Earning a certificate in strategic planning can be beneficial for professionals who are interested in leadership roles and taking their careers to the next level.
Strategic planning training provides you with techniques, theories, and processes to put into practice when developing a team of workers. From preparing for disasters to analyzing the effectiveness of organizational structures, this graduate certificate can apply to a range of industries.
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Read on to discover what a certificate in business strategy entails and how it can help you grow your skills and qualifications.
Online Certificate in Strategic Planning Programs
A certificate in business strategy is often associated with those in human resources roles, but more and more leaders are beginning to recognize the potential of this certification.
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A graduate certificate in strategic management is the culmination of completing strategic planning training through a recognized and accredited learning institution. While this program results in a certificate rather than a degree, the focus of this graduate program is to develop leadership skills for business settings.
When earning business strategy certificates, students can develop the ability to:
- Understand leadership’s role in management, planning, organization, and growth
- Analyze and solve problems based on a variety of theories and strategies
- Form future-facing recommendations based on growth and challenges
- Expand project management and goal-setting knowledge
- Recognize opportunities within a project or organization
Those who are in managerial or supervisory roles are often responsible for their teams’ performance. In addition, they’re typically responsible for tracking finances and budgeting, project management, organizational strategy, conflict resolution, employee development, and mitigating challenges.
For those who aspire to take on higher-level leadership roles throughout their career, earning a graduate certificate in strategic planning could be an opportunity to focus on some of the more challenging aspects of these roles.
Strategic Planning Careers & Salaries
Essentially, a certificate in business strategy can be an educational opportunity for anyone who plans to become a manager or leader in a business setting.
Regardless of industry, the skills earned in a strategic planning program can aid in leader development. This training can help managers of manufacturing plants, financial services, or construction businesses equally.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, here are the median wages for career paths related to strategic planning.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Human Resources Managers | $130,000 |
| Training and Development Managers | $120,000 |
| Industrial Production Managers | $107,560 |
| Administrative Services Managers | $103,330 |
| Construction Managers | $101,480 |
| Facilities Managers | $99,030 |
| General and Operations Managers | $98,100 |
| Project Management Specialists | $95,370 |
| Management Analysts | $95,290 |
| Human Resources Specialists | $64,240 |
Often, a certificate in strategic planning program will encourage students to focus on their interpersonal and communication skills. This makes it a beneficial study for those who are in public-facing roles, such as executives and public relations workers.
In many cases, those who have completed strategy certifications continue into management roles within their current field. For example, those who are working as human resources specialists may apply their strategic planning knowledge to become a manager.
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If you want to enhance your leadership and interpersonal skills or are interested in pursuing a management role in your current field, a graduate certificate in strategic planning could be beneficial for you.
Strategic Planning Certificate Curriculum & Courses
The courses you take as part of your strategic planning program will vary from school to school, so you may want to review a course catalogue prior to enrollment in order to get a feel for the program itself.
Some of the types of courses you may choose from include:
- Leadership Theory and Strategies: This course introduces students to the different types of leadership methods.
- Decision-Making Principles for Organizations: In this course, you’ll learn how to analyze situations and make appropriate decisions.
- Project Management: You’ll examine how to set goals, allocate tasks, and create benchmarks.
- Conflict Resolution: In this course, you’ll study communication along with organizational behavior.
- Change Management in Organizations: This course will provide theories and strategies for designing, implementing, and analyzing the effectiveness of change.
- Effective Leadership Principles: You’ll learn what behaviors and tactics are developed by effective and successful leaders.
- Communication for Leaders: In this course, you can hone your written and oral communication skills.
- Bargains and Negotiation: This course provides a methodology for engaging in difficult discussions and compromise.
- Ethical Considerations for Leaders: In this course, you can gain an appreciation for the ethical and legal framework surrounding business relationships and bargains.
- Measuring Success: You’ll have the opportunity to examine different types of project analysis and matrices.
Typically, a strategic planning certificate program will offer more courses than are necessary to complete the requirements, allowing students to tailor their program to their educational and professional goals.
Admissions Requirements
The admissions requirements for schools’ graduate certificate programs can be different, so it’s helpful to review a school’s specific admissions details before starting the application process.
For example, some schools ask that applicants have completed an on campus or online bachelors degree in business or a related field, while others allow students to complete this certificate concurrently with their bachelors studies. Some common requirements can include:
- GRE or GMAT scores (only some schools require them)
- Transcripts from previous education
- Professional resume or CV
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
You may also be asked to provide a letter of intent, explaining why you wish to complete the strategic planning program.
Strategy Certificate Programs Accreditation
When reviewing strategy certificate programs, you may wish to pay close attention to each school’s accreditation status. Regional accrediting agencies review schools for their academic excellence. For information on this process, you can visit the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
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Attending an accredited school can be beneficial for many reasons. For instance, should you wish to pursue a masters or PhD in Strategy online or on campus, many graduate programs only recognize course credits and degrees from accredited schools.
In addition, some professional organization memberships and employment opportunities are specifically extended to those who have received training through an accredited program. Plus, more financial assistance opportunities may be available for those who choose accredited schools for their strategy certificate programs.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Many students are interested in receiving financial assistance for their education. Those who are interested in need-based assistance can start by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
You can also examine opportunities for financial assistance from your school, either in the form of payment plans or scholarships. Scholarships or grants can also be offered by outside parties, such as corporations, private donors, or professional organizations. In addition, some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for those who are continuing their education.
If you’re currently working, you can check with your employer for more details about any educational assistance opportunities for those considering professional development.
What Is a Strategic Planning Certificate?
A strategic planning certificate is an opportunity for college graduates and working professionals to fine-tune their leadership, communication, and project management skills.
While a strategic planning certificate is not a degree program, it can be a great opportunity to supplement the knowledge learned through your undergraduate degree program. It is especially helpful for professionals in leadership roles. This graduate program is helpful for leaders of all levels in fields ranging from business to engineering.
A graduate certificate in business strategy can help provide professionals with a deeper understanding of how to develop, problem-solve, and encourage a team.
What Can You Do with a Certificate in Strategy?
Earning a certificate in strategic management can be beneficial for many current and aspiring leadership professionals in nearly every field.
As noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many managerial roles are expected to grow at a faster than average rate over the next ten years. This means that well-qualified managers will continue to be in demand. Those who are interested in professional human resources roles or other managerial positions in business and related fields might consider this versatile graduate program.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Strategic Management Certificate Online?
The length of time it takes to complete your strategic management certificate depends on the program you select as well as how much time you can devote to your studies. Program lengths can range from 4 to 8 graduate-level courses. Many of these courses last between 6 weeks to 8 weeks, depending on the style of program you choose.
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Full-time students can often complete a graduate certificate program in 6 months to 1 year. Typically, students should anticipate setting aside 5 to 7 hours each week for attending class and completing coursework. If you are able to devote more time to your studies, you may be able to get your certificate faster.
What’s the Difference Between a Strategic Planning Certification vs. Certificate?
In many cases, the words “certification” and “certificate” are used interchangeably. In an academic setting, though, they can mean different things.
| Strategic Planning Certification | Strategic Planning Certificate |
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Some academic certificate programs help you prepare for a specific professional certification exam.
Is a Business Strategy Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a business strategy certificate is worth it for many students. In a business strategy certificate program, you can examine many of the theories, practices, procedures, and analytical skills in this area of study.
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If you have leadership goals, you may find that a business strategy certificate can help fine-tune your skills. Earning a graduate certificate can also help you grow your professional qualifications, earning potential, and marketability. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% job growth for human resources managers and 8% job growth for management occupations overall during the next ten years, which is faster than average.
Universities Offering Online Graduate Certificate in Strategic Planning Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
Central Michigan University offers a Graduate Certificate in Public Administration. Courses may cover topics like employee relations, public finance, organizational theory, administrative law, and local government management. On average, the 15 required credits can be completed in 1 year. Classes can be attended online or in person.
CMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Gwynedd Mercy University offers a Strategic Planning and Management Graduate Certificate. This program may be ideal for those interested in gaining executive-level skills to support future career advancement. The curriculum is housed 100% online. The program requires a completed bachelor’s degree or MBA to be considered for admission.
Gwynedd Mercy University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Michigan State University offers a Strategic Management Graduate Certificate. This program offers a convenient online learning format. Potential courses include Competitive Business Strategy, Strategic Analysis, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, or Corporate Strategy. The program requires 9 credits.
Michigan State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Texas A&M University – Commerce offers a Graduate Certificate in Organizational Planning. The curriculum covers key concepts like staff development, financial planning, information technology, innovation, strategic decision-making, and organizational change. Classes can be attedned online or on campus.The 12 required credits can typically be completed in 1 year.
Texas A&M University-Commerce is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Thomas Edison State University offers a Strategic Planning and Board Leadership Graduate Certificate. This degree may be an ideal fit for current or aspiring professionals in the non-profit organization field. The program requires 12 credits. Potential courses include Program Analysis and Evaluation or Nonprofit Governance and Leadership.
Thomas Edison State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tulane University offers a Graduate Certificate in Information Technology. Concentrations are available in IT Strategic Planning, Data Science and Cloud, Technology Architecture, Cyber Defense, and Cyber Leadership. Classes utilize a convenient online learning model. The program requires 12 credits.
Tulane University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Central Missouri offers a Policy and Planning Graduate Certificate. The program requires a bachelor’s degree with a 2.75 GPA or higher. This program boasts flexible online classes, several financial aid options, and expert faculty. Potential courses include Administration in Criminal Justice, Crime Analysis, Criminal Justice Planning, or Philosophy and Policy.
The University of Central Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Denver offers a Strategic Innovation and Change Certificate. The program is designed to teach skills in strategic innovation, entrepreneurship, and change management. Classes meet fully online and are 10 weeks long. The 4 course certificate can typically be completed in 6 months, while the 6 course certificate usually takes 12 months.
The University of Denver is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The University of Houston Downtown offers a Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Strategic Planning. Those who are interested in becoming impactful leaders may find an excellent fit with this certificate. The curriculum consists of 18 credits. Courses cover topics like public management, finance, program assessment, advocacy, and resource acquisition.
The University of Houston-Downtown is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Walden University offers a Strategic Planning and Public Policy Graduate Certificate. Graduates may pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, federal government, and nonprofit organizations. The program requires 18 credits and may allow transfer credits for previous applicable academic and professional experiences.
Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Certificate in Strategic Planning Online
While some may argue that leaders are born, not made, an education that focuses on interpersonal, analytical, communication, problem-solving, and goal-setting skills can be beneficial for many in leadership roles.
The courses included in business strategy graduate certificate programs range from conflict navigation to project management. This training could apply to tasks ranging from annual budgeting to staff development, making it ideal for those who are interested in improving their leadership capabilities.
If you’re interested in growing your leadership expertise and qualifications, you can take the next step in your professional journey by exploring accredited strategic planning certificate programs.
