[2] The association has served its members for over 100 years with conferences and specialty seminars, research and benchmarking information focusing on topics like alternative credentialing,[3] adult (also known as non-traditional) students[4] and the topics which are important for their success, like tracking the graduation and retention rates of non first-time full-time students.
[5] Originally started as the National University Extension Association (NUEA), UPCEA was changed to the current name in 2010.
[6] Topics which the association focuses on also includes online education,[7][8] and continuing education through professional networking opportunities and publications.
Based in Washington, D.C., UPCEA also builds greater awareness of the vital link between contemporary learners and public policy issues,[9][10][11] UPCEA is known for its research and consulting on matters like marketing[12] as well as its work in alternative credentials and digital badging.
[14] UPCEA has several different specialized areas of practice, called networks, which provide a place for those in similar backgrounds to provide research, presentations, and awards.