Professional & Continuing Education

Educational Opportunities Designed for Today’s Learners  

Professional & Continuing Education (PCE) at Chico State extends the University’s mission to learners beyond traditional degrees, providing innovative, high-quality educational pathways that support career advancement, degree completion, and lifelong learning. With an extensive portfolio of online and hybrid programs, certificates, and workshops, PCE empowers a diverse community of learners—including working professionals, career changers, and lifelong learners—to achieve their goals in a flexible, supportive environment. Through strategic partnerships and responsive program offerings, PCE supports the University’s commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
The Professional and Continuing Education building on the Chico State campus.

Online Degrees, Credentials, and Certificate Programs

Career-Driven Learning for the Modern Workforce

With over 40 years of experience in distance education, Chico State is a leader in flexible, high-quality education. Designed to balance the demands of work, life, and education, our online and hybrid degree and certificate programs cater to working professionals and career changers.

Professional Development, Career Training, and Workforce Development

Bridging Education and Industry  

PCE collaborates with campus partners, industry leaders, and professional organizations to deliver practical, in-demand, skills-based training to equip today’s workforce for tomorrow. 

  • Funding Partners: We work with learners to access funding support and tuition reimbursement through WIOA, MyCAA, Department of Rehabilitation, and other workforce agencies to remove barriers to career education. Several of our most popular courses designed for in-demand careers are listed on the ETPL. 

Courses for Credit

Flexible, Year-Round Academic Progress  

PCE offers specialized academic programs that support Chico State’s commitment to student success and on-time graduation goals.

  • Open University: Community members, alumni, and working professionals can take Chico State’s courses through Open University without formal admission, earning valuable university credit while pursuing personal and career growth.  

  • Special Sessions: Accelerated courses during Winter Session and fall and spring courses offered in addition to the regular semester schedule enable students to graduate faster and support the CSU’s Graduation Initiative 2025.  

Commitment to Lifelong Learning  

Professional & Continuing Education’s dedication to lifelong learning extends beyond traditional academia, offering opportunities for all ages.

  • Northern California Neurodiversity & Disability Symposium: An annual event to amplify the voices of Neurodivergent and Disabled individuals, and provide education and resources for families, educators, and service providers in our region and beyond.

  • Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI): OLLI offers peer-led enrichment courses for adults 50+ that encourage intellectual growth and social connection.  

  • Personal Development Programs: ElderCollege gives community members age 50 and older the opportunity to sit in on any regular university course on a space-available basis with instructor approval. The Institute for Reading Development offers live-online reading and study skills programs for all age levels. Personal development programs such as these foster community learning and support continued educational engagement.  

Impact and Community Engagement  

By aligning with Chico State’s strategic priorities, PCE drives economic growth, workforce development, and social impact through community partnerships and innovative programming. From customized training for local businesses to enrichment opportunities for lifelong learners, our programs support the evolving needs of the workforce while fostering an inclusive, accessible learning environment for all. 

Grow With Us! 

For more information about our full suite of programs, new programs launching soon, or to find the best fit for your personal or professional goals, visit our website, email us, or give us a call at 530-898-6105.