Evidence-Based Decision Making, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

If you have already obtained a master's degree or higher, or if you meet the program prerequisites, SLU offers a stand-alone certificate in evidence-based decision making that can be completed entirely online. 

In an era in which fake news, pseudoscience and alternative facts govern headlines (and large-scale decisions), SLU's graduate certificate in evidence-based decision making will benefit you by focusing on identifying quality evidence that can be infused into decision making, critically evaluating arguments for and against a particular decision, and applying sound, systematic processes for making ethical decisions.

Curriculum Overview

Designed for working professionals, this program is offered in eight-week terms with online classes. It can be completed in two semesters (four eight-week terms) if you take one course at a time.

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

• Minimum undergraduate GPA: 3.00
• Applicant must be employed on at least a part-time basis (20 hours or more per week) and have at least three years of work experience
• Completed coursework in the following areas:
  • At least one course in information systems/technology or a programming language.
  • At least one basic statistics or research methods course.
• Skills in using business productivity software and understanding of basic level software installation and troubleshooting procedures.

Applicants who have a GPA that is less than 3.0 will be considered on a case-by-case basis, by considering the strength of the remaining components of their application.

Students missing any of the below prerequisites will be permitted to fulfill them through the School for Professional Studies prior to acceptance into the leadership and organizational development program.

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 more information, visit the student financial services office online at http://finaid.slu.edu.

Gainful Employment Disclosure

The U.S. Department of Education requires (per 34 CRF Part 668) that all institutions participating in the federal Title IV student financial assistance programs (Pell Grants, federal student loans, etc.) publicly disclose certain data regarding all academic programs designated as "Gainful Employment" programs per DOE definitions.  

Gainful Employment Disclosure

1. Graduates will be able to assess evidence to draw reasoned, ethical conclusions.

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.