Non-Credit and Credit Offerings
Western Washington University’s Outreach and Continuing Education (WWU-OCE) offers both non-credit and credit courses and certificate programs.
Non-credit Courses and Certificate Programs
Non-credit courses and certificate programs are not offered for college credit. They provide professional and personal enrichment opportunities for non-matriculated students who do not need an academic degree or certificate. Non-credit programs are often shorter and more condensed than credit-bearing certificate programs. Non-credit programs generally address an area of skills development, general knowledge, or learning interest and are advantageous for those individuals looking to advance or change their career, continue to engage with Western, or simply learn something new. Some of these programs may lead to an industry-recognized credentials.
Non-credit programs and courses are not recorded on a Western transcript and federal financial aid is not available. Many of these certificate programs and courses offer continuing education units (CEUs) that are a nationally recognized standard for verifying successful completion of non-credit programs. Recognition of course and certificate completion is provided through WWU-OCE.
Credit Courses and Certificate Programs
Credit bearing courses and programs are designed for individuals interested in earning college credit and may be used towards a degree or certificate. These programs and courses have been reviewed and approved through a rigorous academic process at Western Washington University, and are associated with an Academic College or Academic Center. Credit offerings are posted on a Western transcript and may be eligible for federal financial aid. Example of credit certificates and courses at Western include: