NTU academic certificates are designed for working professionals who want to develop their knowledge and skills in focused areas of graduate study. Each certificate consists of at least four graduate courses for a minimum of 12 semester credits taken in the NTU School. Students can complete a graduate certificate in as little as one year and may earn more than one certificate. While each course taken can apply to only one certificate, courses taken for a certificate can be applied toward a master’s degree program.

 

The NTU certificate program is designed to recognize the achievements of students whose courses meet specific needs of their individual careers. This program is especially beneficial to those who already have a master’s or Ph.D. degree and do not want to pursue another advanced degree. It provides recognition of academic accomplishment while upgrading technical competence or reorienting professional careers. Students who satisfy the certificate requirements receive a certificate of completion and a permanent record on their Walden University transcript.

 

Students must meet the admission requirements for the most closely associated degree program, as designated when the certificate program is defined. Students admitted to a certificate program are eligible for conditional admission and must adhere to the Conditional Admission policy as stated in the Admission section of the catalog. Upon successful completion of a certificate program, students are qualified to apply for degree admission.

 

With their admission application, students submit a certificate course proposal using a provided template, in which they state their objectives and program rationale. Upon admission, students work with academic personnel to confirm or modify the course program.

 

Students cannot apply for a certificate program retroactively (e.g., complete eight courses in a degree program, then stop work on the degree and apply for one or two certificates). No transfer courses are accepted into certificate programs. No matter what courses students have already taken, at least four new courses from the NTU College must be completed to obtain a certificate.

 

Students must show progress and maintain performance in a manner identical to a degree program. Students track their progress in their Program of Study, similar to degree-seeking students. Students must receive a B or better in each course. Note: A grade of B– is not acceptable.