Making the business (up)grade

COTR’s Continuing Education programs offer classes for small business owners

College of the Rockies' continuing education programs can help business people upgrade their skills or find out what it will take to take the next step to success. — Kali Love photo

When Alice Cooper sang, “School’s out forever,” he clearly wasn’t thinking ahead.

The College of the Rockies (COTR) continuing education programming has always provided a number of courses that appeal to people looking to expand their own horizons—from personal growth options to certificate-granting short courses required for employment. However, the college has also recognized that business people—or would-be entrepreneurs—also need upgrading that might not be available through on-the-job training.

This year, COTR has included a wealth of business-related options that include opportunities for online learning as well as in-class interaction.

Martina Danzer, a programmer with the continuing education program, said many of the course options have to require prerequisites, making them accessible to almost everyone—and she thinks there is a course for everyone.

“There are so many options,” said Danzer. “If someone wants to earn a certificate on computer programs (like Excel) or someone wants to look at how to advertise their business better using social media, they can more or less build their own course (selections) in a way that suits them the best.”

“There are so many options” —Martina Danzer

One of the more intriguing courses available is the Entrepreneur Boot Camp. COTR teamed up with a learning resource network to create a class that helps identify the characteristics, knowledge and skills that are necessary to become a successful business person.

The computer classes tend to fill up quickly but Danzer said all of the courses have significant value to the business community.

“We hope these courses can enhance a specific area of their business where they feel they can improve,” she said.

Danzer added that the college wants to hear from the business community about suggestions for courses that address their needs.

There is a full list of courses available online.