At colleges with certificate programs, you can learn professional skills and get ready for a new step in your career.
Trade certificate programs can help equip you with the necessary training to pursue entry-level skilled jobs. Even if you’re already in the workforce, a certificate program can help you become more knowledgeable about your industry.
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Earning a certificate can be a quick and effective way to increase your knowledge, develop in-demand skills, improve your resume, and connect with others in your chosen field.
Colleges with Certificate Programs
Undergraduate certificate programs can be a time-saving, cost-efficient way to gain valuable career training. Available for many industries, certificate programs equip students with foundational knowledge in certain fields.
As you consider college and a career, you can look into certificate programs that match your area of interest.
Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- Accounting
- Computer Programming
- Crime Scene Technician
- Dental Assistant
- Human Resources
- Information Technology
- Medical Assisting
- Project Management
- Small Business Management
- Veterinary Assistant
All of these fields tend to offer opportunities for growth, a variety of job prospects, and job security.
Accounting
In an accounting certificate program, you can study various branches of accounting. That includes financial accounting and cost accounting.
These programs typically cover many different financial reports. Your lessons will likely cover how to create reports and how to analyze the data they contain. Federal taxation will likely be another aspect of your studies.
Many with accounting certificates go on to work as bookkeepers, revenue agents, or clerks, such as financial or accounting clerks.
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An accounting certificate may also qualify you to work as an accountant in some settings, but the requirements for that role vary by employer.
Computer Programming
If you’re interested in learning the fundamentals of scripting and developing computer programs, then a computer programming certificate might be right for you.
You’ll likely explore concepts like object-oriented programming and the software development lifecycle. Many of these programs will focus on helping you become proficient in one or more of the top programming languages.
Having this certificate can help you qualify for a job as a computer programmer. Some employers require bachelor’s degrees for that role, but a certificate can help you get your foot in the door.
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Related career paths include software development, web development, information security, and technical writing.
Crime Scene Technician
A crime scene technician certificate program can introduce you to the field of forensic science. Forensic science technicians gather or evaluate evidence. They often share their findings in court as expert witnesses.
In a crime scene technician program, you’ll likely study methods of gathering evidence, such as interviewing witnesses and taking photographs. There may also be a class dedicated to fingerprinting. Testifying in court is another skill you may learn. In addition, you may have criminal justice and criminology courses.
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Some people who earn this certificate focus their skills on one particular area of crime scene investigation, such as photography, fingerprint analysis, or ballistics.
Dental Assistant
To become a dental assistant, it’s necessary to learn about the techniques and materials used in dental offices. Courses in a dental assistant certificate program may also teach you how to take x-rays and sterilize equipment. These programs often include lab sessions and clinical practice in dental offices.
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Most states require dental assistants to receive thorough training before they can be hired. An accredited certificate may provide the necessary education for state licensure.
Dental assistants tend to seat patients, take X-rays, and provide an extra set of hands during procedures. They often do clerical work in dental offices as well.
Human Resources
Most human resources certificate programs focus on how organizations recruit, train, support, and retain their employees. Your courses may cover benefits packages, labor relations, employee development, and workplace safety. You might also study how to deal with conflict and embrace diversity in the workplace.
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This certificate could potentially lead to entry-level jobs in the HR field. Many people start as HR assistants or specialists. In a small organization, you might even be tasked with all the HR responsibilities. Over time, experience or further education could help you advance in larger organizations.
Information Technology
Networks and programming languages are some of the most important topics typically covered in information technology certificate programs. While pursuing an IT certificate, you may also learn about information security and data analysis. In addition, you may explore digital devices and cloud computing.
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There’s a lot of demand for trained technology professionals, so this certificate could potentially help you enter the field as a network or computer user support specialist. You may also qualify for junior roles related to systems analysis or network administration in some organizations.
Additionally, your certificate courses could help you prepare for industry certifications that might enhance your marketability.
Medical Assisting
In preparation for working as a medical assistant, you’ll need to study the human body and the various diseases that affect it. A certificate program can also help you become comfortable with medical terminology and the workings of the healthcare system.
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After learning about procedures and equipment, you may gain hands-on experience in a local medical facility.
Medical assistants often work in doctors’ offices. They may perform clerical duties at the front desk or carry out clinical tasks in exam rooms. Assistants often record patients’ information, perform simple medical procedures, and give injections.
Project Management
As a student of project management, you can learn how to select the right projects and see them through from beginning to end.
Your courses may cover decision-making, risk evaluation, quality control, contract negotiation, and schedule management. There may also be simulation labs and opportunities for you to organize practice projects.
Project management is a valuable skill in the business world. Some graduates become project management specialists or coordinators.
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While it often takes time and experience to work your way to advanced positions, you might eventually qualify for advanced management roles. Examples include construction managers, production managers, and computer systems managers.
Small Business Management
Small business owners and managers have a lot of responsibilities on their plates. Unlike in larger companies, there aren’t different staff positions to cover every business specialty.
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To help take on the challenge of running a small business, small business management certificate programs typically address marketing, taxes, finance, project management, accounting, and leadership.
Earning this certificate can help you launch a small business as the sole owner or as one of the partners. It can also be useful for people who already have small businesses and want to take them to the next level. Freelancers can benefit from this training as well.
Veterinary Assistant
A veterinary assistant certificate program can help you learn how to give animals medicine, get them ready for surgery, keep vet facilities clean, and perform office duties. Before completing the program, you’ll likely receive on-the-job training by completing an externship at a local veterinary practice.
Veterinary assistant training can help you get a job in a vet’s office. You might provide animal care, give medicines, or clean equipment.
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The lessons you learn in this program can also be applicable to positions in pet stores, rescue agencies, grooming shops, animal labs, and kennels.
Admissions Requirements
If you want to enroll in a certificate program, it’s necessary to first apply. Schools may ask for:
- Application fees
- Application forms
- SAT or ACT scores (not always required)
- Transcripts from high school and any college classes you’ve taken
Getting into a certificate program is sometimes less rigorous than admission to a degree program. Even still, it’s beneficial to submit a thorough application, provide all needed materials, and stick to any deadlines. It may be worth exploring colleges with free applications because this could potentially cut down on your costs.
Admissions counselors can answer your questions and help you figure out which program would be best for your goals.
Accreditation
It’s strategic to choose a regionally accredited college for your certificate courses. Earning a certificate is sometimes the first step toward a degree. The classes you take may transfer to another college, where they could count toward an associate or bachelor’s degree.
For the most part, though, accredited colleges only accept completed coursework from other regionally accredited schools. If your line of work requires licensure, only accredited classes may count toward the requirements.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
If you qualify, you may be able to pay for your college certificate program with state or federal financial aid. Eligibility for government grants or loans can vary based on your financial need and the nature of your program.
To learn about your options, you can fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You might also be able to get scholarships from your school or other organizations. Your employer might contribute as well.
What Is a Certificate Program in College?
College certificate programs offer a short course of study on a particular topic. You can get an undergraduate certificate before doing any other college work.
On the other hand, you might choose to get a certificate even if you already have a degree. An undergrad certificate can be an efficient way to tune up your professional skills. A certificate demonstrates your abilities in a particular field, and some can even help you qualify for professional state licensure.
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Certificate coursework from accredited colleges may also transfer into associate or bachelor’s degree programs.
Is a Certificate a Degree?
Certificates aren’t the same as degrees. If you’re not sure which to get, you can check out the following chart to compare the two options.
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Getting a certificate may also help prepare you to earn a full degree later on.
Should I Get a Certificate or Associate’s Degree?
Certificates take less time to complete than degrees, and they usually cost less money too. If you’re short on either of those, then a certificate program may be a fitting alternative to earning an associate degree.
On the other hand, you can learn more in an associate degree program because they require more classes. In some industries, employers may appreciate your increased training.
If you’re considering 1 year certificate programs, you might want to research related 2 year associate programs as well. You can compare your findings and weigh the pros and cons of your specific situation.
How Long Are Certificate Programs?
Most certificate programs last between a few months and 1 year. The overall length depends on how many college credits are required for completion. Some certificates include only 9 credit hours, which is about 3 classes. Many others include between 12 credit hours and 18 credit hours.
In addition to classes, one year certificate programs may also require internship experiences. For example, medical assistant training and other allied health programs often have students learn hands-on skills in clinical settings.
What’s the Difference between a Certificate vs. Certification?
Earning a certificate isn’t the same thing as qualifying for certification. Here are the key differences between these two terms.
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When it comes to certificates and certifications, it is possible to obtain both. You could choose to earn a certificate now and apply for professional certifications later.
Are Certificate Programs Worth It?
Yes, certificate programs are worth it for many students. Many of these college programs focus on skilled jobs, and they provide the necessary foundation for entry-level roles in select fields.
Certificate programs can also help enhance your business know-how. Your specialized knowledge in accounting, human resources, or information technology may increase hiring committees’ interest in you. Plus, college classes can help improve your job security.
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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, high school graduates have an unemployment rate of 6.2%. For those who have taken some college classes, though, the unemployment rate drops to 5.5%.
Universities Offering Online Certificate Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer programs online or in a hybrid format.
American Public University offers many different undergraduate certificate programs. Options include Cloud Computing, Real Estate Management, Paralegal Studies, CPA Examination Preparation, Cybersecurity, Fish and Wildlife Management, and more.
American Public University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Drexel University offers a wide variety of continuing education and online certificate programs. Options are available in computer science, education, health professions, psychology, technology, legal studies, medicine, information science and systems, business, and more.
These programs are designed to help students further their education or meet the necessary prerequisites for graduate degree programs.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Lake Land College’s online certificate programs are designed to help students develop their professional skills and achieve their career goals. They can be completed entirely online.
Options include Accounting, Computer Applications Specialist, Electronic Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Management, Marketing, Medical Coding Specialist, and more.
Lake Land College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Middlesex Community College offers a variety of certificate programs in business, healthcare, fitness, hospitality, IT and software development, management, media and design, and more.
Middlesex Community College is accredited by the New England Commission on Higher Education.
Peirce College offers convenient online certificate programs and professional development courses. There are over 400 courses to choose from, and there are monthly start dates. Each course lasts 6 weeks.
Some of Peirce’s most popular certificate programs include Certified Paralegal, Certified Supply Chain Professional, Medical Billing and Coding, and Web Applications Developer.
Peirce College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Rose State College offers certificate programs that can be earned 100% online. Options include Professional Bookkeeping, Cyber Security, Digital Forensics, Supply Chain Management and Logistics, Small Business Operations, Payroll Accounting, and more.
Rose State College is accredited by the North Central Commission on Colleges.
San Diego State University offers a variety of professional certificates that are designed to help students advance in their careers. Options include Construction Estimating, Grant Writing, Human Resource Management, Marketing, Construction Project Management, Meeting and Event Planning, and more.
San Diego State University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Seminole State College of Florida offers high-quality online certificate programs. Coursework is available anytime and from anywhere to accommodate students’ schedules.
Certificates are available in such fields as architecture, engineering, construction, legal, business and entrepreneurship, public safety, information technology, and public health. Some courses may require students to come to campus for exams.
Seminole State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Southern New Hampshire University offers certificate programs both online and on campus.
There are currently over 30 certificate programs available in different formats. Available programs include Accounting, Human Resource Management, Crime and Criminology, Law and Legal Process, Unmanned Aerial Systems, and more.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Washington has online certificates that can be earned from almost anywhere.
Students can choose from either a self-paced format or a group-paced format. Certificates are available in Accounting, Applied Animal Behavior, Applied Biostatistics, Audio Production Techniques, Basic Bioscience, Big Data Technologies, and more.
The University of Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
Getting Your Certificate Online
Certificate schools deliver essential know-how for jobs in today’s workforce. If you’re committed to developing your career in a quick, focused manner, then you might consider earning a college certificate. Your training could help you build your confidence and qualify for a specialized job.
Online certificate programs aren’t just informative. They’re also convenient! Even if you’re a busy parent or employee, you may be able to fit online college classes in during the evenings, on the weekends, or whenever you have spare time.
If you choose an accredited college for your certificate courses, you can count on receiving a solid education. This may be helpful if you do decide to pursue one of the top online degrees available at more and more universities.
Why not start exploring schools and certificate programs in your field of interest today?
