University of Kentucky®
Undergraduate Certificate in
Social Change
PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 12
CREDENTIALS Certificate
COST PER CREDIT
$654.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Undergraduate Certificates
- Social Change
About this Program
The Undergraduate Certificate in Social Change provides an enriching, multidisciplinary academic experience for UK students. Students are exposed to classes that build on their knowledge and skills in areas of leadership, advocacy and community engagement – creating a skill set that will allow the student to work as a change agent. Change agents foster positive change within workplaces, organizations, and communities. Through a unique combination of interprofessional coursework, students will learn to address social issues, mobilize resources, and to become strong leaders.
Designed For
The Undergraduate Certificate in Social Change is ideal for undergraduate students who are passionate about promoting justice through community engagement, advocacy, and policy work. It’s a great fit for those pursuing careers in social work, criminal justice, public service, nonprofit leadership, or any field where creating positive social impact is a priority.
What You’ll Learn
The Undergraduate certificate in Social Change is multidisciplinary and requires course work from at least two disciplines. Students must complete a total of 12 hours at the 200-level or above taken for a letter grade with a minimum of 6 credit hours at the 300-level or above. All courses must have a C grade or above to successfully complete the certificate criteria.
Develop Leadership and Advocacy Skills
Students will cultivate leadership abilities and advocacy techniques to effectively drive social change within various settings, including workplaces, organizations, and communities. This involves learning to mobilize resources, engage stakeholders, and implement strategies that address social issues.
Enhance Community Engagement Competencies
The program aims to equip students with the skills necessary for meaningful community involvement. This includes understanding community dynamics, fostering relationships, and implementing initiatives that promote positive social outcomes.
Course Examples
- SW 325: Social Justice Foundations -or-
- SW 521: Understanding Poverty, Inequality, and Injustice: Foundations of Practice
- Approved Electives:
- ANT 251: Global Health Inequalities
- CLD 230: Intrapersonal Leadership
- COM 312: Learning Intercultural Communication through Media and Film
- COM 319: Communication, Health Disparities, and Social Change
- EPE 301: Education in American Culture
- GWS 309/CPH 309: Health, History, and Human Diversity
- PPL 201: Introduction to Public Policy
- SOC 235: Inequalities in Society
- SOC 335: Sociology of Gender
- SOC 380: Globalization: A Cross-Cultural Perspective
- SW 325: Social Justice Foundations (if not taken as a required course)
- SW 521: Understanding Poverty, Inequality, and Injustice: Foundations of Practice (if not taken as a required course)
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
Must be a current UK undergraduate student (any major) to enroll in this program.
Application Requirements
To add the undergraduate certificate, log on to your myUKGPS. Under “My Program of Study” on the right side of the page, click the link “Request a major change”. This will then allow you to add the undergraduate certificate.
Questions? Contact the program director listed on this page.
Program Contact
Why UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
Pay the same online tuition rate, no matter where you live.
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.
Access supporting services and success coaches to help you succeed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Admissions
I'm already an undergrad student at UK. How do I add this undergraduate certificate?
The process for incorporating an online undergraduate certificate can differ across various programs. It is advisable for current students to communicate their interest to their advisors and collaborate with them to ensure that all necessary steps are completed. In most cases, the certificate can be added through the myUK GPS system. However, certain programs require existing students to complete an internal application before the program can be added.
Tuition
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?
For our fully online programs, state of residence does not affect tuition rate. Tuition is the same no matter where you live.
Online Learning
Will I have to attend class at a specific time?
No, all classes are asynchronous. This means that students complete the course requirements according to the syllabus and deadlines, but they have flexibility within their own schedule to complete coursework at times that work best for their schedule. We recommend students log in everyday to ensure they are staying on top of communication and assignments.
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?
Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
