Farmingdale State College (FSC) today announced the establishment of the Office of Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE), designed to provide innovative, accessible, and workforce-responsive programming to serve learners, employers, and communities. 

PaCE will serve as a central hub for workforce training, non-credit certificates, employer partnerships, personal enrichment offerings, and lifelong learning opportunities. This new structure allows FSC to build on the strong work already underway across the College while creating a more visible, coordinated, and strategic presence for continuing education at Farmingdale. 

“As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, so too must the ways we create meaningful pathways for personal advancement, professional development, and lifelong learning,” said Sean Lane, PhD, senior vice president and provost at Farmingdale State College. “This initiative establishes an intentional path to build practical programs, strong partnerships, and opportunities that make a real difference- for individuals, for employers, and for the broader community.” 

PaCE includes customized programming centered around three core areas reflecting a full suite of continuing education offerings, from career entry to ongoing personal development. 

• Certificates & Personal Advancement – Short-term, skill-based programs designed to help individuals move forward in their careers 
• Corporate Training & Professional Development – Customized solutions for employers looking to upskill their workforce 
• Farmingdale Institute for Lifelong Learning – Programs that support personal enrichment and continued engagement in learning 

Current offerings include training in healthcare, design, business, fitness, and process improvement, with programs such as Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Green Professional Training (GPRO), ASQ Lean Six Sigma, Adobe Design Essentials, Certified Personal Training, and Creative Problem Solving. Each is built with a focus on practical experience, clear skill development, and immediate relevance to today’s job market. 

“FSC’s approach to education is rooted in real-world applications. We share that mantra in PaCE, where programs are designed to directly translate into workplace skills,” said Dylan Gafarian, EdD, acting dean of extended and experiential learning at Farmingdale State College. “Our ultimate goal is to make it easier for students, professionals, and employers to access high-quality, career-focused learning that leads to real outcomes.” 

To explore programs, upcoming courses, and enrollment options, visit the Office for Professional and Continued Education website, email continuinged@farmingdale.edu, or call 934.420.5404. 

 

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