Ivy Tech Community College - Columbus

About
Ivy Tech Community College was founded in 1963 as the Indiana Vocational Technical College, with the purpose of providing vocational and technical training to students in the region. In 2005 the school was rechartered as Indiana's community college system. Currently the system operates 30 schools in 14 regions throughout the state. The school's name is derived from the initials from its first incarnation, I.V., which has remained even as the scope and mission of the school has expanded. Ivy Tech is the state's largest educational system and serves over 200,000 students annually. The system offers over 200 programs though individual programs may not be available at all campuses. The system is responsible for providing post secondary education and services to residents of the state and to ensure that the schools meet the needs of modern and future students.

Academics
As a two year public institution, Ivy Tech Community College, offers a variety of degree and certificate programs  that result in transfer to a four year institution or prepare individuals for a immediate entry into the workforce after graduation. Academic transfer programs allow students to complete the first two years of a four year education at one of the Ivy Tech campuses, followed by applying for transfer to a four year institution to complete the final two years and earn a bachelor's degree. Transfer to schools in Indiana is made easier through agreements in place that facilitate student admissions through set requirements. Individuals seeking education at private or out of state institutions will need to meet the requirements of their desired school and it is suggested they meet with a counselor to best form a curriculum that meets those needs.

Career training programs allow students to pursue an education in a high demand field with the intention of entering a long term career in that field upon completion. Programs provide skill development and training in both classroom and practical environments that are taught or supervised by qualified professionals. Programs take between one and two years to complete and result in a degree or certificate upon completion. Individuals will have received an education that allows for entry level employment and the school maintain ties with local business to remain relevant and assist in workforce development.

Programs offered include:

• Accounting
• Business Administration
• Liberal Arts
• Physical Therapist Assistant
• Paralegal Studies

Admissions and Financial Aid
Students wishing to enroll at Ivy Tech Community College must complete and submit an application to enroll, and  are asked to provide transcripts and test scores if available. Students are also  encouraged to take part in the orientation and to meet with an academic advisor to plan one's programs of study prior to registration. Students may also be asked take a COMPASS placement exam to determine which general education  courses and programs he or she is qualified to take.

Financial aid is available in the form of loans, grants, work study programs and scholarships. Students in need of financial aid must complete and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) prior to the school's deadlines in order to determine eligibility and awards. Additional Financial Aid resources are available online and through the financial aid office. Scholarships may require additional applications to be sent to the body awarding the scholarship and may be awarded for reasons other than need.

Athletics
All campuses participate in intramural sports through programs offered through partnership with the Young Men's Christian Association (YMCA). Students may obtain a YMCA membership at a reduced cost, and compete against other campuses through event organized by the  YMCA. Fees may be paid for by financial aid resources. More information about the intramural sports program is available online.