Value of Certificate/ Diploma programme on a CV for Adcoms

[bahamajoe]

Guys,

 

Need some candid advice on the value of certificate/diploma programmes as a CV booster based on anyones personal experience or knowledge of the decision making process of Adcoms.

 

I already have an bachelors dbl hnrs in crim and econ along with an mpa. Applied for a phd in public policy but was not able to get into any of the schools that i preferred. As opposed to settling for a school i wasnt enthusiastic about, I am deciding to take a break from re-applying for  2-3 years. I am anticipating a transfer at work that will move me into more relevant and unconventional work experience in the short term which will enhance my CV. 

 

I am also thinking of doing a relevant certificate/diploma programme  - either in an area relevant to my research or an area that is relevant to the kinds of courses i'd be taking in a phd public policy programme - alongside my new work  opportunity.

 

Any idea whether certificates/diplomas are looked upon favourably as adding weight to a CV or are not given any serious consideration due to the fact that they are akin to the equivalent of a minor concentration in something? 

 

I was thinking of looking into a part time phd but am not sure a part time phd is a work load i want to take on with my new job and not sure of how part time phd's look when it comes time to seek out jobs in academia. Hence, considering the certificate/diploma option, which would be around 4-6 courses, as something potentially doable that might keep me academically engaged and possibly enhance the CV.

 

Thanks for any help provided. 

[MsDarjeeling]

I'm not in the same field as you, but I had the same thought in my own field (psychology).  When I was researching how to improve my PhD applications a certificate was suggested as long as it 1) was graduate level, 2) was related to my research or clinical interests, and 3) I earned good grades.  Certificates are at times viewed as minor/specializations and if chosen wisely that is just one more thing that makes you stand out from everyone else.  If you aren't interested in going the Master's route a graduate level certificate can demonstrate your ability to handle more challenging work and it is much cheaper.  Also because certificates often target people who are already professionals in a given field you may be able to find some that have courses in the evening or on the weekend.