Johnson County is one of the most dynamic and progressive communities in the region — home to thriving businesses, entrepreneurial spirit, and a workforce that embraces growth. At the center of that momentum is the KU School of Professional Studies (SPS), located at the University of Kansas Edwards Campus in Overland Park. The SPS is committed to empowering careers, organizations, and the community through workforce development.
Today’s economy moves quickly. Technology changes, industries shift, and employers need professionals who can adapt. KU’s SPS helps Johnson County stay competitive by supporting career mobility and economic resilience. Whether someone is advancing within their current field or pivoting to a new opportunity, KU’s SPS provides accessible pathways to gain relevant, in-demand skills.
“The KU School of Professional Studies provides vital academic programs to meet the evolving workforce needs of the Kansas City region,” says Stuart Day, vice provost of the KU Edwards Campus and dean of the School of Professional Studies. “It is in direct alignment with the Edwards Campus mission to serve these diverse needs as well as those of the local economy and community.”
To further meet workforce demand, KU’s SPS has launched the Center for Workplace Excellence to help companies strengthen their teams through customized workshops and coaching opportunities. Instead of sending employees out of state for training or depending exclusively on internal resources, organizations can rely on a trusted local partner.
KU’s SPS also offers professional undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates to help individuals build practical knowledge they can apply immediately on the job. Participants don’t just earn diplomas and certifications; they also build confidence, expand their professional networks, and increase their long-term career potential.
“Instructors challenge you to think critically but also encourage you to connect the material to your own industry,” says Matt Marshall, area executive and recent graduate of the online operations management program. “They don’t just present the concepts and move on; they make sure you’re actually absorbing it and able to translate it into something meaningful in your day-to-day work.”
KU’s SPS programs are created with flexibility in mind, offering both online and in-person class options. Working professionals can participate without stepping away from their careers, making degree completion attainable for busy adults balancing work and family responsibilities.
The reach of KU’s SPS goes beyond individual careers and corporate success. When residents gain new skills, they increase their earning potential and economic mobility. When businesses strengthen their teams, they expand operations and create jobs. When leaders are equipped to serve effectively, civic and nonprofit initiatives flourish. Together, these outcomes contribute to a sturdier and more prosperous community.
Workforce development is about more than jobs. It’s about cultivating a community where businesses thrive, professionals grow, and opportunity is available to all.
