The graduate certificate program in higher education leadership is designed to prepare current and prospective college or university staff members for entry to mid-level positions as administrators in two- and four-year colleges and universities; policy makers and student affairs professionals in higher education; and to provide selected coursework/degrees for individuals currently in the field. Graduates of the program are prepared to function effectively in a variety of leadership positions at two- and four-year institutions of higher education. In addition, this program enables working professionals in higher education to increase their skills, knowledge and abilities to compete for professional positions of increasing responsibility and scope.

This graduate certificate can be earned in conjunction with an existing master’s degree program or taken for postbachelor's or postmaster’s degree credit. Students who complete the postbachelor's graduate certificate are eligible to apply for a higher education or counseling master's degree program in ISLE. Students who complete the postmaster's graduate certificate are eligible to apply for the EdD in educational leadership.

This certificate program is not eligible for Title IV (federal financial aid) funding unless the certificate is awarded as part of a degree program. Certificate programs which are not eligible for Title IV aid are not gainful employment programs.

Admission

1. Students seeking admission must have a minimum of a bachelor's degree by the time of enrollment with a GPA of 3.000 or higher;
2. Two letters of recommendation;
3. Letter of intent indicating reasons for pursuing certificate; and
4. Resume.

Program Requirements

Background Check

Upon admission and prior to their first semester, all applicants admitted to this program must clear a criminal background check. There are two reasons for this requirement. First, it is part of the university’s due diligence before placing students in field settings. Second, the check may alert applicants or students to issues that may subsequently affect their ability to work in their chosen field. In instances when a person’s criminal history raises reasonable concerns that should be cleared to engage in the field experiences and/or subsequently obtain licensure/endorsement, WSU may take a range of actions, including rescission of admission or dismissal from the program, depending on the nature of the concern.

For information regarding this requirement, visit: Advanced Programs¹.

Curriculum

Fifteen (15) credit hours from the following courses are required for completion of this certificate:

In addition to these requirements, students must meet the Graduate School’s requirements in order to earn this certificate.

For more information, visit the certificate in higher education leadership webpage¹.

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