Our courses, workshops and institutes provide an array of professional development opportunities including ways to earn PDPs (DESE-approved), graduate credit, and undergraduate credit.
We also collaborate with the School of Graduate, Online and Continuing Education, local organizations, and businesses to offer a variety of programs for professionals looking to grow through a certificate or degree program.
Courses and Workshops
Using Artificial Intelligence: ChatGPT and Emerging Technologies to Enhance Learning
Getting Started: Canva for Education
Differentiated Instruction for Students with Disabilities in the Vocational Classroom
Wilson Reading System® Introductory Course
Advanced Placement Summer Institutes (APSI)
Wilson Reading System® Level 1 Certification
Production Technology Certificate
Supporting LGBTQIA and Gender Diverse Students in the K-12 Environment
Ongoing Programs
MTEL Prep Workshops
Are you feeling overwhelmed and not sure where to focus your study time for the MTELs? Try one of our MTEL Preparation Workshops. They are conveniently offered in the evenings and on weekends to accommodate life’s busy schedule.
Courses for Equity and Social Change
From social justice webinars to cultural competency for educators and more, these courses are dedicated to providing a deeper understanding of modern social issues.
Professional Development and Certificates
Programs for learners looking to advance in their current positions, explore career alternatives, earn a professional certification, or enhance their knowledge in their area of interest
ALFA
ALFA (Adult Learning in the Fitchburg Area) is a lifelong learning institute that serves adult learners in Fitchburg and the surrounding communities.
Community Music Program
The Community Music Program offers year-round programs (individual and group lessons, cello choir, chamber music fest) to the public.
Wilson Language Training
Ongoing offerings for Wilson Language Training.
Additional Resources
All information for courses that have started can be accessed above in the In this Section under Center for Professional Studies.
Sheltered English Immersion for Career and Vocational Teacher Endorsement Hybrid | Feb. 7, 2023 - May 30, 2023 This course prepares teachers with the knowledge and skills to effectively shelter their content instruction for English learners.
Deadlines for Course Submissions
Instructors interested in teaching a course through the Center for Professional
Studies should submit completed request forms and appropriate accompanying paperwork by the following deadlines.
- Repeat courses previously approved by Fitchburg State University - Four weeks prior to the first class
- New courses requesting credit for the first time - Six weeks prior to the first class
Faculty Forms
- Course Request Form (PDF)
- Course Level and Assignment Criteria (PDF)
- Rubric for Evaluating Course Syllabi (MS Word)
- Syllabus Guidelines for Educator Courses (MS Word)
- CPS Policies and Procedures (PDF)
- Faculty Pool Forms (PDF)
Refund Policy
| Withdrawal Date | Refund |
| One week prior to the first class meeting | 100% |
| Less than one week prior to the first class meeting | 50% |
| After the start of the class | 0% |
Refunds are not issued after the start of the class for special-scheduled courses. To determine the refund amount due, the official date of the withdrawal is the date on which the Center for Professional Studies is contacted. In the event that a class is canceled by the University, a full refund of tuition and fees is granted.
The Center for Professional Studies (CPS) has offered professional development to working professionals for over a decade, collaborating with school districts, businesses and other professional groups on continuing educational needs.
Fitchburg State University believes that excellence in education practice must be supported beyond the conferring of degrees or professional licensure. As such, the CPS is a key element of the University's total strategy, providing educational opportunities to working professionals during the critical years of induction into their profession and throughout their career.
