Certificate/Minor Students

Certificate Admissions

Explore certificate options at the College of General Studies and find the admission path that fits your goals.

Degree-Seeking Students

Current University of Pittsburgh students who are not already enrolled in CGS can add a CGS minor, certificate, or both to their program.

How to Declare

  • Complete and submit the online CGS application form.
  • Submitting the form indicates your agreement to have the certificate or minor added to your student plan if you meet all requirements.

Already a CGS student? Contact your CGS advisor to begin the process.

Important: Some certificates have additional prerequisites. Review the program information carefully before submitting your application.

Non-Degree Students

Many CGS certificate programs are available to students and professionals seeking a credential without enrolling in a degree program.

How to Apply

  1. Review the eligibility guidelines below to determine which requirements apply to you.
  2. Submit the free non-degree student application online. You will create a user account so you can start your application and return to it later. See the full application instructions.

Eligibility Guidelines

Students with recent college experience:

  • Minimum GPA of 2.0*
  • Completed at least two college-level courses (6 credits), including one college writing course with a grade of C or better

Students without previous college experience:

  • Have been out of high school for at least two years
  • Complete a holistic admission review
  • Complete a writing placement test and one introductory general education course. Both must be completed with a grade of C or better within the first two terms or one academic year.

Additional Requirements

  • Meet with an advisor before enrolling; course selections must be approved.
  • Advisors will monitor your progress to support successful completion.
  • Changing from certificate to degree-seeking status requires applying through the Office of Admissions and meeting transfer admission requirements.

Additional certificate requirements:

  • Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Accounting: A bachelor’s degree and cumulative GPA of 2.75 or higher are required.
  • Certificate in Leadership: Available only to students currently enrolled in a degree program at Pitt; prerequisites apply.

Need Help or Have Questions?

Our team is here to help you understand your certificate options and next steps.

Email CGS