Certificates
Bowie State University offers specialized certificate programs across multiple disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels. Our programs will enhance your skills and knowledge in specific fields, providing credentials that can boost career opportunities.
Certificate Programs at Bowie State
- Addictions Counseling
- Applied & Computational Mathematics
- Clinical Pastoral Counseling
- Database Management / Artificial Intelligence
- Family Nurse Practitioner Post-Master’s
- Geographical Information Systems & Image Processing
- Graphics & User Interface
- Information Systems Analyst
- Networks & Distributed Systems
- Nurse Educator Post-Master's
- Organizational Communications Specialist
- Project Management
- Psychotherapy
- Public Administration
- Public Health Informatics
- Scientific Software Development
- School Psychology
- Software Engineering
Frequently-asked Questions
What level of education is a certificate?
A certificate is a specialized educational program designed to help you develop specific skills in a particular field. It typically requires fewer courses and credits than a degree program and can often be completed in a shorter time frame. We offer certificates at various levels, including post-baccalaureate and post-masters.
How does a certificate differ from a degree? Is it credit-bearing?
A certificate differs from a degree as it focuses on specialized skills and can be completed in a shorter timeframe whereas a degree requires a broader, more comprehensive curriculum and takes longer to complete.
Our certificates offer an affordable option for individuals seeking professional growth and valuing continuous learning and up-to-date industry knowledge.
At Bowie State University, our credit-bearing academic certificates allow you to earn credits toward relevant degree programs, offering flexibility and potential for academic progression.
Are there any funding or financial aid options for certificate students? Can I use my GI Bill or Tuition Assistance for this certificate?
Yes, you may be eligible for various forms of financial aid if you plan to pursue an academic certificate. Assistance is available through grants, scholarships or loans. Visit our financial aid page to learn more.
Certificate programs must be approved by the Department of Education and eligibility is determined by financial aid regulations.
If you want to use GI benefits to pay for a certificate program, the program must be approved by the Department of Veterans Affairs. You can visit the Veteran Enrollment page or our financial aid page for more information.
Can I take this certificate while working full-time?
Yes, Bowie State University’s certificate programs are designed to offer flexibility for individuals at various stages of their careers.
It's important to note that each program varies in duration, length and expectations, so we recommend contacting the program coordinator for details about your program of interest.
How can a certificate benefit my career?
An academic certificate can benefit your career by providing specialized knowledge and skills that enhance your qualifications. It can make you more competitive in the job market and open opportunities for career advancement or help you transition into new industries.
What are the admissions requirements, and do I need a prior degree in the field?
Admissions requirements vary by certificate program. Please review the specific program you're interested in to check the prerequisites and ensure you meet the necessary criteria.
How do I know that a certificate is right for me?
Choosing the right academic certificate depends on your career goals. Certificates provide specialized knowledge that can facilitate career advancement and support industry transitions. To determine whether a certificate aligns with your career goals, research industry preferences and recommendations.