For decades, the Duke Center for Documentary Studies (CDS) has offered a rich variety of courses in photography, writing, audio, oral history, video, the documentary arts, and related fields. Our Continuing Education program has long attracted a diverse community of learners united by a shared passion for storytelling. Many past participants have gone on to publish work, mount exhibitions, or launch new careers inspired by their time with us.
Today, the Continuing Education program at CDS continues this tradition with a revitalized slate of in-person and virtual offerings designed to support learners of all backgrounds and experience levels. Whether you’re located in the Durham area or joining us from farther afield, our courses provide hands-on instruction, community, and creative inspiration.
We are grateful for the ongoing support and feedback from our community, and we look forward to welcoming you — wherever you are — into a vibrant environment committed to lifelong learning, creative exploration, and professional development.
New Continuing Education Opportunities
Spring Courses and Free Public Talks
We’re pleased to announce a new slate of Spring Continuing Education courses at the Center for Documentary Studies, spanning photography, documentary film, writing, audio, and related disciplines. This term also features a series of free public talks introducing new instructors and welcoming both new and returning students to reengage with the CDS Continuing Education community.
Explore the full list of spring courses and events here.
Call for Proposals from Instructors
We welcome proposals from instructors interested in teaching within the Continuing Education program at the Center for Documentary Studies. If you have expertise in a documentary-related field and a passion for teaching, we invite you to share your ideas and help shape future course offerings.
Proposals may be submitted at any time using this form, and will be reviewed on a rolling basis as we plan upcoming sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Continuing Education Program at CDS?
A: The Continuing Education Program offers non-degree courses, workshops and learning opportunities in the documentary arts — photography, writing, audio, film, multimedia and more — for adults of all backgrounds and experience levels. Whether you’re a beginner exploring new creative tools or an experienced documentarian seeking career development, our courses provide hands-on instruction led by practicing artists and industry professionals.
Q: Who can take CDS Continuing Education courses?
A: Our courses are open to anyone age 18 and older. You do not need to be a Duke student or have prior experience in documentary work to participate.
Q: What types of courses are offered?
A: Our Continuing Education program offers a wide range of courses across the documentary arts, including documentary photography, video production, audio storytelling, oral history, ethics, and multimedia practices. Each semester, we introduce a new slate of in-person and virtual courses designed for learners of all backgrounds and experience levels.
Please check this page regularly for updates on upcoming offerings.
Q: Are courses offered online?
A: Yes. Some courses will be offered fully online to accommodate learners both within and outside of Durham.
Q: How long do courses typically last?
A: Course lengths vary. Some courses are one-day in-person courses, while others will take place over the course of 6-weeks or longer and will be available both in-person and virtually.
Q: How do I register for a course?
A: Registration is handled directly through the Center for Documentary Studies. Visit our list of upcoming courses, select the course you’re interested in, and follow the link to the registration page on our website.
Q: How much do courses cost?
A: Course fees will vary by length and format. Please see the registration page for each course to learn more.
Q: Are scholarships or discounts available?
A: Duke faculty and staff are eligible for a 10% discount on all Center for Documentary Studies Continuing Education courses. To receive the discount, participants must register using a valid Duke email address and be a current Duke employee at the time of registration. Discount eligibility will be verified during the registration process. Use code DUKEFACSTAFF10 at checkout.
Q: Can I earn continuing education credits?
A: While our courses are non-credit bearing, many students use them for professional development.
Q: Is there a community or alumni network?
A: Absolutely. Our students become part of the wider Durham, Duke and CDS community through documentary showcases, community events and collaborative projects.
Q: Do I need to bring my own camera or gear?
A: Many of our courses can be completed with minimal equipment. See course descriptions for list of required or recommended equipment.
Q: What happens if I need to cancel a course?
A: If you need to cancel your enrollment, please contact us at cdscourses@duke.edu. Refunds are handled on a case-by-case basis, and our staff will work with you to determine the best option. Refunds are typically processed in the same manner as the original payment.
Q: What if CDS cancels a course?
A: If CDS cancels a course, you will receive a full refund.
Q: I previously started the Certificate in Documentary Studies but did not finish. Can I still complete it?
A: Yes. We are committed to helping past learners complete the Certificate in Documentary Studies. If you began the certificate prior to the program pause and would like to resume your progress, please fill out this form and then email us at cdscourses@duke.edu. Our team will work with you individually to review your past coursework and develop a personalized plan for completion.
Q: I live outside the U.S. Can I take CDS Continuing Education courses?
A: Yes. Many of our courses are available online and we welcome international students. You’ll need access to a stable internet connection and be expected to attend course in the EDT/EST time zone. Materials and instruction are provided in English.
Q: I have more questions. Who can I contact?
A: We’d love to hear from you. Email us at cdscourses@duke.edu for more information.
We are proud to be part of Durham’s vibrant creative community and look forward to welcoming both new and returning learners as we embark on this exciting next phase of Continuing Education.