Declaring a Certificate or Certification

Certificates and certifications provide students with the opportunity to develop specialized competence, skills, and knowledge that extend beyond their core degree requirements. Students may pursue a certificate as part of an Associate's, Bachelor's, Master’s or Doctoral degree program or as a standalone credential.

Students are strongly encouraged to declare their certificate or certification as early as possible. Students should work closely with their advisor to ensure timely completion, proper course sequencing, and alignment with academic and career goals.

Students in certain programs may not be eligible to pursue specific graduate certificates or certifications. Please consult with the Program Leader for the certificate or certification to determine eligibility. 

Graduate students must earn a grade of “B” or higher in each certificate or certification course, unless otherwise approved by the Program Leader.

Declaring a Minor

Undergraduate students may declare a minor or certificate to complement their major field of study. Students may declare a minor or certificate at any time prior to the completion of degree requirements.

A minor requires a minimum of 15 credits. At least two courses applied to the minor must not be used to fulfill major requirements, unless otherwise approved. At least one course must be completed at the 300-level or above.

Note: Students minoring in science programs must earn a minimum GPA of 2.75 in courses applied to the minor, with grades of C or higher.

Certificate, Certification and Minor Declaration Process

To declare a certificate, certification, or minor, a student must:

• Consult with their advisor and/or program leader to discuss requirements and develop an appropriate plan of study.
• Complete the Declaration of Minor or Certificate form available on the BPU Community.

Note: Undergraduate students looking to declare a graduate certificate or certification should reference the Undergraduate Enrollment in Graduate Courses policy.

Recognition of Certificate, Certification, or Minor Completion

Upon successful completion of all certificate, certification, or minor requirements, it will be indicated on the student's official academic transcript.

Transfer Credit Policy for Certificates, Certifications, and Minors

A maximum of 6 credits may be transferred into any graduate or undergraduate certificate program, whether pursued as a standalone credential or in conjunction with a degree program. Students wishing to transfer courses into a certificate bear the responsibility of demonstrating that the courses are appropriate and relevant to the certificate requirements. Transfer credit requests are reviewed on an individual basis by the student's advisor, the Registrar's Office, and the appropriate program leader, who has final authority on the application of transfer credits.

Financial Aid Eligibility for Certificates, Certifications and Minors

Students should consult with their advisor and the Student Financial Services office to determine whether or not the certificate, certification, or minor they are looking to pursue is eligible for financial aid.