Admission requirements
Learn more about admission requirements in the academic calendar.
Transdisciplinary Studies
Certificate II
Graduate Certificate
Course-based program
Program overview
Unique to the University of Calgary, the Graduate Certificate in Transdisciplinary Studies II enables graduate students with a range of backgrounds to develop meaningful skills and knowledge that can be extended into multiple domains.
The specializations for the Graduate Certificate in Transdisciplinary Studies II will provide students with transdisciplinary knowledge and skills that are unlike those required in purely disciplinary work. The Graduate Certificate can be pursued as stand-alone credentials to provide students with skills and knowledge to approach problems in new ways. The focus on transdisciplinarity represents a more holistic approach to knowledge with an eye toward addressing some of society’s most pressing problems (e.g., hunger, water crises, climate change).
Specializations
- Social Research Methods
- Social Innovation
Consult the Transdisciplinary Graduate Programs website to confirm current specialization offerings.
Completing this program
Four 3-unit courses specific to the specialization.
Laddered Pathway
Graduate Certificates in Transdisciplinary Studies I and II serve as stand-alone credentials or may be taken sequentially or concurrently as part of a laddered pathway towards a Master of Transdisciplinary Studies*.
*It is anticipated that the Master of Transdisciplinary Studies will be accepting applications to start their first cohort of students in Fall 2026. This information has been published in advance to inform prospective students; please be advised that program details will be available in the 2026-2027 calendar, and students entering the program will be required to adhere to the graduation requirements stipulated in the year of admission.
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge and an understanding of the scope of transdisciplinary scholarship (Depth and Breadth of Knowledge).
- Demonstrate a systematic understanding of and critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights in a transdisciplinary research area (Depth and Breadth of Knowledge).
- Interpret research findings from a range of research traditions (Conceptual Awareness and Knowledge of Research).
- Analyze real-world problems from multiple perspectives (Application of Knowledge).
- Apply transdisciplinary research methods meaningfully in response to real-world problems (Application of Knowledge).
- Speak about transdisciplinary research methodologies and findings in ways that are appropriate for academic and non-academic audiences (Communications Skills).
Virtual Tour
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GPA
A minimum of 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 point system, over the last two years of full-time study (a minimum of 10 full-course equivalents or 60 units) of the undergraduate degree.
Minimum education
A four year baccalaureate degree, or equivalent from a recognized institution
Social Research Methods Specialization
Competence in social research methods and social statistics, normally demonstrated by completion of at least one 3-unit undergraduate course in each of social statistics and social research methods.
Social Innovation Specialization
We have grounded our approach to admissions to the program in the recognition that careers have various, diverse paths. In particular, we expect the program to appeal to mature learners with a Bachelor’s degree who already have professional experience and are interested in continuing to build their skills.
Work samples
N/A
Documents
- Transcripts
Social Research Methods Specialization
- A resume that details work or volunteer experience pertinent to careers that would involve social research.
- A 200-word written statement explaining why the applicant would like to complete the certificate.
Social Innovation Specialization
- A 200-word statement about the applicant’s views on complex social challenges and how to approach finding solutions.
Reference letters
Two
Test scores
N/A
English language proficiency (ELP)
An applicant whose primary language is not English may fulfill the English language proficiency requirement in one of the following ways:
- Test of English as a Foreign Language minimum score of 105 (Internet-based).
- International English Language Testing System (IELTS) score of 7.5 (with no section less than 7.0).
- Cambridge C1 Advanced or Cambridge C2 Proficiency minimum score of 200.
- Pearson Test of English (PTE) score of 75 or higher
- Canadian Academic English Language test (CAEL) overall score of 70 (no section less than 70).
- Academic Communication Certificate (ACC) a Cambridge C1/C2 Proficiency test score of 200.
- Duolingo English Test score of 145 (with no sub-score below 125).
This requirement can also be met by completing the Academic Communication Certificate with a minimum grade of "A-" in each course.
*Please contact your program of interest if you have any questions about ELP requirements.
For admission September 1
Canadian and Permanent Residents: June 1
International: March 15
If you're not a Canadian or permanent resident, or if you have international credentials, make sure to learn about international requirements