NC State Continuing and Lifelong Education is the gateway to lifelong learning at NC State University — providing programs, services, conference facilities and community initiatives that empower individuals, organizations and communities throughout their lifelong learning journey.

The Office of Professional Development (OPD) at NC State University is a unit within Continuing and Lifelong Education dedicated to the design and delivery of high-quality non-degree professional learning experiences. OPD provides flexible, accessible and affordable noncredit programs — seminars, certificates, workshops and short courses — that help individuals advance their careers, expand their skill sets and meet industry-driven needs. OPD also provides conference management services for seminars, workshops and conferences that serve both campus and external communities.

Program and Subject Areas

Current OPD programs and activities span a wide range of professional and continuing education areas, including but not limited to:

• Leadership and Management Development, including leadership coaching, team building and organizational performance
• ​Project Management and related certificate programs
• Notary Public and E-Notary Certification
• AI and Technology-Focused Courses (e.g., AI Prompt Engineering)
• Construction Management and Engineering-Related Training
• Excel, Power BI and Business Analytics Tools
• Professional Caddie Certification and sport-related professional programs
• Specialized Short Courses and Exam Preparation, such as PMP® prep and industry-oriented professional courses

Customized Training Services

In addition to open-enrollment programs, OPD partners with industries and organizations to develop and deliver customized training solutions that align with specific workforce and organizational goals. These services help employers build tailored learning experiences that support internal professional development and performance outcomes. 

Jane S. McKimmon Conference and Training Center 

The McKimmon Conference and Training Center at NC State University is a premier facility dedicated to hosting a wide range of educational events, from conferences and workshops to training sessions and seminars. The McKimmon Conference and Training Center also hosts campus events, including the Engineering and Poole College of Management career fairs and departmental commencement ceremonies.

Mark Bernhard
Vice Provost, Continuing and Lifelong Education

Scott O'Leary
Director of Strategic Projects

Savannah Vince
Associate Director, Continuing and Professional Education
Phone: (919) 515-8179
Email: ContinuingEducation@ncsu.edu