Product design programs sometimes allow for optional areas of expertise that students can use to narrow their focus. Many institutions offer urban design and home design specializations. Additionally, programs can help students form industry connections and internships that can lead to job positions after completion.

What is a graduate certificate? A graduate certificate is a post-baccalaureate qualification awarded by colleges, universities, and technical schools around the world. Depending on where the certificate is awarded, a graduate certificate confers either bachelor- or master-level qualifications. For example, in the UK and other Commonwealth countries, a graduate certificate is awarded to undergraduate students; in the US, graduate certificates are a post-graduate qualification and may be issued as part of a master’s or PhD program. Students usually pursue a graduate certificate after completing at least one undergraduate degree. A certificate earned at a bachelor level may have a more limited scope than one earned at a master level because of the student’s different experience with her or his field of study. Scholars may pursue this education to gain a deeper understanding of their chosen field or to prepare themselves for a promotion. The cost of a graduate certificate will depend on the country and institution where you study, though in some countries the cost of a graduate certificate is significantly less than tuition in a traditional master’s degree program. A graduate certificate program may also take less time to complete than a full bachelor’s or master’s degree program.