CLARKSVILLE, ARKANSAS — University of the Ozarks is proud to announce the launch of the University of the Ozarks Skills Academy, an online skills marketplace designed to equip learners with in-demand skills through short-term credential and certificate programs.
Created to meet evolving workforce demands, the Skills Academy offers a dynamic alternative to traditional degree programs. These specialized, flexible courses are tailored to provide learners with practical knowledge and industry-relevant competencies that can immediately enhance career opportunities and support long-term professional growth.
“The University of the Ozarks Skills Academy aligns with our mission of providing accessible, forward-thinking education that prepares individuals for real-world success,” said University President Richard Dunsworth. “This platform allows learners to upskill or reskill quickly, affordably, and effectively in areas that matter most to employers today.”
Key features of the Skills Academy include:
- Short-term programs designed for immediate application in the workforce
- Credentials and certificates in high-demand fields
- Online, self-paced learning to accommodate busy schedules
- Opportunities for both career starters and experienced professionals
“With the launch of this marketplace, the University continues to demonstrate its commitment to innovation in higher education and to supporting learners across all stages of their professional journeys,” said Dr. Janie Diels, vice president for academic affairs. “Certifications can enhance a person’s competitiveness in the job market and accelerate their career readiness.”
Diels added that earning industry-recognized credentials “is a smart career development step that builds on their degree’s foundation and keeps them ahead in a competitive job market. These certifications validate their expertise in cutting-edge tools and best practices, signal a commitment to lifelong learning, and open doors to new roles, higher salaries, and leadership opportunities.”
Designed in partnership with Acadeum, the nation’s largest course-sharing platform, the Skills Academy is available from any online device. The Skills Academy allows learners to choose from among dozens of certificates and programs curated by U of O to align with global workforce needs. These certifications are offered by leading online education providers like Coursera and NCLabs.
With the U of O Skills Academy, learners can choose from self-paced options with certificates that cover various fields of study. Among the categories available include, Project Management, Supply Chain Management, Generative AI in Business, Human Resources Management, Digital Marketing, Marketing Analytics, UX Design, Developer, Cyber Security, and Six Sigma Certification. Classes will be added to the Skills Academy as the program grows.
The Skill Academy will be also be available to current U of O students as well as U of O alumni. Students and alumni will receive a 10 percent discount on courses.
“The Ozarks Skills Academy empowers our students and alumni to go beyond the classroom by earning industry-recognized certificates that set them apart in today’s competitive job market,” said Matt Bewley, director of career services at Ozarks. “It’s a powerful tool that helps them showcase their unique skills, stay ahead of workforce trends, and confidently pursue the careers they’ve prepared for at University of the Ozarks.”
The Skills Academy not only meets employer needs; it also fits with changing attitudes toward higher education. Research indicates that a growing number of learners are interested in pursuing resume-enhancing “micro-credentials,” such as industry certificates, as part of college degree programs.
To explore courses and certifications offered by the U of O Skills Academy, please visit https://ozarks.acadeum.com/
For questions about the Skills Academy, contact Bewley at mbewley@ozarks.edu
Topics: Skills Academy