FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 28, 2004

CONTACT: Steve Dolan
(619) 594-5664
sdolan@mail.sdsu.edu

SAN DIEGO, Wednesday Jan. 28, 2004 - Professional certificate programs can be an effective educational option for those who are training for a career.

Certificates are recognized by most employers as a significant academic accomplishment and can lead to new jobs, as well as promotions for those who obtain them. They are also typically more relevant and focused for today's workforce than academic degrees and can be completed in a much shorter period of time.

The following professional certificates are among those available through San Diego State University's College of Extended Studies:

This spring, the College offers a Professional Certificate in Casino Gaming program for the first time. Participants will obtain a strong basic background in Indian gaming history, regulations, gaming law, supervision, customer service, and leadership. Course topics are: Introduction to Indian Gaming, Gaming Regulations on Sovereign Soil, Gaming Security and Surveillance, Customer Service in a Unique Environment, Diversity in the Workplace, Table Games, Slot Analysis, Revenue Techniques, and Deterring and Detecting Casino Cheats.

Also new this spring is a Professional Certificate in The Business of Wine. This program is for anyone interested in a career in the wine and restaurant industry, or who simply is a devoted wine enthusiast. Course topics are: The History of Wine, Buying and Selling Wine, Wine Presentation, The Tasting Sequence, Marketing the Wine List and Label, Storing, Decanting, Pouring, and Food Selection and Wine.

Earning a professional certificate in human resource management will allow you to become more effective on the job, advance in your career and acquire new knowledge and skills. This program provides a practical educational experience for those in, or new to the field of human resource management; as well as personnel, industrial, or employee relations. This 24-unit program is authorized by SDSU's College of Business Administration.

The online professional certificate in personal fitness training is a five-month program designed to supply essential education integrating exercise science curriculum, practical training techniques and a field internship experience. This program is designed for fitness professionals from all fields, allied health professionals, physical therapists, chiropractors, physicians, wellness consultants, physical education teachers, nutritionists and individuals seeking a new career as fitness professional.

This program will provide you with educational and systematic exercise prescription for all types of clients; networking opportunities with industry experts, medical professionals, researchers, and business leaders; continuing education credits for fitness and health professionals seeking re-certification or career advancement and preparation for testing from a national certification organization.

SDSU's College of Extended Studies offers a wide variety of lifelong learning classes, seminars, and certificate programs. Career advancement courses are offered in many areas of management, leadership, and quality improvement while self-enrichment courses range from astronomy to web design. Additionally, the College offers over 25 certificate programs, online courses, and many other learning opportunities. For more information on the cutting-edge opportunities offered in career training, or other programs, visit the College's web site at www.NeverStopLearning.net.