NEIT

by Amanda Fornecker

At a regular technical school, you'll get hands-on experience in the field in which you seek to further your skills. But at the New England Institute of Technology (NEIT), you'll get more than just that. You'll get a well-rounded education.

Unlike most technical schools, NEIT offers students the option to earn an associate or bachelor's degree, rather than solely a certification. "Typically, students who go to a technical school have the objective of getting a job," says Seth Kurn, Executive Vice President of NEIT. "Getting a college degree isn't necessarily on the radar screen, but we know that's what employers are looking for and that's why we offer them."

With the types of curriculum offered at NEIT, students receive a liberal arts education with math and science classes, while also getting hands-on technical school skills. Once a student enrolls at NEIT, they pick the program they wish to follow and the program is set for them for their time in school. "Students spend three hours a day on technical block scheduling," says Kurn. "We try to get students immediately involved and they'll get that experience in the classroom."

For those who are anxious about the admissions process, students needn't worry. NEIT is an open admissions technical school. "A student who has a high school diploma qualifies for admission," says Kurn. "A student calls up, is invited for an interview, sits for a qualifying test, meets with financial aid, and is assisted by our administration. It can all be taken care of in one day if a student is motivated."

In addition to enrolling quickly, NEIT offers summer programs so that students may complete their degrees early; an associate's degree in 18 months and a bachelor's degree in three years.

Members of NEIT faculty are required to have been in the field for at least three years, says Kurn. "Our teachers are committed to making sure students graduate with the skills required for the job, so the best ones are the teachers who have the experience and know the field."

NEIT also offers a career services department where they aim to help make the process of finding a job a little easier. "It is the responsibility of the student to obtain a job," says Kurn. "However, we do support them. We have a job bank, counselors, and workshops in resume writing."

There are over 30 programs offered at NEIT. Programs for an associate's degree include computers, communications, architecture and design, electronics, mechanical engineering technology, and more. Some bachelor's degree programs include interior design, programming technology, and business management technology.

Kurn advises students interested in the technology field to explore their options. "Visit schools, learn about opportunities, and sit with career services. Most students who sit with an admissions officer probably know what field they want to go into. But if they don't, they'll have time to see what they like through a school's offerings."

In the end, Kurn says, students come out prepared from their time at NEIT, ready to take on a real-world job. "Students have the ability to deal with customers," he says. And the hands-on technical skills, combined with critical thinking skills are simply priceless.