Graduate Certificates
Graduate certificates at the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith offer focused, graduate-level study that recognizes academic progress and professional growth within select master’s degree programs. These credentials are designed to build advanced knowledge and skills while students continue working toward a full graduate degree.
Graduate certificates at UAFS are available to students who have been admitted to a participating graduate program. This structure allows students to earn a recognized graduate credential as part of their degree plan, adding value along the way rather than waiting until degree completion.
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Graduate Certificate Overview
At-A Glance
- Graduate -level coursework
- Embedded within select master's degree programs
- Earned as part of an approved degree plan
- Recognizes progress before degree completion
- Designed for career-focused graduate students
Graduate Certificates Currently Offered
Healthcare Administration
A 12-credit, fully online graduate certificate earned as part of the Master of Healthcare Administration (MHCA) program. Students who are admitted to the MHCA program earn this certificate automatically as they complete required coursework within the degree plan.
Explore Other Credential Options
UAFS offers a range of certificate and degree pathways to support different academic and professional goals. Alongside graduate certificates, students can explore Certificates of Proficiency and Technical Certificates, as well as associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees. Use the program explorer to find the option that best fits your interests and goals.
How Graduate Certificates Work at UAFS
Graduate certificates at UAFS are designed as milestone credentials embedded within specific master’s degree programs. Students who are admitted to a participating graduate program earn the certificate by completing designated graduate-level courses as part of their approved degree plan.
There is no separate application for the certificate. Once required coursework is completed, the graduate certificate is awarded automatically, and all credits continue to apply toward the related master’s degree.
This approach allows students to receive formal recognition of academic progress, apply new skills in professional settings sooner, and continue building toward long-term academic and career goals.
Graduate Certificate FAQs
A graduate certificate is a focused credential made up of graduate-level coursework. At UAFS, graduate certificates are earned within select master’s degree programs.
Graduate certificates are available to students who have been admitted to a participating graduate degree program.
A graduate certificate requires fewer credit hours and recognizes progress toward a degree. It does not replace a master’s degree but may be earned as part of one.
To earn a graduate certificate, students must apply and be admitted to the associated graduate degree program. Individual program pages provide admission requirements and next steps.