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The Richard W. Riley College of Education and Human Sciences: Certificates:
Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Leadership for Student Success (Quarter)

For students beginning their program August 26, 2024 or later

The Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Leadership for Student Success is intended to prepare educators to develop and lead higher education programs and services that can improve outcomes for an increasingly diverse student population. Learners examine the history and structure of the U.S. higher education system, as well as factors affecting student success, engagement, and retention. Coursework explores fundamental principles of adult learning, best practices for student success, methodologies for meeting the needs of underprepared and first-generation higher education students, and strategies for leading the institutional changes necessary to improve student outcomes. This program is designed to prepare leaders who can help higher education institutions meet their students’ needs more effectively and cost-efficiently. Learners can apply the credits they earn in this certificate program toward Walden’s MS in Higher Education with a specialization in Leadership for Student Success.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate in Higher Education Leadership for Student Success, students will be able to:

  1. Make effective decisions based on critical evaluation of research and data.
  2. Articulate the perspectives and interests of multiple stakeholders.
  3. Choose leadership approaches appropriate to the culture of the organization.
  4. Evaluate the potential impact of policies and processes on student outcomes.

Certificate Requirements

  • 20 total quarter credits

Curriculum

  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.
  • Students may take this a non-degree course.

Course Sequence

The recommended course sequence is as follows:

Quarter Course Credits
Quarter 1 MSHE 6156 - Understanding Students: Learning, Development, and Diversity 5 quarter credits
MSHE 6263 - Best Practices for Student Success 5 quarter credits
Quarter 2 MSHE 6751 - Creating Supportive Learning and Service Environments 5 quarter credits
MSHE 6752 - Leading Change in Student Support Programs 5 quarter credits