Professional certificate programs at the University of Northern Virginia are designed to enable a diversified spectrum of people to take advantage of university learning opportunities. Emphasis is placed on programs which make university accessible to those with special needs. UNVA also would like to offer certification programs for professionals who want to expand or update their skills and knowledge. Students may attend as either degree-seeking or non-degree-seeking students. Each certificate program consists of three to five courses of three credit-hours each. Course work completed for the certificate may be transferred to the undergraduate and graduate degrees. Please consult with the appropriate department for more information. All UNVA certificates received special authorization from the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV).