Frequently Asked Questions

Is financial assistance available?

Yes. Financial assistance may be available for select Workforce & Continuing Education programs through grants, workforce development funding, and community partnerships. Funding opportunities vary by program and availability.

Which programs qualify for financial assistance?

Funding opportunities may be available for select programs, including:

• Phlebotomy Technician
• Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)
• Pre-Apprentice Lineworker Academy

Funding availability, eligibility requirements, and award amounts vary by program and funding source.

Is FAFSA accepted?

No. Workforce & Continuing Education programs are not eligible for FAFSA funding.

Who can I contact about funding opportunities?

Please contact Workforce & Continuing Education to discuss available funding options and determine eligibility.

How do I get started?

Getting started depends on the program. Some Workforce & Continuing Education programs require students to complete enrollment requirements before registration, while others allow direct online registration.

What happens after I join a contact list?

Students who join a contact list will receive information about upcoming cohorts, enrollment requirements, important dates, and next steps.

How do I know if a program requires additional documentation?

Programs that require documentation will outline those requirements on the program page and during the enrollment process.

What types of documentation may be required?

Documentation requirements vary by program and may include proof of education, identification, immunization records, background checks, drug screenings, or other program-specific requirements.

When is my registration complete?

Registration is complete once all program requirements have been met (if applicable) and payment has been received.

How will I know if I am eligible to register?

Students will receive communication regarding eligibility and registration instructions once all required steps have been completed.

How can I get a refund?

Please refer to our refund page that explains how and when refunds are processed.

What types of programs do you offer?

Workforce & Continuing Education offers healthcare training, workforce certifications, professional development courses, online learning opportunities, and community enrichment classes.

How long do programs typically last?

Program length varies by course. Some training opportunities may be completed in a few hours or days, while others may span several weeks or months.

Where are classes held?

Classes may be offered on Columbia State campuses, at partner locations, employer sites, or online.

Are classes offered online, in person, or hybrid?

Course formats vary by program and may include online, in-person, or hybrid learning options.

What is the average class size?

Class size varies by program and learning format. Many workforce training programs maintain smaller class sizes to support hands-on instruction.

How often are programs offered?

Program schedules vary throughout the year. Visit the program page for current availability and upcoming offerings.

Can courses fill before the registration deadline?

Yes. Some programs have limited seating and may fill before the registration deadline. Early registration is encouraged.

Do all programs have the same requirements?

No. Program requirements vary based on the course, industry standards, and training objectives.

Are prerequisites required?

Some programs have prerequisites, while others are open to beginners. Specific requirements are listed on each program page.

Will I need a background check?

Some healthcare and workforce training programs require a background check prior to participation.

Will I need a drug screening?

Certain programs may require a drug screening as part of the enrollment process.

Will I need immunization records?

Some healthcare programs require proof of immunizations or other health documentation.

Are there age requirements for certain programs?

Some programs have minimum age requirements. Review the program page for specific eligibility requirements.

What is your refund policy?

Refund policies vary by program. Please review the program page or contact our office for additional information.

What happens if I need to withdraw from a course?

Withdrawal policies vary by program and may depend on the timing of the request.

What happens if a class is canceled?

Students will be notified if a course is canceled and provided information regarding refunds or alternative options.

How can I contact Workforce & Continuing Education?

Our team can be reached by phone, email, or through the contact information listed on our website.

Where can I find more information about a specific program?

Additional program information can be found on the program page or by contacting Workforce & Continuing Education directly.

What is the refund policy?

Refund eligibility depends on when you withdraw from your course.

How do I withdraw from a course?

To withdraw from a Workforce and Continuing Education course, contact our office as soon as possible. Refund eligibility is determined based on the official withdrawal date.

What happens if Columbia State cancels my class?

If the College cancels your course, you will receive a 100% refund of the course fee.

Can I receive a refund after the course has started?

Students who officially withdraw on the first scheduled class meeting date and before the second scheduled class meeting are eligible for a 50% refund. No refunds are issued on or after the second scheduled class meeting.

Can classes be changed after I register?

Yes. Columbia State Workforce and Continuing Education reserves the right to cancel, postpone, limit enrollment, split or combine classes, and change instructors or classroom assignments as necessary.