Two Certificate Programs Help Extension Professionals, others Expand Professional Impact
Oct. 6, 2026
Submitted by Maria Childs
Professionals working in extension, outreach and community engagement roles -- and students preparing for those careers -- will soon have new opportunities to strengthen their skills through certificate programs offered by the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education.
Developed by faculty with expertise in extension and engagement, the department's new certificate offerings are designed to help learners build practical knowledge that can be applied in communities, workplaces and educational settings.
The extension and engagement-focused and agricultural and occupational safety-focused certificates each offer a unique area of emphasis while sharing a common goal: preparing professionals to make a greater impact in the people and organizations they serve.
The extension and engagement-focused certificate is designed for students, extension professionals and others interested in how educational programs, outreach initiatives and community engagement create meaningful change. Enrollment for this certificate program opens in October 2026 with classes starting in the spring semester.
Brandie Disberger, an associate professor in the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education, said the program helps students understand how knowledge is shared beyond traditional classroom settings and into communities.
“Extension is all about connecting knowledge with people and communities,” Disberger said. “This certificate gives students an opportunity to learn how educational outreach, relationship building and community engagement can create meaningful impact, regardless of their academic discipline or career path.”
While the certificate is available to students across disciplines, it was developed around principles and practices central to extension work, making it relevant to those interested in careers involving education, outreach, program development and community engagement.
For students interested in workplace well-being, risk management and creating safer environments, the Agricultural and Occupational Safety and Health Certificate provides a different, but equally valuable pathway. The certificate equips students with knowledge of safety culture, hazard awareness and health considerations relevant across industries.
Mitch Ricketts, professor in the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education, said the certificate helps students develop competencies that employers increasingly value as organizations place greater emphasis on employee health, safety and risk reduction.
“Safety and health are not limited to one profession or industry,” Ricketts said. “Whether students are entering agriculture, business, manufacturing, education or public service, understanding how to identify risks and promote well-being can make them stronger professionals and leaders.”
Although the two certificates have distinct areas of focus, both are designed to pair well with a wide variety of degree programs. Whether students are preparing for careers in agriculture, business, education, communications, human sciences or other fields, the additional credential can help demonstrate specialized knowledge and a commitment to professional development.
As students and professionals seek ways to expand their expertise, certificate programs provide an opportunity to explore new interests, strengthen career readiness and increase their impact in the communities and organizations they serve.
Students interested in learning more are encouraged to contact the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education or speak with their academic advisor to explore how either program could complement their degree plan.
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