Understanding Our Programs
Explore the subjects that interest you and learn how our program types compare. Whether you're building new skills, advancing your career or exploring a new field, this guide will help you understand the format, time commitment and credential associated with each program.
Certificate Programs
Certificate Programs provide comprehensive study in a professional discipline through a series of related courses.
Typical characteristics
- Three to six courses
- Approximately one year or more
- Academic certificate
- May include transferable academic credit
Professional Programs
Professional Programs combine multiple related courses into a structured curriculum focused on professional development.
Typical characteristics
- Two to four courses
- Approximately nine months or less
- Flexible online or hybrid options
- Badge awarded upon completion
Short Intensive Programs
Short Intensive Programs provide focused instruction on a specific topic over a condensed timeframe.
Typical characteristics
- One enrollment, one course
- Approximately one to three weeks
- Live online or in-person instruction
- Badge awarded upon completion
Intensive Programs
Intensive Programs are immersive learning experiences designed for subjects that benefit from concentrated instruction and applied practice.
Typical characteristics
- One enrollment, one Intensive Professional Learning Framework
- Approximately 15 weeks to 6 months
- Applied projects or portfolio work
- Badge awarded upon completion
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UC Davis on Coursera
Self-paced courses and specializations on Coursera give you “just-in-time” learning to advance your career