LSU Online & Continuing Education is very pleased to announce its 100th anniversary, marking a century of providing high-quality continuing education to individuals seeking to advance their education, careers and quality of life. Since its inception in 1924, the division has had more than 2 million enrollments and has offered a wide range of courses to meet the needs of learners across a variety of industries and walks of life.

"We are excited to recognize this major milestone in our program's history and are creating new ways and greater opportunities to provide educational enrichment to a vast array of people who can benefit from our offerings," said Lisa Verma, Senior Director of Professional Development at LSU Online & Continuing Education. "For 100 years, we have been committed to providing accessible and flexible education options that empower individuals to reach their full potential and achieve their goals, and we believe the future will be even brighter."

LSU Executive Vice President and Provost Roy Haggerty also highlighted the importance of continuing education in advancing instruction and fostering workforce development. "Continuing education plays a crucial role in helping individuals stay competitive in the ever-evolving job market. LSU Online & Continuing Education has been instrumental in providing learners with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their careers while also improving lifestyle and personal wellbeing."

Haggerty also said the efforts of the university’s Online & Continuing Education division will be a point of emphasis as LSU enhances its focus on preparing people for jobs in many different industries, affirming its commitment to being a leader in the space.

One of the program's most popular courses, Fundamentals of Supervision, has been offered for 60 years and has helped countless individuals develop essential leadership skills. The course is taught by the program's longest-tenured professor, who has been with LSU Online & Continuing Education for 40 years.

Verma highlighted how LSU Online & Continuing Education offers myriad opportunities for an array of diverse audiences. Its Professional Development offerings allow participants to receive certificates and certifications in a variety of fields including behavioral sciences, accounting, auditing, business, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, digital marketing, sales and more.

The Online Distance Program allows students to earn college credits toward their degrees through virtual classes that can be completed in as little as four weeks while experiencing the same engaging content as those who attend in person. Participants do not have to be enrolled at LSU to take these classes, and credits earned may be transferred to degree programs at other colleges and universities. There is also a dedicated paralegal program to help prepare individuals, graduates and future law students with training that will help them be better prepared for careers in the law.

To advance education for middle and high school students, Verma said LSU Online & Continuing Education supports the Louisiana Science & Engineering Fair, working to help advance STEM education for the state’s next generations of science and technology leaders.

In addition, the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) offers a variety of classes and activities for adults 50 and older, such as Yoga, aquatic exercise, history and literature courses and field trips to cultural attractions, keeping senior populations active and engaged. There are OLLI chapters in Baton Rouge, St. Francisville and Slidell, and offerings are specialized within each.

To evolve with new technology and markets, LSU Online & Continuing Education is expanding its offerings into new and emerging fields. For example, Verma points five new certificate courses – four are online based – in legal medical cannabis education as Louisiana anticipates more than $400 million in legal cannabis sales by 2025, with LSU being one of two license holders in the state for the production of medical marijuana. “We are staying relevant by providing training to industries that are both well established and emerging,” Verma said.

To commemorate its centennial, LSU Online & Continuing Education will host a special event at the South Stadium Club at LSU Tiger Stadium on Thursday, May 23 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The event will feature appearances by special guests, including the university’s beloved mascot, Mike the Tiger.

For more information about LSU Online & Continuing Education and its centennial celebration, please visit the program's website at https://ce.lsu.edu/.

About LSU Online & Continuing Education

LSU Online & Continuing Education has been a pioneer in providing lifelong learning opportunities to individuals seeking to enhance their education and advance their careers. With a wide range of courses and programs, LSU Online & Continuing Education is committed to helping individuals reach their full potential and achieve their goals.