Since starting career preparation programs in 1981, Focus: HOPE has helped nearly 12,000 talented men and women establish successful careers and they, in turn, have generated more than $1.2 billion in economic activity in this area. The curriculum for our programs has been developed in partnership with area employers to ensure our students develop skills that employers require.
Our two new Career Express programs offer job training in 12 to 15 weeks, after which students become eligible for job placement. The Earn and Learn program targets at-risk young adults for four-weeks of job readiness training and then placement in part-time jobs. Graduates of all our programs are eligible for lifetime job placement assistance.
Focus: HOPE offers a nurturing environment in which it provides a range of support services to help students succeed in their education. Services range from assistance with bus passes to referrals for emergency food, clothing and shelter. Students also have access to an on-site child care center, job placement assistance, and workshops on topics such as financial literacy.
Education options
Certificate programs
Information Technologies Center (ITC). Focus: HOPE’s highly-regarded Information Technologies Center provides training for industry certifications. Students can enroll in either a 15-week or 31-week course to begin developing credentials to launch successful careers in the IT industries. Depending on the program, students can earn certifications in Microsoft Office Specialist, Certified Business Professional Customer Service Support and Comp TIA A+. When resources become available, we will reinstate advanced courses. Click here to download flyer.
Machinist Training Institute (MTI). Our new 12-week machinist training program provides hands-on training to become a machine operator. It also provides an introduction to computerized applications such as CNC operations. Click here to download flyer.
Fast Track. This skill enhancement program helps students upgrade math and reading skills through concentrated study. Small classes, tutoring and personal attention help students improve test scores by as much as two grades in 10 weeks.
Earn and Learn. This new program provides access to jobs for at-risk minority youth and adults who have been incarcerated or are chronically unemployed. It targets residents of Detroit, Highland Park and Hamtramck. Students take four weeks of job readiness training before being placed in part-time jobs. While working, the participants also enroll in advanced education and training. Click here to download flyer.
GED Prep. The Education Experience GED Tutoring program assists adults ages 18 and older earn their GED through tutoring and personal assistance.
COLLEGE DEGREE PROGRAMS
Center for Advanced Technologies (CAT). Students can earn a college degree in engineering through this unique collaboration with university and industry partners. Students get hands-on work experience through internships and in our manufacturing area where we conduct research and development for the U.S. government.
Information Management and Systems Engineering (IMSE). Our dynamic new college degree program combines information technology and business courses to produce well-rounded IT professionals.