Professional Presentations Microcredential
Effective communication, written and spoken, plays an important role in both personal and professional worlds. The Professional Presentations Microcredential focuses on developing your ability to communicate and collaborate as well as project a professional image to clients and colleagues. This microcredential examines the use of data to create insights for organizations that lead to positive change. Courses develop good presentation skills honed to transmit viewpoints, ideas, and enthusiasm to others whether in person or online. You even address strategies to increase your emotional intelligence to expand your toolbox of interpersonal communication abilities.
## Professional Presentations Microcredential (Total 53 hours) - [Storytelling With Data](https://uwm.edu/sce/courses/speaking-and-presentations-skills-for-the-digital-age/) - [Speaking and Presentation Skills](https://uwm.edu/sce/courses/effective-interpersonal-communication-skills/) - [Effective Interpersonal Communication Skills](https://uwm.edu/sce/courses/train-the-trainer-unit-ii-presentation-and-delivery-of-training-programs/)
Sensemaking and storytelling with data are currently some of the most sought-after skills in data science. The value of data is in the insights that lead to action. Individuals who can understand the business context and strategic goals of stakeholders can create insights for their organizations that lead to positive change. In this course, you learn how to analyze stakeholder personas, turn findings into insights and translate complex data into simple clear messages.
Presentation design refers to the creation of visually appealing materials for communicating information, ideas, and data in an organized and engaging manner for audiences during speeches or meetings.
- Analyze the perspectives of key stakeholders - Identify data insights which are useful for each stakeholder group - Translate complex data into easy-to-understand messages - Use the right visuals to tell the data story
Effective Interpersonal Communication Skills
Listen actively can be difficult to do, but employers expect leaders to communicate in ways that decrease misunderstanding and increase trust. This session will prepare you to overcome perceptual and other communication barriers in order to manage instinctive your reactions to challenging conversations.
- Give work performance feedback more effectively. - Listen actively when it’s difficult to do so. - Increase your emotional intelligence. - Align your nonverbal communication to your intended meaning.
Speaking and Presentation Skills for the Digital Age
Regardless of one’s personal charisma or charm, presenting clearly and persuasively is a skill that everyone can learn, refine and master. Good presentation skills are central to success in today’s organizations especially when most of our presentations or delivery of ideas are done in the digital world. Those who are successful are the people who can transmit their views, ideas and enthusiasm to others whether in person or online. While many presentation skills apply to both in-person and digital presentations, good presenters know that the approach is different. In-person presentations have a more captive audience; digital presentations have a greater opportunity for distractions. A presenter is now competing against diminished attention spans and increased home and work-life distractions, with differing priorities. Learn how to excel at both!
- Prepare an effective presentation customized to the needs of your audience. - Recognize the critical planning steps when designing a virtual or in-person presentation. - Engage your audience by commanding their undivided attention. - Learn how to show up and bring your energy to a virtual environment. - Deliver your presentation with confidence and credibility. - Create a follow-up interaction your audience won’t forget to sustain your message.
Business analysis is about building outstanding products that delight and satisfy customers and stakeholders. People in this pivotal role cultivate skills across a wide range of domains, holding such titles as business analyst, product owner, solution architect, systems analyst, process manager, business consultant, product manager or project manager.
-Define the key roles of a business analyst -Examine traditional, agile and other product development methodologies -Develop technical skills for eliciting true business needs and product/system requirements -Analyze methods of modeling and designing optimal business processes -Apply best practices for writing business requirements that lead to successful projects
UWM Project Management Certificate helps you develop skills and knowledge that you can bring to traditional and agile business environments. Taught by instructors with industry and academic experience, the program offers a wide range of core and elective courses. Customize the Project Management Certificate to meet your professional goals. Certificate earners will be able to: define key project management processes and concepts, use tools and templates on projects, apply real-world case studies in traditional and agile business environments, identify new developments and changes in the project management profession, refine project management processes to align with industry best practices and summarize material from “A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide)” as preparation for the Project Management Professional (PMP)® certification exam.
Earn the certificate by completing a total of 7 courses with a minimum of 5 core courses. (This is a minimum of 98 hours of course work.)
Quickly responding to changing conditions is critical to success in today’s business climate. When properly executed, agile development rapidly generates the project outcomes and deliverables that your business requires to compete in fast-paced marketplaces. This course provides an overview of Agile from the Agile Manifesto to how it is being used today.
The Python Microcredential offers a comprehensive introduction to Python programming, specifically tailored for data analysis and business applications. Participants will acquire the foundational skills to use Python for data analysis and business solutions, enabling them to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.
## Learning Outcomes - Identify and recall basic Python syntax, data types and control structures - Explain the purpose and functionality of Python libraries, such as Pandas and NumPy, for data manipulation and analysis - Use Python to perform data analysis tasks, including data cleaning, manipulation and visualization - Evaluate datasets to identify trends and patterns, using statistical methods to interpret data effectively - Assess the effectiveness of various data analysis techniques and choose the appropriate methods for specific business problems - Design and implement Python scripts that automate tasks and generate reports, integrating Python with other business tools to enhance productivity
2025 UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education, Trauma in Our Community Advisory Committee Member
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The Trauma in Our Community Advisory Committee brings together a diverse array of representatives from public and private sectors across the Milwaukee area, united in their dedication to addressing and alleviating the effects of trauma within our community. This committee serves as a vital resource, offering guidance and expertise to the UWM School of Continuing Education in their efforts to support individuals impacted by trauma. The committees’ insights and recommendations on conference topics, program structure, speakers, and operational aspects are indispensable in ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of SCE’s trauma-focused initiatives. Additionally, the committee actively assists in securing sponsorships from various organizations, further enhancing the capacity to address and respond to trauma within our community.
# **Goals of the Trauma in Our Community Advisory Committee** **Educate:** Develop educational initiatives focused on raising awareness about trauma and its impact on individuals and communities, providing attendees with tools and resources to address trauma effectively. **Connect:** Facilitate networking opportunities and connections among professionals, advocates, and community members working in the field of trauma response and recovery, fostering collaboration and support networks. **Inspire:** Deliver inspirational content, stories, and speakers that offer hope, resilience, and strategies for healing and recovery in the face of trauma, motivating attendees to take positive action within their communities. **Raise Awareness of Trauma Resources:** Increase visibility and recognition of trauma-informed resources and services available within the Milwaukee area and beyond, highlighting organizations and initiatives dedicated to supporting trauma survivors and promoting community resilience. **Expand Social Media and Mailing Lists:** Strengthen SCE online presence and engagement through strategic growth of social media platforms and mailing lists, amplifying the reach and impact of the conference’s message and resources. **Leverage Community Resources:** Forge partnerships with community organizations, agencies, and institutions to maximize resources and support for trauma survivors, ensuring comprehensive and accessible services and support systems. **Promote Trauma-Informed Practices:** Encourage the integration of trauma-informed approaches across various sectors, including healthcare, education, criminal justice, and social services, promoting healing-centered practices and policies within our community. **Empower Attendees to Take Action:** Equip conference attendees with practical tools, skills, and strategies to advocate for trauma-informed policies and practices within their respective fields and communities, fostering a collective commitment to creating safer, more supportive environments for all individuals affected by trauma. **Leverage SCE Resources:** Connect trauma care providers with additional resources and opportunities offered by the UWM School of Continuing Education to further support their professional development and growth. **Convert Attendees to SCE Enrollment:** Encourage conference attendees to explore and engage with SCE programs through both public enrollment and custom contract options, thereby fostering ongoing educational and professional development partnerships. ## **Commitment of Council Members** • Attend five to seven (1 to 1 ½ hour) committee meetings each year (usually virtual). • Give feedback on the conference from their own experience or from others in their organizations. • Review materials such as evaluation summary provided by the conference staff. • Suggest speakers and topics. • Identify potential sponsors that will help defray the costs of the conference and assist the UWM staff in securing sponsorship. • Meet with conference staff for informal telephone or face-to-face meetings, if needed. • Coordinate (or identify someone to coordinate) the group attending the conference from their organization, if appropriate. • Spread the word about the conference to their networks.
2025 UW-Milwaukee School of Continuing Education, Women Leaders Conference Advisory Council Member
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The Women Leaders Conference Advisory Council is a dynamic group of leaders and changemakers from a variety of sectors, united in their commitment to empowering women in leadership across industries and communities. This council provides valuable insight and strategic guidance to the UWM School of Continuing Education in the planning and execution of the annual Women Leaders Conference. Council members contribute their expertise to shape compelling content, suggest impactful speakers, and help ensure the event remains a transformative, relevant, and inspiring experience. In addition to program input, members assist in identifying sponsorship opportunities, expanding the conference’s reach through their networks, and strengthening connections between attendees and the broader professional development resources offered by UWM SCE. Through their engagement, the Council plays a vital role in fostering leadership, connection, and lasting impact for women at all stages of their professional journeys.
# Goals of the Women Leaders Advisory Council **Educate**: Deliver transformative learning experiences that enhance leadership capabilities, promote professional growth, and equip women with actionable tools to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose in their organizations and communities. **Connect**: Create meaningful opportunities for women leaders across sectors to network, share experiences, and build lasting relationships that strengthen individual and collective leadership journeys. **Inspire**: Highlight powerful stories, visionary leaders, and bold ideas that ignite ambition, renew motivation, and empower attendees to lead change, break barriers, and elevate the voices of women in every sphere. **Expand Social Media and Mailing Lists**: Strengthen SCE online presence and engagement through strategic growth of social media platforms and mailing lists, amplifying the reach and impact of the conference’s message and resources. **Leverage SCE Resources**: Connect Women Leaders and allies with additional resources and opportunities offered by the UWM School of Continuing Education to further support their professional development and growth. **Convert Attendees to SCE Enrollment**: Encourage conference attendees to explore and engage with SCE programs through both public enrollment and custom contract options, thereby fostering ongoing educational and professional development partnerships. **Commitment of Council Members** - Attend three to four (1 to 1 ½ hour) committee meetings each year (usually virtual). - Give feedback on the conference from their own experience or from others in their organizations. - Review materials such as evaluation summary provided by the conference staff.- Suggest speakers and topics. - Identify potential sponsors that will help defray the costs of the conference and assist the UWM staff in securing sponsorship. - Meet with conference staff for informal telephone or face-to-face meetings, if needed. - Coordinate (or identify someone to coordinate) the group attending the conference from their organization, if appropriate. - Spread the word about the conference to their networks. Individuals represented are leaders in their own fields and work for organizations that prioritize women's voice and success in the workplace.
Taking the time to learn and internalize an additional language can significantly increase career opportunities. As the second most spoken language in the world, Spanish is a valuable tool in many professional settings. The Advanced Spanish Language Certificate moves beyond the basics of Spanish and delves deeper to pursue the ultimate goal of achieving fluency. It’s offered online or in-person and includes courses taught entirely in Spanish. Through our advanced program, strengthen your conversational skills and improve your comfort with the Spanish language.
Earn the certificate by completing a minimum of 5 of the 10 intermediate to advanced courses plus the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Oral Proficiency Interview (ACTFL OPI). - Read and discuss popular Spanish literary works - Analyze different speech patterns as spoken by native Spanish speakers. - Contrast the differences between Spanish verb tenses - Complete exercises intended to test Spanish reading, writing and speaking skills - Participate in Spanish conversations with classmates to extend your range of comfort - Complete an oral proficiency interview by computer (OPIc) and receive an oral proficiency rating
Designed to be easy to read and to use, Python is a popular and powerful programming language for users of all levels. Python has emerged in recent years as a critical tool for data analytics and artificial intelligence, not only for technical teams but also for professionals in business roles. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and predictive analytics using Python are among the key strategic initiatives for many companies today. From facial recognition to manufacturing to software automation, organizations need employees who understand these important concepts. The AI Python Certificate provides you with this essential understanding ­– taking you from basic skills to applied knowledge through four convenient courses.
## Learning Outcomes - Identify, interpret and apply core programming building blocks in Python code - Build on existing code and Python libraries - Gain insights into the primary approaches of AI and the types of business problems to which they can be applied - Code machine learning and deep learning sample projects - Apply predictive analytics to solve business and other data problems **All classes listed must be completed to earn the AI Python badge.**
UWM’s College for Kids & Teens is partnering with the UWM School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP) to offer a certificate track opportunity for students interested in architecture and urban planning. The Architecture and Urban Planning Certificate Track consists of three core two-week courses and three elective courses (one architecture elective and two miscellaneous electives) for a total of six courses. All core courses can be completed by students in grades 9-12 and some elective courses can be completed by students in grades 6-12.
- Obtain a base level of architecture and urban planning skills - Explore the connections between architecture and design, models and use of domestic space - Apply an introductory level of understanding of architectural and urban planning skills in relation to fabrication, virtual reality, building and mathematical understandings
UWM’s College for Kids & Teens is partnering with the UWM Peck School of the Arts (PSOA) to offer a certificate track opportunity for students interested in art & design. The certificate provides students with a base knowledge of art & design.
The Art & Design Certificate Track consists of two Arts Education/Community Ecosystem (ArtECO) core courses and three art & design electives for a total of five courses. All ArtECO core courses can be completed by students in grades 10-12 and art & design elective courses can be completed by students in grades 6-12. - Gain a base knowledge of art & design - Experience 2D drawing, and 3D sculpture and digital art - Explore interests in additional art & design disciplines including jewelry and metals, printmaking and digital fabrication
Making sound, informed decisions is key to a strong business foundation. The Business Acumen Certificate develops your ability to create competitive operational and industry strategies that are critical to an organization’s success. Through our program, learn how to effectively integrate data and financials into your strategic decision-making process, understand your organization’s digital transformation including its impact on your customers, and use critical-thinking skills to optimize your decisions. Work with instructors who use their industry experience to help you gain business acumen and achieve measurable results for your organization.
To get started, enroll in a course from the list below. Earn the certificate by completing 7 courses. - Agile Project Management - Digital Transformation: Mapping Your Journey from Traditional to Digital Business - Finance Skills for Nonfinancial Managers - From Technical Expert to Strategic Leader - Managing Change During Uncertain Times - Project Management for Nonproject Managers: Managing and Prioritizing Work - Understanding Business Strategy: Decision-Making and Disruptive Thinking - Using Data for Business Strategy and Decisions Complete the courses in any order but within three years of starting.
The Business Administration Certificate is designed to build your business acumen whether you need to level-up on your existing skills or find yourself advancing in your career and tasked with decision-making that requires a business base. This “mini-MBA” develops your ability to create competitive operational strategies that are critical to an organization’s success by focusing on the core elements of a traditional MBA program: Management ­– Foster your management skills by recognizing the difference between your discipline’s prowess and strategic leadership. Finance ­– Remove some of the mystery behind finance as you gain the foundation to make sound assessments and business recommendations. IT/MIS – Understand the essentials of statistics and “big data” applications and analysis that are vital to helping you make sound business decisions. Marketing – Discover how marketing content strategy can effectively connect your business and stakeholder goals with your audiences’ needs, wants and expectations. The Business Administration Certificate is comprised of 4 core courses and 3 electives. Core Classes: Building an Integrated Digital Content Strategy Finance Skills for Nonfinancial Managers From Technical Expert to Strategic Leader Using Data for Business Strategy and Decisions Elective Classes: Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning – An Introduction Building and Improving Project Team Functionality Email Marketing Best Practices Influence Without Authority: Manage People and Projects Up, Down and Virtually Managing Virtual and Hybrid Teams Practical HR: How to Navigate Employment Law Myths and Landmines Understanding Business Strategy: Decision-Making and Disruptive Thinking
Being a citizen data scientist is now part of nearly every role in business, education and service industries. After mastering the principles of data handling with SQL, Excel and other essential tools, you are ready to advance to establishing data strategies and refining techniques for identifying and communicating insights. The Data Analysis – Advanced Certificate builds on the foundations and skills acquired in the Data Analysis Certificate and provides the next level of understanding. You examine the use of statistics to effectively evaluate raw data and its limitations. You learn and practice new skills for manipulating data while preserving its integrity and deriving actionable insights. Courses in the advanced certificate are highly interactive with lectures and coaching from working professionals with advanced degrees.
## Learning Outcomes - Apply statistical principles to data analysis - Construct a strategy to determine data to be collected and to identify analysis methodologies - Use predictive analytic models to turn data into knowledge - Transform raw data into meaningful information - Generate advanced visualizations that clearly convey data insights **Earn your certificate by completing all core courses and at least one elective.**
Data is the foundation of the digital age. With major increases in the amount of data being collected, new opportunities are always arising for individuals and teams to make data-informed decisions. Because of this, professionals who are comfortable working with data are invaluable to an organization’s success. The Data Analysis Certificate strengthens your ability to work with data through hands-on practice, small class sizes and instructor/student collaboration. Using both theoretical and practical approaches to data collection, data visualization, data prediction and data decisions, you develop your skills and use them to make data-informed choices within your organization.
## Learning Outcomes - Assess the validity and quality of various data types - Translate complex data into easy-to-understand messages for different stakeholder groups - Select the right data tools to make effective data-informed decisions - Use data to create predictive models - Generate clear visual representations of your data - Identify privacy concerns for data collection and handling **Earn your certificate by completing all core courses and at least 2 electives.**
As part of a newly developed partnership with the Northwestern Mutual Data Science Institute, UWM College for Kids & Teens is offers a certificate in data science. This specialized learning track consists of a total of five courses related to the study of data science – introducing students to the exciting and dynamic world of data!
In order to earn the certificate, students must complete all three core classes offered every summer and two elective courses from a selection of 14 College for Kids & Teens offerings. All core courses are for grades 9-12 and can be completed within a three-year window. Elective courses may be offered for grades 6-12 and can be taken at any time previous or simultaneous to the finish of core classes. - Demonstrate an understanding of the basics of data science. - Use data in meaningful ways and explore how it can be used in everyday life. - Apply an introductory understanding of Python programming techniques. - Examine the relationship between statistics and data. - Utilize data and design thinking in an exploration of entrepreneurship.
Dimensioning and Tolerancing Certificate
Expertise with dimensioning and tolerancing is essential when working as an engineer. From an object’s size and form to how it fits and functions, knowing proper dimensioning and tolerancing increases quality, reduces cost and improves production time. The Dimensioning and Tolerancing Certificate provides a solid foundation of engineering drawing while also moving beyond the basics to explore advanced subject matter. It positions you to learn and apply the international language of dimensioning and tolerancing used throughout the engineering industry.
- Apply advanced methods to improve your foundations of dimensioning and tolerancing - Appraise contracts with confidence using knowledge gained from seasoned instructors - Assess interpretation errors while designing for maximum profitability - Compare and contrast techniques to analyze collected variable data - Evaluate dimensioning and tolerancing practices per the approved current standards - Outline detailed systems of logic and mathematics to analyze tolerances To get started, choose from our broad selection of courses. Earn your certificate by completing 3 courses in as little as 18 months.
The importance of elastomers cannot be understated as they’re critical in the development of seals, adhesives and molded flexible parts. The Elastomer Technology Certificate focuses on learning about recent technologies, advancements in the field, and strategies to improve your elastomer designs. It benefits anyone designing, manufacturing or working with synthetic rubbers. Through our program, obtain firsthand knowledge from current industry professionals to address challenges you face within your organization.
- Analyze methodologies of process variation and control - Assess elastomer material selection, dispensing methods and the molding process - Integrate knowledge of elastomer processing equipment, including pumping, shaping, curing and monitoring - Describe different types of manufacturing limitations within the injection molding process - Evaluate the principles and techniques of designing molds and molded part design - Apply problem-solving techniques and strategies to address situations you currently face To get started, enroll in one of our three-day sessions below. Earn the certificate in as little as 18 months by completing nine or more days of courses.
The Emerging Leaders Certificate develops your capacity to effectively lead your staff, team or organization and establish yourself as a skilled leader. Learn from our instructors who have real-world experience in the topics they teach to increase your value and affect positive change in your organization and career both online and in-person. Earn the certificate by completing 5 core courses and 2 elective courses within three years.
Take the 5 core courses in the order that works best for you: - Effective Interpersonal Communication Skills - Emotional Intelligence: Dealing With Difficult People, Including Yourself - From Technical Expert to Strategic Leader - Mastering Leadership: Breaking Through to Exceptional Effectiveness - Take a Coach Approach: Increase Employee Engagement Remotely and Face-to-Face Add the two elective courses at any point in your program. Electives include courses like: - Influence Without Authority: Manage People and Projects Up, Down and Virtually - Managing Virtual Staff and Teams - The Power of Positive Conflict...Even When Working Remotely
A well-maintained facility has direct implications for the people, places and processes of every company. Second to its employees, the facility is a company’s largest asset. The Facility Management Certificate focuses on developing the necessary skills to create a more efficient and effective facility. Covering essentials such as plumbing and electricity to analytical tasks like project management and blueprint reading, engineers across disciplines can benefit from this specialized certificate. Work with current industry experts to strengthen the diverse skill set required to maintain an effective facility.
- Analyze technologies used to manage and assess facility functions - Define facility management basics and their relation to the planning and business side of facility management services - Classify the standard services that facility managers are responsible for delivering - Compose strategies that integrate technology with best management practices (BMPs) - Evaluate the effects innovation has on a facility’s strategic positioning - Identify effective methods to administer and manage construction and relocation projects To get started, enroll in the recommended first course, Introduction to Facility Management, Business Planning and Service Delivery. Earn the certificate in as little as 18 months by completing 4 courses.
Gears are everywhere. They’re prevalent within cars, watches, wind turbines and most engineering devices. In the world of manufacturing, the intricate nature of gear technology makes quality training more important than ever. The Gear Technology Certificate focuses on improving your understanding of the manufacturing process that brings gear design concepts to life. Create complete drawings of gears, develop advanced analysis skills, build your knowledge base of modern gear systems and much more. This certificate allows you to analyze and work through design challenges you currently face in your own projects.
- Demonstrate your functional knowledge of modern gear system design and analysis - Participate in group projects to strengthen hands-on design perspective - Formulate drawings that convey complete and unambiguous definitions of gears - Solve sets of design problems from your current projects - Identify the basic methods of analysis for each of the major design factors: wear, durability, scoring and strength - Summarize theory of gear tooth action and derive parameters as they are presented To get started, enroll in one of two recommended foundations courses: Gear Technology Basics – Design Aspects or Gear Technology Basics – Application Aspects. Earn the certificate by completing 3 courses in as little as 18 months.
The German Language Certificate provides the tools and develops the skills you need to read, write and speak German. Through nine core courses and an oral proficiency interview by computer (OPIc), you work with our experienced instructors to strengthen your German language skills. It’s offered as an in-person or online certificate and uses the standards from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
Earn the certificate by completing a minimum of German III & IV and Intermediate German I-V, plus the OPIc. - Analyze the basic grammar of German verbs and pronouns - Outline the spectrum of German verb tenses - Complete exercises intended to test German reading, writing and speaking skills - Read and write in German to improve your fundamentals of the language - Follow German oral activities to familiarize yourself with native speech patterns - Complete an OPIc and receive an oral proficiency rating
Strategic grant writing aligns the needs of a nonprofit with funding sources, whether those sources are foundations, government agencies, corporations or individuals. This two-course bundle offers the introductory through intermediate skills needed for those involved in gaining funding for any nonprofit organization’s mission.
Introduction to Grant Writing provides a guide to the basics of grant writing – exploring the relationship between grant writing and an organization’s strategy for fundraising. It also outlines the six stages of grant writing and highlights best practices. The second course, Advanced Grant Writing, helps you advance newly acquired grant writing skills to the next level – challenging you to ask iterative questions in order to sharpen and refine each grant proposal, elevating it to the top of the stack. By looking closely at how a logic model can shore up a proposal at each key stage, this course demonstrates how to move planning, evaluation and budgeting from good to great. Learning Outcomes -Discuss the importance of grant writing to nonprofits and other organizations seeking funding -Describe how capital grants and endowment grants can be integrated into fundraising efforts, including matching funds -Explain how grant writing and fundraising represent complimentary methods of ensuring a nonprofit’s financial stability -Identify the relationship between logic model components in effective grant program planning -Assess the level of detail required in a grant planning timeline
Nonprofits make a difference in their community through strong missions centered on the people they serve. However, even while being mission-driven, nonprofits depend on effective strategic direction and require many of the same skills used in traditional business organizations. The Introductory Nonprofit Certificate is a self-paced online program that cultivates the skills successful nonprofit professionals need. From budgeting and fundraising to leadership, social media and grant writing, our program has something to offer anyone interested in nonprofit work.
- Analyze your strategic planning process and how it relates to your nonprofit mission - Examine your nonprofit organization’s financial positions - Define the roles of ethics and marketing in nonprofits - Identify the importance of continuous training and learning in leadership - Assess the different types of budgets used by nonprofit organizations - Explore the purpose and structure of the nonprofit sector
Labor relations management requires an understanding of complex laws and regulations that govern union environments. With course content ranging from collective bargaining to contract administration, the Labor Relations Certificate provides information necessary to navigate union interactions, challenges and negotiations. Through our program, you acquire knowledge, strategies and skills to effectively manage within a unionized setting.
To get started, enroll in one of our core courses. Earn your certificate by completing 3 core courses and 2 elective courses within three years.
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The need for qualified professional legal interpreters continues to increase in Wisconsin and throughout the country. With over 55 different languages used in Wisconsin courts, well-trained interpreters who possess the knowledge, skills and abilities required to work in this specialized area within our courts and other legal environments are in demand. The Legal Interpreting Certificate program is designed to help you develop and enhance your capabilities as a professional interpreter for work within legal settings. This live online/in-person training program is comprised of seven courses that run over a 12-month period for a total of 280 interactive hours. Work with the instructor, Debra Gorra Barash, and a cohort of 20 participants (sign language and spoken language interpreters being trained together) to achieve the benefits of language and cultural education and exchange. Program completion includes simulated hearings and mock trial experience. Upon completion, those who interpret where no legal interpreting certification exam exists will have the opportunity to be listed on the certified level of the WI Court Roster of Interpreters.
- Apply interpreting skills to work in legal settings - Identify standards of practice and various ethical issues that commonly arise within legal environments - Integrate principles and protocols, and roles and responsibilities of legal interpreting - Identify, evaluate and employ strategies to interpret legal vocabulary, legal language and legal proceedings - Compare and contrast how spoken language and sign language interpreters function in legal settings and work together on assigned cases - Organize and manage a multitude of collaborative teams effectively when working with various languages and cultures in legal settings - Examine laws that affect legal interpreting - Compile resources and strategies to properly prepare for legal interpreting work and continued professional development **Prerequisites include:** - Interpreting experience. - Two-day WI Court Interpreting Orientation Program or equivalent experience. - Sign Language Interpreters require National Generalist Certification.
The plastics industry is one of the main contributors in the field of engineering. Plastic parts have spread into each area of life, making our daily tasks easier and the world more efficient. The Plastics Technology Certificate develops a foundational knowledge of plastics, covers in-depth features of plastics design and helps you stay competitive in the industry. With topics ranging from biomedical devices, injection molds and plastic materials to sizing, calibration and implementation, our expert instructors share their extensive experience with you, strengthening your skills and expanding your knowledge base.
- Define the technical properties of plastics and apply them using quantifiable methods - Summarize plastic mold concepts and determine how to avoid costly design mistakes - Describe methods to communicate the troubleshooting process and solutions - Examine the role of new technologies and their growing connection to biomedical plastics - List the factors that affect plastic part performance - Select case studies to critique best practices and identify common pitfalls when designing devices To get started, choose from our broad selection of courses. Earn your certificate in as little as 18 months by completing nine or more days of courses.
Whether you want to get ahead at work, start a new career or travel with confidence, learning Portuguese will benefit you. Spoken by over 200 million people, strengthening your Portuguese communication skills can provide endless opportunities. Through five core courses and an oral proficiency interview by computer (OPIc), the Portuguese Language Certificate provides the tools and develops the skills you need to read, write and speak Portuguese. Utilizing enhanced textbook tracts, our program delves into both European and Brazilian Portuguese. It uses standards from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) to provide a structured learning environment. In this immersive program, work with our experienced instructors to sharpen your Portuguese language skills.
Earn the certificate by completing a minimum of Portuguese III, IV and V plus an OPIc. - Analyze the basic grammar of Portuguese verbs and pronouns - Outline the spectrum of Portuguese verb tenses - Speak Portuguese with instructors, one-on-one, to strengthen conversational skills - Read and write in Portuguese to improve your fundamentals of the language - Follow Portuguese oral activities to familiarize yourself with native speech patterns - Complete an OPIc and receive an oral proficiency rating
Professional Certificate in Nonprofit Management
Nonprofit organizations are constantly evolving to meet the changing demands of the populations they serve as well as their stakeholders’ needs. While often utilizing the same tools and practices of the private sector, nonprofits emphasize mission-driven work. The Professional Certificate in Nonprofit Management focuses on 14 key areas that successful nonprofit organizations depend on. Our specific curriculum sharpens your skills and helps you improve the productivity, efficiency and processes within your organization. With topics spanning revenue development, legal concepts, ethics and more, our courses offer something valuable for every nonprofit professional. These skills are essential for community leaders, program administrators, executive directors, board members and volunteers in nonprofit organizations.
- Formulate a strategy of change to meet the needs of the community you serve - Integrate principles of financial management into your budgeting practices - Modify strategic plans to better align the mission and vision of your nonprofit - Identify ethical issues and connect them to nonprofit values associated with your organization - Define the legal framework for nonprofits and identify necessary operational regulations - Analyze the roles and responsibilities of nonprofit boards - Apply real-life case studies to marketing, fundraising and governance practices
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Six Sigma Green Belt for Services and Transactions Certificate
Evaluating progress and tracking improvements are crucial to positively growing the short- and long-term benefits of an organization. The Six Sigma Green Belt for Services and Transactions Certificate examines nonmanufacturing operations within service and transaction environments (e.g., IT and health care). Through this program, you develop your ability to set and achieve goals by working in effective teams, measuring projects and tracking a team’s improvement over time. As a Green Belt, you’ll be part of a team spearheading improvements and cost-saving strategies for your organization.
- Define the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology - Identify and apply effective methods of tracking within your organization - Apply statistical tools to eliminate errors and reduce processing times - Classify your problem-solving methodologies - Evaluate your role as a team member within your organization - Use your skills to improve a real business process To get started, enroll in Module I – Services and Transactions. Earn the certificate by completing both modules plus a capstone project.
The Social Media Manager Certificate focuses on understanding the critical roles of social media, identifying their effects on your organization’s objectives, increase your social media skills and strengthen your organization’s digital presence. By looking at different social media strategies and considering case studies of both successful and failed social media campaigns, you develop strong foundational knowledge of social media tools and techniques.
This certificate is comprised of series of 7 sequential courses plus a capstone project over 3 months. All courses and capstone must be completed to earn this badge. **Learning Outcomes:** - Discuss social media case studies relevant to your organization - Identify opportunities to utilize social media - Create executable goals that increase your organization’s presence and impact in the digital world - Use social media tracking and metrics to strengthen social media strategies - Analyze social media trends to achieve organizational objectives - Build social media campaigns across multiple platforms to meet your organization’s unique demands **Earn the certificate by completing all courses in this three-month online program.**
Solution-Focused Business Professional Certificate
UWM School of Continuing Education Spanish Language Certificate provides the tools and develops the skills you need to read, write and speak Spanish. Through six core courses and an oral proficiency interview by computer (OPIc), work with our experienced instructors to strengthen your Spanish language skills. Offered in-person or online, this certificate uses the standards from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).
Participants earn the certificate by completing at minimum Spanish IV, V, and VI plus the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Oral Proficiency Interview (ACTFL OPI). **Spanish I** _Context:_ Greetings and leave-takings, identifying yourself and others, expressions of courtesy, The classroom and academic life, fields of study and academic subjects, days of the week, class schedules, The family, identifying people, professions and occupations _Structure:_ Nouns and articles, numbers 0-30, present tense of ser, telling time, present tense of –ar verbs, forming questions in Spanish, present tense of estar, numbers 31 and higher, Description adjectives, possessive adjectives, present tense of –er and –ir verbs, present tense of tener and venir **Spanish II** _Context:_ Pastimes, sports, places in the city, travel and vacation, months of the year, seasons of weather, ordinal numbers, clothing and shopping, negotiating a price and buying, colors, more adjectives. _Structure:_ Present tense of ir, stem-changing verbs: eie and oue, stem-changing verbs: eI, verbs with irregular yo forms, estar with conditions and emotions, the present progressive, ser and estar, direct object nouns and pronouns, saber and conocer, indirect object pronouns, preterite tense of regular verbs, demonstrative adjectives and pronouns. **Spanish III** _Context:_ Daily routine, personal hygiene, time expressions, food, food descriptions, meals, parties and celebrations, personal relationships, stages of life. _Structure:_ Reflexive verbs, indefinite and negative words, preterite of ser and ir, verbs like gustar, preterite of stem-changing verbs, double object pronouns, comparisons, superlatives, irregular preterites, verbs that change meaning in the preterite, qué and cuál, pronouns after prepositions. **Spanish IV** _Context:_ Health and medical terms, parts of the body, symptoms and medical conditions, health professions, home electronics, computers and the internet, the car and its accessories, parts of a house, household chores, table settings. _Structure:_ The imperfect tense, the preterite and the imperfect, constructions with se, adverbs, familiar commands, por and para, reciprocal reflexives, stressed possessive adjectives and pronouns, relative pronouns, formal commands, the present subjunctive, subjunctive with verbs of will and influence. **Spanish V** _Context:_ Nature, the environment, recycling and conservation, city life, daily chores, money and banking, at a post office, health and well-being, exercise and physical activity, nutrition. _Structure:_ The subjunctive with verbs of emotion, doubt, disbelief, and denial; the subjunctive with conjunctions, the subjunctive in adjective clauses, nosotros/as commands, past participles used as adjectives, the present perfect, the past perfect, the present perfect subjunctive. **Spanish VI** _Context:_ Professions and occupations, the workplace, job interviews, the arts, movies, television, current events and politics, the media, natural disasters. _Structure:_ The future, the future perfect, the past subjunctive, the conditional, the conditional perfect, the past perfect subjunctive, si clauses, summary of the uses of the subjunctive
2025 Badge of Attendance for Clean Rivers Clean Lakes Conference
2025 Badge of Attendance for Clean Rivers Clean Lakes Conference badge image
Each year, participants from nonprofit, government, business and academic organizations gather for the Clean Rivers, Clean Lake Conference to learn about improving the health of our watersheds through policy innovation, technical and engineering advances, watershed restoration planning and practices, and collaborative stakeholder involvement. For the past twenty years, the Clean Rivers, Clean Lake Conference has been a hallmark occasion for the watershed community of practice in southeastern Wisconsin to come together to discuss strategies and projects to improve the health of our watersheds. Participation in the Clean Rivers, Clean Lake Conference represents a commitment to watershed improvement and the continued learning necessary to strategize and implement water quality improvement initiatives.
- Attend the conference for its entire duration (8:30am- 4:30pm). Be sure to check in and out with a Sweet Water staff member. - Attend 2 group sessions and 4 “Breakout” presentations. - Complete post-conference survey provided in the conference folder. - Interact with vendors throughout the day. What did the recipients do to receive the badge? - Participated in a milestone watershed community event, interacting with water quality leaders from across southeastern Wisconsin. - Provided feedback by completing the post-conference survey provided by Sweet Water. - Participated in engaging discussions with attendees.
Lean methodologies emphasize customer satisfaction and value by striving for sustainable, bottom-line results. The Lean method improves customer experiences by eliminating waste and optimizing value streams that flow between an organization’s different departments. The Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certificate combines Lean methods with the Six Sigma problem-solving approach. By integrating these philosophies, you achieve higher levels of performance and secure a competitive advantage in an increasingly challenging economy.
Earn the certificate by completing the sessions plus a capstone project. • Formulate a discipline of critical thought to eliminate waste • Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to problems you’re facing in your current position • Evaluate strategies to analyze customer satisfaction and your organization’s bottom line • Explain the connections between value streams and their relation to customer experiences • Identify methods to critique your own work to continually improve quality, delivery and cost outputs • Analyze Six Sigma methodologies to maximize your organization’s performance
Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
Lean methodologies emphasize customer satisfaction and value by striving for sustainable, bottom-line results. The Lean method improves customer experiences by eliminating waste and optimizing value streams that flow between an organization’s different departments. The Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification combines Lean methods with the Six Sigma problem-solving approach. By integrating these philosophies, you achieve higher levels of performance and secure a competitive advantage in an increasingly challenging economy.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of the on-demand course, capstone project and approval of the final capstone project. Learning Outcomes: Formulate a discipline of critical thought to eliminate waste Apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to problems you’re facing in your current position Evaluate strategies to analyze customer satisfaction and your organization’s bottom line Explain the connections between value streams and their relation to customer experiences Identify methods to critique your own work to continually improve quality, delivery and cost outputs Analyze Six Sigma methodologies to maximize your organization’s performance
The highest level of Lean Six Sigma mastery with our Master Black Belt program, designed for professionals ready to lead at a strategic level. This advanced training empowers you to recall and apply essential Lean Six Sigma skills and tools, navigate and resolve common project roadblocks, and drive improvement across all class levels. You’ll strengthen your leadership and project management expertise while gaining proficiency in cutting-edge technologies and tools. Beyond project execution, you’ll learn to mentor and evaluate candidate projects, provide constructive feedback, and ensure project portfolios align with organizational goals. With a focus on strategic analysis and complex problem resolution, this program prepares you to not only deliver results but to shape the future of quality and process excellence across your organization. A Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt (LSS MBB) has the authority to train mentor and certify Yellow, Green and Black Belt candidates, and Champion Six Sigma Portfolios within an organization.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of following criteria. To earn Master Black Belt (MBB) certification through the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, participants must meet the following criteria: Completion of Instruction: Attend and actively participate in 80 hours of instructional training. Assignment & Quiz Completion: Successfully complete all assignments and quizzes; any score below 80% must be revised and resubmitted. Mentorship Engagement: Participate in mentor check-in sessions as deemed necessary by the MBB instructional team. Comprehensive Examination: Pass a comprehensive written, oral and practical Master Black Belt exam with a minimum score of 80%. Instructional Competency: Demonstrate the ability to effectively instruct topics including Six Sigma methodology, problem solving, Lean, project and portfolio management, change management and organizational culture change, as assigned. Project Review Proficiency: Demonstrate the ability to review and approve all types of Six Sigma projects. Technology Application: Demonstrate proficiency in utilizing and teaching relevant software tools, as assigned. Portfolio Management: Show the ability to manage project portfolios through course-related assignments. Organizational Change Leadership: Effectively apply change management and culture change strategies across all organizational levels via course assignments. Mentorship Skills: Demonstrate the ability to mentor Six Sigma practitioners at all levels within the organization through course discussions and assignments. Leadership: Exhibit individual leadership qualities throughout the program. Final Approval: Receive final sponsorship by the MBB instructional team and approval from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Learning Outcomes Recall and define key Lean Six Sigma skills, tools and techniques essential for project implementation and improvement processes. Describe and explain common project roadblocks between Six Sigma class levels and emphasize strategies for their prevention or resolution. Apply project management and leadership principles to support and manage Lean Six Sigma projects effectively. Demonstrate proficiency in using relevant and emerging technologies/tools within Lean Six Sigma and program management environments. Analyze candidate projects to assess adherence to Six Sigma methodology and identify areas for improvement. Mentor and evaluate Six Sigma candidate projects, offering constructive feedback and correction of projects aligned with best practices and project guidelines. Assess Six Sigma project portfolios to ensure alignment with strategic business goals and quality objectives. Develop and execute strategies to resolve complex project issues and improve project outcomes.
Six Sigma Black Belt Certification – Office & Admin Operations
The Six Sigma Black Belt Certification – Office & Admin Operations is designed for non-manufacturing environments such as IT, health care, finance and other service-based industries. Through this in-depth program, you’ll improve your ability to set and achieve goals by developing high-performing teams, monitoring projects from start to finish and using data to drive measurable results. As a Black Belt, you will move beyond simple skills sets and into a leadership role, allowing yourself to make decisions and manage projects on your own. This is an accelerated Six Sigma program.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of the instructional course, registration in capstone project and approval of the final capstone project. Successful completion of the instructional course includes but is not limited to: attend all classes, active participation in class discussions, completion of all course work and assignments. Learning Outcomes Define DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology Differentiate among statistical tools to determine their correct applications Describe your role as a Six Sigma project leader within your organization Identify and apply effective methods of tracking to improve your organization Evaluate team selection methods to improve group effectiveness and efficiency Design, implement and improve a real-world business process using your Six Sigma Black Belt skills
Six Sigma Black Belt-Manufacturing Certification
A systematic approach is key to identifying and measuring inefficient, outdated and imprecise methods within any process. Six Sigma Black Belt certification develops short- and long-term strategies to optimize performance throughout your organization. In this program, you master the Six Sigma philosophy and equip yourself to lead and manage diverse teams over a wide range of professional benchmarks. A Six Sigma Black Belt increases your value in the workplace by giving you the statistical and analytical tools you need to reduce variation errors and generate significant cost savings within your organization. This is an accelerated Six Sigma program.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of the course, registration in capstone project and approval of the final capstone project. Successful completion of the course includes but is not limited to: attend all classes, active participation in class discussions, completion of all course work and assignments. Learning Outcomes: Define the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology Apply strategies and statistical techniques to eliminate mistakes, reduce processing times and decrease operating costs Formulate short- and long-term strategies to effectively manage diverse teams Evaluate advanced control charting methods, hypothesis testing and correlation analysis Identify and revise ineffective and inefficient work processes Outline the Six Sigma skills needed to lead your own projects
Project Management – Advanced Certificate
The Project Management – Advanced Certificate gives established project managers the opportunity to develop the critical reflection and planning skills that complex projects require. The program is for those who have earned a Project Management Professional (PMP)® credential or UWM Project Management Certificate. Choosing from a variety of courses, participants structure certificate to satisfy professional needs. Certificate earners will be able to: examine agile, waterfall, Scrum, Kanban and lean methodologies and frameworks, experiment with tools and templates to maximize productivity in complex projects, assess the role of soft skills and leadership in each aspect of a project, practice advanced management techniques in their organizations and analyze real-world scenarios to cultivate new perspectives on advanced project management challenges. Each participant also earns Professional Development Units (PDUs) recognized by Project Management Institute (PMI)®
After completing the UWM Project Management Certificate or PMI PMP credential, earn your advanced certificate by completing 4 additional courses. ( This is a minimum of 56 training hours.)
Six Sigma Black Belt for Services and Transactions Certificate
Evaluating progress and tracking improvements are crucial to positively growing the short- and long-term benefits of an organization. The Six Sigma Black Belt for Services and Transactions Certificate focuses on nonmanufacturing operations within service and transaction environments (e.g., IT and health care). Through this extended program, you strengthen and master your ability to set and achieve goals by developing effective teams, measuring projects from start to finish and tracking your team’s improvement over time. As a Black Belt, you move beyond simple skill sets into a leadership role, allowing yourself to make decisions and manage projects on your own.
- Define the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology - Compare and contrast statistical tools to determine correct application - Explain your role as a project leader within your organization - Identify and apply effective methods of tracking to improve your organization - Evaluate team selection methods to improve group effectiveness and efficiency - Use your skills to improve a real business process To get started, enroll in Module I – Services and Transactions. Earn the certificate by completing 4 modules plus a capstone project.
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification – Office & Admin Operations
Evaluating progress and tracking improvements are crucial to positively growing the short- and long-term benefits of any organization. The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification – Office & Admin Operations examines manufacturing and non-manufacturing administrative functions, such as IT, Human Resources, Marketing, Sales Finance and Purchasing. Through this program, you’ll develop the ability to set and achieve goals by working in effective teams, measuring projects and tracking a team’s improvement over time. As a Certified Green Belt, you’ll be part of a team spearheading improvements and cost-saving strategies for your organization. This is an accelerated Six Sigma program.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of the course, registration in capstone project and approval of the final capstone project. Successful completion of the course includes but is not limited to: attend all classes, active participation in class discussions, completion of all course work and assignments. Learning Outcomes: Define the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology Identify and apply effective methods of tracking within your organization Apply statistical tools to eliminate errors and reduce processing times Classify your problem-solving methodologies Evaluate your role as a team member within your organization Design, implement and assess a real-world process improvement project using your Six Sigma skills.
Six Sigma Green Belt Certification – Manufacturing
Fast-track your career and your company’s success with UWM’s accelerated Six Sigma Green Belt program. This program gives you the tools to start learning to drive results while learning to aide in boosting quality, cutting costs and streamlining operations. Built around the proven DMAIC method (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control), our dynamic Master Black Belt instructors use real-world case studies to make the learning practical and immediately applicable. In just a short time, you’ll be ready to step into a Green Belt role and deliver measurable improvements that matter. This is an accelerated Six Sigma program.
This certification is awarded by a Master Black Belt instructor upon successful completion of the course, registration in capstone project and approval of the final capstone project. Successful completion of the course includes but is not limited to: attending all classes, active participation in class discussions, completion of all course work and assignments. Learning Outcomes Define the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) methodology Apply strategies and statistical techniques to eliminate mistakes, reduce processing times and decrease operating costs Formulate short- and long-term strategies to effectively manage diverse teams Identify and revise ineffective and inefficient work processes Outline the Six Sigma skills needed to lead your own projects
2026 UW-Milwaukee, School of Continuing Education's Technology, Engineering and Business Advisory Committee
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee – School of Continuing Education (UWM SCE) Technology, Engineering & Business (TEB) Advisory Committee is comprised of a diverse group of representatives from private and public organizations in the Milwaukee area who are committed to growing tech talent. Overall, the committee advises UWM SCE on how the School can help to fill skills gaps that hinder employers from staffing open positions that will grow businesses and non-profit services. The committee also provides perspectives on future trends that affect employment for their respective markets.
The role of the committee is to: • Help identify candidate and employee training skills gaps • Analyze current industry trends and assist with predicting future trends • Contrast tech training that has been effective vs training that has not • Contribute to recommendations of preferred training formats (in-person, online, asynchronous, on-demand) • Provide feedback on existing and proposed courses based on experience and organizational needs • Suggest instructors and course topics • Provide introductions and connections to colleagues who may benefit from tech training programs • Advocate for UWM SCE TEB programming to colleagues and networks Commitment of committee members: • Attend 3 – 4 meetings per year • Be available via email for questions or feedback • Meet with UWM SCE committee staff for informal telephone or face-to-face meetings, as needed