The MCAST Institute of Business and Commerce

Malta College of Arts, Science and Technology (MCAST) Institute of Business and Commerce director Yvonne Pulis took over the Paolino Vassallo Upper Lyceum in 1995. This Upper Lyceum was amalgamated into MCAST in 2001.

Speaking to The Sunday Times, Ms Pulis said: "At the start of our third year as one of the institutes forming part of MCAST we are determined to continue offering an ever-increasing variety of quality vocational courses to as many students as possible and catering for an extensive range of abilities. A holistic education, the encouragement of life-long education and critical thinking as well as the striving for excellence are high on our list of priorities."

Over the past year, there have been improvements in the facilities offered. Many rooms are now air-conditioned and the premises will soon be fully accessible to disabled people.

Courses offered by the MCAST Institute of Business and Commerce:

English for Business and ECDL are offered in all vocational courses while Foundation courses include modules in English, Mathematics and Computer Applications.

The MCAST Foundation Certificate in Business is a one-year course for which students need only a school-leaving certificate. This leads to the MCAST Intermediate Certificate in Business, a one-year course. Students with two O-level passes can start their MCAST education at this level. Upon completion of the course, students can opt for the MCAST/BTEC National Certificate in Business, a two year course.

The MCAST Certificate in Retailing is a one-year course introduced last year. It teaches students the practical and theoretical aspects of selling to customers. Applicants must have a school leaving certificate.

The MCAST Certificate in Administrative and Secretarial Studies is a two-year course which trains students in key areas of office administration, office equipment, routine procedures and standards, as well as the work environment.

The MCAST Certificate in Marketing Studies gives students a clear idea of customer service, public relations, advertising, selling and sales management. Students following the Secretarial and Marketing courses can sit for LCCIEB examinations in the various units they study.

The Certificate in Insurance Studies is a two-year course giving students necessary skills for an insurance career. Students sit for examinations with the Chartered Insurance Institute, UK.

The Accounting Technician Certificate [AAT, UK] gears students to provide specialist support for employment in accounting and finance. This is a course that lasts three years, the last being part-time.

The Certificate in Banking and Financial Services is a two-year course, including a work placement. Upon completion of this course, students who have obtained an Intermediate level pass in Pure Mathematics can join the University of Malta for a B.Comm. degree.

The BTEC/EDEXCEL Higher National Diploma in Business and Management is a two-year course providing students with a range of skills and knowledge leading to careers in business, especially in small and medium-sized enterprises. Where possible, the Institute strives to include a work placement as part of the courses.

The Matriculation Certificate Course is a two-year course preparing students to sit for the Matriculation Certificate examination of the University of Malta. A wide range of subjects is offered. The Institute also offers a range of evening courses and organises courses on demand for industry.

For further information, phone 2182-7270, e-mail ibac@mcast.edu.mt. Those interested can attend the information talks at the MCAST Main Campus, Corradino Hill, Paola on July 25 at 9.30 a.m.