- How many courses per semester may I take?
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We do not have any limits on the number of courses that a student may take each semester. However, we recommend students with a full-time work schedule take no more than two courses per semester.
- Is there any particular course sequence I should follow?
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We recommend that students start by taking IT 3220 Strategic Business Value of IT as this course serves as an introduction to the program. After completing the other four required courses, students can then take the capstone course, IT 4400 Web Application Development - Building Dynamic Web Sites. Students may take their chosen elective course at any time.
- Are all of the courses in the certificate in information technology offered online?
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Yes.
- Can I enroll in just a few courses? I'm not interested in applying for and earning the certificate.
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Yes.
- Can I take courses before applying to the program?
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Individuals must apply to and be offered admission to earn a certificate. A maximum of two courses that will count towards satisfying the requirements for the certificate may be taken at SCPS prior to admission.
- Can I transfer credit into this program from another institution?
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Individuals can transfer one course for academic credit from a regionally accredited college or university. The transfer course will count towards one elective course in the certificate program, and must have been taken within the last three years. Transfer courses are not accepted for required courses in the certificate. Official transcripts and course syllabus are required for an analysis of the content, level, and comparability of the transfer course, as well as the quality of the student’s performance with a grade of B- or better. Official transcripts with a request for transfer of credits can be sent to SCPSregistration@virginia.edu or School of Continuing and Professional Studies, 104 Midmont Lane, PO Box 400764, Charlottesville, VA 22904-4764 Attn: Admission Services
- What grades must I earn to be awarded the certificate?
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Students must earn a C or better in all courses required for the certificate to be awarded. Should a grade fall below a C, the student has the option of retaking the course in order to complete the requirements and be awarded the certificate.
- Does this program lead to a degree program?
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The Certificate in Information Technology is designed to be a stand-alone certificate program. Students interested in pursuring a degree program are encouraged to contact their chosen higher education institution for transfer credit acceptance.
- What are the job prospects in the field of information technology?
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Projected job growth in computer-related technical fields through 2032 is quite strong, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Preparing yourself to take advantage of this trend is a wise choice. Below are just a few of the occupations available with their projected job growth by 2032:
- Information Security Analyst: 2022 median pay is $112,000 with jobs expected to grow 32%.
- Computer Systems Analyst: 2022 median pay is $102,240 with jobs expected to grow 10%.
- Computer Support Specialists: 2022 median pay is $59,660 with jobs expected to grow 5%.
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators: 2022 median pay is $92,520 with jobs expected to grow 2%.
- What is the difference between earning a certificate and gaining certification?
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Earning a certificate is a way for you to earn credits in a structured, discipline-specific way. A certificate can prepare you to advance in your career, or to gain the extra knowledge needed to stay competitive and up-to-date in your field. There are many fields, however, that have professional certifications that may be recommended or required (ex. certified financial planning, project management, accounting). A certificate program does not lead to a professional certification. Yes, the courses you take in a certificate program could help you prepare to earn a professional field-specific certification, but earning a certificate is not the same as becoming certified.
- What exactly does it mean to earn a certificate?
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Certificates offer discipline-specific courses that can help you acquire new skills for professional advancement or for a career transition. Our certificates are offered online, making them accessible from anywhere. Completion of the certificate demonstrates evidence of specialized education achievement. It is recognized on a University of Virginia transcript.
- Will the credits from a certificate program transfer to another college or university?
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Certificate programs are designed to be stand-alone programs. Select courses, however, may be eligible for transfer. Colleges and universities may recognize these courses for transfer, but these decisions are made independently by the receiving institution.
- What is the advantage to earning a certificate vs. a degree?
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Students like to earn certificates because they are affordable, they take less time to complete than a full-fledged degree, and they are practical. Often the knowledge gained in the classroom can be put to use the very next day. In the competitive job market, a certificate can provide the crucial margin needed for individuals to change careers, qualify for a promotion, or qualify for professional accreditation.
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*The information contained on this web site is for informational purposes only. The Undergraduate Record and Graduate Record represent the official repository for academic program requirements.