Personal Enrichment

Online Enrichment Courses

UWF Continuing Education offers a variety of 6-week online enrichment courses. New courses start monthly with all lessons online, giving you the flexibility to gain new skills on your own time. Personal development topics include:

Arts >   Design and Composition >  Health and Wellness >
Languages >   Personal Finance and Investments >
Photography >    Starting a Business >   Writing and Publishing >

Raku Pottery Workshop: The Art of Smoke and Fire

Dates: Feb. 21 - March 14, 2026

This workshop introduces you to the art of raku firing, a rustic and historic process that creates unique, unpredictable and beautifully imperfect results. No prior experience is required, though it's equally rewarding for those with a background in working with clay. Participants will design, hand-build and glaze their own piece before starting the Raku firing process. 

The raku firing process produces a wide range of surfaces, from shiny metallic to intricate crackle patterns. Every piece is one-of-a-kind. The beauty of this art form lies in its imperfections and the surprises and variations that make each creation truly unique.

Fundamentals of Wine

Dates:  Feb. 5 - March 26, 2026

Enrich your understanding of the world of wine as we explore the fundamentals of wine, wine culture and the wine industry from the vineyard into the glass. This immersive class invites active participation as you refine your palate through guided wine tastings. Discover the art of harmonizing wine and food to unlock a symphony of flavors while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of both national and international wine cultures. We will dive into the essence of viticulture and explore diverse grape varietals, unearthing the secrets that shape every bottle. Gain insights into production techniques that sculpt wine styles and tastes, allowing you to develop a profound appreciation for the intricate alchemy behind the finished product. Elevate your sensory experience through thoughtfully curated wine and food pairings in each class.

Markerspace Studio

Dates: Feb. 10 - April 7, 2026

This course introduces participants to key makerspace tools: 3D printers, laser engravers, CNC mills and sewing machines. Through hands-on projects, students will develop practical skills and learn to design, prototype and fabricate objects in a collaborative, creative environment. No prior experience is necessary. Upon completion of this course, participants will be eligible to enroll in Open Studio sessions for individual projects, where they can use the tools available in the makerspace. The course includes an online component and requires reviewing safety and other content prior to and between sessions. 

Markerspace Studio Open Hours

Makerspace Studio Open Hours offer monthly access to a wide range of equipment, including 3D printers, laser engravers, CNC mills and sewing machines. Participants can use the space during designated days and times to work on their own hands-on projects. Materials are not provided, so individuals will need to bring their own supplies. Sign-up is flexible, allowing you to register only for the months you plan to use the space.

Open Hours are currently available exclusively to individuals who have completed the Makerspace Studio class, as well as UWF alumni who previously completed introductory Makerspace training as students.

Shotokan Karate

Dates: January 13, 2026 - May 7, 2026
Skip Dates: March 17 and 19

Registration opens on November 24, 2025.

Beginner, intermediate and advanced levels welcome! This class examines the methods involved in traditional Karate-do, or 'Way of the empty hand,' through a traditional Japanese style known as Shotokan Karate. This course will further stress the importance of the health benefits and unarmed self-defense techniques resulting from physical conditioning and mental discipline. A plain white Gi (uniform) is required for this class. Uniforms are available from the instructor at an additional cost, or students may provide their own. 

Chinese II

Dates: Jan. 26 - April 15, 2026

Already know how to greet people and talk about your job and hobbies? Join Chinese II to level up your everyday conversations! We’ll dive into fun, practical topics like birthdays, gift giving, making social plans, studying, weather, shopping, food and flavors, and ordering your favorite drinks. Get ready to speak more confidently and use Chinese in real-life situations.

Discover Sign Language

Instructor-Led (6 Week Access) or Self-Paced (3 Month Access)

This course is taught using the best practices of the industry with a minimum of audio support. Throughout it, you will be immersed in silence, which will help you gain an understanding of the perspective of Deaf people and sign language. You will also gain an introduction to the world of the Deaf culture and explore topics such as lip reading, baby signs and the career of interpreting. By the end of the course, you will be ready to sign!

Spanish for Law Enforcement

Instructor-Led or Self-Paced

Communicate more effectively with the Spanish-speakers around you, and add a valuable skill to your resume. Whether you're new to the Spanish language or just want a refresher, this course will teach you the basic Spanish phrases you need for everything from making casual conversation to handling life-or-death situations.

Spanish for Medical Professionals

Instructor-Led or Self-Paced

With increasing numbers of Spanish-speaking patients entering the healthcare system every year, it's more crucial than ever for health professionals to learn medical Spanish. What's more, adding Spanish skills to your resume can broaden your career horizons and give you an advantage over other healthcare workers. Prepare for any situation by bridging the communication gap between you, your patients, and worried family members. This course provides knowledge of basic medical phrases to help you better communicate with the Spanish-speaking community.