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Continuing education (CE)

In this article:.

• Access online and in-person CE for veterinarians and veterinary teams.
• Learn about AVMA’s digital education center, AVMA Axon.
• Find information about upcoming live webinars.

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Training for veterinary educators

AVMA’s Train the Trainer workshop empowers veterinary professionals to become educators in communication skills that support workplace wellbeing. Learn valuable strategies and come away with the confidence and skills to pass your expertise on to others.

Continuing education is critical for veterinary professionals looking to stay at the forefront. New techniques, research, and trends emerge constantly, and we look for CE that is relevant, convenient, and practical. We don't just want to learn—We want ways to incorporate this learning into our daily lives. That's how we meet our personal and professional goals.

The AVMA has you covered, whether you're a veterinarian, technician, practice manager, or other team member . In addition to the high-quality CE you rely on at AVMA Convention and other AVMA meetings, our digital education center AVMA Axon ® takes online learning to a new level.

AVMA Axon® provides a full library of convenient, easy-to-use CE courses with a promise that you'll find ways to apply your learning immediately.

Courses on AVMA Axon® transform learning into activity—by incorporating "Axon actions" you can implement after completing each course. Axon Actions cement your learning and help you apply it to achieve your goals.

AVMA Axon® helps you transform knowledge and information into new behaviors that make a real impact in your life and the lives of your patients.

With 24/7 access to on-demand courses and recorded podcasts, and a calendar of live webinars to choose from, you're guaranteed high-quality content whenever and wherever you decide.

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on-demand webinars

Explore critical and timely topics taught by veterinary leaders on topics that matter most to you. All CE courses are free or discounted for AVMA members. Browse these categories: Agile pioneers Best of AVMA Convention and events Business, finance, and economics Career development Diversity, equity, and inclusion Leadership One Health Policy and practice Wellbeing

Certificate programs

Our multi-module certificate programs offer a robust and interactive learning experience for all veterinary team members. Complete the modules individually or as a unit, earning an AVMA certificate of completion. Certificate programs are free for AVMA members.

Workplace wellbeing 1: Setting the foundation 5.0 hours CE credit

Wellbeing within the workplace is key to individual and organizational productivity, engagement, satisfaction, and overall health. This certificate program empowers everyone on the veterinary team with the knowledge and skills to create a culture of wellbeing in your veterinary workplace.  Made possible by an educational grant from Merck Animal Health.

Workplace wellbeing 2: Self and social awareness 3.0 hours CE credit

Take a deep dive into three areas central to workplace wellbeing: self-awareness, social awareness, and conflict management. Building on key information and skills covered in “Workplace Wellbeing 1: Setting the Foundation,” participants will come away with powerful new strategies to bring your organization to the next level of workplace wellbeing.  Made possible by an educational grant from Merck Animal Health

Brave Space Certificate Program 7.0 hours CE credit

Veterinarians and our teams must be able to meet the needs of all people, regardless of differences in race, sex, gender, ability, or any other lived experience. Learn how to make your practice a Brave Space—one in which everyone is seen and valued, from team members, to patients and clients, to the communities we serve.  Created in collaboration with founding educational partner, Pride Veterinary Medical Community (PrideVMC), and made possible by an educational grant from Royal Canin.

Veterinary First Responder Certificate Program

This certificate program ensures participants have the knowledge and skills to respond efficiently and effectively to disasters. Participants choose among pre-approved courses to satisfy eight core competencies and demonstrate mastery to serve as veterinary first responders in emergencies and disaster situations.  Made possible in part through educational funding from the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF).

Disaster Business Continuity Certificate Program 3.0 hours CE credit

Continuity planning and preparedness are key to business survival. AVMA’s Disaster Business Continuity Certificate Program teaches participants how to create and implement a plan to prepare your business for—and minimize the impact of—emergencies and disasters.

Meetings and events

AVMA's conferences and topical symposiums are unrivaled venues for learning and networking. These include:

• AVMA Convention : Our flagship conference held every summer brings together thousands of veterinarians from across the country for five full days of education taught by the best and brightest in veterinary medicine.
• Veterinary Leadership Conference (VLC) : Three days of networking and workshops empower current and emerging leaders to hone leadership skills and learn about the inner workings of policy development at the AVMA.
• Symposiums and summits : Topical events bring together experts and thought leaders from across the veterinary profession to examine critical, timely issues.

Welcome to VIN® and VSPN™ CE!

Look no further for the best, most comprehensive online CE courses taught by world-class instructors. Whether you're a veterinarian, veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, office manager, or practice owner, you can find the CE you need.

Most VIN and VSPN courses are approved by AAVSB RACE ** which is the national clearinghouse for the approval of continuing education providers and their programs (check individual course for RACE status).

Best of all, it is online – get your CE credits from the comfort of your home!!

Take a look at our course catalogs:

Now, relax, kick back and login to take a course!

**Note: VIN and VSPN courses are approved for continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize American Association of Veterinary State Boards' (AAVSB) Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) and in selected other states. However, participants should be aware that some boards have limitations on the number of hours accepted in certain categories. Participants are encouraged to check with their licensing jurisdictions if they have any questions regarding recognition by their board.

**COVID-19 State Updates for CE Requirements

Want to learn more about Veterinary Information Network and Veterinary Support Personnel Network ?

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Upcoming Class Info

Classes open for enrollment.

Note: VIN and VSPN courses are approved for continuing education credit in jurisdictions that recognize American Association of Veterinary State Boards' (AAVSB) Registry of Approved Continuing Education ( RACE ) and in selected other states. However participants should be aware that some boards have limitations on the number of hours accepted in certain categories. Participants are encouraged to check with their licensing jurisdictions if they have any questions regarding recognition by their board.

Earn practical veterinary continuing education online—and at your own pace. These online veterinary CE options are RACE-approved and designed for your busy schedule. Start a course today, finish it whenever.

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The Brachycephalic Dog

Management of the airway, a 4-week interactive course for veterinarians, eligible for 20 structured cpd points, pawfect beginnings, 2024 new graduates' symposium, 6 speakers | 6 lectures, 6 structured cpd points | race-approved, advanced anaesthesia, in small animal practice, a 3-week interactive course for vet nurses and techs, 15 hours structured cpd points, preparation courses, — anywhere, anytime, join our global veterinary community, upcoming online veterinary ce.

Vet Education provides the highest quality online continuing education to veterinarians, veterinary nurses/technicians, and support staff. All courses and webinars are RACE-accredited and count for CPD points globally!

Online Toxicology Symposium 2024

3 CPD Hours | 3 Speakers

March 20-22, 2024

The Brachycephalic Dog – Management of the Airway

A 4-Week Online Course Starts April 8, 2024

Advanced Anaesthesia in Small Animal Practice

3-Week Online Course Starts May 13, 2024

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With Vet Education, you can get an opportunity to learn at your own pace from the comfort of your couch. Here’s what some of our members and students have to say!

Recently Added Lecture Recordings to the Vet Education Webinar Library

All webinars and conference lectures are recorded – so if you miss an event, you’ll be able to catch up and view the recording in our extensive webinar library. To view all lectures in our library, become a Webinar Member now!

Emergency Management of Open Fractures

Management of Acute Heat Stress in Dogs

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Latest Veterinary Blogs & Podcasts

Vet Synapse 2024 – Oxygen Therapy – How Much is Toxic..

Vet Synapse 2024 – Hypoadrenocorticism and Zycortal with Dechra Veterinary Products

A Call To Life with Dr Sonja Olson – Chapter 2

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2023 Guide to Online Vet Tech RACE-Approved Continuing Education (CE) Credits

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Outside of the requirements for their original credentials, most veterinary technicians need to complete a specified number of continuing education hours to keep their credentials. Most states (except for five and the District of Columbia) require continuing education credits with every license renewal, but the number of credits varies between states.

For example, both Iowa and Washington require 30 hours of continuing education every three years, while Arkansas requires six hours annually. Florida will not renew credentials unless the vet tech has completed 15 hours of continuing education every year, and Kentucky asks for six hours for their biannual renewals.

It is important that students enroll in programs that have received the proper accreditation. The Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE) is a program offered by the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB) that ensures uniform standards across veterinary medicine continuing education providers and programs. The RACE program reviews and approves programs but does not “accredit” them. However, the American Veterinary Medical Association’s (AVMA) Committee on Veterinary Technician Education and Activities (CVTEA) gives accreditation to providers of continuing education programs for animal technicians.

Most state regulatory boards accept RACE-approved and CVTEA-accredited continuing education credits. However, continuing education acceptance is not standardized. States reserve the right to refuse credits from certain classes or providers. Students are advised to confirm that their state will accept credits before registering for any program.

Providers of Online Vet Techs Continuing Education

IDEXX Learning Center

The IDEXX Learning Center offers more than a dozen courses in online webinar format. The courses are all available online and in English or Spanish. Although each course indicates a fee, the RACE-approved courses are currently complimentary. Students receive one credit per hour of coursework.

IDEXX offers a series of courses ranging from “New insights into the modulation of the intestinal microbiome in cats” to “An Update On Feline Chronic Enteropathy” taught by leading veterinary professionals.

North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine

North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine ranks as one of the top veterinary educational programs in North America and currently offers online continuing education courses in avian pathology, K9 down, certified canine strength and conditioning coach (CSCC), and certified companion animal therapist (CCAT) program.

The avian pathology course consists of several levels of coursework, each with a different price and period of accessibility. These courses are available to take at any time and can be purchased instantly and range from $500 to $1,200 depending on the number of units purchased. Members of the American Association of Avian Pathologists (AAAP) can take the courses at a discounted rate.

The K9 down series is a highly-specialized program for professional dog handlers and emergency response personnel such as police officers and search and rescue teams. This hybrid course includes an extensive list of online lecture topics combined with an in-person skills laboratory. The cost is $200 per person or $150 per person for groups of three or more.

Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

Purdue’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers four categories of online continuing education courses: all species, small and exotic animals, food and large animals, and industry veterinarians. Each category includes more than a dozen subjects, each costing $40 for each credit hour earned.

The College of Veterinary Medicine is CVTEA-accredited, and the courses are offered through the World Veterinary Association (WVA). As well, Purdue University offers certificates for diversity and inclusion in veterinary medicine.

Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine (Advanced)

Tufts University’s veterinary school offers two online courses: dentistry and exotics. These courses are led by doctors of veterinary medicine (DVMs).

The clinical dentistry course is intensive in nature and will earn students up to six continuing education credits. Courses include dental and oral anatomy review/talking to clients about dentistry; periodontal disease: diagnosis and treatment; feline dentistry/endodontic disease; malocclusion treatment; advances in oral radiology for the general practitioner; and guided bone regeneration for small animal practitioners.

The exotics course also earns students six hours of continuing education credits. Courses include small mammal respiratory emergencies; avian gastrointestinal emergencies; small mammal gastrointestinal emergencies; reptile respiratory emergencies; avian emergencies; and reptile gastrointestinal emergencies. Like the dentistry course, this exotics course is led by DVMs with specializations in exotic animals.

Tufts periodically offers additional online intensive learning experiences in small animal anesthesia, treating chronic pain in small animals, and small animal behavior.

Veterinary Support Personnel Network

The Veterinary Support Personnel Network (VSPN) offers several online courses—all of which are RACE-approved. Each course is self-paced and there is no interaction between the student and the instructor. Tuition and continuing education credits vary according to the course material.

Fees range from $16 for a one-credit course to $138 for a six-credit course. Students must be a member of the Veterinary Information Network (VIN) or VSPN to enroll. VSPN membership is free for veterinary support staff working in the field of veterinary medicine under the direction of a licensed veterinarian.

VetBloom offers almost 100 mobile and on-demand RACE-approved courses in their clinical category. The courses are presented as one-hour video lectures and PowerPoint presentations, but students do have the opportunity to submit questions to the instructor. Some courses are complementary and others are priced at $50. Each course counts a minimum of one hour of continuing education credit.

This subscription-based podcast and webinar service offers webinars that students can attend in real-time or watch later. New podcasts and webinars are added regularly with the most recent one titled: “Safety First”–Tips to Improve Anesthetic Patient Care in Your Hospital. VETgirl’s CE content is RACE-approved and approved as a New York State sponsor of continuing education for veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Florida, Louisiana, and North Carolina. As well, two states in Australia and the UK also recognize VETgirl as a CE provider.

Continuing education credit varies from 0.5 to 2.0 per hour, depending on the course. Elite VETgirl members receive 100 credits and membership is $269 per year. Some courses are sponsored by vendors such as Vetrix and are complimentary for all students.

The VetMedTeam course catalog offers dozens of online courses for vet techs. The courses are RACE-approved and students receive continuing education credits based on the duration.

Enrollment and start times are on-demand, allowing students to take a course at a time that fits their schedule. Once a course is started, students are expected to meet the deadline for each lesson. Most courses require an exam to earn a certificate of completion. Students are responsible for purchasing the required textbooks at their own expense. Courses vary in length of time to complete and price and students who enroll in three or more courses at the same time are eligible for a 10 percent discount. VetMedTeam also offers some free RACE- and VHMA-approved courses.

Pet Poison Helpline

The Pet Poison Helpline offers free continuing education credits for vet techs through a series of live and previously recorded webinars. Featuring specialized courses in toxicology, most courses are worth one hour of continuing education credit and are approved by RACE and the New York State Education Department (NYSED).

Additional webinar course categories include business, self-care, and zoonoses and participants can find a course that works for them by searching for a particular date or featured speaker. Webinars are typically offered from 12:00 to 1:00 PM (CT) and presentation slides are made available to pre-registered participants. Certificates of completion are mailed within 24 hours to those who take the post-test and pass it with a score of 70 percent or higher.

American Animal Hospital Association

Known as the leading professional and accreditation organization for veterinary professionals, the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) offers free distance learning opportunities and seminars for its members. Members receive a complimentary AAHA Learning subscription in their benefits package, which includes more than 50 hours of non-sponsored RACE-approved technical continuing education courses for veterinary techs.

Through an easy-to-use, mobile-friendly interface, AAHA members can keep track of their learning through their online accounts. AAHA members have the option to subscribe to 200 additional courses for $6 per month, which gains them access to virtual simulations, podcasts, and webinars on a variety of veterinary topics.

Membership also includes discounts on certification courses such as animal hospice and palliative care certification (six CE hours) and a diabetes educator certificate (four CE hours). AAHA membership is free for current vet tech students.

Large Animal Consulting & Education

Vet techs working with larger animals such as cattle, sheep, goats, llamas, camels, and pigs benefit from the relevant wealth of continuing education courses offered by Large Animal Consulting & Education.

Each CE course provides one hour of RACE-approved continuing education for vets and vet techs. Courses are divided into three categories: camelids, cattle, and sheep and goats. Most courses cost $37.50 and the content ranges from neonatal care of lambs and kids to heat stress mitigation in camelids (free). Large Animal Consulting & Education features the work of practicing large animal veterinarians and faculty member Dr. Meredyth Jones—an award-winning educator in the field of veterinary techniques.

Rachel is a freelance writer, educator, and yogini from Oregon. She’s taught English to international university students in the United States and Japan for more than a decade and has a master’s degree in education from the University of Oregon. A dedicated Ashtanga yoga practitioner, Rachel is interested in exploring the nuanced philosophical aspects of contemplative physical practices and how they apply in daily life. She writes about this topic among others on her blog (Instagram: @racheldrummondyoga).

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Welcome to AVMA Axon ® , your one-stop source for digital education. 

Here, you’ll find a growing library of convenient, easy-to-use veterinary CE courses with a promise that you’ll be able to transform your learning into action immediately. You can browse our catalog of live and on-demand webinars and podcasts below, or search to find a particular topic of interest. No matter what, you’re guaranteed high-quality content for the whole team delivered by veterinarians and leading experts in the field. 

Remember to check back often, because we’ll be adding new programs and courses every month. We invite you to take the next step on your learning journey today!

Browse all webinars

View our full library of on-demand webinars on topics ranging from veterinary practice, to research, to personal enrichment.

Partnerships

Take advantage of specialized learning opportunities developed by the AVMA in partnership with other organizations.

Certificate Programs

Dive into a robust and interactive learning experience with AVMA’s multi-module certificate programs.

Agile Pioneers

Learn best practices, get tips for success, and discover novel practice models for the independent veterinarian.

Best of AVMA Convention & Events CE

Catch the most popular CE sessions from AVMA’s in-person events, including AVMA Convention, the Veterinary Leadership Conference, and more.

Career Development

Cultivate skills and knowledge that will help you advance in your career.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Creating more diverse and inclusive workplaces is a business imperative for the whole veterinary team.

Business, Finance, and Economics

Learn strategies and practical tactics to maximize your financial health and make more informed business decisions.

Hone leadership skills and learn how to use them to influence individual and collective action.

Deepen your understanding of One Health and the important role veterinary professionals play in it.

Policy and Practice

Learn how to use AVMA policies to enhance your daily practice and navigate complex issues.

Live your healthiest and most fulfilled life at work and at home, and encourage colleagues and loved ones do the same.

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Routine and emergency care.

Companion Animal Hospital in Ithaca, NY for cats, dogs, exotics, and wildlife

Equine and Nemo Farm Animal Hospitals in Ithaca, NY for horses and farm animals

Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists, on Long Island for every horse

Ambulatory and Production Medicine for service on farms within 30 miles of Ithaca, NY

Animal Health Diagnostic Center New York State Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory

General Information

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine Ithaca, New York 14853-6401

In this section :

Educational support services.

• Internal Grants
• Veterinary Dentistry Diagnostics Program
• Grant Recipients

Continuing Education

In addition to developing online courses and programs for veterinary professionals, the Educational Support Services team at the College of Veterinary Medicine also hosts accredited continuing education events for licensed veterinarians and veterinary technicians.

Online courses

Taught by world-class Cornell faculty, our online courses feature high-quality medical illustrations, videos and interactives to bring scientific knowledge and topics to life.

Individual and bulk sales

Online courses are available as individual or bulk sales. For individual sales, follow the links below to the course you are interested in. To discuss bulk sales or learn how our team can create a custom plan for you, contact [email protected] .

The Veterinary Dentistry Diagnostic Program

Basic and advanced life support certification

Ce & race accreditation.

Our continuing education programming is entirely RACE-certified. If you would like assistance with the RACE application and reporting process, please let us know.

It is important that all practicing veterinarians and veterinary technicians take advantage of continuing education. It is not only an important part of your lifelong learning, but also a requirement for maintaining your licensure.

Cornell Continuing Education follows accreditation regulations according to:

New York State Continuing Education Law

Registry of Approved Continuing Education (RACE)

Event planning and support

Our team also provides project management, event planning and marketing support for internal and external conferences, seminars, signature events and consultation services for various events at the College of Veterinary Medicine and in partnership with departments and organizations affiliated with Cornell.

Our annual staple events are the Fred Scott Feline Symposium, co-hosted with the Cornell Feline Health Center, and the New York State Veterinary Conference, co-hosted with the New York State Veterinary Medical Society. We provide planning services for other major annual events, such as the Cornell Animal Health Hackathon and the veterinary services component of the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show.

Our goal is to help organizers meet events goals and ensure a fun, memorable and successful event. If you'd like to work with our team to plan yours, please reach out via email  or view our contact page.

Upcoming events

Our events are primarily held in beautiful Ithaca, New York, on Cornell's state-of-the-art campus, and we are known for providing interactive learning opportunities rooted in pedagogical theory.

Symposium on Artificial Intelligence in Veterinary Medicine

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Online Continuing Education Courses

As an authorized provider of Continuing Education for Veterinarians and Veterinary Nurses/Technicians, courses offered through PVM have rich quality and online convenience.

Purdue Veterinary Medicine is an authorized provider of Continuing Education (CE) for Veterinarians and Veterinary Technicians. Courses are offered through the World Veterinary Association (WVA) and hosted by the World Continuing Education Alliance (WCEA).

Participants must take a quiz after each online presentation in order to obtain CE credits. Once a participant has received a score of 80% or better on the quiz, they can print a certificate with the number of hours of continuing education credit received from Purdue Veterinary Medicine. Participants can take each quiz up to 3 times. Course fees are $40 for each 1 CE credit course.

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3 cheers for the Stifle Lateral Sutures TPLOs and TTA

This session will discuss the most common stifle injury in the canine patient, a cranial cruciate ligament tear (CCL). There are several signs and symptoms that follow the rupture of the CCL. Veterinarians have several surgical options at their dis...

Analyses and Statistical Significance

This presentation discusses data types, hypothesis testing, statistical methods and understanding p-values in biomedical literature.

Ascarids of Dog and Cats

Ascarids are among the most common parasites seen in dogs and cats, especially in puppies and kittens. This presentation presents basic life cycle information as well as clinical aspects of infection, diagnosis, treatment and control and any potenti...

Avian Theriogenology and Obstetrics

Birds have unique reproductive systems that are frequently the target of medical conditions. A strong knowledge of the anatomy, physiology, and a logical approach to management can help resolve many of these problems.

Clinical Applications of Antiparasitic Drugs - Part I The Avermectins

This presentation introduces the concepts related to the largest class of antiparasitic drugs, the avermectins. In addition to reviewing the mechanisms of action, the mechanism of toxicity, and applications of this drug class, the presentation also d...

Consultation with Large Production Systems

Opportunities and challenges in working in and with large swine production systems will be explored. Personal experiences with personnel, pigs, and management will be discussed.

• Diagnostics/testing

Critiquing Scientific Literature (or) How to Study a Study

This presentation discusses the importance and impact of study design, systematic error, random error, and confounding on research findings.

Dragons in Your Home - America's Favorite Lizard

Bearded dragons, Pogona Vitticeps, are native to Australia and New Zealand and have replaced iguanas as the most common pet lizard in the United States. With its recent popularity based on size and temperament, this presentation will highlight veteri...

EHV-1 Myeloencephalopathy - New Insights from Recent Outbreaks

Equine herpesvirus-1 Myeloencephalopathy is sporadic but is a potentially devastating manifestation of EHV-1 infection. Anecdotal field evidence suggests that EHM is becoming increasingly common, leading to speculation that viruses with increased neu...

Fear Based Aggression

This presentation will explore one of the most common behavior issues seen in veterinary behavior medicine, fear based aggression, and will try to diminish the idea that all aggression is related to dominance.

Feline Inappropriate Elimination

Is it medical? Is it marking? Is it the litter box or the litter? These are all great questions and this session will explore each of these questions and how to answer them to help achieve effective resolution of the problem

Golden Retriever Pigmentary Uveitis

If you see old golden retrievers in your practice, then you need to learn about Golden Retriever Pigmentary Uveitis. We will discuss the unique clinical presentation that differentiates Golden Retriever Pigmentary Uveitis from other causes of canine ...

Hedgehogs - A Ball of Prickly Fun for the Veterinarian

Learn about wellness care and common diseases of hedgehogs and how to perform diagnostics and treat this unique pet.

Hookworm Threadworm and Whipworm

This presentation includes several different groups of nematodes that are not closely related from a taxonomic standpoint. Hence, the presentation is more of a matter of convenient grouping of worms that reside in the intestines as adults. Capillarid...

Icy Hot - Hypo and Hyperthermia

Hypo and hyperthermia are commonly seen in emergency practices, whether primary conditions from exposure to the outdoors or secondary to other disease processes, surgery or trauma. While some aspects of their pathophysiology are very similar, others ...

Immunity in the Neonatal Calf

It's often thought that young calves can't respond to vaccination, but it turns out they can! However, because of their naïve immune response and the impact of maternal antibodies, vaccination of young calves is not always effective. This presentat...

It's More Than 'Two Times Maintenance'- Fluid Therapy for Small Animals

Fluid therapy is one area I struggle with daily whether for rehydration or resuscitation from shock. Few interventions are as fraught with the possibility of error and disastrous consequences. Many schools of thought and much controversy surround thi...

Not So Cute - Acute Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis occurs for many different reasons and can manifest as a mild allergic reaction or escalate to severe hypovolemic or anaphylactic shock. In order to treat these patients quickly and effectively, it is important to understand the basics of ...

Recent Insights into Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis

Sarcocystis neurona is the most common etiologic agent identified as a cause of EPM, but similar parasites, including Neospora hughesi, have also been identified. Although EPM has been recognized since 1970 and most equine practitioners in North Amer...

Small Animal CPR - New Guidelines from the RECOVER Initiative

CPR is often futile with survival to discharge rates hovering at less than 10% for veterinary patients. Nonetheless, it is not going to go away, so knowing what to do is important. The RECOVER initiative was just completed and offers up evidence-base...

Strategic Deworming in Horses - Important Considerations and Practical Recommendations

This session will explore the current thoughts on parasite control in horses with an emphasis on targeted deworming and the use of fecal egg counts. We will look at what the major parasite players are today; provide an update as to the efficacy of th...

Sugar Gliders - Are Your Clients Sweet On Them Yet

Learn about wellness care and common diseases of sugar gliders and how to perform diagnostics and treat this unique pet.

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The Anatomy and Physiology of Anesthetic Machines

This lecture is an introduction to the anesthetic machine. The focus will be to identify the various components of the machine (i.e. one way valves, pop-off valve and vaporizer). Attention will also be given to the function of each of the components ...

The Broodmare - From Breeding to Foaling

This lecture addresses breeding management, pregnancy and foaling.

A review of the EKG. Troubleshooting to get a reliable EKG regardless of patient position and common anesthetic arrhythmias will be reviewed.

The Social Vet 1

You’ve heard the buzz about social media but may not know how to start, where to focus your attention, and/or how to develop content that encourages interaction. This course will help you identify today’s most beneficial social channels, introdu...

Tick-Borne Diseases in Horses

The role of ticks and their capability to transmit infectious pathogens is increasingly recognized in the veterinary medical field. Horses are not spared from the ill-effect of tick-borne diseases. Although some tick-borne diseases such as equine gra...

Treating Chelonians - Don't Be Frightened by the Shell - Chelonians

Turtles, tortoises and terrapins have some unique qualities of longevity and temperament but make for challenging veterinary exams. This topic focuses on common chelonian species as pets, while providing diagnostic and therapeutic options available t...

Trematodes of Dogs and Cats

Although not seen as commonly in dogs and cats as the nematodes, trematodes are seen by practitioners and can cause significant disease, especially if they are misdiagnosed. This presentation presents basic life cycle information as well as clinical ...

Understanding Study Designs

This presentation discusses the types of study design, and the different design strengths and weaknesses.

Update on Nutritional Management of Feline Hyperthyroidism - What Have We Learned

The lecture will review the current knowledge on nutritional management of feline hyperthyroidism. The results of one prospective study and one retrospective study of the use of iodine limited diets for management of feline hyperthyroidism will be pr...

How to Wisely Use NSAIDs in Animals at Risk

NSAIDs are the most commonly used analgesic medication in veterinary medicine. Renal complications from NSAID administration are a constant worry for veterinarians, who have to balance risk with quality of life issues. We will focus on recent informa...

Hypertension in Dogs and Cats - Managing Cases Simply and Effectively

Recent studies have shown that high blood pressure is far more common than previously thought. We will demystify the diagnosis and management of this problem, which can be handled in a straightforward manner. This session will focus on issues related...

Proteinuria - A New & Important Management Tool

Identifying the presence of protein in the urine of dogs and cats is nothing new to veterinarians. What is new, however, is recent evidence that we can use this knowledge to assess the efficacy of our treatments of animals with kidney disease or with...

What's Up Doc - Rabbit Husbandry and Common Diseases

A brief discussion on the many intricacies of educating clients on rabbit husbandry as well as common diseases that affects them.

The Science Behind the Human-Animal Bond

The popular press is rife with examples of the positive value of pets for people. But does the research support these compelling stories? In this talk, you will discover the latest science behind our bond with man’s best friend and other species. F...

Neurologic Exam Review & Neurolocalization Challenges

This session will be all things neurolocalization! Performing a good neurologic examination and being able to neurolocalize appropriately is at the crux of understanding and formulate a differential diagnosis list for the neurologic patient. It is,...

Post-Operative Physical Rehabilitation

Physical rehabilitation and its place in the veterinary practice is ever evolving. Each year an increasing number of veterinarians and veterinary technicians become certified in canine rehabilitation. The goal of this talk is to discuss what physic...

Diagnostic Pathology of Reproductive Diseases in Swine

This course will provide an overview of gross lesions and ancillary testing choices for practitioners that might be involved in investigation of reproductive diseases or disorders in swine.

Field Necropsy and Sampling

This lecture is designed to re-familiarize session attendees with proper necropsy techniques, gross evaluation, sample collection, and sample submission as well as general disease recognition by organ system.

Management of Boars for Future Reproductive Technologies

The swine industry is working to adopt several technologies which have the potential to improve reproductive efficiency. However, several factors limit the adoption of these technologies. Dr. Stewart will discuss the current state of boar managemen...

Common Behavior Topics in Senior Cats and Dogs

With improving veterinary care and the inclusion of pets as family members, there is an increased number of senior-aged dogs and cats. Owners find that with this comes the obligation of additional caregiving not previously anticipated, and they may s...

Phylum Apicomplexa: Cocidia & Cryptosporidia of Dogs & Cats

Examine Phylum Apicomplexa including cocidia and cryptosporidia of dogs & cats and thoughts on failure of treatment, real or perceived.

Phylum Apicomplexa: Toxoplasma Gondii & Neospora Caninum

Examine two protozoan parasites Phylum Apicomplexa: Toxoplasma Gondii & Neospora Caninum. Discuss treatment and control.

Protozoa: Flagellates of Dogs & Cats

Examine features of flagellates including: morphology, cysts, epidemiology, clinical signs, pathology/pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, control and public health.

Phylum Platyhelminthes: Cestodes or Tapeworms

Examine tapeworms that are important to small animals such as dogs or cats. Discuss features, life cycles, morphology, clinical signs, diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding How Drugs Work: Factors that Affect Absorption

This module discusses the mechanisms by which orally administered medications or drugs administered by injection enter the body. This module also explains how changes in normal physiology can result in an abnormally increased or decreased amount of ...

Understanding How Drugs Work: Factors that Affect Drug Excretion

This module discusses the mechanisms by which drugs are eliminated by the liver and the kidney. This module also explains how changes in normal physiology can result in more rapid or slower excretion of drugs and how the elimination half-life can ...

Respiratory Issues in Birds

Birds have a unique respiratory anatomy and this predisposes them to a host of challenging health issues.

How the Opioid Crisis has Influenced Change in Prescribing Laws Impacting Indiana Veterinarians

The new Indiana opioid prescribing laws impacting veterinarians can be difficult to interpret and understand how to implement in private practice. The goal of this presentation is to provide a pharmacist's perspective on the opioid crisis and experie...

Introduction to Snakes of Belize

This course provides an introduction to the species of snakes found in Belize and discusses proper handling of snakes.

Introduction to Wellness

This course provides an introduction to wellness for veterinary professionals.

Introduction to Wildlife in Belize

This talk is an Introduction to the Wildlife species in Belize and the status threats that they face living in the wild.

Busting Nutritional Myths

Pet owners and veterinary healthcare team workers have access to a great deal of information regarding pet nutrition via the internet, news sources, blogs, etc. Along with this wealth of information comes confusing and often incorrect nutritional in...

When Caring Hurts: Caregiver Burden in Owners of Pets with Cancer

This lecture will introduce the audience to "caregiver burden" - the strain or load that a person feels when caring for a sick loved one. The implications of caregiver burden for veterinary staff will be discussed. Finally, an overview of current r...

The Use of CO2 Laser in Exotic Animals

This seminar will present some CO2 laser basics and then case examples on its usage.

Dermatology Conditions in Small Animals

This seminar will go through the common skin disorders of exotic small mammals and their treatments.

Spay and Neuter Techniques for Exotic Companion Animals

Demonstrate lateral flank approach to ovariectomy and ovariohysterectomy the guinea pig; intra-abdominal castration technique in guinea pigs and rodents, approaches to ovariohysterectomy and castration in rabbits and ovariohysterectomy in hedgehogs.

Stay on Your Toes: Case Study of a New Pathogen Discovery

An example of a disturbing, yet interesting case in the Fall of 2019, resulting in a new pathogen discovery in the U.S. The process served as a reminder to stay vigiliant when practicing veterinary medicine, as the potential for the new or unknown is...

COVID-19 Impact and Recommendations in Food Animal Production Systems

Covid-19 has impacted all aspects of the agricultural industry. As a production animal veterinarian, clients rely on recommendations given to ensure proper care of their animals and livelihoods. It is important to recognize the repercussions of this ...

Taking the Sting Out of Neutering: Purdue Priority 4 Paws

Shelter Medicine & Surgery is a rapidly growing field. The unique environment presents certain challenges not necessarily encountered or as emphasized in traditional practice settings.1-4 However, our patients still deserve the utmost care. Particula...

Remember More than Your Passport: Biosecurity for International Travelers

Traveling overseas requires more than a passport and a suitcase. Learn biosecurity tactics veterinarians (and your clients) can employ to avoid bringing back more than you planned in the way of foreign animal diseases. The presentation will include...

The U.S. Raw Milk Debate

Few food products draw more passionate debate than raw milk. Learn the facts vs. myths about nutritional qualities and the risks of consumption, along with what is and is not allowed under Indiana law.

The Farm Life: Mental Health & Stress Resources to Aid Farmers and their Families

Volatile markets, income swings, input costs, weather disruptions, and animal health issues (both human and animal) can generate high levels of stress in farm families. Veterinarians with farm family clients can learn about mental health resources a...

Quality of Life: Illness, Injury & Aging

Quality of life is important to our patients and clients. Why then do we sometimes struggle to evaluate and talk about it effectively? In this session we will cover how illness, injury, and aging affect our patients’ welfare, how to talk to clien...

Moral Injury in the Veterinary Field

What happens when we participate in or witness acts that transgress our moral beliefs? Literature is suggesting that Moral Injury best describes what veterinary professionals feel at times in their veterinary career when pet care decisions may go ag...

Intrinsic and Extrinsic factors Affecting Fertility in Cattle

From heat stress to metritis to lameness, it's a wonder that we can get cows pregnant at all. This discussion will touch on some of the known internal and external factors that can influence fertility of cattle.

Building the Bond Centered Practice

The bond-centered practice is the philosophy of meeting the health needs of the animal while meeting the emotional needs of the client to support the relationship between human and animal. We will explore the practical facets of veterinary care that...

Dental Disorders of Rabbits, Guinea Pigs, and Chinchillas

The teeth of “hind gut fermenters” grow continuously and the consequences to abnormal growth can quickly become potentially life-threatening. Each of these species have unique dental issues. This presentation will detail the diagnosis and approac...

Gastrointestinal Disorders in Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Chinchillas, Obstructive Disorders and Gastrointestinal Stasis

Gastrointestinal obstructive disorders, including intestinal obstruction and moving obstructions can mimic GI stasis in rabbits. However, rabbits can die within 6 hours of the onset of GI obstruction. This session will teach the practitioner to easil...

Lower Urinary Tract Disorders of Exotic Companion Mammals

Urinary tract obstruction is uncommon in rabbits, guinea pigs and chinchillas (hind-gut fermenters) despite the development of large calcium uroliths. Rabbits are unique in that they frequently retain large volumes of calcium sludge in the urinary bl...

The Ever-Evolving Role of Veterinary Medicine In World Health: COVID-19 and Beyond

This presentation will highlight the roles of veterinary medicine in identifying the emerging viruses, developing vaccines and predicting the next pandemic. Veterinarians have been on the front lines of public health for many years. The COVID-19 ...

Podiatry Management of Laminitis

Discussion of practical and case based approaches to treatment of the laminitic horse.

Podiatry Management of Navicular Syndrome

In depth approach to mechanically treating horses with navicular syndrome depending on conformation and structural involvement.

Podiatry Management of Angular Limb Deformities

Overview of angular deformities and available treatment in young horses.

Who Let The Dogs In? The Challenge of Canine-Assisted Interventions in Hospitals and the Need for Veterinary Involvement

An emerging trend in human-animal interactions is the expansion of canine-assisted interventions to healthcare facilities. Although media attention focuses on patient benefits, little attention is given to the lack of informed policies and procedure...

Marine Ecosystems Health: One Veterinarian's Adventures To Save Florida's and The Bahamas' Coral Reefs

Veterinary skill sets (biology, microbiology, chemistry, physics, pathology, epidemiology, biosecurity, and herd health) compliment efforts by wildlife/marine biologists, as well as physical and chemical oceanographers, to accomplish ecosystem health...

Demystifying the Surgical Acute Abdomen

Demystifying the surgical acute abdomen will be a review of the most common surgical causes of the acute abdomen. Surgical approaches, pre operative work up, post operative management along with tips and tricks to handling GDV, GI foreign bodies, int...

Understanding Mediastinum by the Radiographic Diagnosis of Pneumomediastinum

Diagnosis of pneumomediastinum will be made by gas delineation of mediastinal structure margins. What is the differential diagnosis of pneumomediastinum, and where are those gases came from? Why can pneumomediastinum cause pneumothorax but not the ot...

When Less Is More: The Art of the Excisional Biopsy

This session will focus on tips, tricks, and considerations for excisional biopsies and other more minimalist approaches to surgical oncology cases. Special focus will be on how to optimize biopsy and marginal excision techniques so that options for ...

The Better Part of Valor - Making Rational Treatment Decisions for Veterinary Cancer Patients

An inspirational goal of cancer therapy is to never make the treatment worse than the disease. Yes cancer therapies - including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy - all produce some degree of short-term morbidity. Indiscriminate use of th...

Taking the Sting out of Neutering

Nexus Veterinary CE

Nexus Park City

Park City, UT

This unique facility is nestled on 1.4-acres in the quaint mountain town of Park City and is home to the Bark City Veterinary Specialists practice and Nexus Park City.

Nexus Baltimore

Baltimore, MD

Hands-on courses are instructed by leading subject matter experts in small group settings to provide for an optimal learning experience.

Advanced Fracture Repair – Pelvic Fractures

Stephen Jones

MVB, MS, DACVS, DECVS

Small Animal Abdominal Surgery

Eric Monnet

DVM, PhD, DACVS, DECVS

Introduction to Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy (TPLO)

Caleb Hudson, Kayla Corriveau

DVM, MS, DACVS

Principles of Fracture Repair: The Essentials for Repair of Fractures of the Radius, Tibia, Femur & Humerus

Surgical Oncology for Skin Tumors & Reconstruction

Judith Bertran

DVM, MRCVS, DACVS - SA, ACVS Fellow (Surgical Oncology)

TPLO 2 – The Next Level

Brian Beale, Steven Jones

DVM, DACVS, ACVS Fellow

Advanced Fracture Repair – Articular & Complicated Fractures

Brian Beale

Cardiac Diagnostics: What Are They & How Do We Use Them To Direct Therapy?

Matt Miller

DVM, MS, DACVIM (Cardiology)

Principles of Fracture Repair: The Essentials for Repair of Fractures of Radius, Tibia, Femur, and Humerus

Stephen Jones, Kristin Coleman

Sports Medicine & Joint Traumatology

Brian Beale, Don Hulse

DVM, DACVS, ACVS Fellow MIS

On-Demand Video Education

If you missed out on the live webinar, we’ve got you covered. Catch up with on-demand video rentals. Rent individual sessions or the whole series for 30 days and watch on-demand as your schedule allows.*

*CE credit is not available for on-demand videos.

Nexus CE Centers

YOUR HANDS-ON CE SOLUTION

Learn in a small group setting for more one-on-one attention from the instructor and maximizing hands-on time for each participant. Develop practical skills to enhance your production and efficiency in the practice. Apply the skills and techniques you learn immediately, and watch your practice profitability grow!

Improve your knowledge and skills at Nexus CE Centers located in either Park City, UT or Baltimore, MD.

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Veterinary Continuing Education

Veterinary Continuing Education provides quality professional development opportunities for veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and various animal-producer groups. Our goal is to provide relevant, useful continuing education (CE) in a safe, convenient, and effective manner. We look forward to seeing you at the Veterinary & Biomedical Education Complex (VBEC), hearing from you on a webinar or through an on-demand course, or talking with you by phone or email.

Upcoming In-Person Opportunities

Canine Diagnostic Imaging & Sampling Workshop

July 20–21, 2024 VERO | Canyon, TX Sponsored by Dechra , TVMDL , and JorVet

Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course

Aug. 5–7, 2024 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Biomedtrix Advanced Orthopedics Workshop

Aug. 6–10, 2024 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Vet KU / TAMU Internal Medicine Conference

Oct. 7–11, 2024 Hilton Pattaya Pattaya, Chon Buri, Thailand

Annual Job Fair Continuing Education

Oct. 11, 2024 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Small Animal Emergency & Critical Care Conference

Nov. 2–3, 2024 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Canine Abdominal Ultrasound Workshop

Dec. 7–8, 2024 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Small Animal Dentistry Workshop

Jan. 11–12, 2025 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Feline Forum

February 2025 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Veterinary Technician Seminar

April 26–27, 2025 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

Clinical Pathology Workshop

May 17–18, 2025 Texas A&M University College Station, TX

VITA Annual Conference

VITA2024 | May 18–19

Vita2025 | june 7–8, vita2026 | june 6–7.

Celebrating Class Reunions

Always Available On Demand

Veterinary Opioids (On-Demand Course)

Texas Board Rules & Federal Laws Concerning Controlled Substances

Veterinary On-Demand Course Collection

Find topics in cardiology, dentistry, kidney disease and more

Veterinary Continuing Education Texas A&M Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences (VMBS) 4470 TAMU | College Station, Texas, 77843-4470 | Map Tel: 979.845.9102 | Fax: 979.862.2832 | Email: [email protected]

Want to be the first to hear about upcoming events?  Visit tx.ag/EmailSubs to sign up for VMBS Continuing Education Emails!

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Upcoming Webinars

Continuing education.

The Merck Animal Health PSV team offers both live and recorded continuing education sessions that help you meet your CE requirements. Events are offered at no cost.

Don’t forget to check out the on-demand webinars.

Canine Lyme Disease: The Power of Prevention

MAY 13, 2024

Steven Milden, VMD

Don’t miss our program “Canine Lyme Disease: The Power of Prevention” where you will gain comprehensive knowledge about this endemic and emerging vector-borne infection that poses a threat to dogs in many regions of the United States. This program will cover Lyme Disease transmission, prevalence and the most up to date information on preventative strategies, […]

Equine Recurrent Uveitis – Improving Clinical Assessment and Management Strategies

June 17, 2024

Rachel Allbaugh, DVM, MS, DACVO

Equine recurrent uveitis (ERU) is a common vision-threatening ocular disease in our equine patients. Join Dr. Rachel Allbaugh, DVM, MS, DACVO as she shows us how to best identify ERU and harness improved patient outcomes with early diagnosis, appropriate therapy, and client education.

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Continuing Education Certificate

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Get credit where credit is due! Download your certificate for attending a live, CE-approved webinar or event.

IVECCS 2024 - Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society Annual Meeting

Map Your Show

• Septemper 7th-11th
• America's Center Convention Complex
• St. Louis, MO

Campbell, Bonnie

Dr. Bonnie Grambow Campbell received her DVM and PhD from Cornell University and became board certified in surgery after a residency at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Campbell is a Professor of Small Animal Surgery at Washington State University, where she is a soft tissue surgeon in the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and director of the Small Animal Surgery and Applied Anatomy courses. She has received a number of teaching awards and enjoys giving continuing education programs nationally and internationally.

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How to Finance Your Master's Degree or Continuing Education

• Leigh Perkins
• January 19, 2022
• Professional Development
• Text-based Story

Don’t assume grad school or continuing education is out of reach for your budget. Paying for your post-grad or professional courses can be a challenge, but it’s completely doable. Put a little research, creative problem solving, and our easy tips into the task, and you’ll figure out how to finance your master’s degree or continuing education .

Financing Higher Education

According to Sallie Mae, almost a quarter of school costs are paid by grad students’ earnings or personal savings. If you don’t have that kind of cash flow, though, consider other options for financing higher education.

Start With Free Money

Loans may need to be part of your equation, but it’s best to begin your calculations with financial aid that doesn’t have to be repaid.

An estimated $2.6 billion in financial aid was left on the table in 2018 because students failed to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from the U.S. Department of Education. And FAFSA is not just for undergraduates. It can help you land federal aid based on financial need for graduate school, too. The application is free, and there are several free-money options available to you when your FAFSA is complete, such as federal work study programs.

Grants and Fellowships

Federal aid is applicable to some continuing education programs, such as grants for medical residency or the Pell Grant for postbaccalaureate teacher certification, but federal aid in the form of grants does not apply to most graduate programs.

For graduate school, grants and fellowships are almost interchangeable terms, the main difference being what the institution bestowing the funding prefers to call it. There are government-backed grants, from organizations like the National Institutes of Health or the Department of Energy, and fellowships funded by private organizations, such as the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation or the American Economic Association. The best place to begin searching for grants and fellowships is through the websites of the schools you’re considering, in particular the programs you are targeting for grad school. You can also check out online scholarship search tools.

Most grants and fellowships are competitive, so do your homework, complete your applications carefully, and submit early. Preferably, you’ll be ready to hit send on your application the day you learn you’re accepted into your grad school program of choice.

Scholarships

Graduate tuition can cost tens of thousands of dollars each year. Because graduate students are considered independent, you will report your own income on the FAFSA, which could make you eligible for more need-based scholarships. Grad students can check out USF’s STARS Scholarship database to read about USF Foundation Scholarships and many other scholarships to students enrolling in master’s programs . There are millions of dollars available to grad students for national and niche scholarships .

Can you qualify for specific scholarships that take your background, interests, or undergrad degree into account?

• Your heritage: There are scholarships designated just for Hispanic grad students, Native Americans, Korean Americans, Pacific Islanders, and more.
• Your alma mater: You may qualify for a discount if you apply to graduate school where you earned your bachelor’s degree.
• Your area of specialization: Check into field-specific graduate scholarships, such as a master’s in education, women in technology, accounting scholarships, and MBA scholarships.

Assistantships

Graduate assistantships allow you to work in a support role at a university under the supervision of a faculty member. You may teach, be a research assistant, do clerical tasks, or help with grading. USF graduate assistants earn a stipend and are eligible for tuition payment and some additional benefits, such as health insurance.

Employee Benefits

Under U.S. tax code, employers may offer up to $5,250 per year in tuition reimbursement for college courses, which is deductible for your company and not counted as taxable income for you. More than half of employers are estimated to currently offer tuition assistance. If yours isn’t one of them, make a sales pitch. One possible incentive: Signing a contract to commit to working for the company for a minimum term after receiving your graduate degree.

College Savings Account

If you didn’t run through your entire 529 plan in undergraduate school, you can apply what’s left to your graduate school costs. Though the time horizon is shorter to save for graduate school, it is also possible to set up a 529 plan dedicated just for graduate school.

Take a Look at Loans

Although they account for only 25 percent of all students in higher education, graduate students account for nearly half of student debt . Because there is no cap for graduate school borrowing – up to the full cost of attendance charged by the college – nearly a quarter of graduate borrowers take out more than the lifetime limit for undergraduate borrowers in just a single year of grad school.

It is one thing to compare the average undergraduate debt ($28,950) to an MBA ($66,300). But it is a whole new level of payback stress for a law degree ($145,000) or a medical degree ($201,490). Add the fact that interest rates are higher for grad school than for undergrad, and the debt can turn into a long-term burden.

Wondering how to minimize the hit to your financial future when you really need a loan for graduate school? Take out only what is absolutely necessary, access every tax benefit available, and pull out all the stops to save pennies and earn cash while in grad school.

These are the types of loan programs available for graduate students:

• Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans: Sometimes called Stafford Loans, these are not based on financial need and do not require a credit check. You are responsible for paying all interest on these loans, which begins accruing while you’re still in school and during your grace period or deferment. It is best to max out these loans before you sign on to PLUS or private loans.
• Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loans: These loans are for expenses not covered by other financial aid offered by your school. They require a credit check and carry a higher fixed-interest rate than federal direct loans.
• Private Loans: Depending on your credit score or a co-signer’s endorsement, you could qualify for a competitive rate on a loan from a private bank or other lender, usually without the origination and processing fees associated with federal programs. The downside is they don’t offer long forbearance periods. If you are planning on law school, medical school or business school, it’s likely you’ll find a lender offering a loan specific to your degree.

Paying for Continuing Education

While there are not as many options to finance your continuing education, the upside is that career training, certifications, and continuing ed programs are much less expensive than graduate school.

Philanthropic organizations, private agencies, state education departments, and the schools themselves often offer scholarships for continuing education and certification programs. For example, there are specific scholarships available for paralegal students .

State societies, clubs, and professional groups often subsidize travel and attendance at conferences, CEU courses, and training programs. If you’re in a regional human resources group, for example, they might underwrite your tuition for SHRM certification .

Federal student loans only apply to full-time graduate students, so stand-alone certification courses or part-time professional development programs don’t qualify. However, several private lenders do offer loans for career training programs. Sallie Mae’s Career Training Smart Option Student Loan is designed specifically for nondegree-seeking students, professional certifications, and culinary and technical school students.

If you’re confident the return on your investment will be adequate (and fairly immediate), you can also consider paying for a course with a credit card, but do so cautiously. Interest rates and fees for credit cards are often triple or quadruple a student loan rate.

The good news is that the IRS allowance for employer tuition reimbursement applies to career training and continuing education. The bad news is that only about half of employers offer this in an employee’s benefits package. If yours does not include the $5,250 that can be deducted by your company for courses, make a suggestion to your boss and to HR to add it. If it’s not a formal perk but there is a program that will help you perform your job better, write a letter to your supervisor explaining the benefits to your business. In your letter, ask if the company would be willing to pay for the program or at least approve paid time off for instruction.

USF Can Help You Reach Your Next Goal

No matter where you’re headed in your career, USF Corporate Training and Professional Education is here to guide you. Thinking of graduate school? We offer exceptional GMAT and LSAT prep courses. Planning a big pivot? Navigate a career change with our business, technology, and leadership training. Browse our programs to see if they can point you in the right direction for continuing education.

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