Continuing education is defined as “an instructional program that brings participants up to date in a particular area of knowledge or skills” and “instructional courses designed especially for part-time adult students”. The aim of continuing education is to keep alive the spirit of education irrespective of the learner’s age. The University of Wisconsin was the first academic institution to offer such programs as early as 1904.

Today, many universities offer continuing education programs in different streams.  It is also known as adult education or extension programs. There are both credit and non-credit courses available. Many universities also offer certifications in this segment. The methods of teaching in continuing education can also differ from institute to institute. Independent study, online learning, workshops, seminars, and part-time classroom study are all examples of this kind of education. Study materials are available in the form of traditional textbooks, video tapes or CD-ROMS, webcasts and online libraries.

There are also some specific university centers which have been set up. These places offer degree programs from different universities and benefit students who might otherwise find it difficult to attend classes on regular campuses. Continuing education has gained in importance over the year as a result of licensing bodies in different fields requiring professionals to fulfill certain requirements before they can practice a particular profession. Most institutes have specialized departments and personnel to help out and guide those seeking to undertake classes.

These people are trained in dealing with adult students and are often themselves professionals in the field. Nowadays some professional institutes have also come up with specialized, tailor-made courses in order to promote continuing education further. Architects, nurses, librarians, pharmacists, teachers, journalists, can all choose to take up courses that suit their busy schedules. It does not matter whether you are entry-level, mid-career or even senior management. The opportunities are equally accessible to all.

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