmetology program is designed to prepare students for the Virginia State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure.

Culinary Arts

The objective of the Culinary Arts of Chef Training certificate program is to train students in oriental cuisine and Sushi-making techniques while educating them for entrance into the food service industry. Students will also be culturally and historically educated in the traditions and modern characteristics of oriental cuisine. The 15 month program consists of classroom and lab instruction along with a mandatory restaurant externship. Students will learn basic food service sanitation and specialized sanitation for handling fresh fish. Restaurant management and customer service are also included in the curriculum. Lab instruction will ensure that students perfect their technique while exploring personal creativity and modern culinary style.

Massage Therapy

The massage therapy certificate program focuses on the theory and applications of therapeutic massage while providing students with a thorough knowledge of the structure and function of the human body. The program is designed to prepare students to pass the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork certification exam and to prepare them for employment as professional massage practitioners. In addition to lab practicum, there is a school run clinic where students can get hands on practice with actual patients. Medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, and kinesiology will all be covered along with energy balancing and disease prevention. Additionally, students will be educated on the legalities and ethics of the health care business.

Massage Therapy C.E. (Continuing Education)

This program is designed for individuals already with a certificate who need to recertify. Advanced, up-to-date, hands-on experience courses are offered.

Dental Laboratory Technology

The Dental Laboratory Technology program is designed to prepare students for employment as dental laboratory technicians. Students will be fully trained in oral, facial, and cranial anatomy. They will learn to design and construct prosthetic and therapeutic oral devices typically prescribed by a dentist such as orthodontic appliances, crowns and bridges, complete dentures, partial dentures, or ceramics. Students will spend the majority of their time in the laboratory working with specialized technical equipment. The program is offered in both a certificate and in an Associate’s Degree. Both programs prepare students to take the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology.

Nurse Aide

The CNA certificate program is designed to provide the basic theoretical and practical skills needed for caring for patients in hospitals and private clinics. The mission of the Certified Nurse Aide program is to prepare our students for their roles as nurse aides in hospitals and nursing homes. To accomplish this mission, the school provides opportunities to learn fundamental knowledge and patient care skills through the 3 month program including a 40-hour externship course that gives students hands-on experience. This program also provides the practical training necessary to pass the National Nurse Aide Assessment Program (NNAAP) State license examination.

ESL

Columbia College’s ESL program is designed to provide comprehensive English skill classes including grammar, listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The goal is for students to acquire fluency in English so that they can obtain better jobs and opportunities in the United States without communication difficulties.

Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate program at Columbia College provides theoretical and practical training for future teachers of English to foreign students. The TESOL program promotes professionalism in language education and respect for diversity in multiculturalism. Students will graduate with a thorough knowledge of the best methods of language teaching, an understanding of how human languages are learned and structured, and with plenty of hands-on classroom experience. Students will learn linguistic theory, classroom management, and lesson planning. The program requires that each student teach their own lesson plan for constructive evaluation.

Associate Degree Programs

Columbia College offers variety of associate degree programs in many different fields. Each program requires a certain amount of hours to finish the program. The length of each program is about 15 to 18 months depending on how many students are taking general required courses. When a student finishes any of the programs, the student is eligible to receive an associate degree diploma, and in some cases, also a certificate.

Dental Laboratory Technology

The Dental Laboratory Technology program is designed to prepare students for employment as dental laboratory technicians. Students will be fully trained in oral, facial, and cranial anatomy. They will learn to design and construct prosthetic and therapeutic oral devices typically prescribed by a dentist such as orthodontic appliances, crowns and bridges, complete dentures, partial dentures, or ceramics. Students will spend the majority of their time in the laboratory working with specialized technical equipment. The program is offered in both a certificate and in an Associate’s Degree. Both programs prepare students to take the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. Dental laboratory technicians construct and repair all types of dental prosthetic appliances and provide an essential service to dental professionals. Certified technicians may work in private dental offices, hospitals, dental schools, dental manufacturers and suppliers, and in private practices.

Cosmetology

The Cosmetology program at Columbia College incorporates hair design, nail artistry, and facial makeup. The program provides extensive hands-on classroom training and teaches what it takes to become successful in the cosmetology field. Columbia College has its own clinic so students may get hands on experience with actual clientele. In addition to technical training, students will learn about sterilization and sanitation, industry trends, as well as, anatomy and physiology. Business communication and salon management courses are also included in the program. The cosmetology program is designed to prepare students for the Virginia State Board of Cosmetology examination for licensure.

Computer Science

The computer science program is designed to prepare students for networking and information technology careers. The curriculum provides training in PC troubleshooting, applications, operating systems, network administration, hardware maintenance, and the basic components of network security. Columbia College is fully equipped with the official Microsoft IT Academy. This state of the art program offers IT training, resources, and Microsoft certification opportunities for our students. Computer Science is the study and design of computer systems: both hardware and software. Computer scientists are primarily concerned with the design of algorithms, languages, hardware architectures, system software, applications software, and tools. Applications range from simple games to the control of space vehicles, power plants and factories, from banking machines, to intelligent fault and medical diagnosis. This program is designed to prepare students for networking and information technology careers in industry and business. The curriculum provides exposure to PC troubleshooting, applications, operating systems, programming, network administration, and the basic components of network security.

Dental Laboratory Technology

The program is offered in both a certificate and in an Associate’s Degree. Both programs prepare students to take the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology. Dental laboratory technicians construct and repair all types of dental prosthetic appliances and provide an essential service to dental professionals. Certified technicians may work in private dental offices, hospitals, dental schools, dental manufacturers and suppliers, and in private practices. This program is designed to prepare students for employment as dental laboratory technicians who provide essential support services for dental professionals. Students learn advanced skills and techniques in designing and constructing dental replacements such as crowns, bridges, dentures, and orthodontic appliances.

Teaching English for Early Childhood

This program focuses on current research and theories in the area of early childhood second language acquisition. Students will learn strategies to teach English to early childhood and elementary age children whose first language is not English. Based on current early childhood research, listening, speaking, reading, and writing teaching tactics will be covered. How to teach an awareness of American culture will also be introduced in the teaching curriculum. Students will be educated in early childhood growth and development along with the basics of classroom management and lesson planning. Each student is required to observe experienced teachers in their classrooms and schools to aid in their adjustment into the field.

Technical and Business English

The discipline of Technical and Business English encompasses a wide variety of topics, all centering on the creative and communicative functions of language. The underlying advantage of the Technical and Business Communications program is an increased sensitivity to language and an increased confidence in using it, whether in spoken or written forms. With the strong communication and analytical skills developed in earning an associate of occupational studies degree, students will be well prepared for a variety of sectors in the business world. The program is dedicated to offering effective communication skills that prepare students as business administrative professionals with a strong curriculum encompassing writing, oral presentation and interpersonal skills.

Business Administration

The Business administration program provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to prepare for excellent employment opportunities in the business world or for advanced study in the same field. This professional business training is provided by a faculty that is exceptionally well prepared, both academically and professionally. Business faculty members are committed to helping students cultivate faith, strengthen service attitudes, and develop balance in church, family, community, and career. The Business Administration program of Columbia College provides an outstanding learning environment for developing the tools demanded in today’s competitive business environment. This program prepares students for a position within the field of business administration. Students receive training in office and business procedures, word processing, database management and communications. Additionally, students will receive training in legal terminology, computerized accounting and career development. The core curriculum is supplemented by special lecture and workshops instructing students on key areas such as professional development and the importance of technology in the workplace. Graduates will have a well-rounded knowledge of how to run a business from start-up to maintenance. They will learn both technical skills and business theory.

Massage Therapy

The A.A.S. Program of Massage Therapy is designed to prepare students for employment as professional massage practitioners and provide a thorough knowledge of the structure and function of the human body along with theory and applications of therapeutic massage. This program offers theoretical, practical and hands-on experience, and enables graduates to pass the certification exam that is offered by the National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork (NCBTMB). Through this program, students will be confident and capable in becoming successful massage practitioners in a variety of professional settings. AAS Degree Program in Massage Therapy offers 67 credit core courses including 4 credits of Clinical Practicum. Each course begins with the initial TM and has a three-digit number that identifies the general order of courses that recommended to students to take through their program. Each course is offered during 10-week session and the credit is counted as a quarter (approximately 2/3 of semester credit). Unless the description uses a restrictive phrase, the Columbia College offers the course at least once each year at the Fairfax Campus. In addition to the core courses there are 6 general subjects whose total credits are 24.

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts program consists of 1,020 hours of intensive practice and lecture designed to prepare students to take part in the culinary arts service industry successfully. Each course is consists of various sub-courses which give a basic, intermediated and advanced skills and knowledge of cooking, nutrition science, western and oriental cuisine, bakery, diet and food culture, world fusion cuisine, food sanitation, food service system management, and wedding and party cuisine. Students who have completed this program are expected to be qualified to enter a number of related fields as a professional chef in restaurants and hotels. AAS Degree Program in Culinary Arts offers 92 credit courses at the total of 1,240 clock hours. Each clock hour is described as the total hours during 10-week session and the credit is counted as a quarter (approximately 2/3 of semester credit). Unless the description uses a restrictive phrase, the Columbia College offers the course at least once each year at the Fairfax Campus. Six general subjects whose total credits are 24, are added to the core courses, to prepare for the basic knowledge of the students in this program.

Professional Studies

The School of Professional Studies offers programs to prepare students for a wide range of occupations in business, government, and nonprofit organizations. Although we have degree programs in Computer Science and Business Administration, we saw an emerging need for additional educational opportunities, based on the operations of local businesses. Columbia College’s programs are designed to provide students with marketable skills and the knowledge necessary for them to find a career quickly, upon leaving Columbia College. Courses are designed and prepared to equip students with the ability to advance on the job and a strong foundation for graduate studies. Aside from active student organizations and internship experiences, the School of Professional Studies also has an International Field Experience program.

Paralegal

This program is suitable for students who seek a broad-based foundation in legal studies and business. Columbia College’s Paralegal studies prepares students to support attorneys in transactional and litigation fields through legal research, document drafting, case management, evidence gathering and the litigation procedure. Paralegals are often involved in trial assistance and other dispute resolution processes, as well as with preparation of real estate documents, wills, trusts, contracts, corporate matters and law office investigations. Columbia College is currently offering Paralegal as a certificate program, but will soon offer an associate degree program in the near future.

QuickBooks

QuickBooks is the best financial management software for small & medium businesses in many industries. It helps you keep track of all business operations, and provides a clear picture of your business to understand and make sound decisions.

Global Education

Global Education Center (GEC) was established to develop, support, and promote cultural exchange. GEC offers a variety of programs, opportunities, and service to students. We also provide career development and resources with the collaboration of professional organizations. GEC aims to expand awareness of the world view and empower each student to challenge their global perceptions.

J-1 exchange Program

Columbia College has been designated the sponsor of an Exchange Visitor Program in accordance with the administrative regulations issued under the Mutual Educational and Cultural Exchange Act of 1961(Public Law 87-256, also known as the Fulbright-Hays Act) from US Department of State. The sponsor of an exchange visitor program is contributing to educational and cultural exchange as authorized by the Fulbright-Hays Act, the objective of which is to increase mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries and to assist in the development of friendly, sympathetic and peaceful relations between the United States and other nations. This objective is best met by ensuring that participants in the exchange program return abroad to exercise the skills and knowledge acquired in the United States thereby strengthening the ties and communications that unite us with the other nations of the world.

Korean Language Institute

Columbia College Korean Language and Culture Institute (CCKLI), CCKLI has been teaching and promoting the Korean language and culture in line with the ever-growing Korean status in the international community in USA. CCKLI’s systematic curriculum accommodates various needs of learners. CCKLI’s program teaches effectively and uses the most up-to-date methods. Its qualified and competent faculty specializes in Korean language and culture education and its special textbooks and teaching materials are tailored to specific Korean linguistic features. Former learners highly recommend CCKLI’s program and many communities in US know about CCKLI’s unique and excellent programs via word-of-mouth.

TESOL Program

Global Education Center provides Intensive TESOL Program especially for the International English Teachers. This program was created to meet the needs by the English Teachers from all over the world. Columbia College has been teaching the TESOL program since it launched, and issued Certificate to the qualified students and learners after graduation.

Student Life

The students, here, at Columbia College come from many different parts of the world and many walks of life. From Hungary to Korea to India to China to Algeria to Russia to students born and raised in America, you can expect a wide array of world flavors. Many of our students are transfer students, young parents, the parents of students and even professionals in their country. Some are looking for a basic certificate, while others are attending CC for continuing education or an associate degree. The students all have a handful of things in common: the urge to learn or use the English language, the ability to adjust in an exciting multi-cultural environment, and the willingness to work hard to become successful in their futures. The Chaplain and the associates of the Admissions Department are ready and willing to assist students with needs outside of college including: finding an apartment or townhome to live in, public transportation information, parking, finding local businesses, international VISA information, computer use, directions and even job-search assistance.

Students Housing

Students who enroll in Columbia College during the academic term are eligible to apply for school housing. Students who would like to get housing can 1) bring his/her family, 2) get a group of people together to live more affordably, or 3) allow Columbia College to form a group of students together for them. The group will be the same gender unless they are family members. Students will be assigned in one-bedroom, two-bedroom or three-bedroom apartment units, depending on the number of people and the availability of apartments. The maximum number of people is two per one-bedroom, four per two-bedroom and six per three-bedroom apartments. Preferences, such as number of bedrooms or sharing bedrooms with others is considered, but not guaranteed.

Student Advisement

Student Advisement Services provides an academic support system for students at Columbia College. This support system is designed to ensure that Columbia College students have the opportunity to succeed through academic guidance and support. Student Advisement Services provides comprehensive support through a variety of services and programs. At the student’s request, the school can provide services such as: assistance for disabled students, study skills instruction, academic counseling, tutoring, faculty mentoring and learning enhancement strategies. By taking advantage of the services offered, students can experience not only academic success, but personal success as well. Each service is designed to benefit the student’s learning experience, assist them with academic challenges, and help achieve their goals while at Columbia College. Students who complete programs successfully are well prepared to find jobs related to their respective fields of study. While it is impossible to guarantee that each student will find employment in their chosen field at any given time, Columbia College will work with the student to help find satisfactory employment. Program coordinators are also available to provide academic and career advisement to students.

Test Center

Columbia College provides testing service to people who need to take TOEFL, IELTS, ACCUPLACER, and Prometric.

TOEFL

TOEFL is test given to individuals who plan on attending college in an English-speaking country. It is accepted in more than 7,500 institutions in 130 countries around the world and is also a safeguard. Taking the TOEFL test helps ensure students learn at the expected rate or above, and colleges who require the TOEFL exam are often linked to having a higher amount of graduating students.

Prometric

Prometric is the testing system used to administer hundreds of exams, including the ones listed here. The types of exams that Prometric offers are academic, professional, government, corporate, IT, state, county, local, pre-licensing and continuing education. There are several kinds of exams for each field. If you are unsure if Prometric offers the exam you would like to take here, at Columbia College, please visit www.prometric.com Prometric also accommodates handicapped people. Please refer to www.prometric.com for the correct phone number to call. The below are the most common exams Columbia College administers using Prometric, along with several types of IT exams.

ACCUPLACER

The ACCUPLACER test is a test created to accurately place students in their correct English-learning classroom. It is commonly administered to students whose primary language is not English, who are often referred to English as a Second Language (ESL) students. ACCUPLACER helps determine what level the students English is at, so he/she can begin taking ESL courses at the correct level. It is also for the benefit of the student, saving the student ample time and/or money.

IELTS

IELTS is the world’s International English Language Testing System. 1.4 million people take this exam per year and it is recognized by more than 6,000 institutions in over 135 countries. It is used for those who have an interest in international education and employment.

Accreditation

Columbia College is nationally accredited by The Council on Occupational Education (COE)

Columbia College is certified by the State Council of Higher Education of Virginia (SCHEV)

Columbia College is certified by Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC)