Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Certificate Program?
A Certificate Program is a series of courses providing in-depth study, so you can get the most up-to-date skills and information you need to excel in your chosen field. These professional education programs provide a minimum of 14 units academic credit. A UC Davis Extension certificate says you've committed to a deeper understanding of your industry beyond what a course or workshop provides. Some certificates prepare you to take accreditation exams or meet state-mandated requirements for continuing education.
What is a Specialized Studies Program?
A Specialized Studies Program (SSP) provides a highly focused sequence of study that can be completed in a year or less. These shorter programs (60-139 hours) focus on one facet of your profession. A SSP requires approximately half the number of courses as a certificate program.
What is a Customized Certificate Program?
A Customized Certificate Program allows you to combine courses from up to three certificate programs to create your own unique certificate program. You must complete a minimum of 21 units of coursework.
How is an Intensive Certificate Program different?
In an Intensive Certificate Program you complete the same number of courses as in a regular Certificate Program. The only difference is the format—intensive programs are designed to be completed in 10-12 weeks rather than two years. You attend class full-time during the day, Monday-Friday. Instead of enrolling in each course separately, you enroll in the entire Certificate Program. It is a great way to make a career change—fast.
Why take a certificate program from UC Davis Extension?
Unlike some other institutions, each of our programs are UC-approved, requiring at least 140 hours of coursework. All of our certificate courses offer academic credit, which may be applied to degree programs at colleges and universities at their discretion. UC Davis Extension certificate courses are taught by respected leaders in their industries, so you always get practical, real-world ideas and instruction.
How will I benefit from getting a certificate?
Making the personal investment in a certificate shows your employer a serious commitment to your field and increases your value in the workplace. Achieving a certificate can give you a competitive edge in hiring and promoting situations. Some of our certificates prepare you to take accreditation exams or meet state-mandated requirements for continuing education. And, over the course of a certificate program, many students have opportunities to work closely with instructors and fellow students, providing a valuable professional network for the future.
May I apply courses from another college to a certificate?
You may substitute one course from an accredited institution for one certificate program course, with approval of the program manager, if the course is comparable and you earned to grade C or better. The representative can give you more information about substitutions.
May I use certificate program units in a degree program?
Acceptance of our courses toward a degree is determined by the institution where you want to earn the degree. We recommend that students who wish to apply a UC Davis Extension course toward a degree at another institution should verify acceptance of the course with that institution before enrolling.
Do I have to be in a program to take certificate courses?
No, courses are open to the general public as well as certificate program enrollees. Many people take two or three courses before committing to an entire program. Others simply take courses they find interesting without ever intending to earn a certificate.
How long does it take to complete a program?
Most certificate programs take approximately two years to complete if you take one course per quarter. Intensive Certificate Programs are typically completed in 10-12 weeks of full-time study. Customized Certificate Programs may take up to five years to complete.
How much does it cost?
Program costs vary depending on the number of units required and the subject area. They can cost approximately $3,200-$7,700.
How do I enroll in a program?
We recommend you formally enroll after you have taken the third course in the program. You can complete your application online or download it and return it by fax, mail or in person. For intensive certificate programs, this application form must be completed along with your enrollment. For information on enrolling in a Customized Certificate Program please click here.
When you begin the last class in your program, turn in a Notice of Completion form. This way our staff can notify you of any questions we have. We strongly encourage all certificate program students to periodically check in with a UC Davis Extension representative in their subject area to make sure that their program is progressing as planned.
Please note: The information above does not apply to the Professional Brewers Certificate Program.
