A. Purpose
Establish guidelines for the obtainment of a certificate of specialization (SP).
B. Policy
The certificate of specialization is awarded to a student completing the established requirements.
C. Procedures
Each certificate of specialization requires 9 to 29 credit hours of coursework and may not be eligible for some types of financial aid.
Each certificate of specialization is earned after completing the requirements stated in the student’s assigned academic catalog.
Through the curriculum committee, procedures have been developed to allow for curriculum revisions that may apply to the certificate of specialization.
Certificate requirements are subject to approval by the Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development.
In order for a certificate of specialization to be awarded, a minimum of four (4) hours must be completed in residence.
To be eligible for graduation, students must complete all degree requirements and be in good academic standing, which requires an institutional grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 at the time of completion. Specific programs may require a higher GPA to graduate.
D. Definitions
- In Residence
The requirement that a minimum number of credit hours must be earned through classes offered by any modality at the college.
G. Implementation
Policy approved and adopted by the Board of Trustees on 12/10/25.
Purpose, Procedures, Definitions, Authority, and Related Policies approved and adopted by the Cabinet on 11/19/2025.
Set for review in fiscal year 2028-2029.