This is the preliminary (or launch) version of the 2024-2025 VCU Bulletin. We may add courses that expose our students to cutting-edge content and transformative learning. We may also add content to the general education program that focuses on racial literacy and a racial literacy graduation requirement, and may receive notification of additional program approvals after the launch. The final edition and full PDF version will include these updates and will be available in August prior to the beginning of the fall semester.

The Certificate in Learning Sciences is an online program that provides students with an advanced understanding of the learning process and how to apply that knowledge in designing educational experiences. The program is designed to integrate applied learning science theory with cutting-edge instructional design technologies to impact student learning, engagement and motivation. Students will learn foundational learning theories, methodologies and technology central to educational psychology and instructional design, including the incorporation of innovative uses of technology. Students will learn to create educational experiences based on the latest research in learning sciences, emphasizing evidence-based, effective and equitable practices, and apply these skills to inform the design and implementation of instructional content in both online and in-person learning formats. Graduates will be able to plan, design and deliver adult learning in both formal and informal settings. Graduates will also be able to create engaging learning activities and develop course content to facilitate knowledge acquisition for learners from early childhood to adulthood.

Student learning outcome

Upon completion of the program, students will able to:

  • Demonstrate general and applied knowledge of different theoretical/conceptual approaches that are used in learning sciences

VCU Graduate Bulletin, VCU Graduate School and general academic policies and regulations for all graduate students in all graduate programs

The VCU Graduate Bulletin website documents the official admission and academic rules and regulations that govern graduate education for all graduate programs at the university. These policies are established by the graduate faculty of the university through their elected representatives to the University Graduate Council.

It is the responsibility of all graduate students, both on- and off-campus, to be familiar with the VCU Graduate Bulletin as well as the Graduate School website and academic regulations in individual school and department publications and on program websites. However, in all cases, the official policies and procedures of the University Graduate Council, as published on the VCU Graduate Bulletin and Graduate School websites, take precedence over individual program policies and guidelines.

Visit the academic regulations section for additional information on academic regulations for graduate students.

Graduation requirements

As graduate students approach the end of their academic programs and the final semester of matriculation, they must make formal application to graduate. No degrees will be conferred until the application to graduate has been finalized.

Graduate students and program directors should refer to the following graduation requirements as published in the Graduate Bulletin for a complete list of instructions and a graduation checklist.

Visit the academic regulations section for additional information on graduation requirements.