News and Events

Saint Leo University Launches Skills Academy Offering Certificate, Professional Development Programs

Students may quickly attain new and in-demand skills through courses led by industry professionals and faculty.

Tags: Business Development Continuing Education Micro-Credentials Practical Learning Professional Development Skills Academy Technology Digital Badges Certifications Careers Non-Degree Programs Workforce Workforce Development
30 January 2025 - By University Communications
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Workers of all ages are looking to improve their skills, find new employment, gain promotions, and earn better salaries. Now, more than ever, people are turning to certification programs and online courses to bolster their careers and professional development. To help those learners, Saint Leo University has launched its new Skills Academy, a revamp of its previous Center for Alternative Pathway Programs, with innovative online programming.   

Saint Leo’s Skills Academy is offering new courses that will allow students to quickly learn new and in-demand skills while gaining a competitive edge. These certification and professional development programs are designed with industry leaders so students will learn from professionals in their fields as well as Saint Leo faculty who offer the latest insight and advice on best practices.   

Some of the featured programs offered through the Skills Academy are the recently launched Generative AI course, developed by artificial intelligence experts from Tampa Bay area digital marketing agency, Bake More Pies, and a Cybersecurity Certification Program, developed with support from ConnectWise founder Arnie Bellini and John Strand, owner of Black Hills Information Security.   

“Saint Leo University recognizes that in addition to degree-seekers, there are those who are ‘upskillers’ and career-switchers,” said Katie Chamberlain, executive director of Business Development. “With fields and technology changing rapidly, research shows workers must be flexible and ready to upskill or reskill to stay current and competitive. Saint Leo University’s Skills Academy provides the courses, knowledge, and practical learning in just a few weeks so that those who complete the program are ready.”  

Digital Badges  

All certificate and skills courses in the Skills Academy offer a digital badge through partner Credly upon completion. Digital badges offer recognition and credibility, providing a visual, online representation of earning a new skill. These badges can be placed on résumés and personal social media channels. Each Skills Academy badge contains metadata that allows employers to understand the skills, knowledge, and actions taken to earn the badge. View Skills Academy badges on the university’s Credly page.

More Information 

To learn more about the Skills Academy and view the website, visit skillsacademy.saintleo.edu

For more information, contact the Saint Leo University Skills Academy at skillsacademy@saintleo.edu (352) 588-8857.