Learning Center

This course will examine and explore pragmatic approaches to the opportunities and considerations for PCO units in developing and implementing programming focused specifically on meeting the diversity, equity and inclusion goals of their institutions and communities. We will take a comparative and national perspective on underserved populations and ways their higher education needs can be addressed.

Understanding the Adult Learner and Other PCO Constituencies in Professional, Continuing, and Online Education

Who are the constituents and stakeholders that compose the ecosystem of Professional, Continuing, and Online Education? What are the unique characteristics and educational needs of adult learners? How do the characteristics of the student market determine how programs are designed and delivered? This course examines prospective student markets and how to address their educational needs. This course also examines the roles of employers, communities, and government agencies in creating educational opportunities.

Creating and Motivating PCO Enterprises

How are professional, continuing, online enterprises staffed, faculty recruited, and units organized? What are the various organizational models? How are teams assembled to design and launch new programs? This course will focus on mobilizing people to work together towards common objectives.

Overview of Professional, Continuing, and Online Education (PCO)

What are the various ways universities organize and empower their units for professional, continuing, and online education? What are some unique features and approaches within these entities, particularly in how they address the educational needs of adult learners? This course provides a broad understanding of the variety of roles and models for professional, continuing, and online education across the academic landscape -- and the issues and opportunities they face. This course also looks at internal organizational structures, skill sets, and staffing. Finally, this course discusses professionalism and the role that UPCEA plays in networking and educating those in this domain.

The Entrepreneurial Imperative

How are new opportunities identified and implemented? How do professional, continuing, and online professionals succeed in a competitive and ever changing environment? More than any other academic unit, the professional, continuing, and online enterprise is responsive, agile, risk-taking, and innovative -- all qualities of entrepreneurs, but within the realities and constraints of complex institutions. This course will explore how to navigate and innovate within a dynamic environment.

Markets, Marketing, and Managing the Cycle from Prospects to Learners

How are new and changing markets identified? How are programs -- in both content and format - developed to meet the needs of learners? How can data analysis help shape ongoing understanding of markets? This course will explore the processes and operations that convert markets into enrollments. 

Program Planning and Oversight in Professional, Continuing, and Online Education

How do those in professional, continuing, and online education create their program portfolio?  How are resources marshalled and managed? This course explores how an often unique mix of programs can be designed, developed, and delivered -- on-campus, on-site, and online.

Academic Strategic Planning in a Constantly Changing Environment

What are the processes for identifying opportunities, developing evidence, determining goals, defining key milestones, establishing accountability, and measuring outcomes? How do you engage others in these processes? This course explores how strategy combines analysis and action. Learning, planning, implementing, and reassessing permeate all levels of professional, continuing, and online education -- more so than perhaps any other area of higher education.

Forecasting, Budgeting, and Managing Money in an Environment of Uncertainty and Risk

 How do those in professional, continuing, and online education analyze opportunities, project revenue and expenses, identify prudent ways to manage resources, monitor cash flow, and mitigate financial disaster? How do you measure success and respond to failure, reallocate resources, and determine new investment opportunities? Those in PCO often operate as a stand-alone business --  by relying on revenue to support operating costs, and depending on forecasting, cash flow, and  agile pivoting to new strategies.  

Enroll in the UPCEA PCO Pro Certificate program now