What is Continuing Education?

“Continuous learning is the minimum requirement for success in any field,” says renowned author Brian Tracy. In a world driven by relentless technological advancement and innovation, this statement rings true more than ever. Education is no longer a finite endeavor to be completed in our early years but rather an ongoing journey of growth and adaptation. This is where the concept of continuing education comes into play.

Far from being confined to traditional academic realms, continuing education extends to professional development, personal enrichment, and even nurturing long-held hobbies or interests. It also represents an opportunity for individuals to broaden their horizons, enhance their understanding of the world, and enrich their lives. 

Let’s dive deep into continuing education in the following sections. 

What is Continuing Education?

Continuing education is a broad term referring to any post-secondary learning or training program adults pursue after formal education. These programs help foster a lifelong learning mentality, where education extends beyond the conventional education years. 

Continuing education ranges from non-degree career training and degree credit courses to non-credit courses. These courses can be delivered through various modes like in-person classes, online learning platforms, seminars, or workshops. They’re typically designed for non-traditional students and don’t come with a degree.

Why Continuing Education Is Critical for Everyone

As technologies and industries advance, skills that were once in demand can become outdated. The World Economic Forum forecasts that by 2027, half of all jobs will demand new skill sets. In such a dynamic landscape, continuing education equips individuals with the tools to adapt and thrive.

By embracing continuous learning, you demonstrate your commitment to adaptability and growth. You can also explore new areas of interest and gain new skills that could lead to career advancement or transition. You own your upskilling and reskilling journey, and with that mindset, you reduce the risk of becoming obsolete in your field.

Researchers from Harvard Business Review also suggest that highlighting your commitment to continuous learning on your resume after your formal education can impress potential employers. “While taking individual classes may not seem comparable to a four-year degree, showing you’re continuously learning and growing your skills is an attractive quality in an employee.”

In addition to skill acquisition, continuing education can also boost mental health. Research showed that engaging in regular learning activities can stimulate the mind and promote cognitive health agility. Many courses or programs involve group activities and interactions with fellow learners, which helps establish networks and a sense of community and belonging.

Examples of Continuing Education Courses

Degree-credit Courses

Degree-credit courses are a common form of continuing education. These are similar to the traditional courses in a college curriculum, offering credits that can count towards a degree. 

Degree-credit courses are particularly beneficial for those individuals who might have paused their education midway and now wish to resume their academic journey. For example, someone who had to discontinue their bachelor’s degree due to personal circumstances can use degree-credit courses to work towards graduation.

Short Courses

Short courses are a flexible and accessible means of continuing education, typically lasting from a day to a few weeks. These courses often focus on teaching a specific skill or knowledge area, providing a quick, efficient way for individuals to improve their skill set or gain new knowledge. Topics can be wide-ranging, from leadership skills to computer programming, and are often available both in-person and online.

On-the-job Training

On-the-job training is training offered by an employer to improve an employee’s skills for their current job. It ranges from teaching new skills to providing updated training due to changes in technology or work process. This form of learning benefits not only the employees but also the employers, as it helps maintain a skilled and competent workforce.

Work-integrated Learning

Work-integrated learning is a dynamic form of continuing education that blends academic learning with practical work experience. This can include internships, cooperative education programs, or apprenticeships. These programs offer an effective way for students to apply their knowledge in a practical setting, enhance their skills, and gain valuable industry insights.

In a world where knowledge is power and the rate of change is ever-increasing, continuing education is a cornerstone for personal development and professional growth. Start embracing the opportunities that continuing education presents and invest in your future today.

Check out the case study of the University of South Florida and discover how they harnessed the power of Canvas Catalog to meet the needs of all students and promote continuing education.