Admissions: Graduate Certificates

Dates and deadlines

Priority Admissions:

  • December 15 (spring start). Earlier application is advised for spring semester.
  • April 30 (summer start)
  • July 31 (fall start)

The Online Distance Learning certificate has different deadlines. Please see the program page.

Request information

Apply online

Required application documents

Even if you are a currently enrolled student, you must apply to earn a certificate. We also require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or foreign equivalent with at least a 2.8 GPA.

To apply you will need:

  • Unofficial transcripts.Upload your transcripts into the application system; please do not mail your transcripts. Official transcripts are required only after you are admitted.
  • Resume.Upload in the Program Supplementary Information - Graduate Program Additional Application section.
  • Statement of purpose.Explain the relationship of courses and research to your professional goals. (Recommended length: two pages).

International applicants

This program does not support VISA requirements; if you need a VISA, please view our Master of Education degree option instead.

International applicants may also need:

  • An English translation of your transcripts, if the transcript is not in English. A course by course evaluation may be required.
  • TOEFL scores. Official TOEFL scores are required. You may qualify for an exception if you have completed 16 semester or 24 quarter credits within the past 24 months in residence as a full-time student at an accredited institution of higher learning in the United States.

UMN TOEFL score requirements and submission guidelines

TOEFL registration and score submission

Apply for an MEd degree

You can pursue the certificate alone or pursue the certificate and MEd degree in the same program area concurrently. If interested, apply to both programs. Application information for MEd Professional Studies degree programs.

Tuition

Tuition varies depending on your degree program, student status, and residency. If you are seeking only the certificate, you pay the CEHD departmental master's tuition rate. More cost information is on the CEHD site.

Certificate-only students are not eligible for financial aid.

How to apply

Before applying online, make sure you have all the required materials. We are here to help! If you have questions, please contact the academic advisor in your program area. We also require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. institution or foreign equivalent with at least a 2.8 GPA.

Download and refer to this application tip sheet as you work through the application. The included directions will help you complete your application quickly and smoothly.

Contact an advisor