Advance Your Career in International Education
The International Education Professional Certificate (IEPC), created in partnership with NAFSA, Times Higher Education, and Common Purpose, is designed to empower you at different stages in your career. Whether you are a recent graduate entering the field or a mid-career manager, the IEPC gives you the tools and guidance you need to take control over your professional development and advancement. Packed with resources and practical exercises which you can directly apply to your own daily work environment, the program acts as a playbook for your career progression.
Via a comprehensive, 12-module online course delivered asynchronously online, the IEPC consists of four packages: Decision Making, Compliance Care, Inclusive Programs, and Agile Leadership. The content is built upon the NAFSA International Education Professional Competencies™ 2.0 and is led by Subject Matter Experts who share their own personal experiences and lessons learned.
Special Introductory Savings
This promotional offer has been extended until July 1, 2025!
For a limited time, you can SAVE HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS by enrolling in the Complete IEPC Program at the special introductory rate of just $695 for members or $795 for non-members. The Complete IEPC Program includes all 12 modules, digital badges, and the certificate of achievement. Gain recognition as an international educator and advance within the field!
Enroll in the Complete IEPC Program
Personalize your Learner Journey
The IEPC is a stackable credential that builds upon your skills, abilities and your confidence. You can purchase an individual package—each containing three modules—or save money by completing the full program.
Decision Making
Build core foundational competencies, including:
- People Development
- Business Acumen
- Data Collection and Analysis
Together, they offer a well-rounded skill set which will enable you to foster creative growth within yourself, your colleagues and your institution or organization.
Compliance Care
Strengthen your knowledge in:
- Compliance Management
- Risk Assessment and Crisis Management
- Recruitment, Enrollment, and Advising
This package will support you with creating and following policies and regulations that raise the profile of your institution internationally and protect your brand against the risks specific to international education.
Inclusive Programs
Inclusive Programs
Develop special expertise in:
- Inclusion and Equity
- Program Development and Delivery
- Teaching, Learning, and Facilitation
When combined, these modules will illustrate how to design and deliver inclusive and accessible programs that are impactful and informed by model practices.
Agile Leadership
Advance strategic capabilities, including:
- Leadership
- Relationship Cultivation
- Communications
These modules emphasize building supportive networks, managing partnerships, and engaging diverse stakeholders by articulating value propositions effectively.
Discounted Pricing for Groups
The IEPC is an opportunity to accelerate your team’s professional development and give individuals the structure and guidance they need to advance their skill set.
Dive into the IEPC
- Watch this special webinar hosted by NAFSA, Times Higher Education, and Common Purpose.
- Get a clear overview of what to expect when enrolling in the program.
- Take a sneak peek inside the Learner Management System to see how the course looks and feels as you go through each module.
- Learn about the foundation of IEPC—how it was designed and the core principles that shape its content and purpose.
Program Reviews
“I really enjoyed the first module of the International Education Professional Certificate and found added value in the three competencies covered. I'm excited for the next module!"
"The reflection notes at the end of the sessions were incredibly helpful in identifying my weaknesses, strengths, and attitudes related to the competencies. The action plans were a well structured part of the course that allowed me to reflect deeply. I found them extremely useful."
"The SMEs (subject matter experts) selected for the modules were very well-chosen, and the resources provided were extremely helpful. I would absolutely recommend the IEPC to colleagues, especially those working in the international office."
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the full certificate or individual packages cost?
At the current promotional pricing, the full certificate course costs USD$695 for NAFSA members and $795 for non-members. Packages of 3 modules cost $225 for NAFSA members and $300 for non-members.
Is group pricing available?
Yes, for groups or teams working together towards International Education Competencies, special promotional rates may apply:
- 11-30 packages/Certificates = 10% discount on either member/nonmember price
- 31-50 packages/Certificates = 15% discount on either member/nonmember price
- Over 50 packages/Certificates = contact NAFSA IEPC Support.
What are the learning objectives?
- Advocate for international education priorities
- Nurture, build, and maintain constructive conversations with stakeholders
- Contribute to innovations that yield superior results and team performance
- Connect their individual role as international educators with the institutional goals
- Identify targeted areas for learning that bolsters their professional journey
How do I complete the certificate?
Created by our partners Common Purpose, the IEPC takes place on the Evolve Careers platform, accessible via any web browser. Highly interactive, the Learner Management System (LMS) offers a modern user interface with a fresh, light, dynamic feel.
The IEPC is made up of 12 modules which are delivered asynchronously online, allowing you to access course materials and complete modules at your convenience.
We recommend you allow at least one hour to finish each of the 12 modules within the course; however, each content segment can be completed in 15-minute learning sessions at any time. The LMS will keep track of your progress so you can automatically pick up where you left off.
Who delivers the IEPC course content?
The course content is available on the Evolve Career platform, powered by Common Purpose. The IEPC has been developed by experts in international education, drawing upon the knowledge and experience of the NAFSA International Education Professional Competencies™ 2.0.
Each module is delivered by a Subject Matter Expert who brings a wealth of knowledge and practical experience to the program. Together, these experts ensure that the IEPC offers comprehensive and cutting-edge training for professionals in international education.
All 12 Subject Matter Experts have been hand-selected by NAFSA because they know and understand the skills and abilities needed to excel in relation to each competency. These esteemed leaders draw heavily from their own personal experiences of supervising others and enacting change within their institution or team.
What will I receive at the end of the program?
When you successfully complete the program, you will receive a personalized IEPC certificate, e-mail signature, and social media badge, which you can proudly display.
Earning the IEPC is a structured, discipline-specific way to build your strengths in NAFSA’s International Education Professional Competencies 2.0. A certificate prepares you to advance your career, stay competitive with up-to-date knowledge, and grow as a professional. Completion of a certificate demonstrates evidence of this specialized learning in international education. The IEPC does not lead to a professional certification or for continuing education credits (CEUs) such as is more commonplace in teaching or accounting. The IEPC will enhance your competencies in international education; earning a certificate is different from becoming certified. NAFSA does not offer a certification.
How long is the certificate valid?
The certificate you receive and social media badge for the IEPC will be accessible for two years. Upon expiry, you will be invited to keep your certification active by topping up your knowledge with a refresher module(s), thereby extending its validity for an additional two years.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation requests must be made in writing through the IEPC Support form no more than 15 days after the date of purchase for trainings that have not been accessed. There is a $100 cancellation fee if the cancellation request is received in writing within 15 days of purchase. No refunds will be issued if the cancellation request is made more than 15 days after the date of purchase.
Refunds minus the cancellation fee, if approved, will be processed 2 to 4 weeks after the live virtual training takes place. If payment is made by credit card, a credit will be issued to your credit card account; otherwise, a refund check will be issued.
Requests for all other changes to registration, including transfers, must be made in writing through IEPC Support form and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
What kind of tools or resources are provided within the IEPC?
You will receive a wealth of resources to help you on your learning journey. Within each module you will find:
- Pre- and post-skills assessment.
- Videos (with subtitles and transcripts).
- Interactive quizzes.
- Reflection questions.
- Checklists with techniques that will enhance the quality of your work.
- Extra resources recommended by subject matter experts and NAFSA with additional material to dive into including articles, books, podcasts, and newsletters.
- A short- and long-term action plan with tips for your personal progression and steps to begin implementing right away.
