To support getting Central Texans back to work, Austin Community College District (ACC) launches deep discounts for 12 fast-track programs in the highest-demand sectors in the region, including health care, IT, and skilled trades. 

Offered through the college’s Continuing Education Division (CE), ACC’s entry-level fast-track programs provide students skills training and credentials to enter a new career field —  most in just three months. Between September 1 and December 31, ACC students pay just 50 percent of tuition for all courses in these programs. 

“When COVID-19 hit our region, our community took a hit. Thousands of people lost their jobs, many others were furloughed. We knew we had to find ways to help get Central Texans back to work,” says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC chancellor. “Cutting tuition for the most in-demand fast-track programs helps not only those who lost their jobs but also local businesses and industries. We’re growing and accelerating programs that provide students the right skillsets for today’s jobs. Our goal is to rebuild our community and relieve some of the pressures students are facing.”

According to a recent poll by Strada Education Network’s Center for Consumer Insights, 20 percent of Americans plan to enroll in an educational program in the next six months. Skills training tops the list of preferred education at 37 percent.

“Our goal is to rapidly re-employ the unemployed. ACC is more than prepared to expand offerings in person, online, and in hybrid formats to meet all students’ unique needs. We are ready to adjust to find ways to accommodate anyone who wants to apply,” says Dr. Hector Aguilar, CE dean. “We are focusing on programs that are hiring right now. It is crucial that we offer the right certifications and connect students with jobs.”

Fast-Track Training Programs with 50% Discount 

1. Accounting & Bookkeeping

2. Administrative Assistant

3. Certified Nurse Aide

4. Certified Production Technician

5. Dental Assistant

6. HVAC

7. Medical Assistant

8. Medical Billing & Coding

9. Medical Office Support

10. PC Technician

11. Phlebotomy Technician

12. Welding

Students who enroll in an eligible program by December 15 will receive this discount through the duration of the program. The college also partners with Workforce Solutions Capital and Rural Capital to connect students with jobs that are available now. 

ACC offers more than 60 fast-track options for non- and for-credit certificates. Students who want to stay on track to advance in their careers can continue on at ACC with more fast-track training options that can lead to an associate degree. 

For more information, about all fast-track options at ACC, visit austincc.edu/fasttrack.