Frequently Asked Questions

What is a noncredit certificate?

A noncredit certificate program is a training program on a specific topic for which participants receive a certificate after completing the course and passing an assessment. No college credits are earned or recorded in a university transcript. You do not need to be admitted to the university to attend the program. You will be a non-degree student.

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What is the registration fee for out-of-state participants?

The registration fee is the same regardless of residence.

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What is the difference between certification and a certificate of completion?

A certificate program typically requires attendance and completion of a course or series of courses on a specific topic. When the completion requirements are met, the participant receives a certificate of completion to demonstrate knowledge of the content at the end of the training. Earning a certificate can prepare you to advance in your career, or to gain new knowledge to stay competitive and current in your field.

Earning a certificate is not the same as becoming certified. Certification includes an experience and education component and requires passing an exam. It enables a practitioner to put credentials after his or her name (e.g., CPA for Certified Public Accountant). In addition, certification requires recertification to ensure staying current in the field through continuing education. Many fields recommend or require professional certification (e.g., project management, accounting, teaching).

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Can current WSU students enroll in a noncredit certificate course?

Yes. Current students can enroll in any noncredit certificate course, but the registration fee is not covered as part of tuition or financial aid and must be paid separately. The certificate does not count toward degree program requirements in a student’s major.

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Can current WSU employees enroll in a noncredit certificate course?

Yes. Current WSU employees can enroll in any noncredit certificate course. Supervisors can cover the cost of these courses for employees through departmental funds. Tuition waiver is not available as these courses are not academic courses or part of any degree program. The certificate does not count toward any degree program requirements.

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What is Zoom, and how can I get it?

Zoom is an easy-to-use live videoconferencing program used in many classes. It allows multiple participants to share audio and video, the screen and a virtual whiteboard. The client software for Zoom can be downloaded from the company website at zoom.us.

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Can I use Zoom on my smartphone?

Yes. You can install the Zoom app (available in your device's app store) and use it to participate in the class.

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What equipment do I need to participate in a Zoom class?

A PC or Mac computer with good internet connection is required. Additionally, the computer should have a camera, speakers and a microphone. A headset with microphone can also substitute for the computer speakers and microphone.

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How can I interact with the instructor and others in class?

The certificate courses are offered as instructor-led, live lecture sessions. When you login to the Zoom session for a class, the instructor will have a list of all attendees generated by the system. During the class, you will be able to talk to the instructor and other students. In addition, Zoom includes a chat function where text messages can be sent and files can be shared.

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Is English proficiency required?

All certificate courses require professional-level English language proficiency.

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Can international students outside the country register for a noncredit certificate course?

Because the noncredit certificate courses are offered entirely online, they do not have visa requirements. International students who are not in the country and who meet application and English-language proficiency requirements can register. Refer to the certificate pages for more details.

Please note that all lecture times are Pacific Standard Time. Before applying, make sure that the class schedule works for you, considering your local time zone.

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How much time must one spend on a course?

The time commitment varies for each course and participant based on background, education and experience. On average, participation is an estimated 1-2 hours per week of preparation outside of class time.

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Does WSU Vancouver offer other certificates?

Yes. WSU Vancouver offers undergraduate and graduate certificates for credit. Students must be admitted to the university and, for graduate courses, the Graduate School. Typically, a minimum 15 credit hours of coursework is required for undergraduate certificates, and 9-12 credits for graduate certificates. A typical semester-long course is 3 credits. For information about enrolling in for-credit undergraduate and graduate certificates, see the list of certificates and contact the department offering the certificate.

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