Students who wish to take courses for professional development may apply as a continuing education student. To qualify, applicant's must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and meet all eligibility requirements. Students may register in courses on a space-available basis after degree and certificate students have registered.

Students who wish to change to degree or certificate status must apply and be accepted into either program before the completion of a second course. Only two courses taken in continuing education status, with a grade of B or better, may apply toward the MSSI degree or Certificate in Strategic Intelligence.