Graduate Certificate in Decision Analysis

A Certificate for Leaders and Decision Makers

The Certificate in Decision Analysis (CDA) attracts rising and established leaders who are determined to make a positive impact in the world. Embracing all disciplines and employment sectors, the CDA imparts intellectual wisdom and practical skills to the passionate and driven change makers of today and tomorrow.

The online CDA employs Minerva’s cutting-edge Habits of Mind and Foundational Concepts (HCs), which are designed to contribute to success in any sector. Developed to build the core competencies of critical thinking, creative thinking, effective communication, and effective interaction, HCs offer a structured approach to learning lifelong practical and adaptable skills. Students will learn to interpret data, develop viable options, and structure rational conclusions within complex social systems. The awarding of this certificate signifies advanced, multidimensional expertise in decision analysis.

Program of Study

Structure
The CDA curriculum comprises four practical knowledge courses designed to develop creative thinking, critical thinking, and effective interaction skills.

Time frame
The CDA is typically completed on a part-time basis over 12 months. However, a 24-month option is also available. A detailed explanation of the program of study, including timing and curriculum, can be found on the CDA Program of Study page.

Optional In-Person Experiences
While classes are taught virtually, students may elect to join their cohort in person each year for a one-week cultural and professional immersion experience.

Active Learning Environment

Minerva University teaches using Forum, a dynamic, online, active learning platform built according to the science of learning. With no more than 20 students per course, classes are discussion-based seminars held in real time, allowing students to learn, practice, then master universal skills for good decision-making and creative problem-solving.

Forum

Each discussion-based seminar pushes you to continuously interact with your professors and classmates. Through this deep collaboration, you learn to question assumptions, analyze information, perform simulations, devise novel solutions, and fundamentally reshape the way you think about the world.

Career Coaching

Minerva’s Coaching and Talent Development team supports students as they develop their professional goals and networks to enhance their careers.

“Minerva has transformed my critical thinking skills and genuinely helped me re-engage myself after I was feeling burnt out in my career. I would highly recommend this program to anyone willing to put in the effort to change how they approach learning, their work and problem solving in today's world.”

Tatiana Tylosky
Class of 2022

Admissions & Tuition

Admissions

To identify students with the greatest likelihood of succeeding in our program, we have developed a unique way of evaluating applicants that is equitable and cost-free. No standardized testing is required. Complete your application by the dates below to start your Minerva journey. The earlier you apply, the earlier you can begin planning your future.

Admissions

Affordable Education

Total tuition for the CDA degree is $23,700, payable in three equal installments over the course of the program. Some scholarships may be available to you through Minerva University. Please see our Tuition & Finance page for details.

Tuition & Finance

Application Deadline Round 1: November 29, 2022
Application Deadline Round 2: March 2, 2023
Application Deadline Round 3: June 1, 2023

Master's Insights

Director of Graduate Programs Geneva Stein, Ph.D. and Graduate Class of 2023 student Hiromi Sakae Ogawa present insights from Minerva's unique skills-based curriculum amongst other distinguished higher education leaders at the QS Higher Ed Summit: Asia Pacific 2022.