Serving learners across the lifespan continuum, the University of Delaware’s Division of Professional and Continuing Studies (UD PCS) provides educational opportunities for anyone seeking to begin or complete their college career, enhance their academic or professional skills, or enrich their personal life.

In 2019, UD PCS facilitated more than 22,000 credit, noncredit and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) enrollments for participants in a wide selection of programs designed to serve numerous interests and purposes. As a result of the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the need to upskill, reskill and refocus may now be greater than ever for some people.

“UD PCS is concerned about everyone in Delaware and the surrounding region who has lost their job or experienced any other COVID-19-related hardship,” said George Irvine, associate vice provost for UD PCS. “Looking to do our part to aid in the recovery, we are pleased to help those affected take the next steps forward by offering in-demand programming supported by financial assistance and complemented with free seminars.”

Designed to equip participants with career and personal strategies to help navigate the current economy, the free live-online Power Up Your Career Summer Seminar Series is addressing relevant topics, such as career shifting, resume updating, social media presence, networking and virtual interviewing. Concluding on Aug. 13, Power Up resumes in the fall with additional seminars. More than 300 people have registered for Power Up programs since April.

UD PCS’ noncredit programs address a variety of subjects, including business and information technology, drones, healthcare, law, safety and test preparation. Many of the classes provide training for professions and skills that have had substantial increases in the need for proficient practitioners because of COVID-19.

“While the medical field is quickly adapting to an enormous surge in virtual visits and an increased demand for registered nurses, all industries have been faced with the decision of what, if anything, to post on social media during the pandemic,” said Irvine. “UD PCS programs like Advanced Telehealth Coordinator Certificate, RN Refresher and Social Media Marketing are a few of the many examples of our courses providing necessary and topical training.”

Along with scholarships for numerous programs, UD PCS offers payment plans as well as discounts for early registration, active military members and veterans, memberships in business associations, groups of two or more, and UD students and alumni. In addition, anyone who experienced a job loss due to COVID-19 may be eligible for a Delaware Workforce Investment Board (DWIB) training grant.

In response to COVID-19-related social distancing guidelines, UD PCS increased its live-online options of test preparation courses for the ACT, SAT, GMAT, GRE, LSAT and Praxis exams. Financial aid and various discounts are available for most test preparation programs.

The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute has transitioned from on-site classrooms in multiple Delaware locations to a virtual program designed to bring members from OLLI’s programs throughout the state together. More than 40 interactive live-online classes are being conducted in July, and this format will continue in the fall.

For more information about any of UD PCS’ programming, visit pcs.udel.edu or call 302-831-7600.