World History

Wayne State's world history certificate prepares current and future teachers to teach world history in middle school, high school, college or university. Demand for world history teachers has increased over the past several years and our program provides you with the knowledge and credentials needed to teach in the field.

As a coursework-only degree (students do not write a thesis or complete a capstone project), this certificate program is also an ideal option for lifelong learners who want to know more about the history of world events, but who are not ready to commit to a longer and more intensive master's program.

Students already admitted to the master's in history, master's in public history, any joint master's degree programs in history or the doctorate in history may earn the world history certificate concurrent with their primary degree by completing a change of status form and filing a certificate program plan of work.

About the program

World history certificate students complete four classes for a total of 12 credits, which include a graduate seminar and three electives. You can earn the certificate in as few as two semesters or take up to three years to complete coursework. If, after completing your certificate, you decide you'd like to continue on for an advanced degree in history or public history, all of your coursework will count toward a master's or a doctorate in our department.

Each applicant is evaluated as an individual. Your admission to WSU is based on a review of many factors, which may include:

• High school or secondary school academic performance

• Submit an SAT/ACT score, or submit test-optional documents (two letters of recommendation, two essays, and an activities list).

• Rigor of high school curriculum

• Meeting Wayne State's English proficiency requirements

• Any other supporting documentation requested

• Submit all application documents by December 1 to be considered for merit-based scholarships. 

Additional requirements

• English translations of documents must bear the seal/stamp of the issuing institution.

• Your statement of financial support cannot be older than six months.

• Bank supporting documentation must show the dollar amount equivalent to the financial requirements (pdf) for undergraduate international students.

• English proficiency tests cannot be more than two years old.

• Checks drawn on foreign banks should carry the notation "Payable in U.S. funds, plus service charges."