FAQs: Communication and Leadership Certification
Please find answers to the most popular questions for the online Graduate Certificate in Communication and Leadership asked by many of our new online students.
DO I NEED A BACKGROUND IN COMMUNICATION TO QUALIFY FOR ADMISSION?
No, communication has a wide variety of applications. Our students come from all different educational and professional backgrounds. We do require students to hold a bachelor’s degree in order to be considered for admission.
IS FINANCIAL AID AVAILABLE?
While a Purdue graduate student in a non-degree seeking program is not eligible for federal student aid there are other funding options that may be available to you.
Financial assistance may be available from alternative loan programs. There are a large number of private commercial education loan options available to assist students in meeting college costs. You can obtain more information about alternative loans at www.purdue.edu/dfa/loan-details.html. For specific tuition rates, click here.
CAN I TRANSITION FROM THE CERTIFICATE PROGRAM INTO THE ONLINE MS IN COMMUNICATION OR MS IN CORPORATE TRAINING AND COMMUNICATION PROGRAM UPON COMPLETION?
Yes, individuals who complete the certificate program can apply to these programs. If accepted they can transition from the certificate to the masters.
HOW DO ONLINE CLASSES WORK?
Coursework is asynchronous, meaning that there are not specific times you need to be online. When you start the program, you will be given access to a virtual classroom interface. Your instructor will post coursework, syllabi, assignments, and messages every week. You will also use discussion boards, e-mail, and chat to communicate with your classmates and your instructor. You can log on and do your coursework at any time that is convenient for you, but you must turn in your assignments by the deadlines your instructor sets.
HOW MUCH TIME SHOULD I ALLOW FOR DOING HOMEWORK AND COMPLETING ASSIGNMENTS?
As in an on-campus program, you should plan on devoting about 15 to 20 hours a week to coursework, depending on your study habits.
WHAT IF I HAVE A QUESTION ABOUT HOMEWORK OR NEED HELP WITH A TECHNICAL ISSUE?
The faculty and staff at Purdue are dedicated to your success at the University and in the future. Your instructor will set weekly times for one-on-one electronic consultations and will answer emails in a timely fashion. Technical support is available 24/7 to help you handle hardware and software issues, and we have dedicated staff available to talk to you about financial aid, scheduling, or any other administrative issues.
WHAT WILL MY TRANSCRIPT SAY?
Post Baccalaureate Certificate in Communication and Leadership