In a region defined by innovation, resilience, and community, Western Carolina University’s (WCU’s)Division of Educational Outreach is helping individuals and organizations across Western North Carolina thrive through accessible, high-quality learning opportunities—in Cullowhee, Asheville, and beyond.

Whether you're a working professional looking to sharpen your skills, an organization seeking to invest in your team, or someone ready to complete a degree or start a new chapter, WCU’s Division of Educational Outreach offers customized learning options to meet your needs.

“Our department offers a wide range of professional development courses designed to help individuals stay competitive and relevant in today’s workforce,” said executive director Dr. Carolyn Callaghan. “From grant writing and Lean Six Sigma training to crisis communication and management development, these courses provide practical, in-demand skills that support career growth.” Conveniently held in Asheville or on-site at your business, these programs are ideal for professionals seeking to grow without leaving Western North Carolina.

Previous participants frequently highlight the hands-on nature of the courses and how easily they can apply what they’ve learned. “The leadership management certificate course provided relevant content with ample learning opportunities and practical applications,” said Alaine Hunnicutt, a 2024 Management Leadership Certificate participant. “The instructors were well-prepared, engaging, and extremely helpful. I highly recommend it for all emerging professionals and those looking to sharpen their leadership skills.”

Organizations across the region, like the Nantahala Outdoor Center, are also turning to WCU for customized workforce training. Creating customized management training, WCU Educational Outreach was able to create a four-part series designed to meet their management team’s needs. Whether your goals are to strengthen leadership, improve communication, or build technical skills, WCU collaborates directly with companies and nonprofits to design training aligned with their objectives. By investing in employee development, businesses not only improve performance but also increase satisfaction and retention—an essential advantage in today’s competitive labor market.

For those seeking more flexible learning, WCU offers a wide range of continuing education opportunities through ed2go, featuring more than 750 affordable online short courses. These programs are built to fit busy schedules, allowing participants to learn at their own pace or in some cases, through live instruction. Courses range from beginner to advanced levels and include professional certificates as well as hobby- and interest-based classes.

For a more formal path, WCU’s Distance Learning programs allow adult learners to complete undergraduate or graduate degrees entirely online—from wherever they are. In response to regional demand, the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has been transitioned fully online to better accommodate working professionals.

Many students have found success in these flexible programs. “As an adult learner balancing a full-time career, the support I received through WCU's Distance Learning Program was exceptional,” said Paige Passerallo, a 2025 graduate of the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration program. “The flexibility of the program allowed me to continue advancing professionally while pursuing my education, and the faculty and staff were always responsive, understanding, and committed to my success.”

In Spring 2025, more than 380 students graduated from WCU’s Distance Learning programs, with more than 60% earning Latin honors. Remarkably, 50% of these graduates were also parents, balancing education with work and family life and some also working full time.

At WCU Educational Outreach, we believe learning doesn’t stop at graduation—it evolves with you. Whether you're upskilling in your current role, earning a new degree, or exploring a fresh path, it’s never too late to start.

If you’re ready to grow—personally, professionally, or as an organization—Western Carolina University’s Division of Educational Outreach is here to help.

Contact the Division of Educational Outreach at learn.wcu.edu, [email protected], or 828-227-7397 to explore how we can support your journey.