Mission
The School of Extended and Lifelong Learning (SELL) is the outreach arm of The University of Montana, and its mission reflects The University of Montana’s commitment to provide high quality, innovative outreach programs that serve the lifelong learning needs of the citizens of Montana and beyond. SELL’s primary goal is to provide access to UM’s vast array of educational opportunities.
The School of Extended and Lifelong Learning partners with academic units and external agencies to develop programs; write grant and contract proposals, for external funding; and offer focused training programs that contribute to the economic development of Montana. Programs are delivered using a variety of delivery formats, and encompass UMOnline, Summer Semester, Wintersession, Off-campus programs and Professional Development Services. SELL connects the resources of The University of Montana to a diverse audience by facilitating access to educational opportunities through online learning, summer and winter programs, off-campus courses and degrees and professional development programs.
Continuing Education is located in the James E. Todd building, east of the University Center, and provides access to state-of-the-art technology in every room. In addition, SELL provides conference and event planning, including equipment rental, technical support and logistical assistance. For more information, visit http://www.umt.edu/ce/.
Extended Learning Services (XLS)
UM Online courses are available to students both on- and off- campus at times and places convenient to the learner. Degree programs, General Education courses and many other online courses are offered each semester and Wintersession. For more information and course schedules, visit http://umonline.umt.edu/.
Summer Semester offers several options for traditional and non-traditional students throughout the summer months. Graduate and undergraduate courses are offered in more than 30 disciplines, along with workshops and seminars. For more information about Summer Semester, visit http://umt.edu/xls/summer/default.aspx.
Wintersession offers UM students an opportunity to earn up to 6 credits during the 3-week session in January. Credits earned during Wintersession count toward full-time Spring Semester status. For example, students registered for 3 credits during Wintersession and 9 credits during the Spring Semester are considered full-time students. Students registered for full-time during the Spring Semester do not pay additional tuition for courses scheduled during Wintersession. Financial Aid applies to credits earned during Spring, including Wintersession. For more information, visit http://umt.edu/xls/wintersession/default.aspx.
Community Engagement offers academic credit and non-credit courses, programs, workshops, seminars and conferences. Course delivery includes face-to-face, online, blended learning, travel and experiential learning opportunities. For more information about taking or sponsoring professional development courses, visit http://umt.edu/xls/pds/default.aspx.
Off-Campus Courses and Programs offer learners with additional opportunities to earn academic credit and complete programs in many disciplines in locations other than Missoula. Designed to meet the diverse needs of students, programs are offered at locations throughout Montana and beyond using traditional classroom methods, videoconferencing and Internet instruction. For more information, visit http://umt.edu/xls/offcampus/default.aspx.
Community and Professional Services
The mission of the Community and Professional Services Department is to provide comprehensive non-credit training opportunities to a broad spectrum of professional and community groups. The unit is responsible for the development and implementation of programs that include professional development, technical support, training, creative solutions, enhanced solutions and communications. These programs focus on health and the environment by offering custom tailored workshops, conferences, reports, strategic planning, regional training and community outreach programs. CPS works to empower community organizations by providing services that enable them to increase their levels of skill and efficiency. For more information, visit http://www.umt.edu/ce/cps/testdefault.asp.
Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Montana
The mission of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at The University of Montana (MOLLI) is to promote lifelong learning and personal growth for adults over fifty. The institute offers an accessible and innovative learning environment for older adults from all backgrounds and levels of education. Faculty members include emeritus and current UM faculty, as well as professionals from the community. Program offerings include lectures, ongoing discussions, short courses, and interest groups covering topics from the humanities, sciences and the arts, as well as community and regional issues. For more information, visit http://www.umt.edu/ce/plus50.