The Bachelor of Arts in Workforce Education and Development program within the College of Education and Human Development prepares students to support career growth and workplace learning by combining a strong understanding of workforce development with practical strategies for training, adult education and career readiness.
College Stats
97%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working full time have a job related to their degree
98%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates participated in Experience-Driven Learning
95%
of College of Education and Human Development graduates working are satisfied with their job
Pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Workforce Education and Development
The Bachelor of Arts in Workforce Education and Development at Western Michigan University through the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences prepares students to support career growth, workplace learning, and workforce readiness. Offered within the College of Education and Human Development, the program combines workforce development, adult education, training, and career preparation to help students build practical skills for helping others succeed in professional and technical environments.
This is a non-teacher certification degree designed for students interested in roles such as workforce training, employee development, adult education, career readiness, and program coordination. Students who are interested in becoming certified teachers can also work with WMU’s dedicated advising team to explore teaching degree options that align with their goals.
What you’ll learn
Students learn how people build skills for careers, how organizations support employee growth, and how education connects to workforce needs. The program also helps students develop abilities in training, communication, program planning, career development, and supporting adult learners in professional settings.
Where you’ll be after graduation
Graduates may pursue career opportunities in employee training, workforce development, adult education, career readiness, human resources support, community education, and program coordination. This degree can prepare students for roles such as training coordinator, workforce development specialist, adult education instructor, career services professional, learning and development assistant, technical training specialist, or occupational program coordinator in businesses, community organizations, educational settings, nonprofits, and workforce agencies.
For 95% of College of Education and Human Development grads, they got that job or got into that graduate school program after graduation. That is because your journey of self-discovery begins the moment you step on campus. At WMU's Career and Student Employment Services, career specialists help you align your passions and abilities with future careers and advanced degrees. They will connect you to practical experiences like internships, job shadowing, research projects and professional mentors.
Student quote
I loved the small cohorts that were available. This allowed me to form a connection with other education students.
Making the most of your learning experience
In the College of Education and Human Development, you'll embark on an incredible journey of experiential learning that goes beyond textbooks. Collaborating closely with faculty members, you'll dive into cutting-edge research, fieldwork and professional pursuits. Pushing the boundaries of the traditional classroom, you'll gain practical skills and make a tangible impact.
Students in the Workforce Education and Development major have opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experience through field experiences, projects, and internship opportunities. These experiences can help students apply training, workforce development, career readiness, and adult learning concepts in professional, community, or organizational settings.
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Are scholarships available?
Yes! You've put in the hard work—now it's time to see your reward.
Scholarships are an excellent way to help the reduce the costs of higher education. Whether you are entering college for the first time, transferring to WMU from another institution or returning from a gap in your education, be sure to check out our scholarship options. Students earn scholarships for financial need, academic success and promoting multicultural awareness. Most are offered on a competitive basis.
