HCC programs recognized by state
Sep 17, 2015
The Houston Community College (HCC) Center of Excellence for Digital & Information Technology further distinguished itself from the competition after being granted program recognition by the Texas Skills Standards Board (TSSB) for two degrees. They include the Digital Gaming and Simulation for Programmers Associate of Applied Science Program, integrated with the digital game and simulation programmer skill standards and the Digital Gaming and Simulation for Artists Associate of Applied Science program, integrated with the electronic game content production skill standards.
Digital Gaming and Simulation Program Coordinator Dr. Reni Abraham explained how these recognitions are game changers for the college and students.
“It’s a big deal. It’s a big deal for the students exit with that seal,” Abraham said. “HCC was the sponsor to develop the skills standards. A lot of the industry leaders and a lot of our partners were involved. When the students leave and go to those employers they’ll say, ‘oh yeah it’s a HCC program.’”
Abraham said the Digital Gaming and Simulation for Artists Program is the one of two programs in the state that meets the requirements of the TSSB, while the Digital Gaming and Simulation for Programmers degree is in a class by itself. Students from the two programs will graduate with a gold, embossed seal showing they’ve completed a program that meets the latest industry standards.
“The dual recognition for the digital gaming and simulation department assures students that the courses they take meet the highest professional standards, and the degrees and certificates they earn in the program will carry professional certifications accepted by employers across the country,” Center of Excellence for Digital and Information Technology Director Doug Rowlett said. “This makes their education here much more valuable in terms of employability and in terms of skills development and professional qualifications.”
In order to maintain its recognition by the TSSB, HCC will have to maintain its curriculum and renew its programs in three years. This insures the classes taught maintain the highest standards. The Digital Gaming and Simulation Programs also received grants totaling $26,000 based on meeting certain criteria. These grants will need to be renewed as well.
“The challenge is to make sure every faculty member in every one of those courses assess the students on those key activities,” Abraham said. “At the end of three years when we want to renew this recognition we have to provide proof that we have assessed based on these activities.”
To discover more about the Digital Gaming and Simulation programs and the Center of Excellence for Digital and Information Technology, please visit hccs.edu/centers-of-excellence.