Graduate Certificate Programs

WKU offers the opportunity for graduate and undergraduate students to earn certificates in specialty areas as they are working toward their degree. Currently five graduate certificate programs and one graduate endorsement are available online. For information on undergraduate certificates click here.

Online Certificates

Graduate Certificate in Instructional Design
The Certificate in Instructional Design provides preparation in the principles and strategies of instructional design to enhance the competence of practitioners in designing effective and efficient instruction and training for students and employees in schools, government agencies, and private businesses.

Graduate Certificate in International Student Services
College campuses have become increasingly internationalized in recent decades. International student populations have grown, study abroad has become a standard of the higher education landscape, and as a result, the student population has developed new needs.  The Certificate in International Student Services offers graduate-level students preparation to manage educational exchange, lead campus internationalization, and provide international student services.

Autism Spectrum Disorders Certificate
This 15 hour program prepares students to provide educational, social, behavioral, and community services and information to individuals diagnosed with ASD and their families.  Individuals who complete the program will be knowledgeable about the various disorders included in the spectrum of autism, characteristics, educational strategies, collaboration efforts, communication, and technology skills to be implemented with individuals with ASD. This certificate program is open to students who have completed their master’s degree in select fields.

Graduate Certificate in Leadership Studies
The Leadership Certificate Program offers both an undergraduate and graduate interdisciplinary academic program. You will enhance your understanding of leadership theory and practice, while applying it directly toward your academic or professional area of interest. Students admitted to graduate studies at WKU can elect to pursue the graduate Certificate in Leadership Studies either by itself, or in conjunction with a masters program in a selected specific discipline.

Graduate Certificate in Women's Studies
A graduate certificate in women’s studies will provide you with all the skills of other liberal arts degrees: critical and ethical thinking, strong writing and speaking skills, and the ability to present information clearly in an organized format; however, women’s studies will take these skills further, helping you understand the sometimes “hidden” dynamics related to race, gender, and class.

Online Endorsement

Gifted and Talented Graduate Teaching Endorsement
The Gifted and Talented Endorsement requires twelve graduate hours. The program can be part of a Master's program, a Rank II, or a Rank I as well as a separate endorsement.