Continuing Studies offers fun alternative

The UNA Continuing Studies Program has many classes available for UNA students and the community.

“We offer classes from childhood to seniors,” said Lavonne Gatlin, interim director for Continuing Studies.

The wide array of classes varies from courses for personal enrichment like pottery or photography to credit programs where students can gain accreditation in specific areas.

Meghan Fike, program coordinator for Continuing Studies, said many UNA students take part in the Microsoft Office Specialist program where students can take a test and become certified in specific areas of Microsoft Office.

Students get a discounted rate for this program, which includes one retake for the test. The cost is $99 for students and $109 for non-students.

UNA student Chris Reece said he had heard about this option but has not taken the tests.

These classes do come at different prices depending on the class, and unfortunately, they cannot be included in tuition, Gatlin said. All fees must be paid at the time of registration.

The classes also do not act as electives or UNA courses. These classes are simply supplemental to other UNA courses.

Besides courses in a classroom setting, there are also online courses in all areas.

“There’s really something for everyone in Continuing Studies,” Gatlin said.

There are courses for students who are preparing for major tests such as the LSAT, GMAT and SAT/ACT.

If students are looking for a break from coursework, the personal enrichment classes might act as a fun alternative.

“Our dance program is really big and always in demand,” Gatlin said.

The classes are updated regularly, and new courses are added every semester.

After graduation, students and community members can still enroll in Continuing Studies hours for their degrees or attend certification programs.

“The certification programs are typically for people already in the workplace wanting to improve their skills,” Gatlin said.

The program has provided the community with classes for 27 years and is continuing to work hard, she said.