Program Overview

Overview of the Civic Engagement Certificate Program

The Civic Engagement Certificate Program, coordinated in conjunction with Northwestern’s School of Education and Social Policy (SESP), provides students with a deeper understanding of the forces that affect communities and a more thorough grasp of how to achieve positive change. The two-year, six-credit program is open to all Northwestern freshmen, sophomores, and juniors.

Program Details

• Participants earn credit for their community engagement work and gain the skills to understand and improve communities socially and economically.
• The program incorporates both community engagement and classroom learning, including six credits of coursework, group engagement experiences, and a capstone project created in collaboration with a local community organization.

Philosophy and Goals

The Civic Engagement Certificate Program is based on the following understandings:

• Civic engagement provides important learning experiences.
• Classes, as well as hands-on experiences, provide useful contexts for learning about communities.
• Students can use the knowledge and skills gained through a formal curriculum and faculty guidance to improve their communities.

Program Structure and Benefits

The program is designed to allow a student to build over two years the tools for a lifetime of involvement with communities. That involvement can and should take many forms, including service and research. Students will combine involvement in the certificate program with a course of study in a variety of disciplines.

Eligibility and Participation

The Civic Engagement Certificate Program is open to undergraduate students from any Northwestern school.

Related Programs

• AMPED
• Black Metropolis Graduate Assistantships
• The Cities Project
• Civic Engagement Certificate
• Engage Chicago
• GEO
• Jumpstart
• NU in Chicago
• NUPIP
• NU Votes

Target Constituencies

• Undergrads
• Grad Students
• Faculty
• Alumni & Community

About the Center for Civic Engagement

Northwestern University’s Center for Civic Engagement facilitates engaged student learning and promotes a lifelong commitment to social responsibility and active citizenship.

Mission and Approach

The Center for Civic Engagement is committed to providing opportunities for students to engage in civic activities and develop a sense of social responsibility. The approach includes providing resources and support for students to participate in community engagement and research projects.