A graduate certificate is a document awarded to a graduate student after completing a specific set of graduate-level courses, often focusing on a particular subject or skill area.  A graduate certificate can substantiate qualifications or help meet professional certification. Typically, a graduate certificate requires about one-third of the credits needed for a master's degree, and in some cases, you can combine (stack) multiple certificates to work toward a master's degree.

Regional and institutional accreditations are important because they ensure the quality and credibility of an academic institution and its programs. University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Institutional accreditation ensures that the university as a whole is committed to providing quality education. Many units at the University have voluntarily applied for and received this type of recognition. Like regional accreditation, each unit must go through a rigorous assessment process about every 6-8 years to assure that their programs continue to meet quality standards of the profession for which that program prepares graduates. To learn more about the accredited programs, visit the University Catalog for a detailed list of programs, units and accrediting agencies.

Choosing a program depends on your academic and professional goals, availability, and . Not all subjects are offered at both undergraduate and graduate levels, and some graduate courses require prerequisite undergraduate coursework. Use the Degree Search tool to explore available certificate, Master’s and doctoral programs. If you're an undergraduate considering graduate studies, your current department is a resource for; Accelerated Master's Programs (AMPs), qualifications, applications, and preparation. For program-specific questions, consult the Graduate Admissions Guide.

Deciding to attend graduate school depends on your professional or personal goals. Graduate school may be necessary if your career requires advanced knowledge or specialized skills that are taught at the graduate level. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) publishes the Occupational Outlook Handbook which details Entry-level Education required within the U.S. for many occupations. 

Graduate school is attendance at the level of education pursued after completing an undergraduate degree (Bachelor’s or four-year equivalent). It includes master's, doctoral, and post-doctoral programs.