If you are familiar with the program and application process, you can apply online or print an application form now.
Admission Requirements
Two years of college and two years of experience in systems administration. Individuals with less than two years of experience may be accepted if they have completed relevant education or training programs.
English Proficiency: Students who are non-native English speakers are expected to have adequate English language proficiency. For details, see English Language Guidelines.
International Students: This program does not qualify as full-time study, and therefore does not meet requirements for an F-1 visa. However, if you are an F-1 student currently enrolled full-time in another program, OR you are in the U.S. on some other type of visa (not F-1), you may be eligible to take a certificate program or course. For complete details, or to contact an adviser, see Visa Information.
Application Process
The 2009-2010 program begins in January 2010. Applications are now being accepted and will be reviewed in the order they are received starting June 1, 2009. Check the program status box on the right side of this page to determine when the program is no longer accepting applications. Don't hesitate to call 206-685-8936 or e-mail us if you have any questions.
To Apply: You can apply online or submit one copy of the application form with a $50 certificate program fee* and two stapled application sets, which include the following clearly labeled documents:
- A typed (250-word maximum) letter of application describing a) your relevant work and volunteer experience, and/or transferable skills and knowledge of the field, and b) how you expect the program will help you meet your professional goals
- Your résumé listing education and applicable experience
Application Review: Applications are evaluated by a review committee designated by the advisory board. Selection of program participants is based on admission requirements. Applicants receive written notification of their acceptance or non-acceptance within two weeks after their application is received.
Enrollment: Applicants accepted to the program receive enrollment information for the first-term course and are encouraged to make their fall tuition payment early. Enrollment in the program is on a first-come, first-served basis, upon receipt of the first-term tuition payment.
Waitlist: Some programs maintain a waitlist for applicants accepted after the program has reached enrollment capacity. If space becomes available, waitlisted applicants will be notified and given an opportunity to enroll. If space does not become available, waitlisted applicants will be offered a space in the next program offering.
* The certificate program fee is not refundable and does not guarantee admission to, or enrollment in, the program.
Fees and Tuition
Tuition is payable on a term-by-term basis. Tuition for the entire program is $2,130, excluding certificate program and registration fees and textbooks.
There is a $50 nonrefundable certificate program fee to apply to this program and a $35 nonrefundable registration fee each term.
The University's tuition exemption policy does not apply to this program. Fees and tuition are subject to change.
Information on registration and refund policies and procedures is included with registration materials.
Earning the Certificate
Participants are evaluated in each course on the basis of standards established by the instructors and advisory board. At the end of each course, participants are notified of successful or unsuccessful completion.
When the required courses are completed in this noncredit program, participants earn a certificate, which is presented at the annual UW Extension awards ceremony.
Single-Course Enrollment
Interested in taking just one class? Some courses in this program (those courses designated by a 
) are open for single-course enrollment to those who do not wish to earn the certificate. Because some courses require prior knowledge and experience in the field, those interested in taking these individual courses need to submit the following materials either online or by mail:
- A completed application for single-course enrollment
- A résumé listing your work-related experience
- A typed (250-word maximum) letter of application describing your experience/knowledge and how it was acquired
To apply for single-course enrollment: You can apply online by clicking a course title below, or you can print and submit a completed application for single-course enrollment and the other materials listed above by mail.
Applicants receive written notification of their acceptance or non-acceptance within two weeks after their application is received. Please note that courses taken as a non-certificate student are not automatically applied toward a certificate of completion in the program. Single-course enrollments are on a space-available basis. No certificate program fee is necessary; tuition is not accepted until you are notified of eligibility.
Onsite Instruction
Certificate programs or individual courses can be customized and delivered onsite in convenient formats. Please call David Szatmary, vice provost, UW Educational Outreach, 206-685-6308, or e-mail dszatmary@extn.washington.edu for more information.
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