College and University Faculty Preparation Certificate

College and University Faculty Preparation Graduate Certificate | Graduate

Today's higher education landscape requires faculty and academic leaders who are champions of innovation and change. Our graduate certificate aims to prepare future higher education faculty to meet this challenge through exposure to culturally-relevant educational frameworks, pedagogical knowledge, higher education policy, and education technology.

Howard's Graduate Certificate in College and University Faculty Preparation meets the professional development needs of current and aspiring faculty interested in developing their knowledge and experience with teaching, learning, and technology in the college and university classroom, in both in-person and online settings. Our 15-credit graduate certificate prepares students to become familiar with contemporary issues, challenges, and opportunities in higher education. The certificate program also exposes students to the development of educational frameworks and learning theories, instructional technology, the systematic assessment of student learning, and the creation of accessible, culturally-relevant learning environments. Students will also develop a robust teaching portfolio that will serve them well in their job search and throughout their careers. Students complete six credits of required core courses, six credits of elective coursework, and three credits of a semester-long teaching field experience or educational research project involving the systematic and reflective use of research to develop and implement teaching best practices. Students can complete the certificate in just one year of full-time study or pace their studies to fit their schedule. Students can combine the certificate with a master's or doctoral degree. 

Program Snapshot 

      ❱  15 credit hours 
      ❱  2-4 semesters to completion
      ❱  Part-time, Full-time
      ❱  Hybrid format
      ❱  Program Type: Graduate Certificate 
      ❱  Certificate can be combined with any graduate degree

Application Deadlines

Spring 2025 entry: 
      ❱  Nov. 15, 2024 (final deadline)

Fall 2025 entry: 
      ❱  Dec. 1, 2024 (early deadline)
      ❱  Feb. 15, 2025 (priority deadline)
      ❱  Apr. 15, 2025 (final deadline)

Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle. 

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: Certificate

Application for Admission (External Applicants)

• Online GradCAS application
• Statement of purpose (550 words maximum)
• GRE scores not required
• Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Completed or currently enrolled in a master's or doctoral degree from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Autobiographical statement (500-750 words)

Application for Admission (Currently Enrolled HU Students)

• Online HU Graduate Certificate Internal Application Form 
• Statement of purpose (550 words maximum)
• A copy of your initial proposed program of study 
• An unofficial copy of your most up-to-date Howard University transcript(s)
• A letter of recommendation from a faculty advisor, director of graduate studies, or faculty member in your current academic program
• GRE scores not required
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae

GRE Required?

• No

GRE Preferred Minimums

• GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Analytical Writing: N/A

GPA Required Minimums

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Reference Requirements (External Applicants)

Evaluator type accepted

• Professor or Academic Advisor (Required)
• Supervisor/Manager 
• Coworker 
• Clergy 

Evaluator type not accepted

• Friend
• Family Member
• Other