Certificate Programs at the University of California San Diego

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD EXTENSION IN THE CITY OF SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA

Get a diploma program at the University of California San Diego in 2025 or 2026. Contact a representative to get a quote, to receive more information, and a pdf brochure

International students from the business program at UCSD Extension

COMPLETE A CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD

Enroll on a professional certificate program at the Extension of the University of California San Diego, from the prestigious California University system.

Students from business certificate programs at the University of California San Diego

SOME OF GREATEST CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD EXTENSION

UC San Diego offers a great variety of certificate programs for business, project management, and Teaching English as Foreign Language (TEFL).

international students from business diploma program at UCSD Extension

ENHANCE YOUR CAREER IN AN INCREDIBLE CITY SUCH AS SAN DIEGO

San Diego, located in California, is an incredible location for foreign students, who can enjoy fantastic weather, great tourist attractions and fun activities, all while networking with other professionals.

TOP 10 REASONS TO GET A DIPLOMA PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO EXTENSION

UCSD Extension is one of the most popular destinations for international students
1

A GREAT VARIETY OF CERTIFICATES AT UCSD

At UC San Diego you can enroll on a wide selection of programs, such as business, project management, analytics, or English teaching.

2

OPTIONAL TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

After studying for a complete academic year at UC San Diego, you can apply for OPT, that lets you work full-time in the US.

3

STUDY AT A PRESTIGIOUS INSTITUTION

The University of California San Diego from the prestigious system of California universities is among some of the best institutions in the world.

4

LEARN IN A DIVERSE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT

At UCSD you can meet people from all over the world, which is great for making friends and networking with other professionals.

5

ENHANCE YOUR CAREER WITH FANTASTIC PROGRAMS

Studying at UC San Diego a certificate program can greatly enhance your career and help you obtain even more job opportunities abroad or in your country.

6

CLASSES TAUGHT ON CAMPUS AT UC SAN DIEGO

All classes are held on the campus of UCSD, which lets you experience how it feels learning in an American college environment.

7

LEARN WITH AN EXPERIENCED FACULTY AT UCSD

The faculty at UC San Diego are qualified professionals from their respective areas and will teach you everything you need to succeed in the real world.

8

HAVE A BLAST WHILE ADVANCING YOUR CAREER

In the University of California San Diego, you can participate in all kinds of fun cultural, sport, and social activities and events.

9

ACCESS TO UCSD’S EXCELLENT FACILITIES

Students of the University of California San Diego have access to campus facilities and can pay a fee to use the sports facilities, like pools, courts, gyms, etc.

10

SAN DIEGO IS A WONDERFUL CITY TO WORK AND STUDY

San Diego is in the fantastic state of California, and is an awesome place for foreign students, since it has a great environment and lots of tourist spots.

CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO

UCSD EXTENSION

UCSD Extension offers several Full-time Certificate programs for international students

Professional programs in the following fields of study
Full-Time Programs

Business Certificates

  • Business Administration
  • Business Management
  • Business Intelligence Analysis
  • Leadership & Management
  • Digital Marketing
  • Project Management
Full-Time Programs

Teaching English Certificates (TEFL)

  • TEFL Proficiency Program
  • TEFL Professional Certificate
  • Advanced Studies in TEFL

BUSINESS CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD EXTENSION

UCSD Extension Business Certificate Programs are led by practicing professionals with direct knowledge of the latest trends in American and international business. Depending on the length of the program, you might be entitled to apply to a work permit in the US (OPT).

BUSINESS ADMINISTRATIONOne, Two or Three Quarters (3, 6 or 9 months)

The Business Administration program offers a broad introduction to American business practices. Key business topics include Business Communication, Marketing, and Finance.

Program Features
  • Develop business skills, knowledge, and abilities by learning American business fundamentals.
  • Get broad exposure to multiple business disciplines including business operations, marketing, human resources, and communications.
  • Participate in the American Workplace Experience, an experiential learning course. You will have the opportunity visit local businesses and learn directly from San Diego business professionals.
  • Study alongside international and American students and build your network.
  • Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work in the U.S. for up to one year, after three consecutive quarters of study.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University studies: one year preferred, but not required
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Introduction to Business
  • Elements of Marketing
  • Business Communication Skills
  • Market Research Workshop
  • The American Workplace Experience
2nd Quarter
  • Financial Accounting for Non-Accountants (FAFNA)
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Presentation Skills for Business
  • Direct Studies in Marketing
3rd Quarter
  • Career Preparation Strategies
  • Elective courses (10 units)

*Classes are subject to change

BUSINESS MANAGEMENTTwo or Three Quarters (6 or 9 months)

The Business Management program offers the opportunity to build job skills and knowledge or to prepare for graduate studies through an extensive introduction to U.S. business practices. In the second quarter, you choose to specialize in one of the following areas: Finance, Marketing, or Leadership. To complement your classroom experience, Business Management incorporates a 120-hour internship into the program.

Program Features
  • Develop solid business management skills through courses led by practicing industry professionals.
  • Learn resume writing and interviewing skills; receive a professional resume critique.
  • Study alongside American students in select evening classes to further enhance your network.
  • Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work in the U.S. for up to one year, after three consecutive quarters of study.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University degree or four years of professional work experience
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Elements of Marketing
  • Financial Accounting for Non-Accountants (FAFNA)
  • Organizational Behavior
  • Directed Studies–Internship Preparation
2nd Quarter
  • Business Decision-Making
  • 120 hours of Internship
  • 3 courses in the area of emphasis (Finance, Marketing, or Leadership)
3rd Quarter
  • Capstone project or class in area of specialization
  • Elective courses (9 units)

*Classes are subject to change

BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE ANALYSISOne Quarter (3 months)

The expanding field of business analytics is fundamental to all facets of business across all industries, including marketing, finance, and research. Acquire a comprehensive introduction to the Business Intelligence field, and explore advanced topics such as Big Data and Predictive Analytics. Pair the 3-month Business Intelligence Analysis Certificate program with other Business certificates for a total of 9 months to take advantage of Optional Practical Training.

Program Features
  • Develop Business Analytics skills and knowledge for improved career marketability
  • Hands-on experiential project connects your classroom education with real-world businesses
  • Courses are led by practicing industry experts
  • Study alongside international and American students and build your network
  • Schedules are designed to give you the freedom to explore California and the opportunity to attend local professional networking events
  • Apply for OPT after three consecutive quarters of study (9 months). You will need to add other Business Certificate in order to study for 3 quarters.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University degree or two years of professional work experience
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Overview of Business Intelligence and Data Analysis
  • Introduction to SQL Programming
  • Advanced Excel for Analysis and Business Intelligence
  • Dashboards and Data Visualization for Data Analysis
  • Business Intelligence Project

*Classes are subject to change

LEADERSHIP AND MANAGEMENTOne Quarter (3 months)

Knowing how to build, influence, and lead teams can increase business performance to exceed goals and objectives. Develop your leadership skills and build your ability to influence others in the workplace. This program gives you the opportunity to join a learning community of professionals. Courses are led by practicing industry professionals. Pair the 3-month Leadership and Management program with other Business certificates for a total of 9 months to take advantage of Optional Practical Training.

Program Features
  • Improve your leadership capacity.
  • Discover best approaches to make teams work together and improve their dynamics.
  • Learn to communicate effectively with fellow team members, direct reports, and stakeholders, who may have different backgrounds and areas of expertise.
  • Apply for OPT after three consecutive quarters of study (9 months). You will need to add other Business Certificate in order to study for 3 quarters.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University degree or two years of professional work experience
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Managing for Maximum Performance
  • Business Communication Skills
  • Work Team Concepts
  • International Business Project

Other Related-courses (if substitution is needed)

  • Organizational Behavior
  • Leading from the Middle
  • Business Decision Making

*Classes are subject to change

DIGITAL MARKETINGOne Quarter (3 months)

This program provides a strong foundation in digital marketing skills while keeping students informed on emerging topics and trends. Acquire the core knowledge and skills needed to design innovative marketing plans, implement successful marketing tactics, and advance your career through a hands-on project with a local company. Knowledge of marketing concepts suggested. Pair the 3-month Digital Marketing Certificate program with other Business certificates for a total of 9 months to take advantage of Optional Practical Training.

Program Features
  • Learn how to create an effective digital marketing strategy.
  • Create engaging and effective content for various online marketing channels.
  • Use SEM tools to drive more traffic to your website.
  • Gain insight on how to measure and evaluate the effectiveness of digital marketing campaigns.
  • Apply for OPT after three consecutive quarters of study (9 months). You will need to add other Business Certificate in order to study for 3 quarters.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University degree or two years of professional work experience
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Digital Marketing
  • Content Marketing
  • Digital Marketing Analytics
  • Marketing Project

Other Related-courses (if substitution is needed)

  • Behavioral Economics
  • Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
  • Elements of Marketing

*Classes are subject to change

PROJECT MANAGEMENTTwo Quarters (6 months)

Learn the nuances of project management and process improvement from a global perspective. Students will acquire the skills to plan, execute and complete complex projects within various types of organizations and industries. The student will apply newly learned tools and methodologies in simulated hands-on projects. Pair the 6-month Project Management Certificate program with other Business certificates for a total of 9 months to take advantage of Optional Practical Training.

Program Features
  • Develop highly marketable competencies in project management
  • Build strong interpersonal skills critical to conducting work in a team environment; enhance abilities to manage conflicts and address challenging situations.
  • Study with American and international students, building your professional network.
  • Fulfills the necessary education hours required to apply for PMI’s Project Management Professional (PMP) exam or PMI’s Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) exam.
  • Apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT), which allows students to work in the U.S. for up to one year, after three consecutive quarters of study.
Requirements
  • English Requirement: TOEFL iBT 79, IETLS 6.5. Contact us for other options.
  • University study: successful completion of a three or four-year university degree. This requirement can only be waived for students with four or more years of full-time professional work experience.
  • Work experience: A minimum of one year of full-time, post-university, professional work experience. Internships are acceptable.
  • You should have a strong working knowledge of the following Microsoft Office products: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Letter of recommendation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • One-page Statement of Purpose
  • Academic Transcripts

Curriculum
1st Quarter
  • Project Management Essentials
  • Work Team Concepts and Skills
  • Agile Power Practices
  • Transformational Leadership
2nd Quarter
  • Project Planning and Scheduling
  • Project Cost Management
  • Leading and Managing Change
  • Interest-Based Negotiations

*Classes are subject to change

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt
  • For an additional fee of $3,000 USD, add the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certificate to your Project Management Certificate. The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt course fulfills the American Society for Quality's education requirements needed to prepare for the Six Sigma Green Belt Certification (CSSBB) exam.

TEACHING ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE (TEFL) CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD

The Teaching English as a Foreign Language programs will give you the effective classroom teaching skills and modern English language teaching techniques necessary to instruct students in non-English speaking countries and non-immigrants in U.S. classrooms.

Benefits of taking the TEFL Programs at UCSD

  • Study alongside American students
  • Develop effective ESL/EFL teaching skills and learn first-hand from experienced ESL/ EFL Instructors
  • Qualify for Optional Practical Training (OPT) after three consecutive quarters of certificate study
  • Transfer credits from UC San Diego Extension’s Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) Certificate Programs to some graduate programs.
  • Students who transfer directly from a 4-week or 8-week UC San Diego-ELI program, or from another UC San Diego TEFL program, will get a discount on their tuition.
TEFL Proficiency ProgramOne Quarter (3 months)

Develop a strong foundation for language instruction. Students will choose the courses they feel will prepare them for successful teaching practices.

TEFL Professional CertificateTwo Quarters (6 months) or Hybrid Format (Half online)

Develop effective classroom teaching skills in this 2-quarter program. Learn modern English language teaching techniques to teach in both English and non-English speaking countries. Both prospective and current English teachers will improve their knowledge of English language teaching in the TEFL Professional Certificate Program.

Advanced Studies in TEFLTwo Quarters (6 months)

This is a three-month program of select courses in TEFL and other academic areas to enhance teacher preparation. Students must choose and enroll in a total of 12 UC San Diego Extension units, with the advice and approval of the TEFL Coordinator.

Get a quote and receive a brochure with more information about the Certificate Programs at UCSD and their Requirements for international students.

PRICES & DATES

Complete the contact form to get a quote

PRICES AND DATES CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD EXTENSION 2025 - 2026

How much does it cost to get a diploma program at the University of California San Diego?

Table with costs and dates of the Certificate Programs at UCSD Extension 2025 - 2026

ProgramDatesDurationProgram Fee
Business Administration (1 quarter)Jan. 2 - Mar. 22, 2025Mar. 24 - Jun. 13, 2025Jun. 18 - Sep. 13, 2025Sep. 17 - Dec. 13, 20251 quarter (3 months)$7,490
Business Administration (2 quarters)Jan. 2 - Jun. 13, 2025Mar. 24 - Sep. 13, 2025Jun. 18 - Dec. 13, 2025Sep. 17, 2025 - Mar. 21, 20262 quarters (6 months)$14,490
Business Administration (3 quarters)Jan. 2 - Sep. 13, 2025Mar. 24 - Dec. 13, 2025Jun. 18, 2025 - Mar. 21, 2026Sep. 17, 2025 - Jun. 12, 20263 quarters (9 months)$21,490
Business Management (2 quarters)Jan. 2 - Jun. 13, 2025Mar. 24 - Sep. 13, 2025Jun. 18 - Dec. 13, 2025Sep. 17, 2025 - Mar. 21, 20262 quarters (6 months)$14,490
Business Management (3 quarters)Jan. 2 - Sep. 13, 2025Mar. 24 - Dec. 13, 2025Jun. 18, 2025 - Mar. 21, 2026Sep. 17, 2025 - Jun. 12, 20263 quarters (9 months)$21,490
Leadership and ManagementJan. 2 - Mar. 22, 2025Mar. 24 - Jun. 13, 2025Jun. 18 - Sep. 13, 2025Sep. 17 - Dec. 13, 20251 quarter (3 months)$7,490
Digital MarketingJan. 2 - Mar. 22, 2025Mar. 24 - Jun. 13, 2025Jun. 18 - Sep. 13, 2025Sep. 17 - Dec. 13, 20251 quarter (3 months)$7,490
Project ManagementMar. 24 - Sep. 13, 2025Sep. 17, 2025 - Mar. 21, 20262 quarters (6 months)$14,490
Project Management and Lean Six Sigma Green BeltMar. 24 - Sep. 13, 2025Sep. 17, 2025 - Mar. 21, 20262 quarters (6 months)$17,490
Paralegal CertificateSep. 17 - Dec. 13, 20251 quarter (3 months)$9,750
TEFL ProficiencyJan. 2 - Mar. 14, 2025Mar. 24 - Jun. 6, 2025Jun. 18 - Sep. 5, 2025Oct. 1 - Dec. 12, 20251 quarter (3 months)$6,490
TEFL ProfessionalJan. 2 - Jun. 6, 2025Mar. 24 - Sep. 6, 2025Jun. 18 - Dec. 12, 2025Oct. 1, 2025 - Mar. 6, 20262 quarters (6 months)$9,990
Advanced Studies in TEFLJan. 2 - Mar. 14, 2025Mar. 24 - Jun. 6, 2025Jun. 18 - Sep. 5, 2025Oct. 1 - Dec. 12, 20251 quarter (3 months)$5,490
Study for 3 quarters to get the OPT.

After one academic year (three consecutive quarters) of full-time study in a non-language program in the United States, students with F-1 status can apply for permission to work up to 12 months in their field of study as a practical application of what they have learned. This is called Optional Practical Training (OPT).

You can join two or more consecutive Certificates. For example, if you take two quarters of "Business Management" plus one quarter of "Business Intelligence Analysis" count as one academic year.

Other Costs to consider

Apart from the program fee, there are other costs that you should keep in mind, such as the following:

  • Application fee: it is a USD$225 non-refundable fee paid upon your application.
  • International Student Service Fee: USD$500 per quarter.
  • Visa costs: international students who enroll in a full-time program in the USA need the F-1 student visa. Costs related to the F-1 visa include the I-901 SEVIS Fee (US$350 approx.) to register on the Student Exchange Visitor Information System and a Visa fee (US$160 approx.). These are costs set by the U.S. government.
  • Accommodation in San Diego: since you will be living and studying abroad, you should consider housing costs. Down below, you can read some of the options UCSD recommends for international students.
  • Health insurance: all those who are on a student visa in the US must have mandatory health insurance, which is offered by UCSD, and costs approximately USD$780 per quarter.
  • Books and supplies: these materials are not included within your tuition fees and vary greatly according to each certificate program.
  • Flight Tickets from your country to San Diego, USA
  • Food: you should consider food costs when planning your budget, which will depend on where you eat.
Dates and costs are subject to change. All prices are in US dollars. Contact us for more details.

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HOW TO APPLY FOR A CERTIFICATE PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO

All the application process is online. Follow the instructions below

Steps to apply for a program

  • 1. Application Process
  • 2. Acceptance Process
  • 3. Visa Processing
  • 4. Payment
  • 5. Classes start!

1. Application Process

Documents must be sent to ucsdvivecampus.com

Documents needed to apply


1. Application Form

Download and complete the application form. Do not forget to sign the form.

Download Form and Instructions

2. Passport Copy

Clear Copy of the identification page of your passport. The passport must be valid for 6 months after the first day of classes.


3. Financial Verification

Bank letter or bank statement showing that you or your sponsor have at least the "Estimated Total Expense" of the program (amounts can be in US dollars or your local currency).

The estimated total expense is an estimate made by the university that includes tuition fees and an estimate of what you might spend in medical insurance, housing, meals, books, and supplies. Flight tickets are not included in this estimation.

Bank document must show at least the following amount per program:

  • Business Administration (1 quarter): USD$13,650
  • Business Administration (2 quarters): USD$27,250
  • Business Administration (3 quarters): USD$40,850
  • Business Management (2 quarters): USD$27,250
  • Business Management (3 quarters): USD$40,850
  • Business Intelligence Analysis: USD$14,650
  • Leadership and Management: USD$13,650
  • Digital Marketing: USD$13,850
  • Project Management: USD$27,250
  • TEFL Proficiency: USD$13,600
  • TEFL Professional: USD$23,550
  • Advanced Studies in TEFL: USD$12,400

4. Application Fee

There is a non-refundable application fee of $225 dollars paid to the UCSD Extension. After receiving confirmation from one of our representatives, you must pay the application fee online, following the representative's instructions.


Send your application documents

A representative needs to review all your documents are correct.

Your application documents must be sent to ucsdvivecampus.com

*If you are a US resident or a transfer student from another US school. Please contact us for more details. The application process is different

2. Acceptance Process

After we have received all your application documents and you have paid the application fee, you will be contacted by the admission office within 2 weeks.

If you are applying for a full-time program, you will need an F-1 student visa. After you have been accepted into the program, the admission office will send you the acceptance documents plus the form I-20, required to apply for the F-1 student visa.

3. Visa Processing

Please check with us what type of visa you need, depending on the program you are interested in at UCSD.
  • If the program you are applying for is a full-time program (18hrs/week or more), you will need the F-1 student visa. With an F-1 visa, you can extend your stay in the United States as long as you continue studying.
  • If your program is less than 18 hours a week, you will have to travel to the U.S. as a tourist with a B1/B2 tourist visa or visa waiver ESTA. As a tourist, you can only stay in the U.S. the time your tourist visa allows since your primary purpose in the U.S. should be tourism.

Please check the website of the U.S. embassy of your country to see the steps you need to apply for a visa.

Generally, for an F-1 student visa, students must do the following:

  • Complete the DS-160 form
  • Schedule an appointment at the U.S. embassy
  • Pay for the F-1 student visa (approx. US$160)
  • Pay for the I-901 SEVIS Fee (approx. US$350): https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html
  • Go to the embassy on the scheduled day

You must confirm these steps on the website of the U.S. embassy in your country. You can look for your nearest U.S. embassy here: https://www.usembassy.gov/

4. Payment and Immunization Requirements

Payment

Next, you need to make full payment of all remaining fees or pay per quarter. Payments must be done 30 days before each quarter and can be done by credit card, debit card, money order, or bank draft in U.S. dollars and from an US Bank. You will receive more information regarding dates once you begin the application process.

TB form and Immunization Form

UC San Diego Extension International Programs requires all students to complete the Tuberculosis (TB) Screening and submit the Tuberculosis Health Assessment Form. In addition, students must complete the Immunization Form with the required vaccines. The Student Health and Welfare Advisor of UCSD Extension will reach out to you after you apply to your program with details about how to submit these forms.

5. Arrival at School

It would be best to arrive a week before the program start date to attend the orientation at the end of registration week. In your admission letter, you can find more information about the orientation and the initial placement test. On the first day at school, you should bring your passport, F-1 student visa, I-20, and a bank statement.

Important: We suggest that you apply at least 2 months in advance.

ACTIVITIES FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

You will be able to participate in several activities during the program

SOCIAL, CULTURAL AND SPORTS ACTIVITIES IN SAN DIEGO AND ACTIVITIES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO

Most of the activities are free!

ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO KEEP IMPROVING YOUR ENGLISH OUTSIDE OF THE CLASSROOM IS BY PARTICIPATING IN SOCIAL, CULTURAL, SPORT, AND OTHER ACTIVITIES OFFERED BY THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO.

International students can participate in activities as:

  • Whale watching tours
  • Conversation cafés
  • San Diego Padres Baseball Games
  • Sport activities inside UCSD
  • Snorkeling
  • Beach bonfires
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking

Students at UCSD can participate in a great variety of activities while studying at this awesome school. These include trips to local tourist spots; visits to nearby cities; on-campus sport activities, including surfing, sailing, soccer, basketball, and tennis; social activities such as conversation cafés or beach bonfires; or event extracurricular activities such as whale watching tours. All of these are fantastic opportunities to meet people and put your English into practice, while having lots of fun.

Information about the city of San Diego, California

Located right on the southwestern coast of California, San Diego is known for its mild year-round climate (great weather), natural deep-water harbor, extensive beaches, safety, tourist attractions and recent emergence as a healthcare and biotechnology development center. San Diego is the perfect base for exploring California, the Southwest, and nearby Mexico. It has over 100 kilometers of beaches, mountains up to 2,000 meters, and the best year-round climate in the United States. San Diego's average temperature is 21° Celsius, with mild winters and perfect summers. It was also voted one of the “Best Rides in America” by Bicycling Magazine.

The largest urban cultural park in the U.S., Balboa Park, is located in the heart of San Diego. The 1,200-acre park is home to 19 museums, botanical gardens, and cultural venues, and the San Diego Zoo, which is the largest zoo in the world.

city of San Diego, California

Information about The University of California San Diego

The University of California San Diego has been part of the University of California system since 1959 and is one of the top universities in the United States. It has been rated as one of the best universities for science by Newsweek, it is fifth in the nation for federal research dollars, and it has six Nobel prize winners currently on faculty. UC San Diego has welcomed thousands of international students. No matter how diverse their backgrounds, UC San Diego students have one thing in common: they choose UC San Diego because of its worldwide research reputation, its prize-winning faculty, and the innovative character of the San Diego region.

University of California San Diego - UCSD

Photos of the Certificate Programs at The University of California San Diego

international student from business certificate program with UCSD mascot on campus
students from marketing and business program on UCSD campus
students from the business diploma programs of UCSD Extension running in San Diego, California

Videos of the Certificate Programs at The University of California San Diego

HOUSING IN SAN DIEGO

Most common housing options for international students in San Diego

STUDENTS FROM THE CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT UCSD EXTENSION HAVE 2 MAIN HOUSING OPTIONS:

Check housing options for international students at UCSD in San Diego
  • Apartments
  • Homestay

Apartments

The Anatolia apartments are located close to UC San Diego and include everything you need to feel comfortable. It includes shared-room, single, and family apartments.

More information can be found here:

Homestay (Living with a family)

Homestays are a type of housing in which students live with a local family in the same house, share common areas, and follow household rules, just like any family member. This can be a good option for younger students that don't feel ready to live on their own yet.

Some of the options are:

FINDING A PLACE TO LIVE DEPENDS EXCLUSIVELY ON THE STUDENT.

There are many options available near the campus of the University. If the housing option is off-campus, students must contact the housing provider directly.

FAQS

Do you have any question about Certificate Programs at UCSD Extension?

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS CERTIFICATE PROGRAMS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO

If you do not find the answer, please contact a representative filling the form below

Why should I study a certificate program at UCSD?

The University of California San Diego has offered professional certificate programs for international students for years, which assures the high quality of them and of the faculty that teaches at this great institution.

Why should I choose to study in San Diego, California?

San Diego is a great place in Southern California, from where you can visit other cities, great natural destinations, and have lots of fun. It is also a diverse place where professionals from all different backgrounds meet and thrive, so you can except lots of networking at all times.

I am not a student in my country. Can enroll on these certificate programs with a Student Visa?

The certificate programs at UC San Diego are available for everyone, including those who are not currently studying. You only need to meet the minimum requirements of the program you wish to study.

Does the University of California San Diego offer scholarships?

Does the University of California San Diego offer scholarships?

What kind of comments and reviews do the certificate programs at UCSD have?

UC San Diego is among some of the best higher-education institutions in the world and the US, and therefore, students trust the high quality of its education and the excellence displayed by its teachers. That is the reason why foreign students write great reviews and comments about the University of California San Diego.

Which are the different steps of the application process for the F-1 student visa to study a certificate program at UCSD?

Please check with us what type of visa you need to take the program you are interested in.

  • All full-time programs in the U.S. require a F-1 student Visa. With an F-1 visa, you can extend your stay in the United States as long as you continue studying.
  • Part-time programs (less than 18 hours a week) can be taken with a tourist visa or visa waiver ESTA. With a tourist visa, you can only stay in the U.S. the duration your tourist visa allows, since your main purpose in the U.S. should be tourism.

If you need an F-1 student visa, please apply as soon as you receive your acceptance documents (I-20 form) from the UCSD Extension at The University of California San Diego. In some countries it can take several weeks to obtain a visa interview at the U.S. embassy.

You must confirm these steps on the website of the U.S. embassy in your country. You can look for your nearest U.S. embassy here: https://www.usembassy.gov/

Are classes taught inside UCSD?

Yes, all classes are taught inside the UCSD campus.

What is an OPT?

OPT or Optional Practical Training is an employment authorization for those who have studied for a certain period in the USA with an F-1 Student Visa, and allows them to work, gain experience and earn money for up to 12 months.

What are the requirements for the OPT?

Students must:

  • Have a valid F-1 Student Visa
  • Have been a full-time student enrolled on UC San Diego for three quarters (nine months)
  • Be less than 90 days away from finishing your studies
  • Have not been approved for OPT at another institution before

Can I use the different on-campus facilities at the University of California San Diego?

All students can use the on-campus facilities, and you can also make use of UCSD’s fantastic sport facilities by paying an additional fee.

Do I need to take the TOEFL or IELTS exams to apply for the certificate programs at UCSD?

Yes, you will need to submit the results of an English proficiency test OR pass a minimum level of the Academic English program at UCSD Extension.

Will I need a high school diploma to study a certificate program at UCSD?

No, you will not need a high school diploma to enroll on these programs. However, you will need to show proof of a university degree or professional work experience.

Will I need health insurance to study a certificate program at the University of California San Diego?

Health insurance is mandatory for all students.

Will I need to buy books to study a certificate program at UCSD?

Yes, you should consider a certain amount of money for books, which will vary depending on your program and courses.

Is there an application fee to study at the University of California San Diego?

Yes, all programs have a US$200 application fee.

When do I need to pay for the program? What are the payment methods?

You need to make full payment of all remaining fees or pay per quarter. Payments must be done 30 days before each quarter and can be done by credit card, debit card, money order, or bank draft in U.S. dollars and from an US Bank.

Can I work while studying in San Diego, California?

Only those with an F-1 Student Visa can work up to 20 hours a week inside the campus. The positions are really limited, so you probably will not be able to find a job while studying. However, after been at UC San Diego for a complete academic year, you can apply for OPT to work full-time in any company.

Do I need immunizations to apply for the certificate programs at UCSD?

Students must complete the Immunization Form with the required vaccines. The Student Health and Welfare Advisor of UCSD Extension will reach out to you after you apply to your program with details about how to submit these forms. Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions.

The answers provided in the frequent asked questions may change from time to time. In order to confirm any of these answers, we suggest to contact a representative filling the form below.

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