UHM Summer Sessions | About Noncredit Programs

Throughout the year Outreach College offers a diverse array of noncredit classes designed to help participants pursue professional development and personal growth. Strengthen your leadership skills, prepare for the GRE, express yourself through poetry or dance, gain pointers on retirement planning, learn Hawaiian or French, and more — peruse our course listings and register today! Ongoing programs include the Institute for Business and Professional Development, Pacific New Media, International Programs (English as a second language), and various certificate programs.

Professional and Special Programs
Sakamaki D-400
2530 Dole Street
Honolulu, HI 96822
Tel: (808) 956-8244
Fax: (808) 956-9422
Web: www.outreach.hawaii.edu
Email: pamelaf@hawaii.edu

The Professional and Special Programs Office establishes and administers noncredit courses to provide individuals and groups with the opportunity to maintain professional skills, advance in or change careers, or pursue personal development and enrichment. Although noncredit courses do not apply toward the requirements for a college degree, many do qualify for professional continuing education units. Students who complete attendance requirements may receive certificates upon completion of their courses of study.

Courses are held at both on- and off-campus locations, as well as online. They are often relatively short and complete in themselves and are presented in a variety of formats, such as workshops, short courses, studios, and lectures. In general, noncredit courses are open to anyone who is at least 18 years of age or a high school graduate.

Although most courses are offered during three regularly scheduled terms per year, specialized programs for particular groups (e.g., librarians, teachers, engineers, etc.) or contract training for both public and private organizations, can be arranged. Class length, number of meeting times, and locations vary, depending on program objectives and specific needs of students.

The Professional and Special Programs Office offers courses covering selected college-level material in such area as the arts, business and management, communications, computer and information technology, education, engineering and architecture, history and culture, human resource management, language, library studies, personal finance, and recreation and health. The program also offers preparatory and approved continuing education courses for various professions, professional certifications, and their renewal.

The Institute for Business and Professional Development offers continuing education programs for business people, entrepreneurs, professionals, and those seeking to meet professional certification requirements, or to improve career opportunities.

Pacific New Media offers short intensive workshops in film, video, and digital media presented by outstanding professionals from Hawai'i and the continental United States. A certificate in Web design is also offered through the program.

For over 25 years, these popular noncredit courses have helped international students improve their English skills and understanding of American culture for academic, business, and general purposes. Select from New Intensive Courses in English (NICE), Special English Programs (for groups), and more. The International Bridge Program helps international students transition into American graduate school programs.