USD Launches New Certificate in Community Engagement

The University of San Diego’s College of Arts and Sciences will launch a new Certificate in Community Engagement in Fall 2025, giving USD students an opportunity to connect their liberal arts education with hands-on, community-based experiences and engagement.

Offered through the college’s Community Engagement and Civic Learning program, the certificate will allow students to complement classroom learning through partnerships with local and international nonprofits, organizations and community leaders. The program emphasizes relationship-building, understanding community needs, examining power structures and applying knowledge to real-world challenges.

Students will take an interdisciplinary approach, drawing from multiple academic disciplines and community wisdom to develop analytical and problem-solving skills. The certificate prepares students for active civic participation and a wide range of career paths.

The program culminates in a capstone project, designed in collaboration with a community partner, that addresses a real need or opportunity identified by the partner organization.

Learn more about the Certificate in Community Engagement.