UMGC Undergraduate Certificate Programs: Skills for a Changing World
In the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century, new fields of study are constantly emerging, and professionals need to adapt and acquire new skills to stay competitive. University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers a range of undergraduate certificate programs designed to provide students with focused, practical knowledge and skills applicable across various industries. These certificates cater to individuals entering the workforce, seeking career advancement, or aiming to develop leadership qualities.
The Value of Undergraduate Certificates
UMGC undergraduate certificates offer a focused and efficient way to gain expertise in a specific area. These programs provide a distinct advantage, allowing students to stand out in a competitive job market. A certificate can serve as a stepping stone to a degree program, allowing students to explore a field of interest before committing to a full degree.
UMGC Certificate Requirements
UMGC has established specific requirements for all undergraduate certificates to maintain academic standards and ensure program quality. These requirements apply to students enrolling in the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond.
- Admission: Students must be formally admitted to UMGC to enroll in a certificate program.
- Concurrent or Subsequent Degree Pursuit: Students can pursue a certificate simultaneously with a degree program or after completing a certificate.
- Credit Limitations: No more than half of the total credits for any undergraduate certificate may be earned through credit by examination, prior-learning portfolio credit, internship/Workplace Learning credit, or transfer credit from other schools, under current policies for such credit. Additional limitations may apply to specific programs.
- Earning Multiple Certificates: Students who have already received a certificate from UMGC can broaden their education by earning a second certificate in a different discipline.
- Coursework Requirements for Additional Certificates: If a student has earned a certificate from UMGC and wants to pursue an additional certificate at UMGC at the same level, they must complete at least 12 credits of new coursework to be eligible. Coursework cannot be applied twice to fulfill the requirements of an additional credential (i.e., double count or repeat courses).
- Coursework Substitutions: On a case-by-case basis, UMGC may consider limited substitutions for coursework that is required for more than one certificate to allow a student to complete a second certificate. It is recommended to consult an academic advisor before beginning work toward or registering for a second certificate.
Spotlight on Specific Certificate Programs
UMGC offers a diverse range of undergraduate certificate programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the job market. Here's a look at some specific examples:
Drones and Autonomous Systems
As technology continues to evolve, new fields of study will emerge. The online undergraduate certificate in Drones and Autonomous Systems provides students with key industry knowledge of the drones and autonomous systems sector, focusing on its conception, practical applications, and future trends. The drone technology market is growing in many job sectors across the country. In fact, the FAA notes that there are about one million drones currently registered in the United States, including over 400,000 commercially registered drones. According to data from Indeed, those who study drones and autonomous programs will learn skills that can be applied across many diverse industries. Baumgartner believes that the industry will continue to grow during the next few decades.
Read also: UMGC In-State Requirements
- Curriculum and Expertise: This certificate program is taught by experienced instructors with extensive knowledge of drone technology applications in military and civilian operations, systems design, and management expertise.
- Skills and Knowledge Acquired: Enrollees will acquire robust knowledge of the policies, laws, capabilities, and applications of this exciting new technology.
- Career Opportunities: Skills taught in this program apply across numerous industries and offer the possibility of multiple job roles.
Fundamentals of Workplace Health and Safety
This certificate program prepares students for technician and coordinator-level jobs in occupational and environmental health and safety.
- Real-World Application: "Courses in this certificate are based on real-world tasks that a workplace safety and health professional will be expected to complete as part of their job," says Sabrina Fu, director of environmental portfolio at UMGC.
- Project-Based Learning: "The courses in this certificate use project-based assignments and utilize relevant technology to practice technical skills and training," says Fu.
- Career Advancement: "A certificate in fundamentals of workplace health and safety can be used to launch a career in the field, gain work experience, and build toward the education requirements for various professional credentials in the field," says Fu.
Academic Support and Resources
UMGC is dedicated to meeting students wherever they are in their education journey. Students at UMGC also gain access to academic support, including tutoring, the UMGC Library, and the Effective Writing Center.
Graduate Certificates: A Head Start on a Master's Degree
UMGC also offers affordable and valuable online graduate certificates to develop skills and earn a credential that will help students stand out from the crowd. If you complete a UMGC online graduate certificate, you may be able to get a head start on a master’s degree.
Making Informed Decisions
UMGC provides tools to help prospective students make informed decisions about their education:
- Program Comparison: Evaluate up to three degrees, concentrations, and certificates side by side. Explore program descriptions, cost, transfer credit, program formats, course content, and more.
- Cost Estimation: Evaluate up to three programs or concentrations side by side to estimate your costs.
Read also: Navigating UMGC Success
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