Overview

This 15-hour graduate certificate program is designed to prepare current and prospective college or university staff members for entry-mid level positions as administrators in two- and four-year colleges and universities, policy makers, and student affairs professionals in higher education to provide selected course work/degrees for individuals currently in the field. This program will enable working professionals in higher education to increase their skills, knowledge, and abilities to compete for professional positions of increasing responsibility and scope.

Possible positions: program directors, registrars, budget/finance officers, institutional researchers, academic advisors, in settings such as student support services, financial aid, housing, admissions, career services, student activities and athletics, and international programs.

This graduate certificate can be earned in conjunction with an existing Masters degree program or taken for post-Masters degree credit.

Gainful Employment: The Graduate Certificate in Higher Educational Leadership has been reviewed and is NOT a gainful employment program per US Department of Education rules and regulations.


Certificate Requirements

The Higher Education Leadership certificate consists of 15 graduate hours. Students choose 15 hours of the following courses:


Admission Requirements

When applying for admission to the Higher Education Leadership certificate you must submit to the Graduate School:

  • A completed graduate school application for Non-degree A Category (if not already in a degree program). NOTE: Graduates of a WSU Masters program do not need to apply to the Graduate School.
  • Transcripts: Master's degree with a 3.2 or higher; for students currently in a Masters degree program, a GPA or grade point average of at least 3.2 based upon the last 30 hours of graduate coursework

You must also submit the following items to the Department:

  • Three letters of professional recommendation
  • Letter of intent indicating reasons for pursuing certificate
  • A current resume or vita of educational and professional experience.
  • Evidence of two years of professional experience in education or a related field

If you are a current Graduate Student either admitted to a degree program or non-degree category A status, please fill out the Declaration of Intent to pursue a certificate.

Application Process


Background Check Requirement

Upon admission and prior to their first semester, all students admitted to the Counseling program must clear a criminal background check. Click here for instructions.