University College Partners With Ziplines Education To Provide Credentials to Busy Professionals

DENVER — A shortage of qualified workers for key positions remains a huge challenge for employers in Colorado. Recently, the Colorado Workforce Development Council revealed a two-to-one ratio of job openings to available workers, emphasizing the urgent need to address the skills gap, as evidenced by the state's legislative and funding focus on workforce development initiatives. To support today's ever-evolving workforce needs, University College, the University of Denver’s college of professional and continuing education, today announced its launch of several new online programs in partnership with Ziplines Education.

"Gaining the skills employers want in a competitive market can be challenging for working adults, which is why we’re excited to introduce these industry-focused certification courses that are quick and affordable, and deliver industry skills and certifications," said Teri Markle, University College’s Associate Dean of Continuing Education. “By partnering with Ziplines Education, we are expanding our offerings to meet the needs of learners looking to upskill or reskill to better compete in today’s job market."

The industry-certification program introduces pathways for learners and earners at all levels of education to grow professionally. Over a 10-week span, through online instruction, self-directed learning, and optional live sessions, learners will dive into real-world applications, data-driven strategies, and cutting-edge technology skills. The expert-taught and industry-driven curriculum, combined with an accessible schedule and without educational prerequisites, allows learners to build their skillset on their own time and work toward industry-recognized certifications.

Courses, which can be found at professional.du.edu/courses/industry-certification-courses, are focused on high-growth career disciplines, including digital marketing, business analytics, project management, and sales, and feature certifications from leading technology platforms.

• Digital Marketing learners leave the program with foundational skills and industry-recognized certifications in HubSpot, Google Ads, and Google Analytics.
• Business Analytics learners are grounded in the essentials of data analytics and earn Tableau micro-credentials.
• Project Management learners earn a Jira Software Essentials Associate Certification and 23 hours toward the Project Management Institute’s Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) Certification.
• Sales Development learners obtain the employable skills, Salesforce Trailhead credentials, and real-world experience needed to launch a sales career and amplify earning potential.
• Sales Operations learners obtain the strategic know-how, Salesforce Trailhead credentials, and real-world experience to increase sales productivity and revenue.

"As we continue to grow our footprint nationwide, we’re excited to partner with University College to offer several new programs, especially since we share the University of Denver’s well-regarded commitment to innovation and technology education," said Sara Leoni, CEO and founder of Ziplines Education. “We are proud to collaborate with University College to expand its catalog of industry-focused courses, giving professionals affordable access to relevant digital skills that are in demand in their local communities."

These industry-certification programs give learners a competitive edge, whether they’re seeking to strengthen their current role, move up the leadership ladder, or quickly learn impactful skills to launch a new career. Students will complete the program with in-demand practical skills, a strategic playbook to showcase their new skills to employers, and a non-credit certificate from the University of Denver.

About University of Denver’s University College: 

University College is the University of Denver’s college of professional and continuing studies, providing high-touch, career-relevant education to help adults achieve their professional goals. University College is built to serve busy adults with flexible online courses, instructors who are experts in their field, and personalized support. The college’s Center for Professional Development provides non-credit online courses, industry certifications, and boot camps to help workers reach career goals. Connect with the Center for Professional Development on LinkedIn and Facebook.

About Ziplines Education: 

Ziplines Education, an industry-leading education company, partners with universities to deliver industry-focused certificate courses that prepare professionals for today’s digital-first workforce. The award-winning industry innovator launched in 2017 as GreenFig and relaunched as Ziplines Education in early 2024. Today, dozens of leading U.S. colleges and universities, including the University of Virginia, Texas Tech University, and UNC Charlotte, trust Ziplines Education as a continuing education partner, empowering individuals to confidently pursue the career they’ve always wanted. To learn more about the company, visit ziplines.com and follow them on @ZiplinesEducation on Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and on @ZiplinesEdu on Twitter.