Mastery Certificate Policy

ACAD-POL-005

I. Policy Statement

This policy outlines the structure and completion criteria for RIT Certified Mastery Certificates, which are curated course sequences designed to support learners in acquiring career-relevant competencies and credentials. The policy also clarifies participation requirements and benefits associated with the Mastery Certificate Bundle.

II. Scope

This policy applies to all learners pursuing RIT Certified Mastery Certificates except where alternative terms have been established through a contract or optional Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for Ecommerce Courses or Corporate Training Mastery Certificate pathways, which may include alternative eligibility criteria, participation requirements, or completion timelines.

III. Definitions

  • Mastery Certificate: A non-credit credential awarded by RIT Certified to learners who successfully complete a designated sequence of required and elective courses (as applicable), culminating in a Capstone Course project or final assessment.
  • Mastery Certificate Discount: A discounted enrollment option that applies to learners who register and complete all required courses within a Mastery Certificate pathway.
  • Capstone Course: A culminating course or project that integrates the skills and knowledge developed across the Mastery Certificate sequence.

IV. Eligibility and Participation

Learners are not required to formally declare their participation in a Mastery Certificate program in advance. RIT Certified will automatically recognize and verify completion for any learner who:

  • Registers for all required courses using the evaluative grading option
  • Completes all required and elective courses for a Mastery Certificate pathway, including completion of the Capstone Course (if applicable)
  • Earns a grade of 70% (C) or higher in each course (See the Grading Policy for more information.)

V. Program Timeframe

Each Mastery Certificate includes a suggested timeframe for completion. Learners can view this information on the RIT Certified website or contact the Registrar at certreg@rit.edu for additional guidance.

Learners are not subject to a completion window but are encouraged to complete certificates within the suggested timeframe. Regardless of how long a learner takes to complete a certificate, all stated certificate requirements must be met in order to earn the credential. While RIT Certified strives to offer each required course regularly, learners pursuing certificates through individual course enrollment should consult with the Registrar to ensure course availability aligns with their intended timeline.

VI. Benefits

Learners who complete all requirements will receive:

  • A digital Mastery Certificate Badge indicating verified skill mastery
  • An upgraded Strengths Profile and the opportunity to debrief with a Career Guidance team member
  • A 10% discount will be retroactively applied to each qualifying course within the certificate pathway upon enrollment in the final course in the pathway. Learners will receive a refund of this amount.

VII. Learner Support and Tracking

Learners may contact certreg@rit.edu at any time to request an audit of their progress toward a Mastery Certificate. RIT Certified will regularly monitor course completions and proactively notify learners when they are near completion or eligible for certificate issuance.

VIII. Accessibility and Accommodations

RIT Certified is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning experience for all learners. If you require accommodations related to your participation in a Mastery Certificate program, including course access, completion timelines, communication needs, or support services, please contact Disability Services Office at dso@rit.edu as early as possible.