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Get Started
The Autumn 2009 program is no longer accepting applications
Next program starts: Autumn 2010
Details will be posted in Spring
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Admission Requirements
Participation in the program is restricted to students who have:
- completed at least one year of college- or university-level study
- attained computer literacy and are able to download and install software from a website
- experience in the use of basic internet applications (e.g., e-mail, web browsers and search) and computer operating systems (e.g., Windows, Mac OS, and Linux)
- a valid e-mail account for the duration of the program.
Students are not required to have specific technology skills or backgrounds, but prior students have found it extremely beneficial to have spent some time in Second Life prior to attending the first course. For more information and to sign up for a free Second Life account, please go to www.secondlife.com.
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.
Graduate Nonmatriculated (GNM) Status: Graduate Nonmatriculated (GNM) status is not required for students who wish to participate in this program. However, for individuals who anticipate that they may want to apply certificate course credits toward a graduate degree in the future, establishing GNM status is a critical consideration. For course credits to be applied toward a graduate degree, GNM status must be established prior to enrolling. To find out more about establishing GNM status visit https://www.grad.washington.edu/application/gnmstart.htm for application deadlines and instructions on how to submit a GNM application.
Technology Requirements
The regular use of virtual world software in this program requires:
- Access to a desktop or laptop computer that meets the system requirements mentioned below
- Cable or DSL Internet access
- Headset with microphone
- An integrated or dedicated sound card
- Permission to download and open Second Life on your organization's network, if applicable
See the following site for minimum and recommended system requirements, paying close attention to the video card specifications: Second Life System Requirements.
Application Process
The Autumn 2009 program is no longer accepting applications. The next program begins in Autumn 2010. Click here to be notified via e-mail when complete details for the next program are available online. The following information regarding the application process may be helpful as you plan for applying to the next program:
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(s) and are encouraged to make their first-term 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 $2,475 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. First-term tuition of $825 plus the nonrefundable registration fee, is due by September 24, 2009. 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 on a credit/no credit basis for each course. Because courses are arranged sequentially, participants need to successfully complete each course in sequence before they advance to the next course in the program.
When the required courses are completed in this credit program, participants earn the certificate, which is presented at the annual UW Extension ceremony.
