Certificate Programs and Core Curricula

The Graduate School-New Brunswick offers programs of concentration that complement formal degree programs. While these programs do not offer degrees, they do permit students to pursue interdisciplinary specializations without impeding their progress toward their degrees. There are several options for specialization. Some are extensions of existing degree programs, such as the curatorial studies certificate offered in connection with the master of arts degree in art history. Programs leading to an interdisciplinary doctor of philosophy (Ph.D.) degree also may be arranged (see the section on interdisciplinary Ph.D. programs).

Interdisciplinary certificate programs and core curricula provide a more formal means for participating in a cross-disciplinary area and for encouraging collaborative work. Students who complete the requirements of a certificate program will receive a certificate indicating their concentration of study. All interdisciplinary certificate options require students to take courses outside their degree programs and to write a major paper or thesis on a topic appropriate to the certificate. Some programs also offer interdisciplinary seminars.

Core curricula are designed differently. In contrast to the informal structure that prevails in certificate programs, students must apply formally and receive admission into core curricula. Typically, these programs provide fellowship or traineeship support for enrolled students. Basic courses, seminars, and laboratory rotations allow students to explore problems at the boundaries of degree programs and to postpone commitment to a given degree program for a time. Students completing such curricula also must meet the requirements of the degree program in which they are matriculated.

Details concerning certificate programs and core curricula may be found in the Programs, Faculty, and Courses chapter.

Certificate Programs                                                Core Curricula

African Studies                                                            Biotechnology
                                                       
Asian Studies                                                              Molecular Biophysics

Cinema Studies                                                           Molecular Biosciences

Cognitive Science                                                       Perceptual Science

Computational and Data-
Enabled Science and Engineering

Critical Caribbean Studies

Cultural Heritage and
Preservation Studies (Art
History)

Curatorial Studies (Art History)     

Energy                                   

Geospatial Information Science

Human Dimensions of Environmental Change

Jewish Studies

Latin American Studies

Medical Device Design and Development  

Medieval Studies

Packaging Engineering

Pharmaceuticals and Clinical Trials Management

Quaternary Studies

Religious Studies

Russian, Central and East European Studies

Science and Technology Management

Women's and Gender Studies