Computer Systems Institute to Open 6th Campus in Elgin

SKOKIE, Ill., Nov. 9, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Computer Systems Institute (CSI), a private postsecondary school specializing in one-year programs in information technology, healthcare and business administration, today announced plans to open a sixth campus in Elgin. Classes are scheduled to begin in February with an expected enrollment of up to 550 students drawn from a 20-mile radius.

Located in an industrial park just off the I-90 tollway and accessible by public transportation, the new campus will occupy 26,000 square feet at 400 Airport Road and feature 16 computer-equipped classrooms and labs. Morning, afternoon, evening and weekend classes will be offered, with an emphasis on practical learning, preparation for professional certifications, and career services including resume and interviewing skills.

Certificate programs offered at the campus will include preparation for CompTIA, Network+, MCP and MCSA exams for students interested in becoming network systems administrators, and for National Healthcareer Association and American Medical Technologist certification exams for those interested in the healthcare field. CSI covers the cost of certification exams for the school's graduates.

Also featured will be an array of special services designed to help disadvantaged students succeed in the classroom as well as the job market. These services -  replicating those used effectively at the school's other sites – include stipends for academic performance, no-charge retakes of failed classes, an accelerated GED program, clothing swaps, and other assistance to compensate for educational and economic deficiencies.

The campus will join CSI locations in the Chicago Loop, Skokie, Lombard, Gurnee and Wheeling that have served more than 10,000 graduates since the school's opening in 1989.  

"CSI will be a strong new asset to the Elgin community, both as a local business and as a resource for area residents who need fast, practical preparation for jobs in growth industries," said Elgin Mayor Ed Schock. "This expands the educational opportunities available in town and will help those who are looking for work now and in the future."

CSI is accredited by the North Central Association, licensed by the Illinois State Board of Education, and approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs to accept the GI bill. It is also a Microsoft IT Academy and approved by the Illinois Board of Higher Education to provide A.A.S. Network Systems Administration and Health Information Technology degree programs.

"We fill a need among the unemployed and underemployed for affordable, fast-track programs that quickly equip students with marketable skills. Most of our graduates find jobs quickly, even in this economy. Until now, however, we have been unable to serve most Elgin-area residents who call to inquire about our programs because our current campuses are too far away," said Ella Zibitsker, CSI President and CEO.

"This new campus will make our educational programs easily accessible to students in Elgin and surrounding communities for the first time, provide job opportunities for graduates in the local business community, and simultaneously serve local businesses by supplying a pool of qualified employees," Zibitsker noted. "This is a strategic expansion that will benefit area residents looking for work as well as the regional economy."

About Computer Systems Institute

CSI is a postsecondary education provider that offers a variety of career and degree-granting programs in information technology, healthcare and business administration designed to be completed in less than one year. The school also offers English-as-a-Second-Language programs serving students from around the world. With five Chicago-area campuses and a sixth scheduled to open in February 2011, CSI offers career advising, job placement assistance, scholarships and other financial aid programs, and a broad range of support services to facilitate academic and career success. The institute has been serving Chicago-area residents since 1989. For more information, visit www.csinow.edu.

SOURCE Computer Systems Institute