FAQs

 

What are Continuing Education Units (CEUs)?

Continuing Education Units, or CEUs, are awarded by many colleges, universities and other accredited training providers to signify successful completion of non-credit programs and courses intended to improve the knowledge and skills of working adults.  1 CEU represents approximately ten (10) contact hours of experience in a structured continuing education experience (class, seminar, retreat, practicum, self-study, etc.) that is supervised in some way by a qualified continuing education provider.

Non-instructional time such as breaks, meals, introductions and social events are not included when determining contact hours. Time for a speaker during a meal may be included, however only for the presentation time, not the meal itself.

How can I benefit from CEUs?

The primary purpose of the CEU is to provide a permanent record of the educational accomplishments of an individual who has completed significant non-credit educational and career enhancement experiences. CEUs are needed by many individuals to obtain or renew industry certifications or licenses or gain increases in compensation. Doctors, nurses, educators, lawyers, engineers, CPAs, real estate agents, financial advisers, and other such professionals are required to participate in continuing education programs for a certain number of hours every year in order to keep their certification, or professional licenses current. The annual number of CEUs required varies by state and profession.

Exclusions from CEU eligibility:

  • Credit courses
  • Committee meetings
  • Work experience
  • Mass media programs
  • Travel
  • Youth programs
  • Unsupervised study
  • Entertainment and recreation

How do I take part in Professional Development?

If you are a student hoping to earn CEUs, speak with your employer or training provider to learn what opportunities in Professional Development they might offer through SJSU. If you are a program leader hoping to offer CEUs at your training, please visit our Program Leaders page.

I have participated in SJSU Professional Development. How do I purchase CEUs?

The CEU Request Form needed to purchase CEUs is available only through your program leader. Please contact the facilitator of your program to obtain this form. If you have the CEU Request Form and are ready to purchase CEUs, please visit our online payment site.

What is the fee to purchase CEUs?

San José State is happy to offer one of the most competitive rates available for CEUs, at a cost of $90 per CEU. Additionally, transcripts are free! 

How is a CEU different from an academic unit?

CEUs are not awarded for academic study and do not represent, provide, or convert to academic credit.

How long does it take to process my Transcript Request?

Processing time for a Professional Development/CEU Transcript is approximately 2 weeks; however, due to seasonal demand, there may be an increased wait during the months of July-September. 

Will my employer accept the CEUs I have earned from SJSU?

San José State University is a WASC accredited organization; however, it is dependent on your employer as to their level of acknowledgement of your CEU participation. Contact your Human Resources manager to inquire.

I have applied to a Graduate Program at another University; will SJSU provide a transcript to compliment my application?

Yes, we are happy to support your educational endeavors. Please visit Transcripts and make sure to indicate the mailing address of the school to which you would like us to submit documentation.

How can my school district, agency or organization benefit from a partnership with CPGE?

SJSU is a WASC approved continuing education provider, and partners with school districts and professional associations to offer CEUs to continuing education participants. Many school districts, government agencies and nonprofit organizations organize continuing education courses in the form of workshops, trade shows, or conferences to provide individuals the opportunity to meet their industry’s continuing education requirements. Typically, SJSU does not coordinate these events, but provides student services, record keeping of attendee participation, and ensures the quality of the training provided.