Nowadays, there are many good reasons for continuing education: • employers are increasingly looking for that extra qualification when appointing new staff; • employees are keen to maintain and enhance their level of knowledge and skills or to make a career change; • some choose to pursue an academic interest for its own sake others wish to postpone the decision on their career destination. .................................................................................................................................. Whatever the reason, ICUA aims to make studying for a certificate/diploma qualification as easy and as flexible as possible. Some of the diploma taught course lead to qualifications recognized by professional bodies. Many of these, as well as some short courses, serve the purpose of professional development by building on students' prior experience in the workplace. A range of conversion courses enables students to acquire academic qualifications in subject areas other than that of their first degree. Whatever the reason, ICUA aims to make studying for a certificate/diploma qualification as easy and as flexible as possible. Some of the diploma taught course lead to qualifications recognized by professional bodies. Many of these, as well as some short courses, serve the purpose of professional development by building on students' prior experience in the workplace. A range of conversion courses enables students to acquire academic qualifications in subject areas other than that of their first degree. For international students needing to improve their English language skills before embarking on a diploma course, the University also offers a number of preparatory courses. Many students take a taught diploma course before going on - immediately or at a later stage to a Master degree. Professional higher degrees provide both the supportive framework of working alongside other students on taught courses with the opportunity to undertake a sustained piece of original research. This type of higher degree, along with many masters programs, enables practising professionals to integrate further advanced-level study and research with their employment. A range of short courses, workshops and seminars are conducted to improve skills and proficiency. These short courses are especially designed for the busy working candidates and evaluated by means of dissertation. Candidates will be allowed to enroll on more than one course simultaneously and a certificate of proficiency will be issued at the end of each course. .................................................................................................................................. The Certificate program is a first-level program which leads to a nationally recognized qualification. It involves 3 months part-time study and is competence-based. Building upon your work experience and practical knowledge, the course is designed to offer a challenging and innovative learning experience. The Certificate program often provides an entry route to the Professional Diploma (part-time) program. .................................................................................................................................. The Professional Diploma program is well-established and recognized qualification which provides aspiring or practising managers with opportunities to develop their understanding of management concepts and skills. It is studied jointly with the first year of the two-year part-time MBA. Entry is by completion of the Professional Certificate or equivalent plus experience. Its primary aim is to enable participants to become competent personnel and development practitioners.