WNC News & Notes: Spring enrollment in full swing

Nevada Appeal Staff Report

Online registration for spring classes at Western Nevada College is drawing plenty of interest as area residents seek skills to enhance employability. More than 3,700 students have already enrolled for classes that begin on Monday, Jan. 24. Students can sign up and view a full list of classes at www.wnc.edu.

Spring classes range from the core academics such as history, math, science and English to technical training in computer technology, engineering, automotive mechanics, construction, machine tool technology and welding.

Students can express their creative side with art courses in drawing, ceramics, printmaking, photography and watercolor, or musical theater. A number of these creative courses are also applicable to a two-year or four-year degree.

Short computer application classes are available for anyone looking to polish up skills. Most are offered for .5 credit and meet only once or twice. They include MS Windows, word processing, spreadsheets, PowerPoint, MS Access, and various levels of QuickBooks.

New students must submit an application for admission at least three days prior to registering. It's also helpful to schedule an appointment with a counselor for help selecting classes or to take placement tests. Contact Counseling Services at 445-3267.

Classes study alternative energy

Computer Technology Professor Emily Howarth brings a lively presentation to a current topic with Introduction to Alternative Energy. The three-unit class introduces alternative and sustainable energy sources and systems. Renewable approaches such as solar and wind will be covered. Class meets Wednesdays, 9-11:45 a.m.

Those with an interest in solar energy may choose shorter, non-credit courses. Introduction to Solar Energy, Introduction to Solar PV Design, Advanced Solar PV Design and Installation and Commissioning and Inspecting Solar Design are offered through the WNC Continuing Education office.

Budding playwrights can hone skills

Having a great idea for a play or a script is one thing, but without structure or a framework for writing, it's like building a house without plans. WNC is offering a three-unit class this spring to teach students how to construct a play with structure and vision. Play Structure & Analysis meets Mondays and Wednesdays, 11 a.m. -12:15 p.m. It will be taught by Dr. Ursula Carlson.

Delve into history of the American West

A new course being offered at WNC this spring will explore the writings of those who made the American West home over the past 200 years. "Literature of the American West" will meet Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. -12:15 p.m. The three-unit course will consider exploration/exploitation of landscape, natural resources and environments, gender roles, and violence. Reading selections will be split between works authored by the native inhabitants of the region, and those authored by European immigrants. Special attention will be paid to works written or taking place in Nevada.

Free English and citizenship classes

Free classes will be available this spring through WNC's Adult Literacy and Language office. Classes include English Language and Rights and Responsibilities of Citizenship. Registration for both classes is Tuesday-Thursday, Jan. 18-20, and Monday, Jan. 24. Classes begin Tuesday, Jan. 25.

For those interested in learning English, a required three-hour orientation is offered at 9 a.m. or 6 p.m. on the registration dates. Classes are 2.5 hours per day, three days a week. Morning and evening classes are available.

Students taking the citizenship classes must have an intermediate or advanced grasp of English to attend. Subjects to be covered include United States history, laws and regulations, becoming a citizen, and contributing as an active part of the community. Register at WNC Carson City, 2201 W. College Parkway, Bristlecone Building, Rm. 340. Information: 445-4451.