Lifelong Learning @ UNB
UNB College of Extended Learning

Continuing education units can empower learners to achieve their goals

Author: UNB College of Extended Learning

Posted on Apr 30, 2024

Category: Online Learning , Professional Development , Our Stories , News and Events


In today's rapidly evolving world, knowledge is power.

Adult learners, fuelled by a desire for self-improvement, career advancement, or simply a thirst for knowledge, are increasingly seeking opportunities to continue their education.

Post-secondary continuing education units, like the College of Extended Learning (CEL) in Fredericton, are well-positioned to empower learners to achieve their goals.

CEL is the lifelong learning outreach arm of the University of New Brunswick (UNB). It brings expertise and knowledge to adult learners throughout the province and beyond to deliver the programs they need to complete a degree, increase work skills and enhance their lives with special interest learning.

“Continuing Ed (CE) units are responsive to markets to the point that we’re continually looking to see into their futures and react accordingly. We need to make sure we’re staying on top of what people are seeking. What can people do for fun versus what can engage their brains and make it applicable to their work situation? CE units have the pulse on what the population is looking for much more than traditional faculties do.” says Ian Allen, CEL Executive Director.

CEL is committed to offering a diverse range of quality, relevant courses and programs, along with customized training solutions, and services that support adult learners in their quest for personal and professional growth.

“The work our unit does is very broad,” says Allen. “We offer everything from online learning to professional development to English language training.”

Flexible Learning Options

Flexibility and convenience are paramount to enable adult learners to tailor their education to fit their lifestyle, thus allowing them to balance work, family and education seamlessly. CEL offers a variety of flexible learning options, such as multiple modes of course delivery; part-time programs; and evening, weekend and self-paced courses.

Diverse Programming

It’s all about choice. CEL boasts an extensive range of offerings designed to meet the needs and interests of adult learners. From credit courses and specialized certificate programs to non-credit professional development seminars and leisure learning workshops, learners can find a path that aligns with their career goals and personal interests.

Adult Learner Support

Going back to school can be daunting for adult learners who may have been out of the proverbial classroom for some time. CEL offers a variety of supports to assist with the transition back to the learning environment, including prior learning assessment, scholarships and bursaries for part-time students, and a team of academic advisors, program officers and customer service representatives who are ready to offer guidance and answer questions every step of the way.

By providing accessible and innovative learning experiences, continuing education units like CEL are transforming the lives of adult learners and empowering them to thrive in an ever-changing society.

For more information about UNB’s College of Extended Learning, visit unb.ca/cel.