New KU School of Business microcredential helps professionals build in-demand sales skills

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Business will launch an online Professional Selling Microcredential in September, offering working professionals a fast, flexible pathway to build in-demand sales skills.

A microcredential is a short, skills-focused credential designed to help learners gain expertise and immediately apply what they learn in the workplace. The Professional Selling Microcredential addresses a growing demand for employees who can build customer relationships, identify client needs and communicate value.

The 12-week program — offered in partnership with Jayhawk Extended Learning, KU’s provider of enrichment education, workforce training and professional development — targets individuals interested in entering the sales profession, advancing in sales-related roles or making a career pivot. Participants complete one module each week.

“This professional selling microcredential is designed for professionals who want to launch a career in consultative sales or strengthen the selling skills they already use every day,” said Kristen Helling, director of the KU School of Business Professional Selling Program. “Whether participants are entering the field, changing industries or advancing in their careers, the program helps them build the knowledge, confidence and value-driven sales competencies employers seek."

Participants will develop skills in prospecting, handling objections, needs discovery, closing the sale, negotiation and other elements of the professional selling process while also exploring emotional intelligence, career pathways and the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI) in sales. Upon completion, participants earn a credential that can be showcased on resumes, LinkedIn profiles and professional portfolios.

The online format makes professional development accessible with asynchronous assignments and video lectures while also incorporating a high level of engagement and support with weekly synchronous meetings that feature interactive activities.

"This program combines flexible online learning with personalized faculty coaching,” Helling said. “Through live role-plays, real-world sales conversations and direct feedback, participants build confidence and develop value-based selling skills they can immediately apply in their careers.”

The first module of the microcredential launches Sept. 21. The microcredential will be offered each fall and spring semester. Registrations for fall 2026 will be accepted through Aug. 15, with a maximum of 24 students in the inaugural cohort.

For more information, visit the Professional Selling Microcredential webpage.