“The School of Professional & Continuing Studies offers a number of programs leading to an earned credential or formalized preparation. These programs do not earn semester-hour based college credit, but may earn continuing education units (CEUs), contact hours or certificates of completion, and some may lead toward national or international certification.
Our programs generally include a formal course of study or curriculum that is offered regularly or periodically. Most programs represent professional education opportunities that can be applied to a career objective or professional development goal.”
-University of Richmond’s School of Professional & Continuing Studies website
By Amandalyn Vanover
Interview with James Campbell, Sr. Director of Marketing & Engagement
Amandalyn: James, thank you for speaking with me. Can you share what the Think Again program is that the University of Richmond has available?
James: Sure! The Think Again program is a schedule consisting of a variety of non-degree programs designed to support a wide range of different career growth paths. Our students use the program to ‘upskill or reskill’ for a variety of professional goals.
Amandalyn: What advice do you have for the person looking to up their professional skills but aren’t pursuing a degree?
James: Visit https://spcs.richmond.edu/noncredit/schedule to get started with the current schedule. Register through the online portal and follow the steps. If more information is needed or you just aren’t sure yet, contact us at The University of Richmond and we’ll be happy to set up a pre-admission advising appointment.
Amandalyn: How much does it cost to enroll in the Think Again program?
James: It can range from a couple of hundred bucks for a course to $10,000 for an extended Bootcamp series.
Amandalyn: Since the Think Again program is a non-degreed goal, they can’t get FAFSA funds. So, how do students pay for these classes?
James: You are right, they are not eligible for Federal Financial Aid but they can use 529 funds, get employer sponsorship, apply for the limited scholarship funds available, or even get a personal education loan. Even their local credit union or bank can help.
Amandalyn: What is the time commitment for a person looking to amp their professional skills through the Think Again program?
James: It depends. They may be in a 4-day Public Speaking program or enrolled for a 6-month Coding Bootcamp program. We offer many different options to support everyone’s career goals.
Amandalyn: What local support does the Think Again program have in the area?
James: The Think Again program is made up of professionals and experts from the local workforce.
Amandalyn: Is there anything else you’d like to share about the Think Again program?
James: The curriculums have been designed in response to what people are looking for and need in this region. For over 60 years, we’ve catered to the working adult with kids who seek a part-time education schedule. All of our classes are at night, giving working people the flexibility to attend class.
Amandalyn: Is there something the University of Richmond has that a person can print out to take their employer when discussing an employer sponsorship arrangement?
James: Yes, they can visit https://spcs.richmond.edu/noncredit/schedule/print.html or fill out the form on the page to have a hard-copy brochure mailed.
Amandalyn: What about the person working a full-time job with 3 kids who has some credits and wants to pursue a degree?
James: That’s who we mostly serve. If they already know what degree program they are interested in, they can start the online application. For those seeking more information about transferring credits or the degree program details, we can set up a pre-admission advising appointment.
Amandalyn: James, thank you for your time. We have an entire audience of people who are looking to gain new skills and polish up on existing ones who appreciate your time and information about the Think Again program at the University of Richmond.
