The mission of UC San Diego Extended Studies is to serve the critical lifelong learning and skill development needs of individuals, organizations and the community. We do this through continuing education, certificate and degree-related programs; community initiatives that support economic and social development; and a wide array of public-service lectures, forums and special events delivered both on and off campus and through print, internet, radio and television.

Education and Community Outreach offers a uniquely holistic and service-based approach to education, incorporating opportunities for students in PK- postsecondary; parents; practitioners; community members; and adults over the age of 50. ECO attends to the needs of over 25,000 learners per annum in contextually grounded, dynamic and personalized ways, employing face-to-face, blended and online formats. Beyond courses, certificates and programs leading to professional licensure, ECO works with communities to cultivate local capacity and to serve as catalysts for transformation.