Official Certificate Programs
Official Certificate Programs (OCP) are defined as academic programs of study that have been through a complete University curricular review and approval process, but which do not lead directly to a formal degree. These programs are designed for people interested in developing expertise in a particular field of study, but who do not wish to complete formal degree requirements. However, when applicable, students may be able use their OCP courses to a future graduate degree program.
The advantage to these programs is that they are formal programs of study, in which students are matriculated, and may pursue their studies on a full- or part-time basis, and be may eligible for financial aid. Most importantly, these programs are coordinated by faculty closely tied to the area of interest who are committed to advising students enrolled in these programs, ensuring that the student is best able to achieve his or her educational goals.
Requirements for Official Certificate Programs at the graduate level will be individually prescribed by the program director after the student has been admitted to Graduate Studies. Candidates are expected to maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.00 (B) on the graduate record at Central Connecticut State University and have no more than two grades of C+ or C (i.e. two C’s, or two C+’s , or one C and one C+) for courses included on the planned program of graduate study. When requirements have been completed, students are issued a certificate. Students completing graduate certificate programs do not participate in graduation ceremonies.