Unlocking Futures: A Glimpse into UEI College in Oceanside, California
Unlocking Futures: A Glimpse into UEI College in Oceanside, California
In North San Diego County, nestled along the sunny Pacific Coast of California, Oceanside serves as a hub for education, recreation, and opportunity. Known for its wide sandy beaches, vibrant culture, and historical landmarks such as its pier, Oceanside is a dazzling place to learn, work, and live. Among the institutions shaping the future of its residents is UEI College, a beacon of hope and transformation for individuals seeking to unlock their potential and pursue their dreams. Located in the heart of Oceanside, UEI College provides a supportive and inclusive learning environment where students are encouraged to pursue their passions and achieve their goals. With a team of experienced instructors and staff members who are committed to student success, UEI College has become a trusted institution in Oceanside for those seeking to further their education and embark on a new career path.
Key Facts and Accreditation
The Oceanside campus opened its doors in 2020, replacing the previous UEI College location in San Marcos. The campus serves around 650 students every year with programs that include Automotive Technician, Criminal Justice, Dental Assistant, Electrician Technician, Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC), Medical Assistant, Medical Office Specialist, and Pharmacy Technician. UEI College Oceanside is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET). UEI College Oceanside is led by Campus President Jaclyn Marquez, who has served in that role since 2022.
“At UEI College in Oceanside, one size does not fit all. Recognizing that each student comes with unique strengths, challenges, and aspirations, students receive the individualized attention and support that they need to thrive, graduate, and find employment after they complete their programs,” Jaclyn said.
“The college is located near several local high schools and the average age of our students in Oceanside is largely between 18 and 24 years old,” Jaclyn said. “But we serve students of all ages and experience levels. It is not uncommon for older students with many years in the workforce to come to UEI because they seek something more rewarding for the later chapters of their careers.” For example, Mario is a graduate of the HVAC program who lost his job during the pandemic and came to UEI College at the age of 40. Kiana is a UEI graduate who enrolled in the Medical Assistant program at age 34 after the birth of her second child. Today, she works full-time as a medical assistant at an urgent care family practice in Oceanside.
Jaclyn Marquez, Campus President
“We serve students of all ages and experience levels. It is not uncommon for older students with many years in the workforce to come to UEI because they seek something more rewarding for the later chapters of their careers.”
Hands-On Learning Experience
“At UEI, our programs engage students with a hands-on learning approach to prepare them for what they will experience in the real world. We accomplish this through innovative classrooms and campus labs that include fully functional equipment, allowing students the practical experience they need to be successful in the workforce,” Jaclyn said.
From simulated clinical environments for healthcare students to modern labs for skilled trades programs, UEI College provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in a practical setting.
“Our labs are more than just classrooms; they’re immersive environments designed to ignite curiosity and foster creativity,” Jaclyn said.
Equipped with cutting-edge tools and technology, each skilled trade lab is a playground for aspiring electricians, HVAC technicians, and automotive mechanics, to hone their skills under the guidance of experienced instructors.
In the Electrical Technician lab, sparks of inspiration fly as students learn the intricacies of circuitry, wiring, and green energy solutions. From installing lighting systems to troubleshooting electrical faults, every lesson is a hands-on opportunity to illuminate the path to success.
Venture into the HVAC lab, where the science of climate control comes to life. From ductwork design to system installation, students delve into the principles of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, mastering the art of creating optimal indoor environments for comfort and efficiency.
In the healthcare labs, the air is charged with excitement as students immerse themselves in the dynamic realm of medical practice. Equipped with the latest technology and simulation equipment, each lab is a microcosm of the real-world healthcare environment, providing students with a hands-on experience that transcends textbooks.
In the Medical Assistant lab, students become the backbone of the healthcare team, mastering essential clinical and administrative duties. From taking vital signs to scheduling appointments, students learn the multitasking skills needed to keep medical practices running smoothly, all while providing compassionate care to patients in need.
Step into the Pharmacy Technician lab, where precision meets compassion in the art of medication management. Here, students learn the ins and outs of pharmaceuticals, from dispensing prescriptions to compounding medications, ensuring that patients receive the right treatment at the right time.
In the Dental Assistant lab, students learn the importance of oral health and its impact on overall well-being. From chairside assistance to radiography techniques, students gain practical experience in supporting dentists and hygienists, helping patients achieve smiles that light up the room.
In addition to hands-on training, UEI College also offers externship opportunities for allied health students to gain real-world experience in their field of study. These externships allow students to work alongside industry professionals and apply what they have learned in a professional setting. This real-world experience not only enhances students’ skills but also helps them build valuable connections in their chosen industry.
Automotive Technician Lab
Medical Assistant Lab
Supportive Learning Environment
At UEI College, students are more than just a number – they are part of a close-knit community where everyone is invested in each other’s success. From the moment students step foot on campus, they are greeted with a warm and welcoming atmosphere that fosters growth and learning.
UEI College offers a variety of support services to help students succeed both inside and outside the classroom. From academic advising and tutoring to career counseling and job placement assistance, UEI College is committed to providing students with the support they need to achieve their goals.
What Employers Say About UEI College Oceanside
“Since 1998, Moncado Chiropractic has provided affordable, high quality chiropractic care throughout Escondido and San Diego County. None of this would be possible without the partnership we have with UEI and the graduates that their colleges produce every year. In fact, over the past 5 years, Moncado Chiropractic has employed or worked with 65 qualified UEI graduates. Without this resource, we would not be able to function.” Dr. Peter Moncado, Founder, Moncado Chiropractic
What Oceanside Students & Graduates Say About UEI College
“I had no hope and direction in life. Then I found UEI College and I knew it was my calling. I never thought at my age I would get an opportunity like this, so that’s why I took school so seriously. It was such a blessing to be at UEI. The people here really care about you and helping you with a career, but also with life in general. I want to be the best I can be. I love UEI.” Laura McBride 2022 Dental Assistant Graduate
“I longed to go to college to increase my potential. I felt at home at UEI from the very beginning. Everyone here is rooting for your success and the instructors are really great.” Laura Burgos, 2022 Dental Assistant Graduate
“Since I graduated, I go back to UEI College to speak with students. I love UEI and the people are fantastic. They helped me so much that I was inspired to go back and visit. I realized my career dreams at UEI.” Cierra Carr, 2021 Medical Assistant Graduate
“I felt like I was in the perfect class, and I felt like at UEI, I had the perfect people around me to help. They are all dedicated to helping students like me succeed.” Kiana Boyd, 2021 Medical Assistant Graduate
“UEI is amazing and I am so grateful. For me, living a life that’s more fulfilling has become a reality. I loved the hands-on aspect of the program. It prepared me well for my career, which I am enjoying a lot.” Azura McGlothlin, 2022 Automotive Technician Graduate
Cerbando Ramirez, HVAC Technician Graduate
Proud Tradition of Service
San Diego County is home to a significant military presence, and Oceanside is a melting pot of diverse backgrounds and experiences. UEI College proudly carries forward this tradition of service, recognizing and honoring the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families. From active-duty service members to veterans and military spouses, UEI College provides a welcoming environment where their contributions are valued and respected.
“The influence of the military and veteran community is woven into the fabric of UEI College in Oceanside, shaping our culture of excellence, service, and empowerment. One of the key strengths that military-affiliated students bring to UIE is their transferable skills and leadership experience,” Jaclyn said. “We recognize the value of these skills and work closely with Veteran students to translate their military experience into successful civilian careers.”
The influence of the military and veteran community at UEI College is not just seen but celebrated through the success stories of its graduates. Recent UEI graduate Cerbando Ramirez is a good example of that. After serving 14 years in the Navy, he completed the HVAC program at the Oceanside campus and was named the valedictorian of his graduating class.
“I wanted to utilize the GI Bill and learn more about air conditioning and refrigeration systems that I could use as a civilian” Cerbando said. “I worked with a bunch of commercial and industrial-sized equipment on ships, and I felt like going to school would help me learn more about the residential or smaller units versus the big systems on ships.”
Making a Difference in the Community
Beyond its campus walls, UEI College is making a difference in the Oceanside community and beyond. Through partnerships with local businesses and organizations, UEI College is helping to address workforce needs and create opportunities for residents to build successful careers.
UEI College in Oceanside has a long history of service-learning programs where students are engaged in various community service programs including blood drives; clothing and food drives for Brother Benno’s Center; participation in the Oceanside Chamber of Commerce’s Rising Star program, which aims to champion students that have overcome significant challenges in their lives while managing to keep on track with their education.
UEI College also takes pride in giving back to the community through various outreach initiatives and volunteer efforts. From organizing free car care events and blood donation drives, to participating in community health screening events, UEI College in Oceanside is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
Every fall, Students and staff in Oceanside hold a backpack and school supply drive for low-income families with children in partnership with Hope Through Housing, a nonprofit dedicated to ending the cycle of poverty and homelessness.
Oceanside students and staff participate quarterly in the “Be The Match” program, which seeks to find potential bone marrow donors. In 2022, an automotive student matched through the program and gave a life-saving bone marrow donation. To date, over 1,000 have participated in the program through UEI College.
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Looking Towards the Future
As UEI College in Oceanside continues to grow and evolve, it remains committed to its mission of empowering individuals through education. With its diverse range of programs, hands-on learning experience, and supportive community, UEI College is shaping the future of its students and making a lasting impact on the Oceanside community.
“The true measure of UEI College’s student-centric culture in Oceanside lies in the success stories of our graduates,” Jaclyn said. “From landing their dream jobs to advancing their careers, UEI alumni are making their mark in industries ranging from healthcare and business to technology and skilled trades. These success stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of a student-centered education.”
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate looking to start your career or a working professional seeking to advance your skills, UEI College in Oceanside offers the resources and support you need to succeed. With its dedication to student success and commitment to excellence, UEI College is truly a beacon of hope and opportunity for individuals looking to unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.
“The true measure of UEI College’s student-centric culture in Oceanside lies in the success stories of our graduates,” Jaclyn said. “From landing their dream jobs to advancing their careers, UEI alumni are making their mark in industries ranging from healthcare and business to technology and skilled trades. These success stories serve as a testament to the transformative power of a student-centered education.”
