The College of Professional Studies’ mission is to deliver exceptional support and services to a diverse part-time student population seeking a Syracuse University education. The Office of Professional Acceleration and Microcredentials stays true to this mission by offering microcredentials that allows learners access to upgrade their skills and explore new interests.
In this Q & A, get to know Allison Roth and her role in the Office of Professional Acceleration and Microcredentials.
- What is your position at the College of Professional Studies?
I am the operations specialist in the Office of Professional Acceleration and Microcredentials.
- How long have you worked at the College of Professional Studies?
I’ve been working at Syracuse University for over 7 years, with the last two years at the College of Professional Studies. Previously, I worked as an advisor for a career preparation and employment program for transitioning service members, veterans and military spouses. That role helped me understand the unique needs of nontraditional students and how educational institutions can work to meet those needs.
- In one sentence, how would you describe your role and/or department?
Our department supports lifelong learning by providing opportunities for everyone to upgrade their skillset, explore new areas of interest, or prepare for industry certification exams.
- What aspects of your profession bring you joy?
Being able to offer learning opportunities to those who never thought they would be able to take a course at Syracuse University. I also love seeing how these shorter courses and programs can open doors for the students and provide a pathway for them to earn a degree from Syracuse University.
- What is your proudest moment at the College of Professional Studies?
Hearing about the successes of those who take our courses. Success looks different for everyone; sometimes it’s completing a 4-week online course, and sometimes it’s earning an industry certification. No matter what that success looks like for those students, I love celebrating their wins alongside them and seeing how it has a positive impact on their lives.
I’m also very proud to be in a position where I can focus on providing courses and programs that meet the needs of all of our potential students. Each offering isn’t going to be a perfect fit for everyone, so I am proud to be able to invest time and resources into offering courses in a variety of different delivery methods and price points.
- How does your department support students during their time here?
Our department sees everyone as a potential student—from University Leadership to SU staff to SU faculty to the local community to the continent to the entire world. We strive to ensure that everyone who interacts with our department’s offerings has a positive Syracuse University experience.
Additionally, as our department continues to grow, we will be adding a student success team, which will be the dedicated support system for the students throughout their lifelong learning with our department.
- Our goal as a college is to provide high-quality service to our students. How does your department go above and beyond to support Syracuse University students?
We aspire to be a one-stop shop for anyone who is looking to upgrade their current skillset, explore new interests, or prepare for an industry certification exam. Since we see everyone as a potential student, we strive to offer courses and programs at a variety of different levels, delivery methods, and price ranges. Additionally, our department is uniquely built to quickly adapt to the needs of our students, workforce, and industry. As the market and environment continue to change, our department will continue to adapt and add new offerings to meet these needs.
- If students would like to get connected with your department, how can they do so?
E-mail: microcredential@syr.edu
Address: 700 University Ave Suite 403 | Syracuse, NY 13244