A certificate program is a designated set of courses that complements a degree program by enhancing the development of skills and knowledge in a focused area of study or provides intensive professional training. Graduate and undergraduate certificate programs may be offered as a specialization within a degree program; as an interdisciplinary field that combines courses from two or more degree programs; or as a “stand-alone” program designed to develop an area of professional knowledge or practical skill.
The Provost has the authority to approve certificate programs that represent work taken within (or among) degree programs. Certificate programs that require the commitment of new resources require Board of Regents approval and follow the procedures for new degree programs.
For more information, please review the complete Academic Subject Certificate Programs Procedures and Guidelines.
Undergraduate Certificates
Undergraduate certificate programs complement major programs, may be interdisciplinary, or in a field without a corresponding major. Undergraduate certificates must require the following:
- A minimum of 15 credits, of which 9 credits are upper-division (300-400 level).
- At least one required course (3 credits). (The program cannot consist of electives only.)
- A cumulative GPA of 2.5 for all courses counted towards the certificate.
Graduate Certificates
Graduate certificate programs may complement degree programs and may provide the training necessary for professional certification. Graduate certificates must require the following:
- A minimum of 15 credits, of which at least 9 must be at the graduate level (600-700).
- At least one required course (3 credits) and a capstone project or experience.
- A passing grade of B or higher, and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all courses counted towards the certificate.
Approval Process
- For Graduate Certificates, approval of the Graduate Division and Graduate Council.
- Review by the Office of the Vice Provost for Academic Excellence.
- Approval of the Mānoa Faculty Senate.
- Approval by the Vice Provost for Academic Excellence.
- Approval by the Provost [see routing and delegation guidelines for current information on the approving authority and routing requirements].
Process
- Complete and submit the Authorization to Plan (ATP) for Certificates. Submitters are strongly encouraged to submit a draft for feedback before the final submission.
- After the ATP is approved, complete the proposal and submit along with the certificate proposal memo template.
Submit via email to acadpro@hawaii.edu
Direct questions to acadpro@hawaii.edu