Overview
The Continuing Education Department serves a unique role within the larger framework of Lackawanna College. The department does not follow a semester-by-semester cycle of events. Classes and programs can and do begin at any time during an academic year. Courses are scheduled with very little lead time. Flexibility is key to Continuing Education. Classes are seldom canceled completely, in most cases they are postponed and/or rescheduled to allow time for enrollment to grow. When dealing with local companies and/or agencies creating customizing programs to meet the specific needs of the company is essential to the success of the department.
In order to stay competitive with other Higher Education institutions, Continuing Education must always be cognizant of the constantly changing needs of the job market. Program offerings must be updated and adapted regularly in order to meet the needs of employers. Meeting with companies to discuss the needs of a particular job or recruiting companies to serve as internship sites only adds to the success of programs.
Continuing Education must also be aware of government funding regulations such as: TRA (Trade Readjustment Act), SPOC (Single Point of Contact), WIA (Workforce Investment Act), Welfare regulations, OVR (Office of Vocational Rehab), VA benefits, and others.
Another function of Continuing Education is to respond to RFP’s by writing training proposals in order to secure funding for Short-term training programs. Placement is an important component in determining if a higher education institution will receive funding from these agencies. Continuing Education’s Programs Manager works diligently to ensure that all students are placed in training related jobs.
Applying for and receiving accreditations is also important to the success of Continuing Education programs. Many of Lackawanna College’s Continuing Education programs have been accredited by state and federal agencies. For example: The Paramedic Program is accredited by the Dept. of Health and Emergency Services Courses are APCO certified.
In short, Continuing Education has many different facets, all of which add to the success and the revenue base of Lackawanna College.
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