University of Phoenix Teams with Technology Leaders for IT Degree Programs

New Agreement Helps Juniper Networks-Certified Professionals Seeking Higher Learning Degrees

PHOENIX, Oct. 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- University of Phoenix today announced that students can attain college credit for the training and certification programs offered by Juniper Networks. Juniper's network security configuration and management curricula are now part of the recognized courses and certifications accepted by the University for credit assessment, joining courseware from Oracle, Hitachi, and other technology leaders that enhances the student's background with practical insight and IT skills that translate into the workplace.

This new agreement is part of an ongoing effort by University of Phoenix, the nation's largest institution of higher education, to open the doors to new educational pathways for prospective and current students in the field of Information Technology.

"Ongoing, rapid changes in technology require today's knowledge workers to first advance their education, before they can expect to advance their careers," said Blair Smith, Ph.D., Dean, College of Information Systems and Technology at University of Phoenix. "University of Phoenix is dedicated to providing our students with relevant studies that give them an educational edge in the workforce. As a leading provider of high-performance networking infrastructure, Juniper's training and certification programs are a 'must-have' for any IT professional, and an invaluable addition to the student's credentials."

Through this academic alliance, students may be eligible to receive credit toward an associate's or bachelor's degree at University of Phoenix for prior training courses, certificates and licensures completed through Juniper Networks.

"Demand for Juniper Networks training and certification has doubled over the last 12 months," said Linda Moss, Ph.D., senior director, Worldwide Education Services, Juniper Networks. "Our relationship with University of Phoenix gives students the opportunity to learn real-world technologies while continuing their IT degree programs, and further extends the universe of IT managers with hands-on knowledge of Juniper's best-in-class networking solutions."  

University of Phoenix has evaluated multiple classes from Juniper and determined them to be applicable for credits towards an Information Technology degree. The University has developed a Credit Recommendation Guide that lists courses and certifications that the University accepts for credit. Credit is determined by having students undergo the Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process, which determines if learning received outside of the traditional university classroom is equivalent to college level learning. Credit granted through the PLA process automatically applies toward a student's undergraduate education.

University of Phoenix offers a wide variety of programs in the field of Information Technology, such as Networking and Telecommunications, Business Systems Analysis, Software Engineering, Web Development and more. Depending on the program selected by a student, courses may be taken online—anytime, any place—or at one of over 200 University of Phoenix locations nationwide.

More information on the agreement, access to the Juniper Networks Credit Recommendation Guide and information on Prior Learning Assessments can be found at www.phoenix.edu/admissions/prior_learning_assessment/corporate-credit-recommendation-guide.html

ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF PHOENIX

University of Phoenix is constantly innovating to help students balance education and life in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules, challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on hold. During the quarter ended May 31, 2010, 476,500 students were enrolled at University of Phoenix, the largest private university in North America. University of Phoenix serves a diverse student population, offering associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout the world.

CONTACT: Katy Klein, +1-202-478-3714, [email protected], for the University of Phoenix

SOURCE University of Phoenix