Jackson State University encourages its staff members to broaden their educational background and/or training within and outside the University.

A full-time staff employee (non probationary) that works at least forty (40) hours per week may receive financial assistance for a seminar, workshop, or conference that relates directly to his/her job and is not being offered within the University. Growth and development is an ongoing process for all levels of the University employees. The Professional Development training and workshops are designed to assist Jackson State University staff employees build valuable work skills and improve individual performance by increasing knowledge and enhancing productivity.

To further the professional development of the clerical staff, the Professional Development Center provides financial assistance to members of the JSU-Association of Educational Office Professionals (AEOP) Executive Team, the Administrative Assistants Council and individual employees campus wide. The Center is also focused on in-house training and utilizing its resources to impact the institution while maximizing the Staff Development Center budget.