The Hussian School of Art, Philadelphia's oldest art career school, starts classes on Sept. 14 and is looking for some students. Entering its 64th year educating the next generation of graphic designers and illustrators, Hussian's curriculum develops marketability and career potential in every art student. Schedule your interview and portfolio review, tour the new facility in America's most historic square mile, and speak with admissions and financial aid representatives today. Call 215-574-9600; e-mail info@hussianart.edu; or visit hussianart.edu.

Temple University Center City, Non-Credit Programs

Try a non-credit course at Temple University Center City and you will not be disappointed. These instructors are the best in the city at what they do and they're ready to prove it: They consistently evaluate, improve and then deliver courses that make a difference. New to the curriculum this fall are the Certificate in Financial Planning and course in online marketing. The university also offers professional courses in communications, presentations, entrepreneurship, management, leadership, business writing, plus certificate programs in business writing, accounting office specialist, interior design, editing, database management and Web site design. Along with this, it offers personal enrichment courses in: exercise and wellness, music and dance, languages, personal finance, digital photography, architecture, writing and literature, cooking, sushi, wine and entertaining and home and lifestyle. Call 215-204-6946 or visit temple.edu/tucc and click on "non-credit courses."

The Art Institute of Philadelphia

The Art Institute of Philadelphia is a private college with student enrollment reaching 3,600 in the fall of 2008. Conveniently located in Center City Philadelphia, the college offers Bachelor of Science degrees, Associate of Science degrees and a plethora of other diploma programs.

Founded by artist Philip Trachtman in 1971, the college was acquired by Education Management Corporation in 1979. The Art Institute of Philadelphia occupies 1622 Chestnut St., a historic building originally designed in 1928 as the CBS flagship radio station affiliate. Designated as a historical site by the Philadelphia Historical Commission, the Art Deco building became home to the college in 1982. Today, The Art Institute has additional academic facilities at 1610, 1510 and 1530 Chestnut St. and 2300 Market St.

Educational programs at The Art Institute of Philadelphia provide balanced, quality education in applied arts technology and techniques, related business practices and general education. From curriculum to equipment, programs are designed to provide students with the skills necessary to join their chosen career fields at the entry level. Faculty members are dedicated professionals who strive to strengthen students' skills and cultivate their talents.

Each year, the Art Institute of Philadelphia graduates hundreds of designers, animators, photographers and digital media artists prepared to seek out successful career opportunities in their fields. Fashion graduates are prepared for careers in design, retail, management and display. The Art Institute of Philadelphia's culinary and baking programs prepare graduates for entry-level employment as prep, line, first cook, assistant kitchen managers and/or assistant pastry chefs. For further information or to arrange a personal visit with this prestigious college, call the Admissions Office at 215-567-7080.

International Institute for Restorative Practices

Before matriculating, prospective students should know that tuition-free courses at the International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP) Graduate School are available.

This summer, nearly 200 students are attending IIRP classes — designed for working professionals — at the IIRP's three locations: Woodlyn/Philadelphia, Lansdale and Bethlehem.

Several West Philadelphia High teachers — like Omar Singletary, a coordinator and counselor at West and Tilden Middle School — are taking classes at the IIRP Graduate School. "The IIRP has given me essential skills to use in my work with kids and in every aspect of my life," he says.

Schools and other institutions are benefitting greatly from restorative practices. At West Philadelphia High School, violence and serious incidents decreased 75 percent in one year after implementation of the practices.

IIRP graduate Bonnie Witt, a middle school special-education teacher in Cherry Hill, N.J., said, "IIRP classes showed me how to build a community in my classroom. These kids have met tons of failure. Having a restorative approach has made my classroom a safe place for them to make connections."

Students may take up to 12 credits before applying to the master's program, which offers a Master of Restorative Practices and Education and a Master of Restorative Practices and Youth Counseling. Alternatively, they may opt for the non-degree Graduate Certificate program or the one-year Fast Track Master's Degree. Full-tuition scholarships are available.

The IIRP Graduate School is a Pennsylvania Department of Education Act 48 Approved Provider, a New Jersey Department of Education Professional Development Provider and a PCB-approved provider.

Violette de Mazia Foundation

This fall, the Violette de Mazia Foundation is encouraging those who possess a sense of adventure for art to apply for their classes focusing on creative understanding at eight unique locations throughout the Delaware Valley.

Courses are funded by the foundation and offered for a $50 registration fee. For the first time ever, they now offer Act 48 credit hours for the successful completion of Informed Perception or Traditions in Art. These credit hours are provided through the sponsorship of the Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts.

The classes will be held in partnership with local art centers, museums and educational institutions including the Winterthur Museum, La Salle University, Main Line Art Center and others. These courses are meant to encourage a lifelong love and appreciation of art, which the foundation strives to promote. Introductory fall classes begin Sept. 12 (Lansdale) and Sept. 19 (Bethlehem and Woodlyn/Philadelphia). Register for courses at iirp.org/cp or call 610-807-9221.

Career ReDesign Fair and Continuing Studies Open House at UArts

Recognizing a need for focused training for those pursuing a career advancement, practical job skills or an opportunity to reach their creative potential, The Division of Continuing Studies at the University of the Arts is hosting a Career ReDesign Fair + Open House on Sept. 11 at 5 p.m.

"In the current economic climate it is especially vital for individuals to have new skills and experience to make them more marketable to potential employers," said Erin Elman, dean of continuing studies at the University of the Arts. "The University of the Arts is committed to being a leader in training and professional development for creative professionals."

In correlation with the Open House, UArts Continuing Education is offering new Certificate Programs beginning this fall. "This event is an outstanding resource providing current and prospective students an in-depth view into the wide spectrum of Certificate Programs and classes we offer," said Rob Craig, UArts continuing education coordinator. "It is also a tremendous opportunity to meet many of the professional faculty members and Certificate Advisors, and for students to get the answers to the questions that will aid in their career development."

In addition to certificates in Print Design, Web Design and a Print + Web Design Dual Certificate, the University now offers certificates in Web Development, Dual Web Design + Development, Digital Photography and more. The Teaching Artist Certificate also provides a foundation for artists to share their craft in the classroom and is the only program of its kind in the nation.

Whether the goal is to change careers, upgrade skills or pursue a passion, the Continuing Education Certificate Programs provide students with the tools they need to fulfill their goals. The fair will take place on the 9th Floor of Terra Hall at 211 S. Broad St. Information about the fair and Open House or UArts Continuing Education Certificate Programs is available by e-mailing ce@uarts.edu or calling 215-717-6095.

Fencing Academy of Philadelphia

Tired of your gym's latest fitness craze? Try what many consider the most difficult sport: FENCING.

Fencing provides a physical skill and an intellectual challenge all at the same time.

Fencing has been part of every modern Olympic games since the 19th century and, with success of the U.S. fencers at the past Beijing Olympics, is growing fast!

A safe sport for all ages, fencing, unlike any other activity, makes you focus and work like someone is really trying to hit you with a sword.

I.Goldberg

Everything you forgot to bring or didn't know you'd need you can find at I.Goldberg Army & Navy. Philadelphia's unpredictable weather can leave you out in the cold, but the store located at 1300 Chestnut St. has got you covered.

I. Goldberg has everything including essentials like outerwear, footwear, Swiss Army knives, bags and thermals, and one-of-a-kind items like army supplies, military uniforms, insignias, military medals and more. They're truly the "Why didn't I come here first?" store.

International House Philadelphia

International House Philadelphia is a warm, friendly living environment located in the heart of University City. Each year, International House is home to more than 1,200 students, scholars and professional trainees from 80 countries, including the U.S., attending area colleges, universities and medical institutions. At International House, you will make lifelong friends from around the world and become part of a unique community where all cultures are celebrated and shared. Our residents enjoy free films and concerts in The Ibrahim Theater, cultural events, coffee hours and other activities. International House Philadelphia is located at 3701 Chestnut St., within walking distance of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University campuses and many of the city's best shops and restaurants. Amenities include 24-hour security, a computer center and study rooms, high-speed wireless Internet access and on-site parking. Apply today for a single room, private room or an apartment at ihousephilly.org or 215-895-6540.

Gwnedolyn Bye Dance Center

The Gwendolyn Bye Dance Center offers year-round dance training in a nurturing and supportive environment for children age 3 to 18. Students train from the beginning to advanced levels in Ballet, Pointe, Modern, Jazz, Tap, Hip-hop, African and Musical Theater. Fall registration starts Sept. 1 at the studio on 3611 Lancaster Ave. in Philadelphia and the secondary location on the Main Line. Call 215-222-7633 or visit gbyedance.org.

Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts

When you join a Continuing Education class at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA) you become part of a two-century-old tradition of teaching excellence in the fine arts. Whether you're drawn to art for the first time, preparing a portfolio for art school or bent on mastering your craft, PAFA is the place for you. PAFA Continuing Education features competitively priced evening, weekday and weekend classes in drawing, painting, sculpture and printmaking for all ages and levels of ability. Short workshops are held every weekend on a variety of interesting topics. Highlights this fall include Saturday morning drawing and painting for high school students, the History of Photography Seminar class on Monday evenings, an intensive drawing workshop with Timothy Hawkesworth and a Master Class with renowned American realist painter, Bo Bartlett. PAFA is also an authorized provider of Professional Development credit for Pennsylvania and New Jersey educators. For more information, visit pafa.org/CE, e-mail continuinged@pafa.edu or call 215-972-7632.