Regions
Regions - The Best Place for Local Networking!
UPCEA's five regions provide opportunities for members to examine issues of local and regional importance, develop collaborative initiatives, network with area colleagues, and take advantage of cost-effective professional development at regional events throughout the year.
Regional content is especially useful for new and mid-level professionals who will discover opportunities to build leadership skills and learn from our industry's best in a smaller, more intimate conference setting. Take part in a leadership program, build your skills as a presenter, or nominate a program or person from your region for a regional, national or marketing excellence award.
Networks
Join a Network! UPCEA's Networks are designed to serve professionals practicing in the key areas that define this vibrant and growing sector of higher education. Each Network is the "professional home" for members who work in that area. Individuals can choose to join one or more Networks, according to their needs and interests.
Join the Alternative Credentials; Business & Operations; Community and Economic Engagement; eDesign Collaborative; International; Marketing, Enrollment, & Student Success; Online Administration; and/or Program Planning and Implementation Network.
CORe
Your 24/7 Member Network
CORe is UPCEA's member community and online networking space where you can ask, answer or search for questions on relevant topics. Get advice, answers and ideas from your colleagues online via CORe, UPCEA's professional networking platform.
Your membership gives you full access to:
- Active conversations, and the chance to ask your questions in real time
- Robust search of conversation archive
- A diverse resource library
- UPCEA's entire member directory
- Exclusive member content -- including benchmarking studies, conference session slides, and webinar recordings
Webinars
Complimentary for members!
Frequent webinars on a range of topics applicable to online and professional continuing education are free and available exclusively to members. Learn from your peers and industry leaders without leaving your desk!
Awards
Showcase your excellence with membership awards!
The Association Awards Program includes recognition of both individual and institutional achievement across the UPCEA membership. UPCEA recognizes its members' outstanding contributions to the Association and the field, as well as their achievements in innovative programming, marketing and promotion, community development and services, research and publications, and other areas.
Each of the five regions host individual awards programs. Awards are presented at regional events.
The Marketing, Enrollment, and Student Services Network sponsors an annual competition -- the UPCEA Marketing Awards -- to recognize the best marketing practices and promotional pieces in the field of online and professional continuing education.
Benchmarking Research & Consulting
Data you can use, and the experts to help you get it
UPCEA offers the gold standard of research and benchmarking information in the industry through UPCEA Research and Consulting (URC). URC completes several key benchmarking studies annually that are free to members and targeted to provide critical data to the benefit of all.
Whether you need benchmarking studies, market research for a new program, or specific information to evaluate and develop strategies to take your online programs and instructional design to the next level, UPCEA Research and Consulting is the right choice. UPCEA also offers Peer Review Teams for on-site visits.
Professional Development
UPCEA Digital Learning Academy
Build the knowledge, practical skills, and leadership capabilities you need to thrive in today's rapidly evolving higher education landscape. The UPCEA Digital Learning Academy brings together flexible professional learning from the leading association for online and professional continuing education. Learn from experienced practitioners and nationally recognized experts through high-value, relevant learning experiences designed for professionals at every stage of their careers. Connect with peers from across the field in a collaborative virtual learning environment and earn digital badges for completed learning experiences.
The Academy offers three integrated learning pathways, Essential Learning, Professional Practice, and Leadership Development, through a mix of self-paced learning, instructor-led courses, short learning experiences, and advanced leadership development. Whether you're building foundational knowledge, strengthening workplace-ready skills, or preparing for executive leadership, you'll find flexible learning opportunities that fit your goals and schedule. The Leadership Development pathway includes the Enterprise Leadership Certificate, with concentrations in Chief Online Learning Officer (COLO) and Professional and Continuing Education.
Transition Notice: The UPCEA PCO Professional Certificate and PCO Leader Certificate will continue to be offered through the end of 2026, providing learners with a smooth transition to the new Enterprise Leadership Certificate.
SPECIAL OFFER: UPCEA Institutional Impact Professional Development Bundle
Strategic training to strengthen your institution.
Invest in your team's professional growth with 10 UPCEA Digital Learning Academy courses for $3,500 - a savings of $1,090 off the regular member rate. Flexible, practical learning designed to build knowledge, strengthen skills, and prepare higher education professionals for what's next. Learn more.
Mentorship Opportunities
UPlift: UPCEA Mentorship Experience
Mentorship has powerful benefits! Connecting UPCEA members with leaders in the higher education community helps develop professional relationships for personal growth and career success through:
- Growing your network
- Gaining insights
- Receiving feedback
- Learning new skills
The UPCEA UPlift Mentorship Program runs annually for six months. Signups for the 2027 cohort are now open. Learn more and apply.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer and grow as a leader, presenter, or mentor
Take an active role in your membership! Members are encouraged to serve as volunteer leaders -- there are many ways to get involved:
- Be an ambassador, conference buddy, or mentor
- Submit a proposal to present at conferences
- Serve on a regional or network committee
- Join a network and share your knowledge
- Volunteer on your regional volunteer team
- Post on CORe and join the conversation
Member Benefits Calendar
Stay up to date with valuable opportunities to connect, engage, and make the most of your membership! This easy-to-use tool highlights key dates for membership renewals, conference and event deadlines (like calls for proposals and early registration), and more. With everything in one place, you’ll be able to plan ahead, stay connected, and take full advantage of the benefits and resources your UPCEA membership offers. Don’t miss a chance to engage, grow your network, and advance your professional goals!
Get Involved with UPCEA
Professional development isn't just about attending sessions. Get involved with UPCEA to meet members from other institutions, share the great work your institution is doing, and hone your own skills. From submitting a session proposal for a conference or an article for a publication to serving as a volunteer on a conference planning committee, there are as many ways to engage with us!
