Online Graduate Certificate in Sustainability Science
Frequenty Asked Questions
Are International Students eligible to apply?
Yes, overseas students are welcome to apply.
Does this U-M SEAS online program qualify for F-1 or J-1 visa status?
No, the certificate program is part-time and does not qualify for F-1 or J-1 visa status.
Are current University of Michigan students able to take these courses?
The certificate is not open to current U-M graduate students (including SEAS and other U-M programs). Currently enrolled students can complete the residential graduate certificate.
How can I apply credits earned to a SEAS master's degree?
- If you opt to receive the certificate: You can apply up to 6 credits from the certificate toward a SEAS master’s degree within five years of completing the courses.
- If you complete courses without choosing to receive a certificate: You can apply to the SEAS Master's program within 5 years and transfer up to 12 graduate UM credits, reducing the total number of credits you need to complete for the degree. (Credit transfers to other schools depend on the school and are not guaranteed).
Does this Michigan SEAS certificate program guarantee admission into the master’s degree program?
No. While successfully completing the certificate will make you a good candidate for the master’s degree program, you will still need to submit an application for review for admission to the master's program.
Do I need to apply if I only want to take one course?
Yes. Because these are credit-bearing graduate courses, you must complete the application for the certificate even if you only intend to take a single class.
How long does it take to complete the Michigan SEAS certificate?
The certificate can be completed as quickly as eight months (2 courses per semester over 2 4-month semesters) or up to four years, spaced however works best for you.
Is federal funding available?
No. Because this program is not full-time, it is not eligible for federal financial aid.
Can my employer help pay for the certificate?
Yes. Many companies offer up to $5,250 in annual tax-free tuition reimbursement. See our tuition page for more information.
What University of Michigan benefits do I receive as a student in the certificate program?
As a part of the certificate program, you will have access to many of the same benefits as our on-campus students. You will have access to a student ID card, computing services, library services, a University of Michigan email address, global alumni network, and more.
What career resources do I receive as a student in the Michigan SEAS certificate program?
As a part of the certificate program, you will have access to select SEAS career resources. These include virtual workshops, virtual employer info sessions, membership to the SEAS LinkedIn Networking group, online job boards, and LinkedIn Learning courses. Please note that we currently do not offer 1:1 career advising as a part of this program.