International Studies Graduate Certificate

International Studies Graduate Certificate | Graduate

Howard’s Graduate Certificate in International Studies provides interdisciplinary training in the critical analysis of wide-ranging contemporary issues of global concern. Students gain exposure to renowned speakers in foreign affairs and pursue in-depth examinations of international affairs issues outside of their chosen fields.

Howard’s Graduate Certificate in International Studies provides students with an in-depth examination of a range of issues of global concern such as issues of soft power and public diplomacy, international human rights and labor law, relations between nation-states and supranational institutions, defense policy, international business operations and political economy, conflict resolution and peacekeeping, and global health and the environment, among other issues. Our 15-credit graduate certificate prepares students to contribute to various fields— in international business consulting, human rights advocacy, international law and development and enhances students’ cross-cultural competency. Students must complete a capstone experience involving internship hours with a public sector, private, or non-profit organization. Graduate courses are taught by faculty across disciplines ranging from communications, culture, and media studies, and African studies to political science. Students can complete the certificate in just one year of full-time study or pace their studies to fit their schedule. Students can combine the certificate with a master's or doctoral degree.  

Program Snapshot

      ❱  15 credit hours 
      ❱  2-4 semesters to completion
      ❱  Part-time, Full-time
      ❱  Hybrid format
      ❱  Program Type: Graduate Certificate 
      ❱  Certificate can be combined with any graduate degree

Application Deadlines

Spring 2026 entry: 
     ❱  Nov. 15* (final deadline)

Fall 2026 entry: 
     ❱  Dec. 1* (early deadline)
     ❱  Feb. 15 (priority deadline)
     ❱  Apr. 15 (final deadline)

*Dec. 1 refers to the 2025 early deadline for Fall 2026 entry/admission. For example, prospective students applying by the early deadline for Fall 2026 entry must apply by December 1, 2025.  Nov. 15 refers to the 2025 deadline for Spring 2026 entry, which is November 15, 2025.

Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle. 

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: Certificate

Application for Admission 

• Online GradCAS application
• Statement of purpose (550 words maximum) (Guidance here)
• GRE scores not required
• Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
• 2 letters of recommendation
• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Autobiographical statement (500-750 words) (Guidance here)

GRE Required?

• No

GRE Preferred Minimums

• GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Analytical Writing: N/A

GPA Required Minimums

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Reference Requirements 

Evaluator type accepted:

• Professor
• Supervisor/Manager
• Coworker

Evaluator type not accepted:

• Clergy
• Friend
• Family Member
• Other