Leadership Certificate FAQ

How many courses per semester may I take?

We do not have any limits on the number of courses that a student may take each semester.  However, we recommend students with full-time work schedules take no more than two courses per semester.

Is there any particular course sequence I should follow?

While the courses in the Certificate in Leadership are structured primarily in a way that provides maximum flexibility to allow students to start any term, it is recommended that students begin by taking PSLP 5300 Foundations of Leadership. It is also ideal to begin by taking the required courses before the electives.

Are all the courses in the graduate certificate in leadership offered online?

Yes.

Can I enroll in just a few courses? I'm not interested in applying to and earning the certificate.

Yes, individuals may take up to two courses in a certificate prior to applying to the program

Can I take courses before applying for admission to the program?

Individuals must apply to and be offered admission to earn a certificate. A maximum of two courses taken before applying for the certificate program can count towards satisfying the certificate requirements.

Can I transfer credit into this program from another institution?

Individuals can transfer one course for academic credit from a regionally accredited college or university. The transfer course will count towards one elective course in the certificate program, and must have been taken within the last three years. Transfer courses are not accepted for required courses in the certificate. Official transcripts and course syllabus are required for an analysis of the content, level, and comparability of the transfer course, as well as the quality of the student’s performance with a grade of B- or better.  Official transcripts with a request for transfer of credits can be sent to SCPSregistration@virginia.edu or School of Continuing and Professional Studies, 104 Midmont Lane, PO Box 400764, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4764 Attn: Admission Services 

What grades must I earn to be awarded the certificate?

Students must earn a B- or better in all courses required for the certificate to be awarded. Should a grade fall below a B-, the student has the option of retaking the course in order to complete the requirements and be awarded the certificate.

Does this program lead to a degree program?

The graduate Certificate in Leadership is designed to be a stand-alone certificate program. Students interested in pursuing a graduate degree are encouraged to contact the institutions offering graduate degrees for their specific policies on the acceptance of transfer credit.

What type of job can I get with a graduate certificate in leadership?

A graduate Certificate in Leadership can help prepare you for a job in the private or public sector in government at the federal, state, or local level, as well as the nonprofit sector and higher education. It can also help you enhance your skills for career transition or advancement.

What is the difference between earning a certificate and gaining certification?

Earning a certificate is a way for you to earn credits in a structured, discipline-specific way. A certificate can prepare you to advance in your career, or to gain the extra knowledge needed to stay competitive and up-to-date in your field. There are many fields, however, that have professional certifications that may be recommended or required (ex. certified financial planning, project management, accounting). A certificate program does not lead to a professional certification. Yes, the courses you take in a certificate program could help you prepare to earn a professional field-specific certification, but earning a certificate is not the same as becoming certified.

What exactly does it mean to earn a certificate?

Certificates offer discipline-specific courses that can help you acquire new skills for professional advancement or for a career transition. Our certificates are offered online, making them accessible from anywhere. Completion of the certificate demonstrates evidence of specialized education achievement. It is recognized on a University of Virginia transcript.

Will the credits from a certificate program transfer to another college or university?

Certificate programs are designed to be stand-alone programs. Select courses, however, may be eligible for transfer. Colleges and universities may recognize these courses for transfer, but these decisions are made independently by the receiving institution.

Can an elective I take in one SCPS certificate program count as credit for another certificate program?

All UVA School of Continuing and Professional Studies courses taken as part of completing a certificate program cannot be double counted toward another SCPS certificate program. In cases where electives may overlap across programs, students are expected to choose distinct electives to satisfy subsequent certificates.

What is the advantage to earning a certificate vs. a degree?

Students like to earn certificates because they are affordable, they take less time to complete than a full-fledged degree, and they are practical. Often the knowledge gained in the classroom can be put to use the very next day. In the competitive job market, a certificate can provide the crucial margin needed for individuals to change careers, qualify for a promotion, or qualify for professional accreditation.

The information contained on this web site is for informational purposes only. The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements.