Asia Pacific College: A Comprehensive Overview of Programs, Culture, and Opportunities

Asia Pacific College (APC) is a distinguished private institution in Metro Manila, renowned for its robust focus on technology, business, engineering, and multimedia arts. Situated in Makati City, APC distinguishes itself through its industry-driven curriculum, partnerships with major corporations, modern campus facilities, and a strong culture of discipline and professionalism. Established in 1991 as a non-profit venture between IBM Philippines and the SM Foundation, APC has grown from an "I.T." college to a Center of Excellence in IT Education. This article provides an in-depth exploration of APC, encompassing its programs, tuition estimates, campus life, admissions process, facilities, and the unique advantages it offers to students.

A Legacy of Innovation and Industry Collaboration

Asia Pacific College was founded through a collaboration between the SM Foundation and IBM Philippines, two significant entities in the business and technology sectors. The SM Foundation is dedicated to supporting and empowering communities through initiatives in education, healthcare, shelter, disaster response, farmers’ training, environmental programs, and care for individuals with special needs in the Philippines.

Today, APC is recognized as a Center of Excellence in IT Education. The college's industry-guided curriculum and continuous feedback loops ensure that its curriculum and learning materials are consistently updated to meet the evolving requirements of the IT industry. APC envisions itself as a learning institution that equips graduates with the information technology skills demanded by the job market.

Strategic Location and Accessibility

APC is strategically located along Humabon Place in Magallanes, Makati City, making it highly accessible. Its proximity to the Magallanes MRT Station, EDSA, South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), and the Skyway simplifies commuting for students. The area is well-served by buses, jeepneys, and PUVs, ensuring convenient transportation options.

Academic Programs: A Focus on Technology, Business, and Arts

Asia Pacific College is best known for its strong programs in Computing, Information Technology, Engineering, Multimedia Arts, and Business. Popular courses include:

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BS Computer Science
BS Information Technology
BS Cybersecurity
BS Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Multimedia Arts
Various Business Administration degrees

These programs are designed with industry input, ensuring that students gain practical skills that are highly valued by employers. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on projects, including game development, cybersecurity, software engineering, animation, digital design, and film.

Tuition and Financial Aid

As a private institution, tuition fees at APC vary depending on the program and the number of units taken per semester. For IT and Engineering courses, students can expect to pay approximately PHP 60,000 to PHP 80,000 per semester. Business and Arts programs may range from PHP 50,000 to PHP 70,000 per semester. Graduate programs are typically charged per trimester and are generally lower per term.

Asia Pacific College offers several scholarship and financial aid options, including academic scholarships for high-performing students, need-based financial assistance for those with limited resources, and grants supported by corporate partners such as SM and IBM. Scholarships may also be available for athletes, artists, and students with special talents. The SM Foundation believes that when one family member graduates from college, they can support another sibling's education and help lift their family out of poverty, highlighting the significant impact of these scholarships.

Industry-Driven Curriculum and Project-Based Learning

APC's curriculum is industry-led, with continuous feedback loops ensuring it remains current with IT industry requirements. The college works with around 220 industry partners, utilizing feedback to adapt and improve curricula to incorporate the latest technologies, methodologies, tools, and requirements. The APC’s advisory board meets regularly to discuss feedback and update the curriculum and learning materials to keep pace with IT industry trends, leading to the addition of new specializations over the years.

Faculties consist of professionals and industry practitioners who impart real-world experiences into relevant and effective education. The college believes that professional competence is best fostered by coupling teaching and hands-on training.

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Project-based learning is a cornerstone of APC's educational approach, extending beyond the academic realm, classroom, and theory to provide practical learning experiences. For example, students develop products using Scrum, an agile framework. As part of the Bachelor’s degree, students are introduced to Scrum, a Scrum team is formed, and a product is built using iterative development. The Scrum team consists of computer science or information technology students who work together for 1 semester. There are times that these computer science/information technology teams include members from different programs (e.g. business, animation, etc) in the case that the project requires specific skills. A semester is 10 weeks and is divided into 5 sprints. During those sprints the Scrum team works closely with Masters in Information Technology (MIT) students who act as Product Owner / project stakeholders to deliver an MVP. Both undergraduate and MIT students are introduced to the values, principles and practices of Scrum. They write user stories, refine a Product Backlog and use Agile engineering practices.

Internships and Career Opportunities

Another significant aspect of APC's hands-on training is the 6-month, full-time internship program. Senior students in their final year are assigned to work full time in the industry for six consecutive months, immersing themselves in a real working environment, gaining hands-on training, assisting with actual projects, and interacting with clients.

The industry-led curriculum, training by industry professionals, project-based learning, and internships all combine to ensure that companies can recruit graduates from APC who meet their needs. Students gain an opportunity to earn a degree, prepare for working life, and become highly employable. APC graduates are known for their passion, adaptability, and mindset, making them highly sought after in the job market.

APC has a strong reputation for connecting students with internship and employment opportunities. Due to its long-standing partnerships with companies in IT, business, engineering, and creative industries, many students secure internships with top firms and often receive job offers even before graduation.

Campus Life and Student Organizations

Student life at APC is a blend of a disciplined academic culture and vibrant extracurricular activities. The campus hosts numerous student organizations, including IT and programming clubs, multimedia and arts groups, business and entrepreneurship societies, debate teams, and performing arts groups. These organizations provide students with opportunities to develop their skills, network with peers, and engage in activities that complement their academic studies.

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Modern Facilities

APC offers modern facilities that support its technology and design-oriented programs. These include:

High-spec computer laboratories
Multimedia studios
Engineering labs
A well-equipped library or learning resource center
Classrooms with audio-visual equipment
Study lounges
Meeting rooms
An auditorium for events
Spaces for clubs and organizations

These facilities enhance the learning environment and provide students with the resources they need to succeed in their chosen fields.

Admissions Process

APC’s admissions system is streamlined and student-friendly. The admissions process generally starts with an online application through APC’s official portal. Applicants submit basic information and upload or later provide documents such as their Form 138 or senior high school report card, Certificate of Good Moral Character, PSA birth certificate, and ID photos. Some programs may require entrance examinations, interviews, or portfolio submissions.

Accommodation Options

While there is no large on-campus dormitory, students have several accommodation options around Magallanes and nearby areas. Many choose bed spaces or boarding houses in Makati, Pasay, and Taguig for budget-friendly living. Others prefer renting condominium units for added comfort and security.

Faculty and Staff

During a visit to APC, Executive Director Rhea-Luz R. Valbuena, and Director for MIT/MIS/MSCS Graduate School and BS Computer Science Ernesto ‘Boogie’ C. Boydon, highlighted the college's commitment to providing quality education and fostering industry connections. These leaders, along with the dedicated faculty and staff, contribute to APC's reputation as a leading institution in Metro Manila.

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