Evidence-Based Decision Making, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
In a media landscape where fake news, pseudoscience, and alternative facts can sway public opinion—and large-scale decisions—never has there been a greater need for evidence-based decision making. In pursuing a Graduate Certificate in Evidence-Based Decisions Making through Saint Louis University's School for Professional Studies, you’ll focus on identifying quality evidence and using it as the basis to form sound conclusions, critically evaluating arguments for and against a particular choice, and applying sound, systematic processes for making ethical decisions.
As part of the School for Professional Studies, this 12-credit program offers working professionals like you a flexible option to meet your personal career goals. If you have obtained an undergraduate degree or higher, you may pursue a stand-alone certificate in Evidence-Based Decision Making. All courses are offered entirely online in 8-week terms through SLU online, making advanced education more accessible for working professionals.
If you complete the certificate, you also have the option of applying to any SPS master's program and, if accepted, have all of the certificate credits count toward the master's degree.
Careers
The evidence-based decision making graduate certificate can be applied to a wide variety of careers. Competencies gained through the certificate are focused on augmenting decision-making skills that can be tailored to your specific career path.
Admission Requirements
- Completed application.
- Official transcript(s) from most recent institution attended.
- Most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or better.
- At least two years of work experience is recommended (includes full-time and part-time employment, internships, co-ops and similar experiences).
- Statement of professional goals (approximately 500 words suggested) articulating: (1) what attracted you to this program, and (2) how a post-baccalaureate certificate in this field will benefit you in your present or future career.
- Resume or curriculum vitae.
Application Requirements
- Application form and fee
- Transcript(s)
- Résumé
- A 500-word personal statement articulating why a master's degree is needed within present or future career and how the program will help meet that need.
Requirements for International Students
All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students along with the following:
- Demonstrate English Language Proficiency
- Proof of financial support must include:
- A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University
- A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of study at the University
- Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
Application and Assistantship Deadlines
Students should apply for the fall semester by July 1 and for the spring semester by Nov. 1.
To be considered for an assistantship, apply by Feb. 1.
Review Process
Applications are reviewed by a committee of School for Professional Studies faculty members.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, applicants should complete their applications by Feb. 1.
For more information, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.
- Graduates will be able to apply program-specific knowledge to address practical problems using an ethical, evidence-based framework.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ORLD 5050 | Ethical, Evidence-Based Decision Making | 3 |
| ORLD 5700 | Advanced Evidence-Based Decision Making | 3 |
| AA 5221 | Applied Analytics & Methods I | 3 |
| AA 5222 | Applied Analytics & Methods II: Survey Approaches | 3 |
| or AA 5223 | Applied Analytics & Methods II: Experimental Approaches | |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
Continuation Standards
Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.00 in all graduate/professional courses.
Roadmaps are recommended semester-by-semester plans of study for programs and assume full-time enrollment unless otherwise noted.
Courses and milestones designated as critical (marked with !) must be completed in the semester listed to ensure a timely graduation. Transfer credit may change the roadmap.
This roadmap should not be used in the place of regular academic advising appointments. All students are encouraged to meet with their advisor/mentor each semester. Requirements, course availability and sequencing are subject to change.
| Year One | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | |
| Fall 2 | ||
| ORLD 5050 | Ethical, Evidence-Based Decision Making | 3 |
| Credits | 3 | |
| Spring | ||
| Spring 1 | ||
| AA 5221 | Applied Analytics & Methods I | 3 |
| Spring 2 | ||
| AA 5222 or AA 5223 |
Applied Analytics & Methods II: Survey Approaches or Applied Analytics & Methods II: Experimental Approaches |
3 |
| Credits | 6 | |
| Summer | ||
| ORLD 5700 | Advanced Evidence-Based Decision Making | 3 |
| Credits | 3 | |
| Total Credits | 12 | |
For additional admission questions please call (314) 526-2825 or email sps@slu.edu.