WashU Continuing & Professional Studies (CAPS) Extend(Ed)™ is designed to support both individuals and employers through flexible, non-degree programs that strengthen skills and unlock opportunities. With offerings ranging from short self-paced courses to in-depth certificates, Extend(Ed)™ helps professionals take the next step—and gives organizations a partner in workforce development.
Skill-Builder Courses
Skill-Builder courses are short, self-paced introductions to practical workplace topics, designed to help you build momentum toward your career goals. Each course takes just 1 to 1.5 hours to complete and is available to start as soon as you sign up and pay (if required). These accessible, low-commitment courses are ideal for individuals looking to sample what CAPS has to offer or sharpen a specific skill quickly. Some Skill-Builders are free, and all are designed to fit your schedule.
Career Training
Career Training programs offer fully online paths to help you prepare for in-demand careers in fields like healthcare, IT, business and legal services. Fundamentals Courses provide a short, interactive introduction to key skills, while Advanced Career Training offers a deeper, career-focused option. Both let you learn at your own pace with instructor support and virtual resources. Whether starting a new career or advancing in your current one, these programs help you move forward.
Professional Certificates
Professional Certificates offer a deeper, more comprehensive learning experience for individuals and organizations ready to invest in long-term skill development. Designed in collaboration with industry experts, these professional credential programs support career advancement by focusing on in-demand skills and real-world application. For employers, CAPS can customize certificate pathways to help upskill your workforce, support internal promotion, and meet specific organizational goals.
Skill-Builder Start Anytime Courses
Extend(Ed)™ Skill-Builder: First Steps in Data: Defining Data
This free course is designed for those who are new to data or want a refresher on basic data concepts. Students will go over what data is and learn about the data lifecycle.
Extend(Ed)™ Skill-Builder:Mic Drop Basics: A Short Guide to Public Speaking
This free, short course is designed to help students plan engaging speeches, build confidence, and deliver messages with clarity and presence.
Extend(Ed)™ Skill-Builder: First Steps in AI: Defining AI
This free course is designed for those who are new to AI or want a refresher on basic AI concepts. Students will learn to define AI and describe the historical development of AI.
Professional Certificates
Fundamentals of Nonprofit Management Professional Certificate
The nine-week certificate will provide valuable tools and techniques to drive impact and growth in nonprofit organizations.
Empower
Transform your career with a free, 26-week program designed for qualifying St. Louis refugees.
Healthcare Transitions Professional Certificate
The Healthcare Transitions Certificate focuses on science and math skills that are necessary to transition to a healthcare-focused career.
Transformational Leadership Professional Certificate
The Transformational Leadership Professional Certificate offers a fully online, asynchronous experience for individuals interested in enhancing their leadership skills.
Bioscience Technology Professional Certificate
The Bioscience Technology Certificate provides entry-level skills to those seeking employment in medical and research laboratories.
L.I.F.T. (Learn, Improve, Focus, Thrive)
This online program is designed to strengthen the study skills of students who are new to continuing education or returning to the classroom.
Customize a program that fits your company’s business needs
CAPS can develop specialized Professional Certificate programs to help you build and improve your workforce with a customized curriculum. Click the link to connect with the CAPS Business Development Director by email to discuss your company’s education needs.
GIS Bootcamp
The GIS Bootcamp provides an eight-week, fully guided experience for students interested in geographic information systems.
Partner
Help your employees upskill and advance within your organization by partnering with CAPS. Create a professional credential program to help your employees rapidly gain the skills they need to advance to higher positions, improving their lives and building your workforce with a customized curriculum.
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