Students to get a taste of Java

University students could get a taste of Java in the classroom this fall.

Java creator Sun Microsystems today introduced a training program, dubbed the Authorized Academic Java Campus, that will premiere at the University of Hong Kong. By the end of the year, the program will be offered in U.S. schools, according to Sun.

The course load is designed to prepare students to become Sun-certified Java programmers. To participate, universities are required to use Sun's course software, license key Java technologies into their curriculum, and establish a Sun-branded certified training center.

By tapping into education, the company believes it can help meet growing demand for Java programmers, and if not spur demand from the supply side. "It's a strategy of Sun to encourage Java technologies," spokeswoman Andrea Fleming said.

The educational arena is conventionally seen as a fertile market for companies looking to plant technologies.

Just last week, Microsoft announced that it would be pushing software packages aimed at colleges. Under a new licensing program called the Microsoft Campus Agreement, discounted software packages will be available to faculty, staff, and students beginning October 1.

Under Sun's program universities will collaborate with local businesses where Java is being implemented for students to get real-world experience with developers.