VENTURA, CA - In Project Management Practicum, the capstone course of UCSB Extension's Professional Certificate Program in Project Management, students apply their learned project management skills to assist a community service organization. This fall, UCSB Extension is pleased to again be collaborating with Habitat for Humanity of Ventura County, a charitable non-profit organization dedicated to building homes in partnership with low-income families in need of decent and affordable housing. The student project this fall quarter will be to assist Habitat to plan and conduct a fundraising golf event at Wood Ranch in Simi Valley.

In prior Practicum classes, students planned and executed projects for the Ventura and Santa Barbara Habitat affiliates. These projects included home improvement workshops to raise awareness of Habitat's ReStore, a 25th anniversary picnic to honor homeowners and volunteers, a ReStore location study, and a Women-at-Work day to frame a Habitat house.

"Through projects such as these, students learn by observing the outcomes of their decisions, while gaining insights into the importance of leadership and interpersonal skills in successful project management," said course developer and instructor, John Cushman, PMP. "In addition, students have the satisfaction of helping Habitat for Humanity in its mission of building affordable housing."

Prerequisites for enrollment in Project Management Practicum include UCSB Extension’s course Introduction to Project Management, and at least three additional courses in UCSB Extension's six-course Project Management Certificate Program, or consent of the instructor.

UCSB Extension is the continuing education division of the University of California, Santa Barbara and offers certificate programs, courses, and seminars for personal and professional development. Courses are offered year-round, with evening and weekend classes designed to fit into most schedules.

The fall 2009 Practicum will meet five Saturdays at the UCSB Ventura Center, beginning October 31. For information about the course contact:

Euzetta Williams – 893- 3591
euzetta.williams@els.ucsb.edu

To learn more about Habitat for Humanity, visit sbhabitat.org and www.habitatventura.org.