Welcome from the Executive Director

Since the inception of the first "School of University Extension" in 1891, the University of Kansas has been a leader in lifelong learning. Initially responding to the educational needs of working people without direct access to a college or university, KU Continuing Education has evolved into a national leader in the delivery of high-quality professional education, workforce development and distance learning. Now after 120 years, KU Continuing Education serves not only the people of Kansas and the region, but offers programs that expand our reach around the globe.

As the primary outreach arm of the University of Kansas, we support its aggressive drive for discovery and innovation by actively disseminating the important work of KU’s researchers and scientists. KU Continuing Education expedites the flow of this life-changing research through public short courses, conferences and online modules. We also partner with our colleagues across the university to leverage the scholarship of our students and faculty to have a positive impact on our communities, our state, the nation and the world.

Serving all 105 Kansas counties, 50 states plus D.C., Puerto Rico, and 51 countries

Each year, KU Continuing Education serves more than 71,000 people of diverse backgrounds from all age groups by offering over 1,000 courses, programs and conferences. KU Continuing Education provides non-credit courses in professional development and certificate opportunities through public and online programs for working professionals. KU Continuing Education also trains Kansas law enforcement officers, firefighters and other first responders, and provides lifelong learning opportunities for adults over 50 through the KU Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. We also partner with all 19 Kansas community colleges to make programming easily accessible for all Kansans.

I invite you to review the programs and services that KU Continuing Education offers, which continue more than a century of high-quality distance learning and professional education.

Sincerely,

Sharon D. Graham

Executive Director

sgraham@ku.edu