Office of Professional Education and Development

The Office of Professional Education and Development creates and curates training programs, seminars and certificate programs aimed at enhancing skills, knowledge, and competencies relevant to various fields. We collaborate with industry experts and academic institutions to ensure that the educational content is current and aligned with the latest trends and best practices.

By promoting lifelong learning, the office helps individuals stay competitive in their careers by offering certification programs and continuing education credits. Through these efforts, the office plays a vital role in promoting lifelong learning and professional excellence.

jessica zook headshot

Jessica Zook
Director, Office of Professional Education and Development
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (727) 562-7888

katie f everson

Katie Everson
Manager, Office of Professional Education and Development
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (727) 562-7848

Ann Telligence

Ann Telligence
Administrative Wordsmith
Email: [email protected]
Phone: Prefers email :)

The Office of Professional Education and Development offers courses including but not limited to:

Standalone Courses: A course that may be taken on its own, or as part of a certificate if one is offered. These courses offer flexibility, allowing participants to enroll without committing to a longer program, making them ideal for those looking to enhance their expertise, explore new interests, or gain practical skills in a short amount of time.

Certificate Programs: A non-credit/non-degree credential that focuses on specific skills or knowledge areas without the need for academic credit. These certificates are ideal for individuals seeking professional development, personal enrichment, or a deeper understanding of a specific subject area. Participants can benefit from the expertise and the resources of the institution while enhancing their personal and professional growth.

Graduate Certificate Programs: A non-credit/non-degree credential earned to gain specialized knowledge or enhance your skills within a certain field. These programs require submission of an application that must be reviewed and approved for admittance. Graduate Certificates are quicker and more affordable than traditional graduate programs and may be either accredited or non-accredited.

Professional Development Series: A collection of courses or workshops designed to enhance professional skills and knowledge without leading to a formal certificate. These series focus on practical, real-world applications and are often tailored to meet the needs of working professionals. Participants can choose from a variety of topics and skills to support their career growth and personal development. The flexible format allows individuals to learn at their own pace and apply new skills directly to their work environments.

Courses may be offered online, in-person, or in a hybrid format. Listings will be posted in Canvas Catalog as soon as they are available. You may also visit Credly to view any current digital credentials or badges available to earn.

Please, check back often for new course offerings and updates. Don't miss out on the latest opportunities to enhance your skills!

The Office of Professional Education and Development is eager to collaborate on innovative and thoughtful proposals for programs that enhance our educational offerings and recognize diverse skills and achievements. We invite educators, industry professionals, and thought leaders to partner with us in creating badge programs that align with current industry standards and anticipate future trends.

We encourage you to submit proposals detailing the skills and competencies to be recognized, the criteria for earning badges, and how these badges can be integrated into existing learning pathways. We are particularly interested in collaborations that promote lifelong learning and cross-disciplinary expertise.

Submit a Proposal

Who can benefit from taking these courses?

Our courses are ideal for a diverse range of individuals seeking to expand their knowledge and skills. Many courses are perfect for legal professionals looking to stay updated on the latest developments in their field. Additionally, business professionals, policymakers, and community leaders can benefit from these courses by gaining a deeper understanding of legal principles that impact their work. Lifelong learners with a passion for law and justice will also find these courses enriching and intellectually stimulating.

Depending on the course, you may be eligible to earn a digital badge upon successful completion.

What is a digital badge?

Digital badges are online representations of skills, achievements, or certifications. Each badge contains metadata that provides details about the issuer, the criteria for earning the badge, and evidence of the achievement. They can be showcased on platforms such as LinkedIn and serve as a modern way to visually and verifiably demonstrate one's accomplishments and skills. You can visit Credly to view our current badge programs.

Am I able to apply any courses towards a Law degree at Stetson University?

No. These courses do not carry academic credit and cannot be applied toward any degree programs at Stetson University College of Law. Participation in these courses will not result in a degree, alumni status, or earned academic credit at Stetson University or Stetson University College of Law, nor will it be recorded on their transcripts. Additionally, it does not guarantee admission to Stetson University, Stetson University College of Law, or any other institution.

How long is each course?

The length of each course and certificate program varies. Additional information may be found in the specific course listings, on Credly, and in Canvas Catalog.

Will I need to purchase any course materials?

Typically, no. Downloadable documents, forms, on-demand media, and other useful resources will be made available to all participants. Should materials need to be purchased separately, it will be noted in the course description.

Are there any discounts available?

Discounts may be offered for some courses. If so, details and contact information will be included in the course or certificate listing.

Is CLE credit offered for any courses?

Stetson may apply to the Florida Bar for CLE credit for applicable courses. While Stetson Law does not apply for or pay for CLE credits in states other than Florida, we will provide attorneys with the materials needed to apply for CLE credits in other states, when applicable. Attorneys should contact their state's Bar association with specific questions about obtaining CLE credits for these courses.

Can the insights from these courses be considered legal advice?

The information provided in these courses is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Stetson University College of Law disclaims all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the course content. For specific legal guidance, please consult a qualified attorney.

Are accommodations available if needed?

Stetson strives to provide a warm and welcoming environment for all our students, including those with disabilities. If you have a disability and believe you might need reasonable accommodation to fully participate in a program and services, please contact the Office of Professional Education at [email protected].

What is your cancellation/refund policy?

Stetson Cancellation: Should Stetson University College of Law find it necessary to cancel a course for any reason, we will attempt to notify the participants at least 24 hours in advance via phone and/or e-mail. In the event that a course is canceled by Stetson, a 100% refund will be processed for each registrant.

Attendee Cancellation: Stetson Law will issue a refund, less a $75 cancellation fee per course, for course cancellation requests received before 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time on the fourteenth (14) business day prior to the beginning of a course. Business days are Monday through Friday, excluding holidays. No refunds will be issued if you cancel within thirteen (13) business days of the course start date or at any time after a course begins. Once you access an online course, you are no longer eligible for a refund.

What's New?

Online Graduate Certificate: Tax and Elder Law

online tax certificate

The Center for Elder Justice appreciates that those who represent older clients need to have an understanding of various tax issues that are frequently encountered by older clients. Their Tax and Elder Law Graduate Certificate program divides those issues into four discrete courses that may be taken à la carte, or all together for the program certificate. This program is best suited for attorneys and financial advisors with at least three to five years of experience in the field and who do not have a Tax LLM degree.

Free and On-Demand: Disaster Recovery Series

disaster recovery series

The Office of Clinical and Experiential Education invites you to view their Disaster Recovery Series.  These sessions provide a comprehensive understanding of FEMA benefits, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and available assistance programs. Each session features expert insights, practical tips, and real-life examples to help you navigate and maximize these resources effectively.  While the information shared in these sessions is not legal advice, it provides valuable resources and insight regarding disaster support.