A certificate program is a sequence of classes that provides participants with core competencies in a specific area; certificates can be earned in a relatively short time. Penn State Wilkes-Barre can partner with a company to design certificate programs at the workplace that meet the organizational development needs of the workforce. Penn State faculty work directly with company management on program development and design of instructional materials. Classes can be conducted on-site at the company at times convenient to the organization. Instructional styles are geared to the needs of the working adult student. An on-going program-evaluation process supports a quality experience for participants and the organization.
Certificate Programs – Benefits to the Organization
- Support the vision and mission of the organization
- Create cultural change
- Build a common base of knowledge
- Encourage self-motivated workers
- Demonstrate commitment to life-long learning
- Develop a stronger workforce for the future
- Provide professional skill development
Certificate Programs – Benefits to the Employee
- Provide quality education from a major university
- Earn a formal academic credential
- Provide a flexible, convenient, short-term opportunity for professional development
- Offer courses designed and delivered for the adult learner
- Offer convenient location without additional travel
- Offer conveniently scheduled course times
- Provide university support services at the on-site location
- Build peer support and study groups
- Credit certificate program courses can “step up” — that is, be applied to academic degrees at Penn State
Professional Certification Preparation
Interested in discussing certificate options for your workforce? Call our Continuing Education office at 570-675-9253.