Short Term Training (non-degree) programs such as those referred to as workforce development or continuing education courses consist of short-term, non-credit, non-degree courses and programs to meet the needs of a diverse adult community. These needs may be related to job training/upgrading of job skills or personal enrichment and lifelong learning. These types of programs can help individuals gain industry-recognized credentials that are highly valued in the labor market which will help students get jobs quickly.

Degree programs focus on the accumulation of credit hours subject to the academic approval process of credit programs and the accrediting system which a student must collect over a period of time to achieve a degree status.