University’s New School of Continuing and Professional Education Reflects the Growing Number and Impact of Adult and Pre-College Programs

New name reflects the evolution and growth of School's precollege youth programs and industry-recognized national certification programs that prepare individuals and corporations to meet the challenges of a wide range of businesses

William Paterson University announced that its center for continuing education has been renamed the School of Continuing and Professional Education to reflect the evolution and growth of its precollege youth programs and industry-recognized national certification programs that prepare individuals and corporations to meet the challenges of a wide range of businesses.

“Our name change from a Center to the new School of Continuing and Professional Education highlights our strategic focus on innovative programming for precollege youth and adult professionals seeking credentials beyond traditional credit-bearing degree programs,” said William Paterson University President Kathleen Waldron. “Building on the strengths of the University’s academic colleges, and enhanced by our distinguished business professionals who serve as consultants and instructors, our School dynamically addresses the interdisciplinary challenges of today’s evolving workplace.”  

The School of Continuing and Professional Education features a distinctive portfolio of more than 300 courses provided to thousands of working professionals at all levels who often have already achieved college graduation but now seek career advancement, preparation for job changes, and/or enhancement of existing skills.

Courses are taught by business practitioners and entrepreneurs who specialize in pedagogy for adult learners through online, in person, and blended learning programs. Precollege students benefit from the University climate that encourages inquiry and interactions with highly qualified certified teachers and University faculty adept at adapting complex information to middle and high school learners. In addition, the School is expanding support for student academic and career success through mentoring, coaching, academic advisement, and externships for all students in its non-degree programs.

“This School provides transformational opportunities for learners at all stages,” said Bernadette Tiernan, executive director of the School. “We are enhancing our role as a leading provider of precollege academic enrichment experiences through innovative summer and Saturday academies to prepare students for high school and college. We are also creating customized interdisciplinary training programs for individuals and corporations to tackle urgent workforce development needs in New Jersey’s seven key industry growth sectors, including healthcare and finance.” 

The School of Continuing and Professional Education at William Paterson is uniquely positioned to address the professional development needs of college graduates, mid-career professionals, organization leaders, entrepreneurs, and the non-profit sector because of the depth of the staff and faculty’s close collaborations with industry partners. This enhances the development and implementation of cutting-edge curriculum focused on behavioral dynamics and industry needs at all organizational levels, from entry-level positions to certified professionals, clinicians, and executives.

Post-baccalaureate education and non-degree programs, with many noncredit and certification options, are offered in formats, times, and locations accessible beyond the undergraduate and graduate offerings at the University’s five colleges.

Course information and registration for the School of Continuing and Professional Education at William Paterson University is available online at wpunj.edu/CPE, or by calling 973-720-2354.