CityU Workforce Relaunch Program

Your Next Career Move Starts Here

You’ve built a successful career. Now it’s time to relaunch. Whether you need to quickly refine in-demand skills or position yourself for leadership, City University of Seattle’s Workforce Relaunch Program gives you a clear path from layoff to your next opportunity – with the flexibility and support you need right now. 

 

Why This Matters Now

You’re not starting over, you’re moving forward 

If you’ve recently been laid off or are facing uncertainty in your role, you’re likely asking yourself hard questions:

  1. Can I study while actively job searching?
  2. Is going back to school the right move right now?
  3. Will this actually help me get hired? 

We understand that this isn’t just about a degree or certificate; it’s about securing your next chapter – professionally and financially. 

City University of Seattle’s Workforce Relaunch Program was designed specifically for professionals like you: experienced, motivated, and ready to pivot with purpose.

How We Support Your Transition

Get hired faster with credentials employers are seeking

Our business and technology programs focus on the skills hiring managers are looking for right now, from data analytics and full-stack (AI) development to cybersecurity and product management.

You’ll gain market-relevant expertise that translates directly to job interviews and offers. 

  • Graduate-level programs designed for working professionals 
  • Curriculum informed by current industry needs, taught by practitioner faculty
  • Applied learning you can immediately highlight on your resume and LinkedIn 

Choose Your Timeline: Fast-Track or Long-Term Growth 

Need to move quickly? Our graduate certificates can be completed in months, giving you a competitive edge while you’re actively job searching. 

Ready to invest in leadership advancement? Our master’s degree programs position you for higher-level roles and long-term career growth, while still moving at a pace that works for your life. 

Plus, certificates are stackable. So you can start with a certificate and build toward a degree if that makes sense for your goals. 

Choose When, Where, and How You Learn

You’re managing a job search, finances, and possibly family responsibilities. Your education needs to fit into your life, not the other way around. 

What you can expect when you enroll:

  • 100% online options
  • Hybrid and in-person evening and weekend formats 
  • No rigid class schedules or campus visits 
  • Study time in the early morning, late night, or whenever works for you

Financial Support That Reduces Stress, Not Adds to It 

We know affordability is top of mind right now. Our advisors will help you explore all available options so you can make an informed decision. 

Investment support options include:

  • 15% Workforce Relaunch Scholarship (or your first certificate course free)
  • Guidance on Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funding eligibility through local WorkSource offices
  • Financial aid options for those who qualify 
  • Flexible payment plans 

While your local workforce agency determines WIOA eligibility, we’ll help you understand the process and prepare for the application. 

“The CityU environment is incredibly supportive, welcoming, and student focused. It’s a place where you feel understood, encouraged, and set up for success.”
– Isaac Beagle, Class of 2025

Programs That Match Your Goals

CityU offers 65+ programs. A selection of high-demand pathways include: 

Graduate Certificates (Fast-track credential building) 

  • Graduate Certificate in Systems Security
  • Graduate Certificate in Data Analytics
  • Graduate Certificate in Lean Six Sigma

Master’s Degrees (Leadership advancement and long-term growth) 

  • Master’s in Artificial Intelligence
  • Master’s in Technology & Product Management
  • Master’s in Cybersecurity
  • Master’s in Business Administration
  • Master’s in Global Supply Chain Management
  • Master’s in Teaching

Don’t see what you’re looking for? View all programs, ranging from certificate to doctoral degrees in business, healthcare administration, operations, and more. 

 

Nationally Recognized Quality

City University of Seattle is regionally accredited and nationally recognized for quality education that prepares working professionals for career success. 

How The Workforce Relaunch Program Works

Getting started is straightforward. We’ll meet you where you are and build a plan that fits your timeline and goals.

Step 1: Schedule Your Free Advising Session (see appointment availability)

Share your background, career goals, and current situation. No pressure, no obligation – just an honest conversation about what’s possible. 

Step 2: Build Your Personalized Plan 

Together, we’ll map your fastest or most strategic path forward, including program recommendations, timeline, and funding options. 

Step 3: Enroll and Begin, With Ongoing Support 

Start your program with flexible scheduling, and access supportive advising throughout your journey. 

 

Who This Program Serves

The Workforce Relaunch Program is open to Washington workers across all industries who are: 

  • Recently laid off or experienced reduced hours (within the past 6 months or currently at risk) 
  • Transitioning careers or re-entering the workforce 
  • Seeking to update skills and credentials to remain competitive 
  • Interested in exploring WIOA-funded retraining pathways 

This program supports professionals from any employer or industry, including those affected by recent large-scale tech layoffs in the Seattle area. 

City University of Seattle is committed to helping Washington workers transition with confidence through flexible, career-focused education and dedicated support. 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The Workforce Relaunch Program supports displaced and transitioning workers across Washington from any employer or industry.

No. WIOA is one possible funding source, but not required. During your advising session, we’ll discuss all options available to you including scholarships, financial aid, and payment plans.

Absolutely. Our programs are designed for experienced professionals like you. You bring valuable real-world expertise, and our supportive environment is built to help you succeed. Many of our students haven’t been in a classroom in 10+ years.

We’re here to support you when you’re ready. At CityU, enrollment is rolling, so start timing depends on your selected program and personal timeline. Some students begin within weeks, others prefer to plan for an upcoming term. Our next term starts April 6, 2026.

Many of our programs offer 100% online formats with flexible schedules designed for working adults and job searchers. We’ll help you find the format that works best.

You’ll have a one-on-one conversation with an advisor who will review your career goals, transferable skills, recommended programs, timeline options, and available funding and support resources. There’s no pressure – just guidance.

Our programs focus on in-demand skills that employers are actively hiring for. Combined with our dedicated advising support, you’ll be positioned to compete for roles effectively. 86% of our alumni report salary increases within two years of graduation.

While we can’t guarantee specific outcomes, our programs are designed to help you qualify for professional-level roles in growing sectors. Many of our graduates successfully transition into positions that meet or exceed their previous compensation.

 

Ready to Map Your Next Move?

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Schedule a free advising session and let’s build a plan that works for your timeline, your goals, and your life. 

 

Apply