September 11, 2006

A growing demand for courses that appeal to a wide range ofprofessional and personal interests is leading to a record number ofcourses offered through the UNBC Continuing Studies department. Thecourses do not count towards a university degree, but provideopportunities to gain work-related and personal skills. The fullcatalogue of courses is available as a pdf file by clicking this link. Alternatively, follow this link to browse courses online.

“We’re offering more than 250 courses this year – our highest numberever,” says UNBC Continuing Studies Manager Randall Brazzoni. “Theofferings include an historical journey through Spain, computer coursesleading to advanced certification, arts and culture courses, leadershipskills, a mini-medical school featuring physicians involved with theNorthern Medical Program, and a series of courses related to resourcemanagement and GIS.”

New this year are art courses delivered in partnership with the EmilyCarr Institute of Art and Design, International travel tours, anastronomy workshop, and courses on such diverse topics as thepsychology of happiness, art appreciation, and internationalintelligence.

Last academic year, just over 3000 people took courses throughContinuing Studies. Added to the 4200 students registered in degreeprograms and university-credit courses, more than 7000 peopleregistered for UNBC courses in 2005-06.

“The growth of Continuing Studies is an example of how UNBC is aimingto be responsive to the educational and training needs of northerners,”says UNBC President Don Cozzetto. “For a variety of reasons, manyresidents may be unable to pursue a full degree program, or they mayalready have a degree and are just interested in gaining new skills. Atthe same time, Continuing Studies provides a perfect atmosphere forpeople who have been out of school for a while and want to ease backinto education before considering a UNBC degree. Either way, we want toprovide new educational options right here in northern BC.”

Courses in Continuing Studies include single-day courses, eveningcourses spread out over several weeks, and multi-week internationaltravel tours. Courses will be offered this year in 18 communities.

Contact:
Randall Brazzoni, Continuing Studies Manager, UNBC – 250.960.5980
Rob van Adrichem, Director of Media and Public Relations, UNBC – 250.960.5622