Evidence-Based Decision Making, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

In a media landscape where fake news, pseudoscience and alternative facts can sway public opinion—and important decisions—there has never been a greater need for evidence-based decision making. In pursuing a graduate certificate in evidence-based decision 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 eight-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 credit 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 the 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 what attracted you to this program, and how a master's degree in this field will benefit you in your present or future career
• Resume or curriculum vitae

Requirements for International Students

All admission policies and requirements for domestic students apply to international students along with the following:

•Demonstrate English language proficiency. Some examples of demonstrated English language proficiency include minimum score requirements for the following standardized tests: 

• Paper-based TOEFL: 550
• Internet-based TOEFL: 80
• IELTS: 6.5
• PTE: 54

•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 August 7, spring semester by January 1 and the summer semester by May 14.

Review Process

Applications are reviewed by program directors.

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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.  

1. Graduates will be able to apply program-specific knowledge to address practical problems using an ethical, evidence-based framework.

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.

Apply for Admission

For additional admission questions, please call 314-526-2825 or email sps@slu.edu.