Center for Professional Studies

some bushes next to the campus science building

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.

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Courses and Workshops

Online | May 23 - June 6, 2023

Using Artificial Intelligence: ChatGPT and Emerging Technologies to Enhance Learning

This course will focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), ChatGPT and emerging technologies impact on education.
Read more about: Using Artificial Intelligence: ChatGPT and Emerging Technologies to Enhance Learning
Online | Starting May 2, 2023

Getting Started: Canva for Education

Canva for Education is a powerful design tool, allowing teachers and students to create visually stunning designs for any subject or age level. This course will help participants get started with exploring several key features of Canva for Education - focusing on student engagement strategies.
Read more about: Getting Started: Canva for Education
100% Online | Feb. 27 - May 26, 2023

Differentiated Instruction for Students with Disabilities in the Vocational Classroom

This is a practical approach to planning instruction for special needs students in the high school vocational classroom.
Read more about: Differentiated Instruction for Students with Disabilities in the Vocational Classroom
Online | March and August 2023

Wilson Reading System® Introductory Course

This 16.5 hour introductory course provides participants with an overview of the Wilson Reading System® (WRS) and serves as the prerequisite for the WRS Level I Certification Training. 
Read more about: Wilson Reading System® Introductory Course
Summer 2023 | Week 1: July 17-21, 2023 | Week 2: July 24-28, 2023

Advanced Placement Summer Institutes (APSI)

The AP Summer Teacher Training Institutes are designed to support all aspects of AP courses, including AP methodology, curriculum, class assignments and examinations as well as providing strategies for teaching AP courses.
Read more about: Advanced Placement Summer Institutes (APSI)
Online | Begins Sept. 27, 2023

Wilson Reading System® Level 1 Certification

This online course presents, in detail, the multisensory structured language (MSL) instruction that is required for teaching students in grade two and beyond with significant world-level deficits.
Read more about: Wilson Reading System® Level 1 Certification
100% Online | Summer 2023

Production Technology Certificate

The Production Technology Certificate program provides foundational knowledge and skills needed to work and advance in the manufacturing industry.
Read more about: Production Technology Certificate
100% Online | Spring 2024

Supporting LGBTQIA and Gender Diverse Students in the K-12 Environment

An introduction into the challenges that Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual (LGBTQIA+) students face in schools on a daily basis. By understanding terminology, historical context, and the preconceived notions we ourselves carry about the LGBTQIA+ community, we can begin to creating intentional, inclusive, and supportive learning environments.
Read more about: Supporting LGBTQIA and Gender Diverse Students in the K-12 Environment

Ongoing Programs

Online | Hybrid

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.

Ongoing | Online

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. 

Ongoing | Online

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

      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.

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      Visit Us

      Fitchburg State University Center for Professional Studies on Main St outside view

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      Hours: Monday - Friday, from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.