- Image by The U.S. National Archives via Flickr
The term continuing education is a very vague term. Depending upon the type of school and college that is using the term continuing education it can represent a number of different courses. Continuing education can range from skill training for certain careers to just gaining a degree or certificate from a college or university. A think that all continuing education courses have to offer is that it refers to an adult who is going back to school for a number of reasons.
There are over a dozen different types of courses that the term continuing education can be applied to. Here is a look at some of the most common types of continuing education courses that are available to students.
Continuing Education Units. Continuing education units usually refer to a course or seminar that certain professions are required to take in order to maintain their certificate to practice. These courses are usually used for doctors, dentists or other type of professions where there is an ever changing environment. These courses ensure that those that are practicing the profession are up to date on the latest information.
Degree Specific Educational Courses. These are courses that are offered through a college or university that allow the student to develop their skills in a number of areas. While the main purpose of the course is for the student to learn a new skill or gain new knowledge the course once complete can be used for a degree or certificate from a university or college.
Non-Credit Courses. These courses can be offered anywhere, at any time. They are usually designed to allow adults to learn a new skill or gain knowledge without the need to have it used for a degree or certificate. These courses can be offered through libraries or community centers and are not limited to a university or college setting.
