Apply for a Graduate Certificate or Course

Apply for a Graduate Certificate

Admission to our graduate certificate programs is processed by the individual schools within which the programs are offered. To begin the application process, you'll need to complete the online Purdue University Graduate School application. As you're filling out the application, you'll see a section for Proposed Graduate Major. Select the certificate program you're interested in from the list. Online certificate options include:

Once you've made your selection, the application will default to the questions and information necessary to complete the application.

Admission to any of our graduate certificate programs requires a bachelor's degree in an appropriate field – such as engineering, science, mathematics, technology – with a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale. When you apply to a graduate certificate program, you'll need to submit evidence of a bachelor's degree. This may be an official transcript, a copy of the diploma, or a letter from the college or university verifying the degree.

Please note that acceptance into a graduate certificate program does not assure admission to the Graduate School of Purdue University to pursue an advanced degree.

Applying for Course Only

Purdue Online, College of Engineering, offers a non-degree option that helps students prepare for graduate-level courses, explore graduate study, or develop new skills. If you wish to take a course without being formally admitted to an advanced degree program, you may do so under non-degree admission status - there is no fee to apply. Students in non-degree status will receive official Purdue credit for courses as a graduate student of the University. You must hold a bachelor's degree and have the necessary background for any courses you wish to take.

Application Process

Before you can enroll in a course, you must be admitted to the Purdue Graduate School. Applications are accepted for the fall, spring, and summer semesters. It is recommended that you submit an application no later than two weeks before the start of the semester. Below are the application instructions for Non-Degree admission:

  • A submitted electronic application. Please mark the below as you come to pass these selections.
    • Within the Campus and Program section: 
      • Campus and Program: Select "West Lafayette (Main Campus)"
      • Proposed Graduate Major: Select "Interdisciplinary Engineering" - Click continue
    • Within Program Details sections:
      • Do not select an option under Area of Interest
      • Degree Objective: Select "Non Degree"
  • Proof of a bachelor's degree by either a copy of an official transcript or a copy of the original diploma

Participation in Courses Only

Enrollment in courses as a non-degree student does not guarantee future admission to a degree program. If you are admitted later to an advanced degree or graduate certificate, a maximum of 12 credits taken in non-degree status may be applied. Check with the department of your intended degree program for their allowable pre-admission credits.