For the first time, Austin-area veterans may use their military education benefits to pay for respected Microsoft Certification preparation programs and Project Management Professional Certification preparation courses at St. Edward’s University without enrolling in a traditional degree program. In the mid-1940s, the Montgomery GI Bill was created to help returning World War II veterans transition back into civilian life. Over the years, the program has evolved to help cover the education costs of military personnel pursuing degrees and certificate programs, training and courses.

Following three years of negotiations, the Department of Veterans Affairs granted the
St. Edward’s University Professional Education Center (PEC) the only certification of its kind in Austin. The VA approval means veterans may now receive their GI Bill benefits while attending Microsoft Certification preparation without committing to a four-year degree plan. As a Microsoft Certified Technical Education Center, the PEC offers classes toward the Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE), the most recognized and highly sought-after instructional technology certification available in the industry.
Students also may now apply VA benefits to the Project Management curriculum. This 12-week, 24-session program is designed to expose students to all aspects of the Project Management Book of Knowledge (PMBOK) in a completely hands-on environment. Students work in teams to create and manage a project through its development cycle, concluding in a presentation to the class. The comprehensive course materials were developed during the past five years and are taught by specialists with at least seven years of experience in project management and instruction.

The professional development arm of St. Edward’s University, the PEC, offers a variety of information technology and project management programs. All courses are offered at the PEC, located in the Echelon Building III – Suite 200, at the intersection of Capital of Texas Hwy/Loop 360 and Hwy 183. Convenient class times are available to fit both day and evening schedules, and are taught by Microsoft Certified Instructors using Microsoft Official Curriculum. Private, off-site classes may be arranged at military bases or camp facilities.

For admission information, prospective students may contact the PEC at 512.346.8110, information@seupec.com, or log onto www.pec.stedwards.edu.