University of Mount Saint Vincent Launches College of Tech and Trade

The University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) announced the Fall opening of the College of Tech and Trade, one of the nation’s first models to integrate career and technical education with a traditional college experience. The College of Tech and Trade will be home to associate degrees in film production, applied business with credit for training in trades, and allied health fields. UMSV also kicked off a nationwide search for the Dean of the College of Tech and Trade.

The Hollywood on Hudson Film Production Program, an Associate of Arts with a specialization in film production, is offered in partnership with Great Point Studios, owner and operator of Lionsgate Studios Yonkers and one of the largest owner-operators of film stages worldwide. The Associate of Applied Business with credit offered for electrical training and other trades is offered in partnership with Apex Technical School, a member of Fedcap, an international network of nonprofit affiliates. An Associate of Arts with specialization in an allied health field (projected to be programs such as radiography technology, sonography, and medical billing) will also be offered, with a partner or partners to be announced in the coming months.

The Hollywood on Hudson Film Production Program offers coursework in film and media production, communication, digital editing, practical training, job placement assistance, and opportunities that can lead to representation in the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts (IATSE). UMSV will also work with Great Point Studios and IATSE to develop curriculum and dual credit course opportunities for the Robert Halmi Sr. Academy of Film and Television, a public school in Yonkers, allowing its students to earn college credits while in high school.

The Associate of Applied Business will initially offer electrical training through Apex Technical School on the campus of the University of Mount Saint Vincent, with opportunities to expand into additional skilled trades over time. Students who successfully complete any Apex program, at UMSV or another Apex location, will receive automatic admission to UMSV. UMSV students will also have the opportunity to enroll in Apex’s industry-recognized skilled trades programs while pursuing their degrees.

"The College of Tech and Trade at UMSV represents a bold new chapter for higher education—one that responds to the signs of the times while remaining grounded in the enduring values of a liberal arts education," said Susan R. Burns, PhD, President of the University of Mount Saint Vincent. "For too long, students have been asked to choose between earning a college degree and developing technical skills. We believe they deserve both. By bringing together trusted leaders like Apex Technical School, Great Point Studios, and partners in allied health training, we're creating innovative pathways that unite intellectual curiosity with hands-on experience, preparing graduates to lead meaningful lives, strengthen their communities, and thrive in an evolving workforce."

"We're proud to partner with the University of Mount Saint Vincent to create new opportunities for students interested in careers in film and television," said Robert Halmi, Chairman and CEO of Great Point Studios. "New York's film and television industry depends on a strong pipeline of talented professionals. The Hollywood on Hudson Film Production Program will prepare students for rewarding careers while helping meet the workforce needs of our constantly changing industry."

"Apex Technical School has trained more than 60,000 students over the past six decades for careers in the skilled trades, with graduates entering fields including electrical work, plumbing, HVAC, welding, construction, automotive technology, and other high-demand occupations," said Steve Markowitz, President of Apex Technical School. "This co-location partnership with the University of Mount Saint Vincent is about creating a learning environment where every student has more options, not fewer. They can earn a trade, pursue a degree, or do both. Some students arrive at Apex believing college isn’t for them. By learning on a university campus, they’ll discover that a college education is within reach while gaining the technical skills employers need today."

Founded in 1847 by the Sisters of Charity, the University of Mount Saint Vincent offers a nationally recognized liberal arts education and a select array of professional fields of study on a landmark campus overlooking the Hudson River. Committed to the education of the whole person, and enriched by the unparalleled cultural, educational, and career opportunities of New York City, the University equips students with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary for lives of achievement, professional accomplishment, and leadership in the 21st century. For more information, visit www.umsv.edu.