Certificate Definition

A graduate certificate constitutes a coherent body of knowledge consisting of a minimum of twelve (12) and not more than twenty-one (21) credits of graduate course work. Graduate certificates may be linked to an existing Fairmont State degree program or it may be unique and free standing. Credits earned as a non-degree student may be applied to a graduate certificate. Non-degree students intending to apply to a certificate program are required to apply for admission before they complete 12-credit hours. Students must be admitted to the certificate program in order to be awarded a certificate.