Graduate Certificate FAQs
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When are application deadlines?
There are no application deadlines for Graduate Certificates, except for those in the College of Nursing. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Make sure to get your application in as soon as possible to allow for processing and to ensure a spot in class.
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What are the admissions requirements for a Graduate Certificate program?
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in order to apply to a Graduate Certificate. A few programs require a master's degree and/or GRE scores. You can check each program's requirements by clicking on the program here: Certificate Programs.
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How do I know what classes to take?
Once admitted into a certificate program, Contact the graduate certificate program director in the department in which the certificate is offered for advising. Contact information can be found on the Graduate Certificate information page.
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What is the student status for a Graduate Certificate Student?
If not already enrolled in a graduate degree program, the student status is non-degree seeking
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What are the benefits as a certificate student?
Certificate students are eligible for early registration times, qualify for student insurance and have graduate-level privileges at the library.
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How will a certificate help my career?
The certificate is a specialized graduate-level credential reflecting knowledge of the most up-to-date research in the field. Once completed, the certificate is notated on the transcripts and a certificate diploma is awarded to the student.
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How much do certificate programs cost?
Certificates parallel regular graduate level tuition rates and fees. See current rates here: Tuition & Fees. Fully online certificates are priced differently and these tuition and fees can be found on each program page.
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Can I use V.A. benefits for a graduate certificate program?
Certificate programs do qualify students for V.A. benefits. Contact the Veteran Services office for more details: Veteran Services
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Do certificate students qualify for federal financial aid?
Non-degree seeking Certificate students can only qualify for certified private student loans. Check this link to find available loans: SimpleTuition.com
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How long will the program take to complete?
Certificates take 1-2 years to complete depending on course load per semester and course schedule offerings.
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Can I transfer certificate credits into a master's degree?
With department approval, it is possible to transfer up to 12 credits into a master's degree. Contact the advisor of the master's program you are interested in to find out more: Graduate Programs
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Can I take the certificate online?
We currently offer 30 certificates fully online and 21 partially online. Most certificate programs will have at least one course offered online. See list of online certificates here: Online Certificates
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How do I apply?
The first step is to enroll as a non-degree seeking student through the Registrar's office. The second step is to submit the department approval form with your letter of interest, resume and official transcripts to the Graduate certificates office. More application materials may be required depending on the program. See each program sheet for any additional requirements.