@ Our Centers

Union Institute & University, Sacramento Center

UI&U Sacramento Campus
Union Institute & University - Sacramento Campus
“Tremendous potential” is how Dr. James Rocheleau describes Union Institute & University's Sacramento Center. Rocheleau has been dean of the northern California location for the past seven years, and under his leadership, the Sacramento center has seen enrollment growth each year (Meet UI&U Sacramento Faculty member Kevin Jones).

Rocheleau, who also serves as the dean of the UI&U Los Angeles Center, says several factors have contributed to the success of both California centers. “For one thing, we are developing more on-ground programs at new sites throughout both cities,” says Rocheleau, who takes a practical, realistic approach to adult higher education. Many California learners have the option of taking courses at locations closer to their homes or workplaces - or even at their place of employment. Having this option, says Rocheleau, makes it much easier for the working adult to balance work and family life with his or her higher education pursuits.

UI&U Sacramento Campus
The quiet, tree-lined streets of Sacramento
In addition, all courses at the Sacramento center are offered in short, eight-week sessions to keep learners engaged, and to ensure their degree requirements are completed quickly. (Elizabeth Sackler to speak at 2008 UI&U California Commencement ceremonies)

“Many of our learners only need about 30 or 40 hours to complete their degrees,” says Rocheleau. “Adults want to get out faster than the younger, traditional college student. They don't have a lot of time. We help them maximize the time they do have.” Staff and faculty work to help learners design their programs around working professionals who may be looking to complete their degree so they may get a promotion or better pay.

For example, the center's most popular program, criminal justice management, is considered by most law enforcement professionals to be one of the most practical and respected programs for continuing their education.

Sacramento, California
A view of downtown Sacramento
Many northern California-based police officers who graduate from UI&U go on to management positions within the police force, and even become elected officials (Meet UI&U graduate Adam Christianson).

Rocheleau says more growth in Sacramento is yet to come with the creation of new degree programs, as well as satellite centers in San Francisco and other northern California cities.

“This is a very exciting time for us,” says Rocheleau (Read about the Sacramento staff here). “We are just going to keep growing.”



Special thanks to Margaret Friedman for providing us with these great images of Sacramento.