The Professional Development Institute (PDI)

Learning, Learning by Doing, and Doing

The Professional Development Institute (PDI) was established to enable the University to respond more efficiently and effectively to market demand for professional training. PDI offers professional courses and programmes for early and mid-career professionals, pre-professionals, and those who have an interest in or aptitude for but have not had any formal training in an area. PDI courses and programmes equip the student with the knowledge, skills, competencies, and attitudes that are relevant and current. They are grounded in the foundations of the discipline, profession, or occupation, but tilt more towards practice than theory, and help the student step seamlessly from the classroom into the workspace.

PDI also designs, develops, and delivers courses and programmes in response to the express needs of institutions. These bespoke programmes are tailored to respond to the specific context, aspirations and operations of the client-institution.

PDI Advisor

Usha Ramlakhan, an Educational Psychologist, is a multifaceted individual
 driven by a passion for continuous self-improvement. Armed with a Master
of Arts in Education Psychology from Andrews University and in Education
Administration and Leadership from the University of the Southern Caribbean,
she exemplifies dedication to her field.

Usha embarked on her career as an educator at USC in 2012. Over the years,
she hasheld various roles, showcasing her diverse skill set. With her sharp
organizational acumen and natural leadership abilities, Usha transitioned into
a successful managerial career, becoming a young CEO.

Her approach involved implementing innovative solutions, optimizing
processes,and cultivating a collaborative work environment.

PDI Courses

HR 101: Introduction to Human Resource Management

Are you ready to dive into the dynamic world of Human Resource Management? Look no further!

Our upcoming course offers the perfect introduction to this essential field. Whether you're an aspiring HR professional, a small business owner, or simply curious about HR practices, this course is for you!

In this comprehensive program, you'll explore the fundamental principles and practices of Human Resource Management. You'll gain a solid understanding of the key functions of HR and their importance in organizational success.

Led by industry expert with years of experience in HR leadership roles, this course combines cutting-edge theory with practical insights and real-world examples.

Essentials for Real Estate Finance

Are you eager to unlock the secrets of real estate finance and take your investment game to the next level? Look no further! 

Our Essentials of Real Estate Finance course is here to equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to succeed in the dynamic world of real estate.

In this comprehensive program, you'll dive deep into the fundamental principles of real estate finance, lending practices to investment analysis and risk management.

Whether you're a seasoned real estate professional looking to sharpen your skills or a newcomer to the field eager to learn the ropes, our course has something for everyone. 

Greenhouse Crop Production

Ready to cultivate your passion for agriculture and take your crop production skills to new heights?

Our Greenhouse Crop Production course is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of greenhouse farming.

In this comprehensive program, you'll learn the ins and outs of greenhouse crop production, from seed selection and propagation to harvest and post-harvest handling.Led by an experienced instructor with a wealth of knowledge in greenhouse agriculture, this course combines theory with hands-on practice to give you a well-rounded understanding of greenhouse farming techniques.

Whether you're a seasoned farmer looking to expand your operations or a beginner with a green thumb, our course is designed to meet you where you are. 

Teaching Teachers How to Teach Composition to Their Music Students

Transform Your Teaching with Composition Mastery Online! 

Calling all music educators! Elevate your teaching practice and empower your students with our groundbreaking online course, "Teaching Teachers How to Teach Composition to Their Music Students."

Designed for music teachers of all levels, this course will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to effectively teach composition to your students and unleash their creative potential.

Led by a renowned music educator Mr Boyd Gibson and composition expert, our comprehensive course covers everything you need to know to become a masterful composition teacher. 

Arranging for Vocal Assembles

Are you ready to take your vocal ensemble arranging skills to the next level? Look no further! 

Join us for our dynamic online course, "Arranging for Vocal Ensembles." Whether you're a seasoned musician or just starting out, this course is designed to empower you with the knowledge and techniques needed to create stunning vocal arrangements that captivate audiences.

Led by industry an expert Mr Boyd Gibson, our comprehensive course covers everything from harmonization and voicing techniques to effective scoring and arranging strategies. Through engaging online lectures and interactive discussions, you'll learn how to bring your creative vision to life and elevate your vocal arrangements to new heights.

Connect with a community of like-minded musicians and vocal enthusiasts.

Special Education for Professionals

Are you ready to make a positive impact on the lives of students with special needs?

Our Special Education for Professionals course is designed to equip educators, therapists, and other professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to support students with diverse learning needs effectively.

In this comprehensive program, you'll delve into key topics such as inclusive education practices, individualized education plans (IEPs), behavior management strategies, assistive technology, and more. Led by experienced special education experts, our course blends theory with practical insights and real-world examples to prepare you for success in the field.

Whether you're a seasoned educator looking to enhance your special education expertise or a professional seeking to transition into a new role, our course offers something for everyone.

Mixed Media Painting

Unlock Your Creativity with Mixed Media Painting Online!

Are you ready to unleash your artistic potential and explore new dimensions of creativity? Join us for an inspiring online course, "Mixed Media Painting,"  where you'll discover the endless possibilities of combining different materials and techniques to create captivating works of art.

Led by experienced artists and mixed media experts, our dynamic course is designed for artists of all levels, from beginners to experienced painters. Through engaging online tutorials, step-by-step demonstrations, and hands-on exercises, you'll learn how to experiment with a variety of materials, including acrylics, watercolors, collage, found objects, and more, to create stunning mixed media paintings that reflect your unique artistic vision.

Whether you're looking to expand your artistic horizons, overcome creative blocks, or simply enjoy the process of making art, this course offers a supportive and inspiring environment where you can explore, experiment, and grow as an artist.

Youth Leadership Development in Sport

Empower the Leaders of Tomorrow with Youth Leadership Development in Sport Online!

Are you passionate about shaping the next generation of leaders? Join us for an innovative course, "Youth Leadership Development in Sport," where you'll learn how to inspire and empower young athletes to become confident, ethical, and effective leaders both on and off the field.

Led by an experienced coach, educator, and youth development expert Mr. LeRoy Pierre, our dynamic course is designed for coaches, educators, and youth leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in the lives of young athletes. Through engaging lectures, interactive discussions, and hands-on activities, you'll gain practical skills, strategies, and insights to foster leadership qualities, teamwork, and resilience in young athletes.

Whether you're a coach, teacher, mentor, or youth leader, this course will equip you with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to make a lasting impact in the lives of young athletes andempower them to become leaders both on and off the field.

Registration & Payment Instructions

Registration Process

To register for a PDI course:

  1. Make a payment using any of the payment options outlined on the Payment tab. 
  2. Complete the registration form, located on the Register tab. You will be required to upload a copy of your receipt.

Making a Payment

Option One - Pay via Credit Card (TTD)

  • Go to: https://aeorion.usc.edu.tt/Anon/third-party-payment.aspx
  • Enter the third party payment key: 17034302
  • Select "Short Courses" from the Type of Payments dropdown menu.
  • Currency amounts can only be written in Trinidad and Tobago dollars.
  • Fill out your card details and billing information.
  • Verify that you have inserted the correct information and click “PAY NOW”.
  • You will receive an email as confirmation of your payment

Option Two – Pay by Online Transfer/Bank Deposit (TTD)

  • RBC Royal Bank Account Number: 1000-040-102-13404
  • Republic Bank Account Number: 3501-594-29201

Option Three - Pay via International Wire Transfer (USD)

  • Beneficiary: University of the Southern Caribbean
  • Beneficiary Address: Maracas Royal Road, St. Joseph
  • Beneficiary Account Number: 1000 180 103 16573
  • Beneficiary Bank Name: RBC Bank T&T Ltd.
  • Beneficiary Name Bank Address: St. Augustine Shopping Centre, EMR, St. Augustine
  • Swift Code: RBTTTTPX
  • Intermediary Bank: Bank of New York
  • Intermediary Bank Address: 48 Wall Street, NY, NY, USA ABA/Routing: 021-000-018
  • Intermediary Bank Account: 890-0016-329 in the name of RBC Bank T&T LTD

PDI Registration Form

Click the button below to register for PDI courses:

Contact Us:

Reach the PDI:

  • Telephone: (868) 662-2241/2 ext. 1051
  • Email Address: pdi@usc.edu.tt

Opening Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday: 8:00am - 5:00pm
  • Friday: 8:00am - 12:00pm

Closed on public holidays.

TOP