Bir Inc Training Center

Mission Statement

Our mission is to provide postsecondary education that responds to a wide range of students' needs including vocational preparation for career changers, first career seekers, and industry professionals; language learning and testing; as well as college credit articulation. A BIR education equips students with the skills needed to surmount the current and future challenges of a computer-driven and computer-enhanced workplace. We are committed to enabling our students to think independently, perform effectively, and compete successfully, thus making our school an invaluable resource for colleges, organizations, and companies in the public and private sectors.
Philosophy

BIR believes that education emphasizing new technologies, educational competency, and a combination of theoretical and hands-on instruction is essential for success. If a student's goal is an academic transition, gainful employment, obtainment of professional certification, or the fostering of your cultural and intellectual interests, BIR Training Center wants to serve as your avenue for achievement. We are committed to providing an education that builds confidence in the student's ability to succeed in pursuing academic and professional goals.
History and Affiliation

BIR Training Center is a proprietary institution of higher education founded in 1993. That autumn the first 12 students began classes at BIR. In the 2007-08 school year the annual enrollment was almost 2,200 students, representing five continents and more than 25 countries. Since its inception, BIR has been expanding its educational programs in various academic and occupational fields. The school has established a credit transfer policy with several Chicagoland colleges and universities. We participate in the U.S. Department of Education's student aid programs. The school is an ap- proved training provider for the Workforce Investment Boards of Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin. The Department of Homeland Security authorizes BIR to accept and enroll international students. We are an activemember of NAFSA (Association of International Educators). BIR is an authorized TOEFL(R)iBT testing center for the Educational Testing Service at the Devon and Loop locations. Some academic programs have affiliations with national professional certification organizations. These affiliations are mentioned in the Academic Curriculum section of the catalog under specific Departments.
Accreditation

The school holds regional accreditation by the North Central Association (NCA). For more information on the school's accreditation and post-secondary non-degree designation, you may contact North Central Association, Commission on Accreditation and School Improvement (800) 525-9517 or www.ncacasi.org. The Illinois Board of Higher Education Division of Private Business and Vocational School (IBHE PBVS) has been granting BIR a continuing Certificate of Approval since 1995. For more information on IBHE PBVS approval, you may contact the Division of Accountability at (866) 262-6663 or NCA CASI accreditation and IBHE PBVS approval signify that the school has the resources, personnel, and leadership necessary to deliver effective education.
Campus and Facilities

BIR Training Center has three locations in the Chicago metropolitan area. The main campus is situated on the far north side in an area that combines urban diversity with proximity to the suburbs. The Loop location is situated in the heart of the Midwest's largest metropolis and just steps away from world-renowned commercial and cultural institutions. It is well suited for the Department of Healthcare Professions' students with classroom settings that include a clinical lab, a hospital room, and doctor's examination room. Our Belmont location is in a residential-commercial neighborhood on Chicago's northwest side. Each location offers a range of student services and features well-equipped classrooms with broadband Internet access. Our Devon and Loop locations are equipped with CNC tools and simulators. Each location is accessible by public transportation, is located near main highways, and has parking.