Educational & Vocational Training for "differently abled," students with a broad range of "ability" levels. VAST is part of the "Human Development and Occupational Life Skills Division."

The goal of the V.A.S.T. Department is to provide educational opportunities and support services  to "differntly abled" individuals with disabilities.  Students with "Ability" levels ranging from 2nd-8th gr. level and above benefit from our comprehensive student support services and diverse course offering. 

Through a broad selection of courses and workforce certificates, students have a chance to enhance their basic academic, job readiness, computer, independent living skills, assist with successful transition into college "credit" courses and learn to live more independently in the community.  Participation in student activities and events on campus further develop and enhance social and leadership skills as well as, promote service learning.

The Office Skills Program offers 8 Continuing Education courses, two certificates and a 200 hr internship preparing students for entry level positions in  the Office Occupations field as: Office Assistants, filing clerks, receptionists, data entry, mailcenter clerks, administrative and clerical assistants.  

Continuing Education certificates are offered in "Microsoft Office Technology" and "General Office Assistant" which also serve as a "bridge" to our "credit" Business Technology certificates.

By participating in the Eagles Club and Student Government,  students have opportunities to gain leadership skills as well as, further develop their social skills. Eagles Club is one of the most active clubs on campus sponsoring annual events such as:  Ability Day, Valentines Dance and Special Olympics. Many of our students have received Leadership awards at the Student Leader Awards Banquet each year.

Courses are offered in the following areas:

• Pre-College Skills:  (Reading, Mathematics, & Language)
• GUST 0339 Introduction to Reading 
• GUST 0303 Career Development and Study Skills
• Personal & Social Development
• Career Vocational
• Life Skills and Independent Living
• Computer  (Keyboarding, Windows, Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Internet Fundamentals, Creative Graphics, Destop Publishing)
• Enrichment (Digital Photography, Fitness, Theatre, Dance, Creative Arts, Horticulture)

Office Skills Training:

Certificates in Microsoft Office Technology, General Office Assistanct

• Beginning Keyboarding
• Filing and Records Management
• Computer Applications I (MS Office- Word, Excel, PPT)
• Intro to Office Technology
• Business Writing
• Receptionist
• Job Prepartion  
• Internship (200 hrs.)

• At least 17 years of age
• Complete an intake interview with VAST Dept. chair or faculty, and meet wtih ADA counselor in "Ability Services," office. 713-718-6164.
• Take TABE and/or Compass placement Test and provide documentation of disability. Psychological evaluation and Career assessment from DARS.
• Ability to function independently, not needing one-on-one instruction and/or care.
• Students must be able to follow the college "code of student conduct."
• At least 2nd grade reading level
• At least 5th grade reading level for "Pre-College" courses and Office Skills Training Certificates.
• Pre-requisite for Office Skills Program
• Intro to Keyboarding, Word, Excel
• Reading and English Skills 5th gr. and above.

• Reasonable accommodations
• Career counseling and advising
• Registration assistance
• Mentor and Service Learning Programs
• Tutoring during lunch
• Open Lab for extra practice
• Job readiness preparation

Steps to Enroll:

1. Complete admissions online at hccs.edu, receive ID#.

2. Schedule intake interview with VAST Dept. and appt. with ADA counselor.

3. Take TABE Placement Test

4. Meet with VAST Dept. chair or faculty advisor to develop a career and/or degree plan, and select classes.

5. Attend a mandatory orientation.

For more information call 713-718-6832 or 713-718-6833

email: sue.moraska@hccs.edu or frank.colmenero@hccs.edu