University of Phoenix Launches School of Continuing Education

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, [email protected]

SOURCE University of Phoenix