Certificate in International Higher Education
Certificate in International Higher Education
Designed to provide you with a broad understanding of global higher education, our certificate program examines the challenges and opportunities facing higher education systems in different regions of the world.
The program outlines major trends and issues affecting this fast-growing field, and provides the skills to understand and analyze policy, practice, and theory. You’ll explore cross-cutting topics, such as leadership and management, economics and finance, student affairs, and teaching and learning, all from both global and regional standpoints.
The certificate provides you with the opportunity to hone your scholarly perspective, develop new skills, deepen your knowledge of key issues and trends in the international education field, and expand your professional network.
Successful completion of this certificate can be applied to a Master of Arts (M.A) in International Higher Education.
- Develop an understanding of key trends and issues facing contemporary higher education institutions in a global context.
- Be acquainted with high-quality research and analysis on international and comparative higher education that emanates from sources representing a range of geographic regions and stakeholder perspectives.
- Be capable of demonstrating, in both written and oral form, thoughtful understanding of specific matters of policy and practice relevant to the field of international higher education.
- Develop an appreciation for the fundamental importance of adherence to standards of ethical behavior and professionalism in both academic activities and professional practice.
- Be sensitized to matters of personal identity and systemic power dynamics, as these relate to policy and practice in the field of international higher education.
Our international partnerships include a dual degree program with the University of Guadalajara (Mexico), a streamlined admissions process for students from Sophia University (Japan) and an exchange option with Yonsei University (South Korea). As a result, the students in our classes respresent a wide diversity of backgrounds and experiences.
This program can be completed entirely from a distance, on a part-time or full-time basis.
Domestic students can also choose to take some or all of their courses on campus.
Please note that international students can only take this course online. International students are those who are not U.S. Citizens, U.S. Nationals, or those with permanent residence status (indefinite leave to remain).
Boston College collaborates with key partners around the world, opening international networking opportunities to our students. You can also take advantage of the resources of the Boston College Career Center, which offers employment counseling and help with placements in the Greater Boston area.
At a Glance
How many courses?
This certificate consists of four courses and one field experience for a total of 15 credits.
How long will it take?
Students typically take 18 months to complete the program, but it can be completed in 12.
When can I start?
Students are strongly encouraged to begin the program in the fall semester, but it is possible to begin the program at any time during the year.
Can I complete the program online?
Yes, students can complete the program from a distance. Domestic students can also attend classes on campus.
Adjunct Faculty
Dr. Ariane de Gayardon
Research Associate at the Centre for Global Higher Education, University College London (UK)
Professor Ellen Hazelkorn
Emeritus Professor and Director, Higher Education Policy Research Unit (HEPRU), Dublin Institute of Technology (Ireland)
What will I study?
Curriculum
- Courses: 4 and a field experience
- Credits: 15
REQUIRED COURSES
Two core courses introduce the field, key concepts, and the intersections of theory, practice, and policy. The certificate culminates in a final applied research project, designed and conducted in collaboration with an international organization.
• Global and Comparative Systems of Higher Education
• Internationalization of Higher Education
• Applying Research in International Higher Education
ELECTIVES
Certificate students take two electives to complete their program. Electives are taught by globally recognized experts and also feature guest speakers, who provide additional insights from both a research and practicioner perspective.
Sample of Elective Courses:
- ELHE 7803: Global Perspectives on Teaching and Learning in Higher Education
- ELHE 7804: Global Perspectives on Higher Education Leadership and Management
- ELHE 7805: Global Perspectives on Student Affairs in Higher Education
- ELHE 7806: Global Perspectives on Higher Education Economics and Finance
| Course | Course Title | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| ELHE 7202 | Global and Comparative Systems of Higher Education | 3 |
| ELHE 7603 | Internationalization of Higher Education | 3 |
| ELHE XXXX | Elective Course | 3 |
| ELHE XXXX | Elective Course | 3 |
| ELHE 7903 | Applying Research in International Higher Education (field experience) | 3 |
| Total | 15 |
Application Information
PrintDeadlines
- Rolling Admission
Apply Now
A non-refundable application fee of $65 is required, however, this fee is waived for select applicants.
Resume
In addition to your academic history and relevant work experience, please include:
- Any teaching or counseling experience (including any licenses already held);
- Any social justice related experience;
- Any language skills other than English (especially Spanish language skills) and;
- Any research experience or publications
Personal Statement
To be uploaded to your online Application Form.
In 250-500 words, describe your academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and your future plans, expectations, and aspirations.
Transcripts
All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be sent to our office before the application deadline. Please note the following:
Only official sealed (unopened) transcripts are acceptable. An official postsecondary transcript must be printed on official institutional paper and include at least one of the following: an institutional watermark, the registrar’s signature, or the registrar's seal.
Copies and unofficial transcripts sent directly from applicants are not acceptable, the transcript must come directly from the institution.
If you are a current student and have not completed your undergraduate and/or graduate degree, the most updated version of your transcript is acceptable.
Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly to gsoe@bc.edu from the institution. When requesting electronic transcripts, you must manually type in gsoe@bc.edu to ensure it is received by our office.
Mailed transcript(s) should be sent to the following address:
Lynch Office of Graduate Admissions, Boston College
Campion Hall 135
140 Commonwealth Avenue
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
International Students
International applicants are encouraged to apply to the Lynch School of Education and Human Development. Learn about requirements for international students.
Academic Tools
Contact Us
gsoe@bc.edu
617-552-4214