The certificate provides an interdisciplinary introduction to man-made and natural biological threats, including a background in the science and technology of biodefense and the specialized areas of threat assessment, non-proliferation, and medical and public health preparedness. Students already pursuing a master's degree in the school may, after admission to a certificate program, in most cases, earn an additional six credits (two courses) in the Schar School to receive a certificate in addition to the master's degree.
The graduate certificate may be pursued on a part-time or full-time basis.
Admissions
Applicants to all graduate programs must meet the admission standards and application requirements for graduate study as specified in Graduate Admission Policies. Participants must be admitted to a certificate program. Admissions requirements may be found on the Schar School certificate admissions website.
Policies
For policies governing all graduate certificates, see AP.6.8 Requirements for Graduate Certificates.
Termination from Program
Students admitted to a Schar program will be terminated from the program upon receiving one grade of F and are no longer eligible to take courses in the school. Per university regulation, students are terminated from the university after accumulating grades of F in two courses or 9 credits of unsatisfactory grades in graduate courses. See AP.6.6.2 Academic Termination.
Certificate Requirements
Total credits: 15
This certificate may be pursued on a full-or part-time basis.
Required Courses
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| BIOD 604 | Emerging Infectious Diseases I: Bacteria and Toxins | 3 |
| BIOD 609 | Biodefense Strategy | 3 |
| Total Credits | 6 | |
Electives
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select three electives from the following: | 9 | |
| Emerging Infectious Diseases II: Viral Agents | ||
| Advanced Topics in Global Health Security | ||
| Global Health Security Policy | ||
| Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical Weapons Policy and Security | ||
| Nonproliferation and Arms Control | ||
| Terrorism and Weapons of Mass Destruction | ||
| Biosurveillance | ||
| Medical Countermeasures for Responding to CBRN Threats and Pandemics | ||
Other course with prior written approval of program director | ||
| Total Credits | 9 | |