College expands opportunities for graduate study with new certificates
LAWRENCE – The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences has broadened the array of graduate certificates at the University of Kansas with the addition of programs in global studies, museum studies, and Russian, East European and Eurasian studies.
Departments in the College developed the certificates to expand graduate students’ and working professionals’ opportunities to diversify their expertise and distinguish themselves in the workforce.
“We want students to have as many options as possible to prepare for a successful career after they leave KU. These certificates have broad applicability and will benefit students across the spectrum of academic and professional career interests,” said Danny Anderson, dean of the College.
Graduate certificates may be pursued as a complement to a master’s or doctoral degree program or as a stand-alone course of study. Each certificate requires 12 to 15 credit hours for completion. All three certificates are accepting new applicants.
The global studies certificate is designed to deepen understanding of international and regional issues. In addition to studying topics on a global scale, such as politics or the environment, students will choose from courses that allow them to study regions of interest in more detail. The Center for Global & International Studies developed the certificate.
The museum studies certificate is intended to prepare students for careers or research programs with museums. Students in several areas of study have expressed interest in the certificate, from programs in the humanities to public administration to architecture. It’s designed to appeal both to master’s students and museum professionals looking for career development opportunities. KU is among four Big 12 schools with a master’s program in museum studies and is the only university to offer a graduate certificate. The Museum Studies Program developed the certificate.
The Russian, East European and Eurasian studies certificate is aimed at students who already have skills in Russian or East European languages and want to strengthen their regional expertise. It is expected to attract students from across the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences and KU’s professional schools, including law and business. It will be the only such certificate in the state and the Great Plains. The Center for Russian, East European & Eurasian Studies developed the certificate.
The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences encourages learning without boundaries in its more than 50 departments, programs and centers. Through innovative research and teaching, the College emphasizes interdisciplinary education, global awareness and experiential learning. The College is KU's broadest, most diverse academic unit.