Credit Language
EN 7: Continuing Education – version 3.0
Indicators
- 7.1. Continuing education offerings in sustainability
Questions & Answers
How has this credit changed between STARS Version 2 and Version 3?
- A detailed inventory covering all continuing education courses offered is no longer required.
- Certificate programs are now more explicitly recognized in AC 3: Undergraduate Program and AC 4: Graduate Program.
- This credit is now applicable to all institutions.
- A comprehensive list of differences can be found in the STARS 3.0 Summary of changes.
What’s the difference between continuing education courses and standard courses?
The courses claimed in this credit must apply to community members and others that are not degree seeking. Recognition for sustainability courses and programs is provided under the Academic section.
Must continuing education programs be available to the general public to count?
Yes, continuing education programs must be available to the general public to count (not just faculty/staff/students/alumni).
Can sustainability-focused community events qualify under this credit as continuing education?
No. This credit focuses on non-credit courses and education programs that train community members and help build knowledge about particular subjects. Examples include non-degree career training, workforce training, credential maintenance courses, formal personal enrichment courses, self-directed learning and experiential learning (on and off campus).
Suggestions for Institutions
- Work with your institution’s extension office, continuing education office, or similar to identify and reference continuing education opportunities that address sustainability.
Example Responses
Potential Data Quality Issues
- This credit applies to non-credit courses and education programs that train community members and help build knowledge about particular subjects. Typical courses or programs designed for degree seeking students should not be included (they are recognized under the Curriculum section).
- In order to earn full points, there must be an indication of one or more continuing education courses or programs that have a primary and explicit focus on the integrated concept of sustainability or the interdependence of ecological and social/cultural/economic systems.