On 22 February MCAST launched over 300 part-time courses. The launch was held at the Institute of Applied Sciences, MCAST Main Campus in the presence of the Minister of Education and Employment Evarist Bartolo, Stephen Cachia, principal and CEO, Victor Satariano, vice-president of the MCAST Board of Governors and Ing. Louis Aquilina, director Partnership Office.

The courses on offer range from the very basic such as hobby courses up to fully accredited courses to degree level. Adults and young learners over the age of 16 may apply for these courses to acquire new skills and qualifications and advance in their careers. The part-time courses are particularly aimed at adults whose work or family commitments make it difficult for them to follow full-time education, but who would still like to acquire skills and qualifications to secure new jobs, seek career advancement or simply to learn more about subjects that interest them. Young students aged 16 and over also take up these courses to support their full-time education with additional knowledge, skills and experiences. 

This term the College is providing six new courses namely the Bachelor of Science Honours) in Banking Practice & Management training, which is being offered jointly with the ifs University College of the UK, Filmmaking Advanced, 3Ds Max Essentials, Pastel Techniques, Electrical Technology - Unit 6 and Creative Writing.

The College strives to provide vocational education and training that addresses current and future industry needs, be it in the engineering field, business management and commerce, arts, community services, information technology or applied sciences. Each and every training programme is designed on the feedback received from students, academics and members of the industry. This is done by keeping continuous communication with the local industry, reviewing and updating the training courses accordingly to provide quality education to both full- and part-time students.

Bespoke courses for industry are also created according to current trends and needs. Accredited courses at various MQF (Malta Qualifications Framework) levels are very popular since they all ultimately help to improve and influence employment possibilities.  All tutors are qualified experts in their unique field and resources are there to complement the courses.

The most popular courses are those related to Interior Home Design, Principles of Horticulture and Landscaping, Gardening, Cultivation of Citrus and Olive Trees, Children's Learning Activities and Play, Salon Management, Hair, Make-Up and Beauty Courses, Tailoring, Art and various courses in Engineering especially the welding-related courses and electrical. 

Last September MCAST offered part-time Bachelor's degree programmes for the first time. These have proved to be extremely popular proving the fact that people are keen to improve on their qualifications even though they are in employment.

The details of each course are available on the website shortcourses.mcast.edu.mt, where one can also book a course by applying online. Course details and printed applications are also available at MCAST. The Part-Time Courses booklet has been posted to all homes and businesses in Malta and Gozo. This booklet may also be obtained from any local council office, from the MCAST Main Campus in Paola or from the MCAST Gozo Campus in Ghajnsielem.  

Lessons are held in the evening or on Saturday mornings, a convenient option for individuals who cannot engage in full-time educational programmes due to employment, business, family or other commitments. Applicants also benefit from several additional resources, including detailed class notes and free use of the MCAST libraries.

Prospective students may also fill in the printed application form and send it to the Office of Part-Time Courses, MCAST Main Campus, Corradino Hill, Paola PLA 9032. Alternatively, they may submit the application form at the MCAST Main Campus, until 11 March on weekdays from 8.30am to 7pm.

MCAST's part-time training programmes are managed by the College's commercial arm MCAST Gateway to Industry Ltd.

For further details about these courses contact MCAST on 2398 7116; email: [email protected]