Center for Professional Education Programs
The Center for Professional Education (CPE) offers innovative, noncredit programs specifically designed to provide expertise in a variety of industry areas. From examination preparation courses to professional certificates, our flexible delivery formats—evenings and weekends on campus, accelerated intensive courses, and online study—are ideal for busy professionals.
Financial Planning (online)
The program in Financial Planning has provided a comprehensive approach to financial planning education for nearly 40 years. The program offers a highly respected credential from Boston University, the rigorous academic foundation you need to advance your financial planning career, and excellent preparation for the Certified Financial Planner™ exam.
Genealogy Studies (online)
The Genealogy Studies program reflects exacting industry standards and introduces current genealogical technologies and research methods. The Genealogical Principles course is ideal for the newer researcher looking to learn more about the field and how to properly cite data. The Certificate in Genealogical Research course is intended for the more experienced researcher looking to elevate their skills to a new level. Taught by some of the premier genealogists in the country, the program trains students to identify and evaluate evidence, design research strategies, and write quality reports, while providing excellent preparation for certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists®.
Paralegal Studies (online)
The Paralegal Studies certificate program introduces individuals to comprehensive legal theory. In addition, the program’s unique technology component provides students with relevant hands-on experience. The program covers topics in legal research, legal writing, technologies, real estate law, business law, litigation, and probate and family law. For over three decades, Boston University’s semester-long Paralegal Studies program has provided the comprehensive and foundational curriculum needed to launch a career.
Professional Fundraising (online)
The Professional Fundraising certificate program provides the skills and knowledge to succeed in the increasingly specialized field of nonprofit fundraising. Students examine the key components of a comprehensive development program and build expertise in strategic planning, prospect research, volunteer leadership, and all forms of giving and stewardship. In addition, the program provides the 84 continuing education points required for the Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) exam.
Real Estate Studies (on campus)
Students may take a single course for personal growth or several courses that lead to a professional certificate. Those who earn the certificate can expect an improvement in their personal and organizational effectiveness. Certificate programs include Commercial Real Estate, Real Estate Finance, and Facilities Management. Many real estate professionals in the Greater Boston community and beyond are alumni of this nearly 40-year-old program.
Students who successfully earn a CPE certificate in Commercial Real Estate or Real Estate Finance will be granted a waiver of two graduate elective courses (8 credits) toward the Master of City Planning degree program.
Evergreen
Evergreen enables students age 58 and over to tap the rich vein of knowledge at one of the world’s top-ranked universities. Evergreen students can take advantage of auditing undergraduate and graduate courses at Boston University. Continuous growth opportunities are also available through seminars that are designed specifically with the “evergreen” in mind.
