The Capstone Certificate in Computer Sciences Online Kickstart Program for Professionals
The Capstone Certificate in Computer Sciences Online Kickstart Program for Professionals (CS Kickstart Online Program), offered by the University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Computer Sciences, is designed for students who want to learn the fundamentals of computer science, including the basics of artificial intelligence (AI) and its modern use. Students use this kickstart certificate to build programming skills that transfer to more technical positions or for promotion. The program can be completed in four terms. The largely asynchronous, online format of coursework provides maximum flexibility for students to complete the certificate effectively within the context of work and/or family responsibilities.
Overview
Please visit the Guide for the complete CS Kickstart program requirements.
Students who receive a single D or F in a course will be placed on academic probation and must meet with an academic advisor to assess their ability to successfully complete the program.
- CS Kickstart admits students for the fall term only. Please review the certificate’s information page for exact deadlines.
- Applications received after the deadline will be reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Complete admissions information and prerequisites for applicants can be found in the Guide.
- Please contact the program Coordinator (kickstart@cs.wisc.edu) for further information on admissions to the program.
International Student Admissions:
International applicants must submit evidence of English language proficiency. Please check the Graduate School’s requirements page for score requirements.
An I-20 is not required for international students, as CS Kickstart is an online program.
Prior Coursework
Applicants must have mathematical reasoning and logical thinking proficiency.
Application Steps
Please visit the Guide for details regarding the application. A complete application includes the following information:
An online application for admission as a University Special student, selecting the UNCS Kickstart online program
Transcripts
Resume
Students should direct enrollment and program questions to the program coordinator (kickstart@cs.wisc.edu) at the Department of Computer Sciences.
FAQs
If you have obtained a bachelor’s degree in a field other than computer science or computer engineering, but now want to learn the fundamentals of computer sciences, this program is for you.
CS Kickstart is a non-degree program. The CS Kickstart certificate is designed to help students gain foundational programming skills, software development best practices, and applied AI knowledge that equip them to advance in their current careers or transition into the fast-growing software and technology fields. However, this program is not designed to provide you with an undergraduate or graduate degree.
Yes, international students are welcome to apply.
No. International students are not eligible for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) or Optional Practical Training (OPT) as CS Kickstart is a non-degree capstone certificate program.
It will take four terms (16 months)to complete the program since you will be enrolled in one course per term.
The cost per credit is $1,200, and each course has three credits, so the cost is $3,600 per course. You will be required to enroll in all four courses to receive the certificate. The total tuition cost is $14,400 for the program.
No, the Kickstart program is not an automatic pathway towards the CS graduate programs. Students interested in any of the CS graduate programs would need to apply to them separately.
You need to take four courses listed on our information page.
Credits from prior academic coursework, either at UW-Madison or from another university, cannot be applied toward the CS Kickstart Program. All required credits must be earned by taking courses at UW-Madison while being enrolled in the Capstone Certificate program.
Please contact the program coordinator (kickstart@cs.wisc.edu) for detailed information about it.
Apply here to be admitted as a CS Kickstart Capstone Certificate student at UW-Madison.
Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications by July 1. Applications received after this date will be reviewed on a rolling basis.