VCSU Adds New Certificates in ASL, Game Design, and more
VALLEY CITY, N.D. (VCSU) – Valley City State University has announced the offering of several new academic certificates for the 2026-27 school year, including certificates in American Sign Language (ASL) and Game Design.
The new certificate in ASL is a collaborative partnership with Lake Region State College, offering students specialized knowledge and skills to communicate with the Deaf community. VCSU has also added new certificates in: Game Design and Development, Graphic Design, Photography, AI in Education, Vocal Pedagogy, and Learner Centered Instruction.
An academic certificate is a formal credential verifying students have successfully completed a specific course of study or training program. VCSU’s academic certificates are typically 12-18 credits and are great add-ons for current students or practical skill builders for professionals already in the workforce.
VCSU currently offers more than 40 combined certificates through its undergraduate and graduate programs.
Undergraduate Certificates List
New Certificates in 2026-27
American Sign Language
This certificate is a collaborative partnership between VCSU and LRSC to offer a 15-credit certificate program awarded by VCSU. Students complete eight credits through VCSU and seven credits through LRSC. Completion of the ASL Certificate offers students in future education and leadership positions specialized knowledge and skills to communicate with Deaf people and learn about Deaf culture.
“As students graduate and apply for jobs, having an ASL certificate – showing you have this extra language skill – is really wonderful to have in your back pocket,” said Lindsey Solberg, VCSU’s ASL instructor. “If you apply for a teaching position where they have deaf students, this may give you a benefit to getting the job. If you’re working in a clinic as a physical therapist or nurse in larger metropolitan areas, the possibility of a deaf patient is higher and having ASL skill is another feather in your cap. It shows that you’re willing to learn more, to try more and that you’re comfortable with more communities of people.”
Game Design and Development
The Game Design and Development Certificate is an 18-credit course of study that blends computing, user experience, and digital art through hands-on activities. Students learn industry-standard game development while building practical skills in programming, artificial intelligence, 3D graphics, animation, and human-computer interaction—preparing them for careers not just in games, but also in VR/AR, filmmaking, industrial design, and serious games for education, training, healthcare, and behavior change.
Graphic Design
VCSU’s certificate in graphic design is offered through the Art department and includes 15 credits related to graphic design, digital media and two-dimensional design. This is a useful credential for marketing and communication students, among others.
Photography
VCSU offers a 16-credit certificate in photography through the Art department. Whether it’s for hobby, a personal business, or building skill for your profession, the photography certificate will take students from beginner through advanced skills in photography.
AI in Education
VCSU’s AI in Education certificate can be completed as either an undergraduate or graduate program. It is a 12-credit course of study focusing on practical and responsible ways of using artificial intelligence in education, including personalized learning, teaching efficiency and student AI literacy. This is a useful credential for current and future educators.
Vocal Pedagogy
This 13-credit undergraduate certificate is recommended for all intended and current voice instructors as well as leaders of community ensembles who seek the opportunity to enhance their musical and teaching skills for the betterment of their voice students and performers.
Learner-Centered Instruction
The graduate certificate program is designed to help educators in any discipline become skilled in equitable teaching and leadership. Courses include subjects such as learner centered systems, personalized learning, and designing for deeper learning.
For more information or to apply to VCSU, visit https://www.vcsu.edu/admissions/apply/