Stackable degrees
Stackable degrees are designed for students to earn multiple credentials in a defined field of study, typically a master’s degree and one or two graduate certificates. This model allows multiple points of entry into a discipline and provides the flexibility to earn credentials over time. Some stackable degrees require that students earn a graduate certificate as part of the program while others do not; there is an option to use electives in place of a graduate certificate in these programs.
Stackable degrees, by their nature, involve courses being used for multiple credentials. See information about limits on
course overlap within stackable degrees.
When the program requires students to earn one or two graduate certificates, the same catalog year must be used for all credentials contained in the stackable degree.
Students must meet a program GPA requirement for all degrees and graduate certificates awarded at PSU. For a stackable degree program, students must meet the program GPA requirement for each graduate certificate included within the stackable degree as well as an overall program GPA for the master's degree.
For stackable degree programs in which completing one or two graduate certificates is required, students must apply for graduation with each credential.