Frequently Asked Questions- FAQs

What is a professional development course? 

Professional development courses are courses that help increase your knowledge in a specific subject area to boost your resume, renew your license, help you in your job, increase your marketability, prepare for a certification or for general interest. These courses do not apply toward a degree.

Why should I take a professional development course?

The professional development courses we offer will increase your skill level, expertise, marketability, prepare for certifications and assist in exploring or preparing for a career change. All courses are equipped with the most recent and up to date subject matter and information.

Who can participate in Professional Development courses?

Professional development courses are open enrollment. However, some courses may require or suggest prerequisites. Review the course information prior to registering to be sure you are able to meet the demands of the course. Feel free to reach out with questions.

Can I apply this training toward my degree?

No. Professional development courses are non-credit classes.

How do I enroll in courses?

You may enroll online or over the phone. We encourage you to register a minimum of (7) seven business days prior to the course to guarantee materials are available for the first day of class. Click on the course of your choice to see more information regarding enrollment 

How do I get more information on a course?

Click on the course link for a detailed course description including start dates. You can call 216-687-6957 or email prodev.business@csuohio.edu for additional information. 

What if the class I want is not listed?

Call 216-687-6957 email prodev.business@csuohio.edu and let us know what you're looking for so we can better assist you.

When is my payment due?

All payments are to be paid in full before the first day of class. To make a payment you can pay at initial registration or call 216-687-6957. 

What forms of payment do you accept?

• Credit Card
• Company Purchase order
• Staff development: This is offered to all CSU Faculty & Staff who meet HR requirements. In order to use your Staff development benefit, please complete the form and send it to prodev.business@csuohio.edu
  • For more information on the Staff Development Benefit click here

Can my company pay for my class?

Yes. We can invoice your company or they can use a company credit card to pay for the class. However, all payments must be received before the first day of class. If the course is a custom training course for a corporation, terms are 50% up front and the remaining balance is due upon completion.

Can I pay by installments?

Yes, however you must have the course paid in full before the first day of class. To pay by installments, call 216-687-6957.

Is there financial aid available?

No. However, there are several websites you can visit that offer scholarships. Additionally, some employers will pay for your course(s). Check with your Human Resources department.

Can I use my FAFSA money for a Professional Development course?

No. FAFSA aid can only be used for degree seeking courses (credit courses).

What is open enrollment?

Open enrollment means that registration is open to everyone. There are no restrictions or requirements.

Can I get continuing education or professional development units for these courses?

Yes. Our professional development courses offer CEU credit. They DO NOT offer academic credit.

What do I get at the completion of the course?

• Online Skill Building Courses- you will have the option to request a digital Certificate of Completion.
• In-person Skill Building Courses- you will receive a Certificate of Completion sent to the email provided at registration.
• Online and In-Person Career Training Courses- you will receive a Certificate of Completion sent to the email provided at registration

What is the role of the Centers for Outreach and Engagement?

The Outreach & Engagement Centers of the Monte Ahuja College of Business advocate for practitioner-focused business programming as a key factor in economic success.  The Centers are well regarded for their strategic development and delivery of programs that address current needs and future challenges.  The Centers partner with the Northeast Ohio business community, government agencies, and academic institutions worldwide to deliver courses, seminars, research, and other outreach initiatives. You can learn more here.

Is there a registration deadline?

Each course has a registration deadline. Generally, registration deadlines are made one week (7 business days) before the start of the class. However, we suggest that you register early to guarantee your seat and course materials for the first day of class.

When are classes cancelled?

Classes that do not meet the minimum enrollment numbers prior to 5 business days of the start date of the course will either be rescheduled to an alternative date or cancelled.

If the course is cancelled will I receive a refund?

If a course is cancelled due to low enrollment and/or rescheduled to a different date that is inconvenient for you, a full refund of the course fees will be issued.

What is your refund policy?

• For in-person courses, registrants who cancel will receive a refund if we receive written notification a minimum of 10 business days prior to the first day of class. No refunds will be issued if notification is not received 10 business days prior to the first day of class or event; this included Staff Development Benefits as well.
• For online courses, please review the FAQs and refund information provided in the course description.

Are there any discounts?

Discounts are made available to all CSU Alumni and active duty service members and veterans for our in-person courses.

How can I contact you?

• Call 216-687-6957
• Email prodev.business@csuohio.edu
• Stop by: Monte Ahuja College of Business, BU 328