New SMU Professional and Online Program Enhances Career Advancements for Professionals
SMU PRO offers degrees, certificates and short courses to help professionals boost expertise and earning power
DALLAS (SMU) – At SMU, the new Professional and Online initiative helps professionals develop new skills and earn certificates and graduate degrees through a high-quality, virtual and in-person classroom experience. Expanding the SMU experience to new student opportunities, master’s degrees in cybersecurity and data science lead the way. In addition, new online certificate courses in data science-related topics are running now. The degrees and certificates represent a transformation of SMU’s continuing education program. The resulting Professional and Online department, called SMU PRO within the SMU Global and Online division, was created this year to provide needs-driven, rigorous, relevant programs conveniently accessed from a top-ranked university.
“The distinct advantage for students enrolling in SMU PRO is the fact that the professional and online programs and courses are rooted in the world-class reputation of SMU,” says Larenda Mielke, Associate Provost for SMU Global and Online. “In an ever-evolving global economy, professionals must embrace the latest technologies and new skillsets to advance in their careers. SMU PRO originated to offer master’s degrees, professional certificates and courses to propel professionals’ career satisfaction, earning potential and job security.”
SMU PRO provides adult learners with distinct opportunities and access:
- Distinguished faculty and highly experienced practitioners to ensure students receive an education that’s meaningful and interactive, both on campus and online.
- SMU’s deep ties to industry regionally, throughout the U.S., and internationally.
- Access to SMU’s global alumni organization connecting students to an extensive, involved network for career placement, advice and advancements.
Employers attract and retain the best talent by delivering diverse, innovative and affordable educational development. SMU PRO’s corporate programs offer technical- and data-related courses as well as experiential courses to build soft skills and improve group dynamics. From artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analytics and digital marketing, to leadership and project management, SMU PRO can customize business and technology solutions with courses offered online or in person, and at the employer’s location or on campus.
SMU PRO Professional Development and Certificate Programs
Individual professionals can expand knowledge, sharpen skills and update professional expertise through online and in-person certificate programs such as Cloud for Systems Integration, Cybersecurity Risk and Analysis, Digital Marketing, Digital Analytics and Insights, and UX Design.
“With SMU PRO, students can strengthen their résumés and explore new fields of interest by acquiring competencies that employers are seeking – all delivered from leading faculty and instructors who are experts in their field,” says Kimberly Rutigliano, Managing Director of SMU PRO. “Our vision is that SMU PRO provides the professional power that leads to students’ success.”
SMU PRO offers financial aid and special assistance to the veteran community, including the Yellow Ribbon Program.
Prospective students, participants, and employers are invited to explore SMU.edu/PRO, call 214-768-2273 or email smupro@smu.edu to learn more.