Advance Your Skills—On Your Schedule
Every day, First Responders are asked to make quick, informed, and high‑impact decisions—and the right training makes all the difference. Ashland University’s Workforce Development division offers a robust catalog of non‑credit training programs and certifications designed to help police, fire, EMS, dispatchers, and other emergency professionals build new competencies, refresh essential skills, and stay mission‑ready.
Whether you are an individual responder looking to advance your career or a leadership team seeking department‑wide training solutions, we provide flexible, affordable, and fully online options that support your professional growth.
Why First Responders Choose Ashland University Workforce Development
- Targeted training built for real-world scenarios
Improve civilian interactions, de-escalation, safety protocols, leadership, communication, critical thinking, and more. - Short, skill‑focused courses
Earn digital badges and certificates without the commitment of a full degree. - Fully online—learn on your schedule
Perfect for shift workers and agencies with rotating schedules. - Customizable training for individuals or entire teams
We tailor programs to your department’s needs, operational goals, and compliance requirements. - Affordable professional development
Access career‑advancing training without the cost of credit‑bearing coursework.
Non-Credit Training or Courses
A specialized collection designed to strengthen everyday decision‑making, community engagement, and tactical professionalism.
Empower your first responders with the tools they need to handle opioid-related emergencies safely and compassionately. Gain practical strategies for de-escalation, connecting individuals to critical resources, and fostering stronger community partnerships. Perfect for Firefighters, EMTs, Paramedics, & Associated Teams.
Equip your correctional staff with the knowledge and skills to respond safely and effectively to individuals experiencing OUD and co-occurring conditions in custody. Learn practical strategies for de-escalation, reducing risk, and supporting rehabilitation within correctional settings. This program is ideal for Correctional Officers, Supervisors, and Facility Staff.
Online Professional Skill-Building Courses
Choose from hundreds of self-paced online courses built to enhance communication, leadership, critical thinking, stress management, and more—skills essential in high-pressure emergency environments.
Career Training Certifications
Earn advanced certifications in areas such as cybersecurity, IT support, project management, medical services, and other growing fields—ideal for responders pursuing promotion or preparing for career transitions.
Custom Training for Your Agency
Every organization has unique operational needs. We can develop custom packages for:
- Police departments
- Fire & EMS agencies
- Dispatch centers
- Emergency management teams
- Corrections and probation departments
From soft‑skills training to operational readiness modules, we can design programs that fit your team’s goals, budget, and schedule.