This summer, while many people flock to the beach for a suntan or take a much-needed vacation, Five Towns College’s Summer Graduate Institute (SGI) gives others a chance to further their education or advance their careers, in just a few weeks.
According to Dean of Enrollment Jerry Cohen, Five Towns College, located at 305 North Service Road in Dix Hills on Long Island, offers graduate courses in music education, music technology and childhood education. Both one-week and three-week sessions are offered, depending if one is interested in online courses as well.
“We’re providing a 15-week course within a five-day session from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., so many music educators and teachers like that concept because they can have the remainder of their summer available to them,” said Cohen.
While masters degrees in education and music as well as doctorate degrees in music arts are available, anyone interested in taking courses for professional advancement is also welcome to apply for the program, which begins July 5 and ends August 12.
Music technology classes range from electronic music composition to audio recording, while music education courses include jazz harmony and music theater. Childhood education classes include social studies or special literature classes for children.
Cohen said the program sets Five Towns College apart from other colleges because it takes students’ needs into consideration. In addition to the affordable tuition rates ($525 per credit), students who want the option of living on campus to avoid daily commutes can do so without damaging their budgets.
“Some people want to stay on campus – room and board is $325 for five days,” Cohen said. “That way, you don’t have to travel back and forth if you don’t want to.”
In addition to the SGI, there is also a special summer program available to high school students who are interested in courses such as audio recording, filmmaking, guitar, and digital photography.
For more details on how to apply to the SGI and to view courses being offered this summer, visit www.ftc.edu and click on the “Summer Graduate Institute” link or call 631-656-2121.
– By Alexa Mae Asperin
