How does the Certificate program work?
All Certificate courses are delivered entirely online and rely on asynchronous discussion and collaboration as the principal form of communication. Course content is broken into five one-week modules. Via a Web-based system (Blackboard), class members interact extensively with one another and the facilitator. Students participate anytime day or night, when their schedule allows, while still meeting due dates for weekly assignments. For a brief audio overview, go to: http://cnm.cuppa.uic.edu/overview/OnlineLearning.htm

What type of content is used in the program?
The Certificate program utilizes a wide array of online material including text-based lectures, audio and video presentations and Web links to the latest readings on CHDO management.

Who facilitates these courses?
Certificate courses are facilitated by seasoned instructors with a minimum of ten years field experience as HUD technical assistance providers. To learn more about our instructors, click here.

Do I need a textbook for these courses?
All course materials are available online. No textbooks are required.

How many courses can I take at one time?
Each cohort of students progresses through each course one at a time as a group.  It is not possible to take more than one course at a time.

When should I log in to the courses?
There are no specific times or days of the week students must log on, however students are expected to complete assignments by the due dates specified in the course syllabus. Students are encouraged to log in to the course Web site at least three times per week to stay on track.

How much time should I spend on a Certificate course?
Students should expect to spend 4-6 hours per week on course related activities. Many readings can be downloaded and/or printed, so actual time online is much less.

How do I earn my Certificate and when will I receive it?
A non-credit certificate of completion is awarded to students who successfully complete all requirements of the Program.  Students must earn a minimum of 70 percent on each graded assignment. The non-credit certificate of completion is signed by the Executive Director of the Great Cities Institute at the College of Urban Planning and Public Administration at UIC and the Director of HUD’s Office of Affordable Housing Programs upon completion of the program's final requirements. The certificates are normally mailed out within one month of the last day of the student's final assignment.

Am I required to come to the University at any time?
Certificate courses are conducted entirely online and at your convenience. There is no need to come to the University of Illinois at Chicago campus.

Is this certificate program related to the CHDO organizational certification required under the HOME Program?
This is a certificate program for individual CHDO executives and is separate from, and not a substitute for, the CHDO organizational certification that a CHDO needs to maintain with its PJ.

What is a CHDO pass-through grant?
During the program, a capstone project will be developed by each participant.  The purpose of this project is to apply the learning from the program to an actual CHDO. Those completing the course will be eligible for a grant of CHDO pass-thru funds for implementing strategic initiatives outlined in their Capstone Project.

What are the course fees?
Thanks to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, there is no cost to participants for this Program.

How do I apply?
Applying is easy. There is no need to apply to the University or submit transcripts or recommendation letters. If you are interested in applying to the program, please visit our application for more details.