Undergraduate Certificates
Graduate Certificates
Why Sofia Sanchez-Chapman Chose Boise State Online
Sofia Sanchez-Chapman, a student in Boise State’s online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design, found her calling through the university’s certificate-based approach.
“When I came across Boise State’s digital innovation and design program, and I saw specific certificates and how they gave a lot of hands-on experience with the industry, I couldn’t believe it. It was an amazing moment.”
Sanchez-Chapman is earning certificates in user experience design, research and IT support, gaining the practical knowledge she needs to thrive in the field — all while serving as a teaching assistant and helping on her family’s ranch.
Despite challenges like rural internet access and balancing multiple responsibilities, Sanchez-Chapman has thrived in the online learning environment. The structure, mentorship and community she’s found in the program are helping her prepare for a career that makes an impact.
“I always feel like the projects do really well at emulating how it’s actually going to be in the industry. I feel really prepared.”
Hear From Our Graduates
Franny Zurline
Bachelor of Business Administration in Management
“The leadership certificate I am taking has been the best for me. It’s helped in almost every aspect of my life — as a person, as an employee. I look at people and think, ‘You’re the type of leader I learn about.’
Jamison Chochrek
Certificate in Cyber Operations
“Overall, the program prepared me 100% for real-world cybersecurity challenges and I am thankful for that.”
Laura Shoemaker
Certificate in Communications
“The program was applicable and manageable. I was looking more at communications originally, which was also an online degree option. With the credits I already had, it was easier to do the applied science program and get a certificate. It was more about getting the bachelor’s degree finished.”
Boise State Accreditation
Boise State University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). This means the entire university meets or exceeds the criteria for the assessment of institutional quality and is evaluated through a peer review process. In addition, many academic programs have special accreditation or endorsement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a certificate?
A certificate is a short, focused academic program made up of college-level courses. It can stand alone or be part of a larger degree plan. A certificate appears on your official Boise State transcript.
Can I complete a certificate without enrolling in a full degree?
Yes! Boise State online certificates are designed to be flexible — you can complete one as a standalone credential or apply it toward a degree later if you choose.
What’s the difference between a certificate and a minor or emphasis?
- A certificate is transcripted and can be completed independently.
- A minor must be paired with a degree program.
- An emphasis or concentration is a focus area within a degree.
- A credential is typically issued by a third-party organization to validate professional knowledge.
How long does a certificate take to complete?
Most certificates can be completed in 6-12 months, depending on your pace and course availability.
Will a certificate help me get a job?
Yes — certificate programs are designed to give you practical, job-ready skills. Many of our students use them to advance in their current career, pivot to a new role or build a professional portfolio.
Do certificates have financial aid options?
If you are enrolled in a degree-seeking program, your certificate courses may be eligible for financial aid. Standalone certificates may not be aid-eligible. A student success coach can help you explore your options.
Can I stack certificates toward a degree?
Absolutely. Many of our bachelor’s programs — like digital innovation and design — are built around stackable certificates. This allows you to earn meaningful credentials along the way to a full degree.
Didn't find what you're looking for?
Contact our enrollment and student success team for support by emailing us at online@boisestate.edu, calling (208) 426-5921 or clicking the chat button.