How to apply: capstone certificate
If you are ready to develop marketable skills or shift to a different career, a certificate gives you access to UW–Madison’s world-class faculty, flexible schedules and strong alumni network.
You will be awarded a capstone certificate upon successful completion of a defined program of coursework in a specific area of expertise. The coursework is typically at the graduate level and is recorded on your official UW–Madison transcript.
Check with your specific department to see if your certificate coursework could apply toward a graduate degree, should you pursue one in the future.
In order to earn a capstone certificate at UW–Madison, you must first apply to be a University Special Student.
- Explore your program of interest and make sure you meet the certificate requirements. Most capstone certificates require a bachelor’s degree; some require a master’s degree or prior subject-area experience.
- Apply: Complete the free online application to become a UW–Madison Special Student. The application asks for details about your educational and professional background and a statement regarding your interest in the program. It takes about 30 minutes to complete.
- Indicate the certificate program to which you are applying.
- Near the end of the application, you will be forwarded to an external site to verify your residency for tuition purposes and then brought back to your application to submit it.
- Stay informed: Within an hour after submission you will receive an email from the office of Adult Career and Special Student Services containing your campus ID number and information from your capstone program, should any additional application materials be required. Each program sets its own application process and timeline, but Adult Career and Special Student Services can answer questions about your status or refer you to a contact person in your program of interest.
That’s it! You’re on your way to being considered for a capstone certificate program and starting your new life as a Badger.
