Certificate Programs
Build In-Demand Skills
for Today's Evolving Workforce
Build In-Demand Skills
for Today's Evolving Workforce
Apply by July 1
George Washington University's graduate certificate programs in Forensic Investigation, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Data Science, Regulatory Policy and Practice and Environmental Resource Policy provide a strategic pathway for professionals seeking to sharpen their expertise and expand their career opportunities in today’s competitive landscape.
Each program delivers targeted, industry-relevant skills—from mastering forensic techniques and geospatial analysis to leveraging data for decision-making and navigating complex regulatory and environmental policy frameworks. By blending practical, hands-on learning with interdisciplinary insight, these certificates empower professionals to stay current with evolving industry demands, increase their impact within their organizations, and position themselves for advancement across public, private and nonprofit sectors.
Fast-Track Curriculum
With part-time and full-time options, you can complete your graduate certificate in as little as six months.
Flexible Class Times
Evening classes are available to accommodate working professionals and caregivers.
Unparalleled Access
In the heart of D.C., GW connects you to global institutions, corporations and embassies.
Professional Network
Tap into a vast professional alumni network, get hands-on learning experience or complete an internship.
Graduate certificates designed to elevate your expertise.
Learn more about the program that fits your career goals:
- Forensic Investigation
Explicitly designed for working professionals in the forensic sciences community who seek to enhance their credentials and advance their career, this graduate certificate helps you develop a multidisciplinary fluency common to forensic investigations. As you build a cross-disciplinary perspective on best practices and emerging techniques in forensic photography, fingerprinting and medicolegal death investigations, you will also synthesize a broader view of cultural, legal, and technical field considerations.
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
With the demand for geospatial science skills growing across many disciplines and industries, this certificate utilizes a combination of industry standard and open-source software in hands-on classes. Gain mastery in all aspects of GIS theory and practice, from the science of cartography and geographical statistical analysis to database design and geospatial modeling.
- Data Science
With unique access to outside agencies and organizations in the D.C. area, our data science program offers a rich, hands-on experience. Through a combination of rigorous classwork and real-world professional opportunities, you'll explore the fundamentals of manipulating and presenting complex data, a highly sought qualification across private and public employers.
- Regulatory Policy and Practice
Interested in formulating or influencing regulatory policy, being a government analyst or participating in regulatory matters in the private sector? This certificate program can get you there. Examine the regulatory process, understand the roles and motivations of parties involved, and master the basics you'll need to participate in the process.
- Environmental Resource Policy
Whether entering the field or advancing your career within it, GW’s graduate certificate expands your knowledge of environmental sciences and resources, as well as the policies and laws that govern them. Learn how to design, analyze, implement, and evaluate environmental policy, all while identifying environmental scientific principles and the economic factors that drive the decisions of firms and consumers.
Apply by July 1 for fall 2026 enrollment!