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Academics
Division of Professional Studies
Continuing Studies & Workforce Development
Career-Focused, Flexible Programs Designed for All Learners
Move your career forward or find a new path in business, technology, education, healthcare, social services and other key fields with an online degree or skill-building certificate through the Division of Professional Studies at Saint Francis University.
In our online courses and in-person workforce trainings, you will find:
- Faculty who bring real-world expertise into the classroom.
- In-demand skilled technical programs that fill a workforce need.
- Transfer-friendly online certificates and degrees that fit your schedule.
- Affordable programs with scholarship opportunities.
Why Saint Francis?
Experience Impact-Driven Online Programs
Values-driven professionals who want to make a difference are always in demand.
Whether you study on campus, off campus, or pursue your degree 100% online, the Saint Francis University promise is the same for every student. We will help you to “become that someone” who makes an impact in your chosen field. We offer a free review of your transcript(s) for earned credits from an accredited college or university.
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Honoring Your Past Experience, Supporting Your Future Goals
Your success team knows that college holds different challenges for everyone. As an online or workforce development student at Saint Francis, you will have the personalized advising and support you need to be successful.
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choose a career path that is in sync with your goals and values
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navigate earning credit for work experience or past college courses
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One of 10 Best Online Colleges in PA
Online Degree Paths
Undergraduate Degrees (100% online)
Accelerated Online Graduate Degree Paths
Accounting to MBA - 24/25
Computer Systems Management to MBA - 24/25
Management to MBA - 24/25
Management to MHRM - 24/25
Organizational Leadership to MBA - 24/25
Workforce Development Training
Aviation Specialization/Pilot's Training
This training provided in coordination with Nulton Aviation Services, catapults a student with no past flight experience to the edge of commercial aviation. Students may earn a pilot's license while completing a college degree online or on-campus, or opt for the flight school-only path. Laddering potential: Credits from the specialization can be counted toward the Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies which can then be laddered into a bachelor's degree.
Flight Training in Johnstown
Pilot License Training Homepage
Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Certificate
This new hands-on technical training certificate program is designed to be completed in 21 months and will prepare students to work as technicians in the aviation industry and beyond. Laddering potential: Only four additional online courses are needed to earn your Associate of Applied Science in Specialized Studies and from there you can progress to a B.S. in Organizational Leadership.
In-person: Johnstown
Patient Care Technician
This hands-on training certificate program was developed to support the region's healthcare workforce needs. Classes will be held in SFU's new healthcare simulation lab at the Curry Innovation Center in Altoona, PA.
PCT is offered as a cohort program for interested partnering organizations. To learn more, contact the program director: Dr. Don Walkovich, dwalkovich@francis.edu.
Learn more about Workforce Development Initiatives at SFU
Skill-Building Certificates
Business Skills Certificates (online)
Valuable to those beginning careers or to those changing career directions.
Accounting, Business, Computer Systems Management & Management
Home Brewing Micro-Credential & Brewing Certificate (Online)
Tier 1 (the micro-credential) is designed for learners who seek an introduction or guidance to homebrewing. Tier 2 (the certificate) provides learners with the knowledge and experience to qualify for entry-level jobs in a brewery. Digital badging credential included.
Homebrewing Basics Micro-Credential
Applications are always open.
No application fee!
Applications for most online programs are accepted on a rolling basis with opportunities to start any time of the year. In fact, we have two starts per semester, typically the beginning of the semester and mid-semester.
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Our Staff
Staff members within the Division of Professional Studies are experienced in working with adult students like you. We are available to answer your questions and guide you through our extensive portfolio of program offerings to help you find the right path to meet your goals.
Connect with us!
Email: professionalstudies@francis.edu
Call us: 1-800-457-6300
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Dr. Julie Warnick
Dean, Division of Professional Studies
814-472-2846
Ms. Sherri Link
Director of Academic and Student Affairs
814-472-3058
Ms. Gabrielle Cronin
Associate Director of Operations
814-472-2811
Heather Jones
Student Success Coach
814-471-1146
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Brianna Pavkovich
Director Aviation Maintenance Tech. Program
Our Faculty
Degree and certificate programs offered through the Division of Professional Studies are taught by an advantageous mix of accomplished SFU faculty and industry experts who are passionate about teaching online and workforce develpment learners.
In our online courses, you will find faculty who:
- bring real-world expertise into the classroom.
- tailor their online or on ground courses to best deliver the subject matter.
- are trained in effective online teaching styles and technology tools.
- are specialized and experienced in their technical workforce areas.
Application Process
- Completed application: online application (No application fee!)
- Official transcripts for all post-secondary study (If no prior college courses, then a copy of your high school transcripts or GED required)
- Visiting Students (non-SFU students taking individual courses) complete the Non Degree Application
View the Saint Francis University Statement of Nondiscrimination
Attention Prospective Online Students Residing Outside of Pennsylvania
According to higher education regulations, Saint Francis University and its online/distance education courses and programs must be authorized in certain states prior to offering those courses or programs to students residing in those states. Prospective students residing outside of Pennsylvania should consult the University’s State Authorization web page to determine their eligibility for admission to our online programs or enrollment in an online course.
Important Note: If you are considering an academic program that leads to a professional license or certification in your state, it is highly recommended that you first seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency in your home state before beginning the academic program located outside your state.
Questions may be directed to (814) 472-3199.
Student Complaint Resolution
Student Identity Verification for Online Learning
Saint Francis University does not charge a fee for student identity verification for online learning. Any required travel to campus for student identity verification for online learning would be indicated prior to and during the registration process through publications such as course syllabi, the University's website, or the course catalog.