Certificate programs are focused, guided curricula of study specifically designed for working professionals by Stanford faculty. Most certificates offer a choice of elective courses and therefore may be tailored to meet specific needs, interests, and requirements. A certificate is awarded after the successful completion of 3 to 5 courses and provides evidence of knowledge in a specific subject area. Each course earns Stanford University credit that may later be applied toward a graduate degree.

• Certificate programs consist of regular Stanford graduate courses taught by Stanford faculty.
• Courses are delivered online for study at a distance according to Stanford's quarterly academic schedule.
• Stanford graduate credit is earned and may later be transferred towards a Stanford master's degree.

---

Steps to Earn a Graduate Certificate

Step 1: Choose a Certificate

• Explore available graduate certificates listed by department / subject at right.
• Decide which certificate is right for you.
• Ensure you meet any applicable prerequisites.

Step 2: Declare your Intent

• In each graduate certificate description, there is a link to the "Intent to Pursue" application form.
• Once submitted, your "Intent to Pursue" will be evaluated and you will be notified of a decision within 10 business days.
• NOTE: You may enroll for individual courses that contribute to the certificate prior to declaring your intent. This requires an additional application accessible in Graduate Courses.

Step 3: Earn the Certificate

• You must enroll for each course for credit and for a letter grade. Courses taken for Pass or Fail will not count.
• Once you have completed the required courses, the awarding department will review your academic record to ensure you have met all the requirements. NOTE: An average of B or better is required for all departments except Computer Science, for which a grade of B or better is required in each course.
• You must complete the certificate requirements within 3 years of the date you start.
• Allow 6-8 weeks after the completion of your last course to receive your certificate.