FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: I live in a different state and even time zone from Temple University. Can I still take classes in the certificate program?

A: All of our certificate program classes are online and asynchronous, meaning that you can take these courses from anywhere that you have internet access and that you do not have to be online during a certain time period each week, although there is a weekly time commitment. This makes for maximum flexibility for adult students and working professionals.

Q: What equipment do I need in order to participate in an online program?

A: You will need regular access to a computer with high speed internet. In addition we will ask you to purchase a microphone and a video cam for your computer if you do not already own one. This is to ensure that the quality of your educational interaction matches that of an in-person course. You will find that you will get to know your instructors and your classmates through video, voice, and text interactions.

Q: I work in the field. What if I get called away to an emergency or a deployment?

A: Participants who are called away to handle an emergency will be allowed a grace period in which to complete course work.

Q: I haven't completed my bachelors degree. Will these classes count toward a degree program?

A: Temple is a fully accredited university and these credits can be transferred to any institution of higher learning.

Q: I am interested in getting a graduate degree. How will this certificate help me with that goal?

A: Under advisement from the certificate program director, students can take a class in the gradate program at Temple that counts toward certificate completion. Many graduate programs accept up to 6 credits (2 classes) of transfer credit and demonstrating good grades in graduate level work will assist you in your application process.

Q: I see that there is a pre-requisite course called Principals of Emergency Management, but it is not being offered this semester. Can I start the program anyway?

A: We will offer Principals of Emergency Management on an as-needed basis. If we get a minimum number of students who want to start the program outside of the regularly offered class schedule then we will arrange to offer the necessary pre-requisite class.

Q: Will I have access to student services as the library and the writing center to help me with my course work as a distance learning continuing education student?

A: All registered certificate students will have access to a Temple email account (TUmail) and OWLnet, Temple's interactive web-based student system. Certificate students will have access to support services and programs in the same way that matriculated Temple University students do. These services include academic and personal counseling and tutorial services in writing, in addition to many others.

Q: Are there any admissions requirements for the program?

A: If you are not currently enrolled at Temple University, you will be required to have taken a minimum of 15 undergraduate credits with a GPA of 2.75 or higher and to demonstrate that you are active professionally in the emergency management or public health field. This will be demonstrated through the application process where they you are required to submit a transcript and a resume as well as a personal statement.

Q: How much does the program cost?

A: There is an application fee of $25. Tuition for students not enrolled at Temple will follow the continuing education per credit costs, which can be found by visiting http://www.temple.edu/bursar/about/tuitionrates.htm. The 2008 per credit cost for in-state continuing education students was $397 and $668 for out of state students.

Q: Is there any financial aid available?

A: Many workplaces offer financial incentives or reimbursements to their employees for continuing education within their field, so check with your current employer about these opportunities. In addition, there are federal and private continuing education loans available (Student Financial Services at 215-204-2244) and often scholarships can be found by looking through a scholarship clearinghouse such as www.fastweb.com.

Q: Can I take just one or two classes rather then the entire certificate program?

A: You can take just one or two classes but you will need to meet any pre-requisites in the program, and should still fill out the certificate program application.

Q: My department or organization is interested in sending a group of us through the certificate program. Is there a way that we can do this program on a contract rather then an individual basis?

A: Please contact the director of the certificate program for more information.