North Carolina State University, Educational Leadership, Policy, and Human Development

The Adult and Lifelong Education program at NC State is designed for professionals working in workforce development, training, and adult education who want to expand their impact and grow their careers. Our flexible programs, offered fully online and in-person, prepare graduates to meet the learning needs of today’s diverse adult learners across workplace, community, and educational settings.

Whether you're supporting career transitions, upskilling employees, facilitating community education, or leading organizational change, our program emphasizes practical, real-world application. You’ll build expertise in designing and delivering learning experiences that are engaging, inclusive, and relevant to adult learners. Coursework focuses on key areas such as instructional design, adult learning theory, experiential and organizational learning, and leadership for learning in professional environments.

With options including a fully online master’s degree, a graduate certificate, and a face-to-face Ph.D. specialization, our program fits the needs of working professionals. We integrate the foundations of adult and lifelong education with current trends in workforce development, such as technology-enhanced learning, equity and access, and lifelong employability.

Students in our program come from a range of fields, including corporate training, community colleges, government agencies, nonprofits, and more. They share a commitment to helping adults reach their full potential through learning.

If you’re passionate about building adult capacity, shaping the future of work, and making a difference in your community or organization, NC State’s Adult and Lifelong Education program offers the tools, knowledge, and network to help you succeed. Join us to lead and innovate in the field of workforce development.

Visit our booth to win a raffle for NCSU merchandise!