The total number of units required for graduate certificates vary by academic discipline, but all require a minimum of 9 units of graduate credit. Except for a limited number of units that can be transferred from other approved institutions, the remaining unit requirements must be met by graduate level University of Arizona courses. A maximum of 6 units of graduate credit earned as an undergraduate senior, in graduate non-degree status, and/or transferred from an accredited institution may be applied for credit toward a graduate certificate. Many programs, however, recognize only units taken within the program. Up to 6 units from a University of Arizona master's degree may count toward the Graduate Certificate, depending on the program.

All units of coursework for the graduate certificate must be in 500-level courses or above, and one half of the required units must be in courses in which regular grades (A, B, C) have been earned. For specific certificate requirements, refer to the appropriate departments.