Completing certificates prior to graduating 

Certificates are not required for graduation from L&S.  With a few exceptions, students are expected to complete all requirements for a certificate program prior to graduating.

L&S will award all declared and completed certificates upon graduation with the L&S degree. Certificates that are not complete at the time of graduation will not be awarded. Students who have satisfied all major and degree requirements will not be delayed from graduating if they have unmet requirements in a declared certificate program.

Although most certificates must be completed at the same time students have completed all  of their major and degree requirements, there are a very limited number of certificates that are available to students after they graduate. Students who have completed a substantial portion (as least 12 credits) of a certificate at UW–Madison, and who may need one or two additional courses to complete the certificate, may do so immediately after completing a bachelor’s degree. This provision is not universal; it applies to a limited number of certificates only. Students seeking to complete certificates eligible under this provision should enroll in the remaining coursework as a University Special (non-degree) student. A certificate must be completed within a year of completion of the bachelor's degree. More information about L&S certificates can be found at certificate programs under Courses and Enrollment.

For general information about certificates and which ones can be earned/completed as a University Special, see undergraduate/special student certificates.