MMDC elevates its working student IT program by fusing IT and business education

Conventional educational approaches are inherently limited. Prolonged lectures and heavy reading assignments frequently cause students to get disengaged, which limits the effectiveness of the program’s ability to effectively prepare them for the careers they want. For working students who want to complete their college degree but can’t follow traditional models, this is especially difficult. As we attended the event, we learned so much from them about how useful these courses are for students, especially in our modern world, where we use so much of our technology. They also instilled in us the importance of safe use of technology. Additionally, a lot are still conducting online classes for various reasons and it is still relevant today even though we are slowly returning to normal; hence, IT education is such a significant learning for students.

In subjects as dynamic as information technology (IT), the shortcomings of conventional educational institutions are painfully obvious. Rapid technological advancement means that acquired skills and information can quickly become outdated. Furthermore, given the continuous integration of businesses and technology, the growing prominence of AI and machine learning in the workforce highlights the need for IT learners to stay competitive over the long term.

Empowering College Education

In pursuit of evolving education, Mapúa Malayan Digital College (MMDC), the premier digital-first college in the Philippines with a core focus on the application of technology in business under Mapúa Malayan Colleges Laguna, has leveled up its IT degree program to provide progressive training in line with the demands of today’s professional landscape. Launched in an event held in Rockwell, Makati, MMDC’s new IT program now features two tracks, each with their own range of specializations.

Learners under the Development-focused IT program can choose between earning degrees in either Software Development or Network & Cybersecurity. On the other hand, the Business-focused IT Program offers three specializations focused on the strategic application of technology in businesses across various sectors – Marketing Technology, Entrepreneurship Technology, and Data Analytics.

“In this digital age, businesses are harnessing technology to make better decisions and market products and services at a faster pace and in more personalized ways,” said Engr. Dennis Tablate, Executive Director at Mapúa Malayan Digital College. “Our leveled-up IT program equips students with the technical and soft skills to leverage today’s entrepreneurship, marketing, and data analytics tools,  opening them up to more avenues where they can establish and build thriving careers locally and globally.”  

Digital Education, Real-World Experience

To help prepare students for the real world, MMDC’s unique Projects, Problems, and Cases (PPC) learning model emphasizes hands-on experiences, problem-solving, and analysis of local and global cases – mirroring the dynamics of modern workplaces. Instead of relying solely on traditional testing methods, this approach prioritizes outputs, aligning with the evolving demands of today’s industries. Designed to cater to all types of learners, including working professionals, this educational model unlocks future career opportunities by fostering creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. Learners can expect a challenging yet collaborative curriculum that equips students with the skills essential in navigating complex situations confidently.

In a discussion among Ms. Bianca Gonzalez, MMDC Instructional System Design Director Noel Torregoza, and Working Student Nico Lim during the launch event, attendees discovered multiple perspectives on how the PPC model develops both the technical and soft skills needed by professionals today.

“Educational experiences that are active, social, and engaging lead to deeper learning. On top of developing knowledge and technical abilities, our PPC learning model was designed to foster higher-level thinking, communication, self-management, and leadership skills which are all highly desirable traits to have in the workplace,” said Torregoza.  

Stepping Up Together

In celebration of working students across the country, MMDC relaunched Step Up sa Pangarap – a movement that empowers and encourages working students to accomplish their professional and personal goals. Now in its second year, Step Up sa Pangarap aims to showcase the continuously growing community in support of working students across the country.

The movement continues to grow thanks to the efforts of partners across various industries who share the goal of helping working students finish college and get a degree. Through one of MMDC’s partners, Concentrix, new MMDC students can benefit from an exclusive Work and Study Program, offering part-time jobs alongside part-time study opportunities. With salary deduction options aimed at helping learners sustain their education until graduation, the program is designed to provide working students with the support they need to balance education and employment demands.

To help more working students effectively navigate both their professional and student life, MMDC is looking forward to collaborating with more companies in the country for its Work and Study Program.

MMDC and GCash have teamed to offer Study Now, Pay Later options through GGives, an installment payment program, with the aim of making quality education more accessible to working students. Students now have up to 24 months of flexible payment choices. Based on the average number of monthly active users, the connection between MMDC and GCash has also made internship and job possibilities for students in the #1 Finance Super App conceivable.

The goal of MMDC is to improve the college experience by recognizing the needs of modern professionals and students, as well as the obstacles preventing them from reaping the rewards of a top-notch education. This objective is the foundation for all of the organization’s activities and projects. MMDC seeks to assist working students in their attempts to contribute to nation-building initiatives targeted at developing a stronger economy and establishing a better nation by consistently innovating, modernizing learning methods, and improving access to learning and development opportunities.

Visit https://www.mmdc.mcl.edu.ph/ for further information.