Frequently Asked Questions
Registration and Payment
Do I need to be a UTRGV student to register for a course?
Our courses are non-credit/non-academic and open to the public. You do not need to be a UTRGV student to enroll in PEWD continuing education courses.
How do I register and pay for a course?
You can register and pay online with your debit/credit card or e-check by selecting the course from the course listing on our website.
May I register for several courses?
Yes, you can register for multiple courses by adding them to your cart and paying online collectively.
Can I pay online for a course?
Yes, paying online with a credit card, debit card, or e-check is preferable for record-keeping.
Can I pay after the course starts?
Payment is required in full before the course starts.
Is there a registration deadline? Can I pay on the start date of the course?
Registration closes one business day before the program’s start date at noon.
Can I make payments in installments?
No, installment plans are not available. A private loan option is available for qualifying participants and programs.
How do I apply for a private loan?
Is there a lending limit to the private loan?
If I do not have a debit/credit card or checking account, can I pay in cash?
Can I pay with an American Express credit card?
What are the steps to follow if my company is paying for my course?
Financial Aid
Does Financial Aid Cover Continuing Education programs?
Federal Financial Aid does not cover non-credit courses. Explore private loans or funding through Workforce Solutions for eligible courses.
Are payment plans and/or scholarships available for tuition?
Payment plans or scholarships are not available for Continuing Education programs.
Can the Hazelwood Act or the GI Bill® cover the program cost of Continuing Education Programs?
These benefits do not cover non-academic Continuing Education programs. Contact our office to obtain more information on customized training for a group of Veterans.
Program Information
Is there a dress code for Continuing Education classes?
While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to dress comfortably and modestly for classes. Some healthcare programs may advise participants to use scrubs.
Can I receive course materials before the course starts?
Course materials are provided on the first day of class.
Can you provide the instructor’s contact information?
Instructor information can be found here.
How can I access course materials and resources after the course ends?
Access to course materials and resources after the course ends is limited for online platforms. If participants have purchased books during the course, they can refer to those materials for continued access and reference after the course concludes.
Do I get a certificate of completion for the course?
A digital certificate of completion is provided via Accredible. The digital certificate can be downloaded, saved, printed, or shared on social media platforms. Entry-level personal enrichment courses do not receive a certificate of completion.
What happens if I miss the first day of class of a test prep course?
Our test preparation programs begin with a practice exam. If you foresee missing the initial day of a test prep session, please reach out to our team in advance via email at pewd@utrgv.edu to make necessary arrangements.
What is the average class size for continuing education courses?
Class sizes vary based on the program. Smaller class sizes allow for more personalized attention.
Can I enroll in a continuing education program if I don't have a high school diploma or equivalent?
Requirements may vary by program. Contact us for guidance if you do not meet the standard high school completion criteria.
Can I obtain a student visa by enrolling in a continuing education course?
No, continuing education courses are short-term programs. Enrolling in one does not qualify participants for a student visa.
Are Continuing Education programs available in Spanish?
No, all courses are taught in English.
If I completed several Real Estate modules with another institution, do I have to retake them with UTRGV’s continuing education real estate program?
No, modules may be taken out of order and are not required to be from the same institution. Ensure to keep the certificates of completion for recordkeeping.
Is the Pharmacy Technician course a PTCB recognized Training Program?
Yes, our Pharmacy Technician Program is Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB) Recognized under the Condensed Curriculum International Program (CCI).
Where can I purchase the required textbooks and materials for my course?
Textbooks and materials are included in certain continuing education programs. For programs that do not include textbooks, you can purchase them directly from the publishing company, UTRGV Bookstore, Amazon, or Barnes and Noble. Textbook and materials information will be indicated on the individual program page.
How do I get a new CE course approved?
Follow the instructions on the Course Suggestion page.
Is a UTRGV Student ID required?
Yes, all students, employees and nonpaid affiliates of The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley are required to always have a V OneCard while on university property. Please visit UTRGV Campus Card Services to learn how to obtain your V OneCard.
How can I request accommodation if needed?
Students requiring accommodation should contact our office to learn about the process.
Logistics
Is there transportation to and from Brownsville to Edinburg? Edinburg Main Campus to ECESS?
No public transportation is available directly to ECESS. Explore Valley Metro or UTRGV Vaquero Express route options.
Do I need a parking permit for the UTRGV CESS Building?
Any vehicle parked on university property must always display a permit, except on weekends and university-approved holidays that require campus closure. You can learn more about UTRGV Parking Rules and Policies here.
For permit costs, please contact UTRGV Parking and Transportation at 956-665-2738. Mention that you are enrolled in a Continuing Education [specify program] located at UTRGV Community Engagement & Student Success (CESS) Building in Edinburg and specify the days of your program.
Refunds and Program Changes
What is the refund policy?
Submit a required written request via email three business days before the program start date. Weekends are not considered. Partial refunds are not allowed.
Program Start Date | Last Day to Request Refund |
---|---|
Monday | Tuesday – Previous Week |
Tuesday | Wednesday - Previous Week |
Wednesday | Thursday - Previous Week |
Thursday | Friday - Previous Week |
Friday | Monday - Previous Week |
Saturday | Tuesday - Previous Week |
Can I request a refund two days or one day before the program start date?
Refunds are not available two days or one day before the program start date.
Can I request a refund after the program start date?
Refunds are not available after the program start date.
Can I substitute a program for another?
Program substitutions are not allowed.
What if a program gets canceled, do I get my money back?
Participants will receive a full refund if program is canceled.
How long does the refund process take?
Credit/debit card reimbursements are processed within 5–7 business days. Payments with checks and cash may take longer.
What if I cannot continue to attend a course?
A written request is required. Email your request to pewd@utrgv.edu