A certificate indicates the completion of 30 or more credits in a program approved by the senate and should have a coherent combination of courses with a common focus or theme. There could be a narrow focus related to a particular department or program or there could be a broader focus. Certificates could be interdisciplinary; they could be in emerging fields that are not formal majors in a department or program; or they could be in an existing department different from a student's major. Certificates may be awarded within or apart from degree programs.

The role of a certificate is to indicate the completion of the courses in a program. A certificate can be of use in indicating this to prospective employers and graduate schools.

Adopted by Senate: 29 April 1992