Each year we offer approximately 600 personal enrichment and professional development programs attracting participants from across the nation. Our department is pleased to enhance our community by extending the resources of the University through the programs we offer. Our programs fall into four major areas, as follows…

Marcy Matherne
Chair

Evening Short Courses for Adults

The University’s non-credit evening shortcourses for adults program is more commonly known as USA Special Courses. Through this dynamic, community-based program, approximately 125 personal enrichment and professional development courses are offered during each of our four terms. USA Special Courses is known for offering engaging, quality courses with highly respected instructors.

For the individual exploring new career opportunities or wishing to enhance a current career, USA Special Courses offers seven certificate programs. Excellent educational alternatives, these non-degree programs consist of a series of required courses and electives.They take an average of two years to complete. Each certificate program’s instructional team is comprised of professionals in their respective fields.

Learning in Retirement Programs

• Elderhostel. The University of South Alabama enjoys a reputation as one of the leading Elderhostel Supersites in the nation. These residential programs are designed for individuals age 55 and older. They attract participants from across the nation to a variety of locations along the Alabama and Mississippi Gulf Coast. Our programs offer challenging and thought provoking classes. The dynamic and knowledgeable instructors lead field trips that reinforce learning and familiarize the participants with the area.
  
  
• Odyssey USA. Odyssey USA is a local membership program for mature learners. Peer leadership is a key component. Members plan the topics and participate in decisions relating to the curriculum and the operation of the organization. Odyssey USA is affiliated with the Elderhostel Institute Network, an organization to encourage the lifelong learning movement at the national level.

Professional Development Programs

• Open-Enrollment Programs. The University of South Alabama’s training programs are recognized nationally by business and technical professionals. We work closely with the manufacturing, service and government sectors to develop results-oriented seminars, workshops, and conferences designed to increase knowledge, performance and productivity. These programs are highly interactive and give participants an opportunity to enhance their effectiveness.
       Our Information Technology (IT) courses prepare individuals for nationally recognized certifications. Through onlineusa.org, we offer exciting anytime, anywhere e-learning opportunities in more than 400 on-line noncredit courses. For medical office skills, on-line comprehensive courses are available through our Special Courses program.
  
  
• Contract Training. For the organization with a group of individuals to be trained, we provide customized programs which focus on companyspecific problems and issues. In addition to being more cost effective, these programs bring the training to your site at a time compatible with your business cycle.

USA Camp Program

During the summer months and over the holiday season, the University offers academic and athletic programs/camps for children. These activities are designed to be exciting, fun and educational. Emphasis is placed on the development of the child’s knowledge, skill, and range of interests.

The USA Camp Program also brings a number of non-University sponsored summer camps to the University campus. Through these programs, middle and high school students have an opportunity to become familiar with and experience campus life at USA.