An Interdisciplinary Graduate Certificate in the Formal and Natural Sciences – A Proposal

Abstract

We propose a post-baccalaureate certificate framework in STEM, with an emphasis on soft skills, data science, and integration of disciplinary and other perspectives, with support for internships during or following the program. This program can serve multiple purposes. For STEM graduates, it provides additional breadth and depth, while strengthening communication, teamwork, leadership, and other soft skills. For students from other academic programs or returning students, it provides a bridge into STEM graduate study and careers. And for students from underserved and underrepresented communities, or from less intense programs, who may be concerned about their ability to deal with both technical and external challenges, it provides experience, confidence and support. The certificate can be formally integrated into or as a transition into Master's degree or higher level study STEM, or can be used as a less formal bridge into that study, or can serve as a standalone credential.

Keywords

• graduate certificate
• in the formal and natural sciences