Liberal and Creative Arts Certificate

You can enroll in this certificate as a gap year, study abroad program, standalone option or to complement your SFSU major. You will earn credits you can transfer to your home university or apply to future study, along with a certificate. If you are an international student, you may be eligible to stay in the United States for up to one year to complete internships or work after the program.

Build skills for lifelong learning
Strengthen your ability to think critically and evaluate information. Improve your reading, writing and communication skills.

Explore new disciplines
Choose from elective courses in media arts, humanities, social sciences and creative and performing arts.

Immerse yourself in art and culture
Study in San Francisco, a global center for visual and performing arts.

Live and learn in San Francisco
Enroll at no cost in A U 110 Living in San Francisco to explore the city and its culture.

Complete your certificate in two semesters
Take eight courses and finish in one academic year. A semester option is also available.

Optional Practical Training
If you are an international student, you may qualify for Optional Practical Training. This allows you to work in the United States for up to one year after completing nine months of full-time study.

Short-term study abroad
You may have the option to join a short-term study abroad program with an international partner in winter or summer. Partial scholarships may be available.

Tuition
Cost: $14,040 to $17,550, depending on the number of units taken

Length
Two Semesters

When to Apply
Spring: Aug. 1 to Nov. 15 
Fall: Dec. 1 to May 15

Optional Practical Training is a temporary work authorization for eligible F-1 international students. With approved OPT, you can work off campus for a set period in a role related to your major.

Pathway to Optional Practical Training

Term 1
Certificate program with full-time study

Term 2
Certificate program with full-time study

Term 3
Certificate program with part-time study and Curricular Practical Training

After completion
Optional Practical Training for up to 12 months

The College of Professional & Global Education offers this certificate in partnership with the College of Liberal & Creative Arts.

In the College of Liberal & Creative Arts, you explore the creative arts, humanities and social sciences, along with connections across disciplines. You learn from faculty who are scholars, artists and practitioners engaged with the community.

You build skills to think critically, communicate clearly and analyze information. You gain confidence speaking in public and writing for different audiences. Your learning connects to real-world issues and prepares you to contribute to your community and a more just future.

College of Liberal & Creative Arts Website