About Professional and Continuing Education
Grand Valley State University's Professional and Continuing Education (PCE) provides practical, flexible learning opportunities for working professionals, adult learners, and employers.
Our non-credit programs help individuals develop new skills, advance their careers, meet continuing education needs, and respond to changes in their professions. We also work with employers and organizations to support workforce development, leadership training, and employee upskilling.
PCE is part of the Center for Adult and Continuing Studies (CACS) within GVSU Omni, connecting the university's expertise and resources with the evolving needs of professionals, organizations, and communities.
Programs may be developed and delivered in collaboration with GVSU faculty, subject matter experts, industry practitioners, and selected educational partners, with appropriate university oversight.
What We Do
|
Service |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Professional Certificates and Skills Developments |
Practical, non-credit learning opportunities in areas such as artificial intelligence, business, technology, data analytics, project management, and leadership. Depending on the program, participants may earn a certificate of completion, develop professional skills, or prepare for an industry-recognized credential. |
|
Continuing Education and Professional Development |
Programs supporting the ongoing learning needs of licensed and regulated professionals, including educators, social workers, and safety professionals. Continuing education hours, approval requirements, and documentation vary by program. |
|
Workforce Training for Employers |
Professional development and workforce training for businesses, nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and other employers. Opportunities may include group enrollment, private cohorts, leadership development, and customized learning solutions. |
|
Program Guidance and Learner Support |
Our team helps prospective participants explore available programs, understand registration requirements, and identify appropriate professional development opportunities. |
How Non-Credit Learning Differs from a Degree Program
Professional and Continuing Education offers a flexible alternative for individuals seeking specific skills, professional development, or continuing education without enrolling in a traditional degree program.
Unlike academic degree programs, non-credit offerings do not ordinarily award academic credit toward a degree. Participants may receive certificates, continuing education documentation, or other forms of recognition depending on the program.
For those interested in earning an academic degree, GVSU also offers credit-bearing online undergraduate and graduate programs.
Our Mission
We provide adult learners, working professionals, and employers with accessible, flexible, high-quality programs that strengthen careers, organizations, and the regional workforce.
Part of GVSU Omni
GVSU Omni expands access to university education and learning opportunities for adult learners, working professionals, employers, and communities.
Within Omni, the Center for Adult and Continuing Studies brings together three complementary areas:
- Credit-Bearing Online Programs: Flexible academic pathways for learners pursuing university credit and degrees.
- Prior Learning Assessment: Opportunities for eligible learners to seek academic recognition of qualifying prior learning.
- Professional and Continuing Education: Non-credit professional learning, workforce development, continuing education, and employer training.
Together, these areas support lifelong learning by providing different pathways for individuals and organizations to engage with Grand Valley State University.
Our Team
Adam Downs
Assistant Vice President, GVSU Omni
Nabil Baydoun
Nicole Pierson
Chernetta Byl
Katie Scheuerle
Social Work Continuing Education Coordinator
Martha O'Brien
Our Partners
GVSU Professional and Continuing Education works with university colleges and schools, industry practitioners, professional organizations, and selected education partners to expand access to specialized expertise and professional learning opportunities.
Partner-supported programs operate through approved arrangements, and the credentials or documentation participants receive depend on the specific offering.
Have a Question for Us?
Whether you are exploring a professional development program or seeking training opportunities for your organization, our team is here to help.