In addition to these programs, the Graduate School offers a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study, which applies to all departments and is designed for practitioners who wish to undertake systematic study beyond the master's degree. This focused study allows educators and human service professionals to concentrate on areas that provide new skills and enhance professional career opportunities. Each student takes three courses to meet core requirements and completes designated department and program coursework. In most programs, students have a choice of electives. Refer to the Graduate Courses of Instruction section of this catalog for descriptions of all courses.
Many programs also require some field experience through a practicum.
Upon entry into a program, each student, in consultation with an academic advisor, develops an individualized plan which outlines the student's professional goals, sequence of required courses, electives and, if applicable, practicum goals. Core Courses Core courses provide opportunities for students from various programs to interact and learn together. Students choose from a variety of core courses in each area according to the focus of their program of study. For example, to fulfill the human development requirement, students have the opportunity to select course work in child development, adolescent development, adult development, or development through the life cycle. A wide selection of research and multicultural courses is offered as well.