Career college set to open in Liberty shopping center
LIBERTY — A Virginia-based chain of career colleges has announced plans to open a branch in a Belmont Avenue shopping center.
National College plans to offer degree programs in medical assisting, computer technology and accounting in the 17,518-square-foot storefront at 3481 Belmont Ave.
Spokesman Chuck Steenburgh said the school will offer classes designed to accommodate a full-time work schedule, with classes in the morning and evening. The school manages eight associate degree programs and four six- to nine-month diploma programs.
Steenburgh said the college works to offer students internships in businesses with opportunity for advancement.
“That’s sort of our specialty — providing technical skills or training,” he said. “We’re certainly no replacement for the state college system, or even a community college.”
Renovations have begun at the Belmont Plaza Shopping Center, Steenburgh said. The school hopes to be operating by September. Renovations and equipment costs are expected to total $1.4 million, he said.
Tuition rates average about $10,000 per year for full-time students, he added.