02. Why is it a certificate program rather than a graduate degree program?
There are several reasons. First, this is viewed as a “transitional program” for students who have completed a bachelor’s degree program in one of several disciplines who may be considering applying for a graduate degree. Many of the TLGC courses can be transferred to a degree program if you choose to pursue a degree after completing the certificate.
Second, it is hoped that the program will attract individuals from “supporting disciplines,” such as information technology, public finance, economics, etc., to consider transferring those skills to the transportation field.
Third, applying to take courses as a non-matriculating student is relatively easy as opposed to formally applying to a degree-granting program. Thus, this may encourage individuals to “test-the-waters” of a possible change in career focus so that they may eventually apply to a graduate-level degree program.