Professional Development

We offer professional development for people at any stage of their careers, providing you with a platform to achieve your goals. The courses are designed for individuals looking to sharpen their skills, learn new skills, and network with other marketing communications professionals.

All programs are solely offered in virtual formats at this time. Each program offers material that will be consumed via live video calls with the whole class. 

For our custom programs, we are open to holding these programs in person (at the Brandcenter or at your office).

Program duration differs depending on the course, but we expect most to last about an hour. Each course will likely have between one and six modules, and the modules should occur on consecutive weeks.

After completing a course, attendees will receive a certificate of completion, an enhanced understanding of the program material, and a new network of professional colleagues.

New programs will be added every 60 or 90 days, which will include brand-new topics and may include additional sections of current offerings. Be sure to fill out the interest form to stay up to date on new programs.

Of course. If two programs you’re interested in have overlapping dates and times, please email [email protected] to inquire about how enrollment would work for both programs.

The registration fee varies for each program. Brandcenter often offers a 10% early-bird discount (usually two weeks prior to each program start date), and Brandcenter alumni receive a 10% discount regardless of when they register. For alumni, simply indicate your graduation year and concentration upon registering. (Please note, there is a 10% maximum discount per participant.)

Payment is due in full at registration; we do not accept payment plans. You will receive a receipt up to 72 hours after completing registration and payment.

Accepted payment methods include credit card and check. If you need a W-9 form to issue a check, please contact us at [email protected]. We recommend requesting a check from your organization 90 days prior to the start of the program. If we have not received the check by the start of the program, you will not be permitted to attend.

Since professional development classes are non-credit, they are not covered by the VCU tuition waiver. Please direct all reimbursement questions internally to your organization.

For additional questions about payments, please email [email protected].

If you’re unable to attend, you may be eligible for a refund, based on the cancellation date:

• 3+ weeks prior to the start date = full refund
• 2-3 weeks prior to the start date = 50 percent refund
• Less than two weeks prior to the start date = no refund

All requests for refunds must be in writing to [email protected]. Approved refunds will be processed in 7-10 business days.

Brandcenter reserves the right to cancel any program if minimum enrollment is not met prior to the start date. If a program is canceled, the full registration fee will be refunded. Brandcenter also reserves the right to postpone programs, limit enrollment, split or combine programs, change instructors, or change locations.

Participants must attend at least 80% of a course to receive a certificate of completion.

If you require accommodations due to a disability that qualifies under the Americans with Disabilities Act, email us at [email protected] at least two weeks prior to the program.

Grievances can be reported to VCU Equity and Access Services Office: 804-828-1347 or [email protected].