CEDAR CITY, UT — Those looking for a low-risk option to explore a meaningful career, increase earning potential or gain flexible work options, Southern Utah University is now offering two no-cost, short-term Workplace Ready career pathway programs. Both pathways can be completed in approximately 90 hours and lead learners into one of two high-demand, high-need job sectors in southern Utah: Tourism and Hospitality or Computer Technology. 

Each pathway offers two tracks: 1) Workplace Ready digital badge, three foundational courses led by local industry experts; 2) a professional certificate, networking/mentoring opportunities, and a professional development conference attendance. 

The Tourism & Hospitality Career Pathway is designed to introduce students to the many fields within the industry and give the skills necessary to stay competitive in this fun, fast-paced career. Choose from the Tourism & Hospitality Workplace Ready track (includes the pro-skills digital badge and short courses–Gold Services Gold, Foundations in Tourism, Hospitality and Outdoor Recreation, and Management Training); or the Parks & Tourism Professional Certificate track (includes Utah Tourism Conference attendance) to get started in your career. 

The Computer Technology Career Pathway is designed to launch your tech career in Utah by earning stackable micro-credentials and building industry connections along the way. Choose from the Computer Technology Workplace Ready track (includes pro-skills digital badge, three short courses–IT Help Desk, Cyber Security, and Software as a Service); or the professional certificate track with the choice of Amazon Web Services Academy Cloud Foundations Certificate or Cyber Security Certificate (both include Silicon Slopes Summit attendance).

“In less than a year, you can be ready to enter a dynamic field in southern Utah, or change careers with confidence and support,” said Melynda Thorpe, executive director of SUU Community and Professional Development. “This opportunity reflects the current and future needs of southwest Utah’s workforce, and engages employers, mentors and professional conference attendance to ensure an immersive experience.”  

Start your pathway today by applying to either the Workplace Ready digital badge track or professional certificate track in either Tourism and Hospitality or Computer Technology at

suu.edu/learnandwork. No-cost enrollment is made possible through a Learn and Work grant funded by Utah System of Higher Education (USHE). Must be age 17 or over to apply. 

SUU’s Community and Professional Development department offers opportunities for adults to elevate their careers, stay competitive in the workforce and further develop as leaders. Located in the world’s best backyard, Southern Utah University is known as University of the Parks thanks to its close proximity to several national monuments, outdoor recreational areas and educational partnerships with the National Park Service. Reach your next career peak with SUU by visiting suu.edu/keeplearning.