The certificate places particular emphasis on research methods, research experience, and rigorous approaches to the study of migration. The required introductory course covers the central features, concepts and foci of international migrations studies, and the two elective courses selected from the lists of preapproved courses expose students to diverse substantive concerns and disciplinary approaches. A required methods course from a list of preapproved courses exposes students to methods beyond their concentration requirements. Finally, students complete a thesis, project or an experiential learning requirement.

Students who undertake a senior project or thesis for their declared concentration are required to have a migration related topic as the central focus of the project or thesis. Proposals for projects/theses need program approval for migration content. As an alternative to a project or thesis, students may participate in a faculty research project with a focus on migration, or complete an internship or volunteer with a community organization that primarily services immigrant communities.