FAQs

A graduate certificate is fewer credits than a full master’s degree. In our instance, a graduate certificate is 12 credits and takes approximately two full semesters to complete. A master’s degree is likely to be at least 30 credits and takes approximately two years to complete. In both cases you are taking master’s level courses and need a bachelor’s degree to apply and be accepted. Master’s degrees may also have more application requirements than a certificate. In a master’s program you will also have to complete a capstone, final project or thesis.

Note, Gonzaga's Leadership in the AI Revolution Graduate Certificate does require a capstone project for completion.

All 12 credits from your graduate certificate can be directly applied to our Master’s in Communication and Leadership (COML) or Master's in Organizational Leadership (ORGL) programs.

We encourage you to explore the COML and ORGL programs because when you complete your graduate certificate, you are nearly halfway finished with a master’s program.

Our graduate certificates are designed to be as flexible as possible for your schedule. Please see the schedule below and refer to our how to apply page for detailed dates.

5 Start Dates a Year

• January, March, May, August, October

• Leadership in the AI Revolution
• Social Media
• Strategic Communication & Public Relations

3 Start Dates a Year

• August, January, May

• College Teaching of Communication

While our graduate certificates are not yet eligible for federal financial aid at this time, you do have several options including:

• Payment plans
• Tuition reimbursement from your company
• Private Loans

Please check our Tuition and Financing page for more information.