The Graduate Certificate in Adult Learning is designed for individuals who are interested in, or are already working in, training and education roles within educational programming for adult learners.  Whether in a professional work environment or in an educational setting, adult learners require an instructional approach that integrates facilitation and collaboration in order to meet learning outcomes. This certificate prepares professionals with the knowledge and skills essential to becoming an effective educator of adults.

This program is designed to enhance knowledge and skills in:

• Adult learning theory
• Curriculum design and instruction
• Learner assessment
• Foundations of adult education

The program of study includes three required classes (9-credit hours), all of which are currently offered in the Adult and Community Education option of the Education Doctoral Program.  These classes are:

• EDUC 851: Adult Learning
• EDUC 852: Foundations of Occupational and Adult Learning
• EDUC 853: Instructional Methods for Adult Learners

This program is open to everyone with a baccalaureate degree who is interested in working with adult learners in educational or workplace settings.  Current graduate students can also add this certificate to their plan of study.  Courses can be taken in any order.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to the Adult Learning Certificate program, the applicant must:

• Submit a one page statement of intent
• Hold a baccalaureate degree from an educational institution of recognized standing
• Have earned a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all courses at the baccalaureate level

Applications should be submitted directly to the graduate school and are due by July 1 for Fall admission or by December 31 for Spring admission.  Prospective students can enroll in courses as non-degree seeking before applying to the certificate.

Please contact Elizabeth Gilblom, Ph.D. for more information.