University College at Fairfield University adds two new offerings to its series of certificate courses | Press Releases

A new certificate program in Public Relations and one in Clinical Research are now available at University College, formerly the School of Continuing Education, at Fairfield University. The college now offers certificate courses in seven fields.

As layoffs continue to mount throughout many industries, getting certified in your field is a good way to increase your employability - and cement your value to your existing employer, said Patricia Brunetti, director of noncredit programs for University College.

Starting this September, University College will offer a Public Relations Certificate for those seeking the basic knowledge and skills required for an entry level position, or for those currently employed and seeking additional knowledge to enhance their careers. The certificate requires completion of three core and three elective courses and can be completed in 9 months.

"Media Relations," which will run Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. this semester, offers a structured approach to effective media relations using case studies, discussions and lectures to develop critical practices and skills necessary in dealing with the news media. "Fundamentals and Principles of the Public Relations Function," will run Mondays from 6 to 8 p.m. The course provides an introduction to public relations as a professional discipline and senior management function. It examines the techniques and methods of communications, media and various areas of public relations expertise.

University College will also begin a Clinical Research Associate certificate program this year. Clinical Research Associates monitor clinical investigations of experimental drugs and devices. "Clinical Research Associate," which will run six Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., focuses on key concepts and information essential to effective functioning in the research arena. The course can open doors to exciting career opportunities in Clinical Research.

Also new this fall is a C.I.W. Foundation Certificate. The program is designed to help career changers interested in entering the information technology field as well as experienced and vendor-certified professionals build on existing IT skills. It is a five-week, three-part certificate offered on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from Oct. 5 through Nov. 2.

The first module is "Foundations - Internet Fundamentals," which guides students through the Internet and its wide array of resources, including the use of advanced searches. Students also learn to configure both Netscape Navigator and Internet Explorer to access rich multimedia content. The course will also discuss electronic commerce and security issues. "Foundations - Web Page Authoring Fundamentals" the second module, teaches Web page creation and other aspects of Web authoring. Upon completion, students are able to create simple Web pages containing text, graphics, hyperlinks, tables, forms and frames. The final module, "Foundations -Networking Fundamentals," teaches networking concepts and practices. Topics include network architecture and standards, networking protocols, TCP/IP, Internet servers, server-side scripting and database connectivity, and security.

University College at Fairfield University also offers certificate programs in Certified Financial Planning, Human Resources, Computer Graphics and Interior Design. For more information or to register, contact Patricia Brunetti at University College at (203) 254-4307.