Nation's Largest Private University Significantly Enhances
Commitment to Career and Professional Development
PHOENIX, Jan. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Building on its
history as the leading provider of higher education programs that
equip Americans to succeed in a constantly-changing professional
world, University of Phoenix today
announced the launch of its School of Continuing Education.
Designed to provide professionals and working adults with the
skills, insight and expertise necessary to thrive in today's highly
competitive job market, the School of Continuing Education will
draw on existing curricula already in use by the University,
enhanced by new educational offerings developed in consultation
with leading employers and scholars.
With an emphasis on teaching and training students in the
rapidly-changing technologies, trends and skills that are central
to America's strongest and fastest-growing industries, the School
of Continuing Education's academic coursework will offer intensive
studies in business, information technology, marketing, healthcare
and continuing teacher education.
"In today's challenging economy, professionals must constantly
find ways to remain competitive and relevant in their career
field," said George Lichter, Senior
Vice President of Integrated Academic Strategies and Development
and Head of Academic Programming, University
of Phoenix. "Employers increasingly expect both current and
prospective employees to keep their professional skills and
knowledge current and sharp. There has never been greater demand –
among workers and employers alike – for higher education programs
that focus on professional development and enhancement.
The new School of Continuing Education
seeks to meet that challenge and will focus on developing a
compelling set of innovative and traditional offerings."
The school will be headed by Al De
Seta, who recently joined University of
Phoenix as Dean and Executive Director of the School of
Continuing Education, a newly formed role reporting directly to
Lichter. De Seta brings a wealth of experience to his role,
having developed and marketed educational programs and
services for a number of corporations and learning
institutions. Most recently, De Seta served as President and
Chief Operating Officer of Penn Foster Education Group, where he
oversaw career, degree, high school and workforce development
programs for more than 200,000 students worldwide.
"In order to succeed in a highly competitive economy like ours,
workers must constantly find ways to demonstrate – and increase –
their value to employers," said De Seta. "Continued learning
and professional development are some of the
best ways to gain new skills and expertise. Simply put,
continuing education helps professionals and working adults
remain competitive and relevant, strengthening both their careers
and their personal brands."
As the largest private university in North
America with classes offered both online and in
the classroom, University of Phoenix is uniquely suited to
offer continuing education opportunities.
Students can choose what works best for them, while
balancing jobs, family and other responsibilities. Course
curricula are designed for real-world application and University of Phoenix instructors are experienced
practitioners in their industries who understand practical issues
and challenges. Additionally, the University's
size serves as an added resource, allowing students the
opportunity to engage in greater collaboration, discussion and
learning support with a large number of other students and
faculty.
University of Phoenix plans to begin
offering new courses through its School of Continuing Education in
2011. Individual courses and certificate programs are
expected to be offered both online and at campus locations and will
be available year-round.
For more information on University of
Phoenix continuing education courses visit
www.phoenix.edu/programs/continuing-education.
About University of
Phoenix
University of Phoenix is
constantly innovating to help students balance education and life
in a rapidly changing world. Through flexible schedules,
challenging courses and interactive learning, students achieve
personal and career aspirations without putting their lives on
hold. As the flagship university of Apollo Group, Inc.
(Nasdaq: APOL), University of Phoenix
serves a diverse student population, offering associate,
bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs from campuses
and learning centers across the U.S. as well as online throughout
the world. For more information, visit www.phoenix.edu.
Media Contact: University of
Phoenix Media Hotline, (602) 254-0086, media@phoenix.edu
SOURCE University of Phoenix