Tools to do the job. Build your knowledge- Build your union.

Enroll in the UMass Dartmouth Labor Education Center's Labor Studies Certificate Program this semester. Join other union rank-and-filers, stewards and other leaders in this program and contribute your creative energy, ideas, experience and leadership. Make the certificate program a part of your plan for trade union action.

The Arnold M. Dubin Union Leadership Certificate Program is designed to help union members, shop stewards and other leaders:

• develop an in-depth knowledge of subjects essential to worker's roles and functions within their unions, workplaces and communities;
• expand their understanding of the historical and contemporary roles of labor relations in society and the economy; and
• learn what others are doing across Massachusetts, the nation, and the world to face the challenges posed by downsizing, restructuring and globalization;
• hone leadership and organizing skills to speak and motivate, do strategic planning, direct campaigns, increase participation and community involvement; and
• start on or continue their college education.

Students in the program will earn a certificate upon completion of eight courses (24 credits), which includes six required core courses and two electives. If they choose to continue their education, workers will be able to apply these credits towards a Bachelor's Degree at UMass Dartmouth or at UMass Boston's Labor Studies program.

SEIU 797 (now SEIU 1199) was the first to graduate 4 people from the Certificate Program.

Classes will be offered during the evenings on Monday, Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The classes will be held at the UMass Dartmouth campus, in community colleges and union halls throughout Southeastern Massachusetts.

You can enroll for courses in the Certificate Program through the Division of Professional and Continuing Education at UMass Dartmouth. For more information on the certificate program contact the Labor Education Center at (508) 999-8796.

Check with your employer and union about tuition assistance. Financial aid and loans through the University may also be available.