While the phrase “I’m majoring in Math and minoring in Art History,” is one that almost every college student would understand,  “I have certificates in Informatics and Modeling and Jewish and Israel Studies,” might generate a bit of confusion.

Nowhere on WesMaps, the University’s online course catalog, does the University define “certificate,” despite listing six separate certificates that students can earn. The Wikipedia page for “Wesleyan University” offers this vague, un-cited explanation: “Wesleyan’s certificate programs are designed to bring coherence to programs of study that include courses from many departments and programs.”

In an attempt to clarify “certificate” and in response to student desire to diversify the University’s educational experience, the Wesleyan Student Assembly (WSA) passed a resolution on Feb. 7 requesting that the Office of Academic Affairs expand the breadth of certificate offerings and create a more concrete definition of the term. The WSA acknowledged that maintaining the unique attributes of each certificate is necessary.

“Everyone knows what a minor is at any other school, but certificates are kind of this thing that doesn’t have a really solid definition,” said Chair of the WSA Academic Affairs Committee (AAC) Cordelia Blanchard ’12.

Many of Wesleyan’s peer institutions, like Tufts, Middlebury, Conn College, and Vassar, offer minors, but according to WSA representatives, Wesleyan’s faculty is unilaterally opposed to the implementation of minors based on financial and logistical concerns, as well as the argument that minors restrict the breadth of a liberal arts education.

“Certificates are similar to a minor but also different and interesting because a lot of them are interdisciplinary,” Blanchard said.

Currently, the University offers certificate programs in International Relations, Informatics and Modeling, Molecular Biophysics, Environmental Studies, Jewish and Israeli Studies, and South Asian Studies. Additionally, a certificate in Middle Eastern Studies has recently been approved.

“With an increase in certificates offered, students have more opportunities for diversifying their education,” Blanchard said. “Also, it’s a cool thing to have on your transcript.”