This graduate certificate focuses on populations whose members are not easily visually
identified, do not generally have a formal voice in the system and who may be motivated
to remain anonymous. Members of hidden populations often have experiences with socially
stigmatizing trauma. Hidden populations may include those who have foster care or
justice-involved experiences, who are survivors of sexual violence, who are recovering
drug or alcohol addicts or who face housing insecurity.
This certificate is framed by the last decade of emerging research, which aims to
better understand shared topics across hidden populations, including specific needs,
challenges and opportunities for support.
Successful completion of the certificate program requires 12 credit hours (four courses)
of graduate-level coursework, including two required courses and two committee-guided
electives that encourage students to further focus on their individual interests.
Required courses are offered 100 percent online. The delivery format of electives
are dependent upon the respective academic department and may be online, hybrid or
in-person delivery. Credit hours may be transferable to other graduate degree programs: Previous or current enrollment at
OSU not required. This graduate certificate requires the successful completion of a series of reflections
and activities, in an associated online community, that synthesize learning across
coursework.
This is a stand-alone certificate available to individuals who meet the admissions
criteria of the OSU graduate college and the program. Credit hours are transferable
to other graduate degree programs.
HESA 5333: Introduction to Hidden Student Populations
HESA 5433: Practicum in Hidden Student Populations
Elective (six credit hours):
In addition to the example electives below, multiple other courses may be considered
by the graduate committee on an individual basis. Specific course sequencing is required.
HESA 5340 : One-hour courses, each with a focus on a specific hidden population (up
to six credit hours)
SCFD 5873: Culture, Society and Education
EPSY 5986: Instructional Effectiveness in Higher Education
EDLE 6633: School Leadership and Community Collaboration
WAED 5013: Characteristics of Adult Learners
SPED 5633: Behavior Characteristics of Exceptional Individuals
CIED 5623: Multicultural and Diversity Issues in Curriculum
HDFS 5753: Leadership and Management of Community Service Programs
Admissions Requirements and Deadlines
Applications are accepted each semester. Applicants will be notified of admission
status within four to six weeks of submission.
Transcripts from all previously attended institutions (undergraduate degree from an
accredited university with a minimum 3.0 GPA required; admission with qualifications
may be considered)
Professional resume
Statement describing the objectives the applicant hopes to meet or advance by completing
the program
Cost
Oklahoma State University offers an affordable single rate for graduate students in
online degree and certificate programs.