Undergraduate Certificates

An Undergraduate Certificate is a structured set of courses that focuses on a specific theme, topic, or skill set. These programs are interdisciplinary in nature and are designed to complement your major while allowing you to explore an area of interest in greater depth. Certificates can also help you develop practical expertise that sets you apart in graduate applications or the job market.

Two certificates with curricula that complement the substantive content of the Law and Justice and Political Science degree programs are Peace Studies and Social Science Research.

Peace Studies Certificate

The Peace Studies Certificate offers students the chance to explore issues of peace, justice, and conflict resolution at personal, societal, and global levels. Students gain valuable skills in peaceful communication, nonviolent conflict transformation, and cooperative problem-solving. This certificate is especially appealing to students interested in social justice, global affairs, diplomacy, and advocacy work.

For more information, including how to apply, please visit the Peace Studies Certificate Page.

Social Science Research Certificate

The Social Science Research Certificate is designed for students who want to build strong foundations in research methods and gain hands-on experience conducting their own projects. This interdisciplinary certificate emphasizes data analysis, critical thinking, and research communication, skills that are useful across a wide range of academic and professional fields.

For more information, including admissions criteria and a list of acceptable courses to meet the certificate requirements, please visit the Social Science Research Certificate Page.

For some undergraduate certificates, there are course overlaps with undergraduate degree programs. If there are course overlaps, courses may count toward both. You will need to work with your advisor to identify courses that may count for both the undergraduate degree and the undergraduate certificate.

To explore all of the certificate programs offered by the College of Arts and Sciences, visit the Undergraduate Certificate Catalog.

Whether you’re passionate about peacebuilding or research-driven problem-solving, certificate programs are a great way to personalize your degree, explore your interests, and boost your academic profile.