What is a Certificate, Concentration, Credential, Emphasis or Minor?
Boise State Online offers all of these options as a way to customize and personalize your learning experience. Tailoring your courses and degree to meet your goals is a part of our mission to meet the unique needs of our students.
What is a Certificate?
A certificate is a brief education program, and many are offered through Boise State Online. You can complete a certificate independently or in conjunction with a degree program. Certificate programs include required courses, but they are not degrees. A certificate appears on your official transcript.
What is a Concentration?
A concentration is designed to complement your degree program and customize your learning experience. Choose from a growing list of certificates, minors or classes that are focused on a specific area of study. A concentration does not appear on your official transcript.
What is a Credential?
A credential is typically issued by an authoritative third party and proves your knowledge of a given subject. It demonstrates to your employers that you’re competent, adequately trained and well-prepared. Some Boise State Online courses include credentialing content so you can earn college credits and prepare for a credentialing exam all at once.
What is an Emphasis?
An emphasis allows you to focus your studies on a specific subject or area of interest within your major and choose electives that align with your learning goals. An emphasis appears on your official transcript.
What is a Minor?
A minor is a group of classes dedicated to a specific subject and must be combined with a major or degree program. A minor appears on your official transcript.