Certificate in Implementation Science
Overview
The Certificate for Dissemination and Implementation Science at UIC is a 12-credit hour program designed for graduate students and health sciences professionals who want to translate research into real-world impact.
Offered jointly by the Department of Medical Education (DME) and the Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science (CDIS), this program focuses on the design, implementation, and evaluation of evidence-based interventions in clinical and community settings.
Students will gain practical skills in applying implementation science frameworks, addressing real-world barriers, and evaluating outcomes to improve the effectiveness and sustainability of programs and policies.
With a flexible, interdisciplinary approach, the program prepares learners from a wide range of backgrounds to advance their work in healthcare, public health, and community-based settings.
The Implementation Science Certificate is designed for:
- Graduate students and professionals in health sciences
- Individuals interested in implementing and evaluating evidence-based interventions
- Learners from clinical, community, public health, and research settings
This program is ideal for those who:
- Want to strengthen their understanding of implementation science frameworks
- Have research experience and want to improve real-world application
- Are seeking to build skills in evaluation, strategy, and program design
Both degree-seeking and non-degree-seeking students are eligible.
Program Details & Information
What You Will Learn
Graduates of the certificate program will be able to:
- Identify implementation science models and frameworks to develop, implement, evaluate, and sustain evidence-based programs and policies
- Examine and select strategies that address barriers and facilitators to implementation
- Use evaluation tools to assess implementation outcomes and sustainability
- Design implementation science grant proposals
Curriculum
The certificate consists of four courses (12 credit hours total):
- Dissemination and Implementation Science Research (4 credit hours)
- Community Engagement in Implementation Science (4 credit hours)
- One course in research methods
- One course in health systems, community health, and/or health equity
Students will also select from a set of approved elective options.
Course Format & Learning Approach
The Implementation Science Certificate is delivered in an online synchronous format, allowing for real-time learning and interaction.
- HPE 410: Dissemination and Implementation Science Research must be taken first and is offered in the fall semester
- HPE 411: Community Engagement in Implementation Science is offered in the spring semester only
- The remaining courses may be taken in flexible order
Elective courses are offered in varied formats depending on availability, allowing students to select options that best fit their schedule.
Courses are led by experienced scholars and leaders in implementation science and emphasize:
- Active, applied learning
- Real-world application of implementation frameworks and models
- Small class sizes that support collaboration and discussion
- Opportunities to learn alongside peers from diverse professional backgrounds
Students are encouraged to apply concepts directly to their own work, strengthening both individual practice and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Application & Admission Procedures
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Who Can Apply?
The program currently only accepts students who wish to begin the program in the fall semester.
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Where Can I Apply?
Interested individuals will use the Graduate College Electronic Web Application system to submit this application.
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When Can I Apply?
For Fall 2026 admission:
- Early Submission: April 15, 2026
- Final Deadline: July 15, 2026
- Program start date: August 24, 2026
Application Procedures
Steps To Apply
- Go to the Graduate College Electronic Web Application system
- Select “Campus Certificate – Implementation Science” in the Program dropdown
- Click Apply
- Choose the appropriate semester
All application materials must be uploaded electronically.
For detailed instructions, visit the UIC Admissions page
Admission Requirments
Applicants are reviewed on an individual basis.
Educational Background
- Bachelor’s degree required
- Minimum GPA:
- 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale), or
- 3.75 (on a 5.0 scale)
English Proficiency (if applicable)
Applicants whose native language is not English must submit one of the following:
- TOEFL
- IELTS
- PTE Academic
Test scores must be from within the past two years.
For score requirements and exemptions, visit the UIC Admissions International Requirements page.
Application Requirements
Required Documents
- UIC Non-Degree Graduate Certificate Application
- All applicants must complete and submit an application form using the UIC Application Portal.
- Proof of Degree
- Copies of the awarded diploma/degree certificate or a transcript on which the award of the degree is indicated (Bachelor’s degree or higher)
- Upload proof of degree to the applicable credentials upload slot on the UIC Application Portal
- If all prior coursework was done abroad, English proficiency requirements may apply
- For details on non-degree credential requirements, please visit Admissions website
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal Statement (maximum 1 page), addressing:
- Why you are interested in the Implementation Science program
- How the certificate will help you advance your professional and personal goals.
- Copies of registrar-issued transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- Please note that only admitted applicants will need to provide official, paper transcripts. Once admitted, official transcripts must be sent directly from post-secondary institution in a sealed envelope to the Office of Admissions. Transcripts should not be mailed before a student is admitted.
Application Fees
- $80 application fee (applies to all domestic and international applicants)
- Additional $100 credential evaluation fee for applicants submitting international coursework that requires evaluation
- Information on tuition and fees for the 2026–2027 academic year are available on the UIC Registrar’s website.
International Applicants
- Applicants who require a student visa for on-campus study are not eligible for this program
- Applicants currently in the U.S. on visas such as H1B or H4 are eligible
For full details, visit the UIC Admissions International Requirements page.
Julie Bobitt
Assistant Professor
Center for Dissemination and Implementation Science
