There are many ways to advance one’s career in the business world. While the most common track is pursuing a degree, earning a competitive field certificate can also give one an advantage in the workplace. It is especially useful for those who want to enhance their resume and supplement their existing majors.
A human resource staff, for example, gain foundational business knowledge without needing to pursue an MBA. A certificate program on Business Essentials can do the trick. Indeed, a certificate does not hold as much weight as a degree, but it certainly provides a job advantage through an easier, more convenient route. Other business certificate programs offer more specific subjects, allowing one to explore marketing, human resource management, or business analysis, to mention a few.
What is even better is that these certificate programs are also available online. Many schools in the US offer flexible, self-paced certificates across a range of subject areas. Most of the students who pursue a Certificate in Business are already working in the field and seeking to update their knowledge and skills and expanding their qualifications in the process.
However, the latest trends show even those without prior knowledge of business seek to complete a certificate program in business as it offers a faster way to learn new skills and boost their careers. They can easily explore other job positions in the business field in a period of one to two years.
The Benefits of Online Business Certificate Programs
The online format of the business certificate programs allows working individuals a more flexible means to juggle their education with their personal and professional commitments. Most of these online certificates are self-paced, allowing students to take on as much coursework as possible whenever and wherever they are. It allows them to find an ideal work-life balance, letting them earn their certificates without compromising their budding careers.
Business is a huge field that has a tremendous contribution to the economy. It also evolves constantly, prompting one to gain new skills and remain relevant in such a competitive industry. What better way to realize these objectives than by earning an online certificate in business?
To help you make an informed decision, our researchers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com gathered the best business certificate programs to help you explore the possibility of bolstering your skills, and advancing your career in the field! Our profiled list of the 15 Best Online Business Certificate Programs consists of the educational institutions that are highly regarded for their standout program features:
- Deliver comprehensive Business Certificate courses and curricula to help students navigate the many facets of the industry,
- Highlight the latest Business applications, theories, strategies, and practices applicable to the modernized and evolving discipline,
- Provide financial assistance and student discount options for eligible Business students,
- Frequently top academic listings and take pride in positive reviews from academic organizations and communities,
- Obtained proper Business Certificate program accreditation.
Please visit our Methodology page to learn more about our ranking process.
Easily check out our 15 Best Online Business Certificate Programs using these quick links:
- Harvard University
- University of Pennsylvania – Wharton Online
- Cornell University
- University of Notre Dame
- Penn Foster College
- University of Virginia
- Liberty University
- University of California Extension
- Northeastern University
- Oregon State University
- Villanova University
- University of Southern California
- Michigan State University
Harvard University
Tuition Fee: $ 1,050 Per Credit Unit
Harvard University offers an online certificate in Entrepreneurship Essentials, under the Harvard School of Business online, for those who want to gain new and applicable skills that can help them advance their careers. For this particular program, students will learn how to build and finance their new business ventures, from hatching their ideas to putting them into a viable reality.
Some of the program’s key takeaways include identifying business opportunities, evaluating an idea and assessing its prospective market, refining business strategies, making key financial decisions in the early stages of startups, and gaining a deeper understanding of raising capital, among many others. Notable professors spearhead the program with great credentials under their name. The program contains approximately 25 to 30 credit hours, which can span over four weeks. However, students can take the coursework at their own pace as long as they meet the regular deadlines.
The course is fully available online. It is especially beneficial to those who aspire to be entrepreneurs, starting their new ventures in the realm of business, and even students who want to learn the ins and outs of a successful entrepreneur and expand their career choices.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements (as long as they do not come in after the program completion), Discounts, Scholarships, Grants, Military Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Complete free online application
- No special documentation is required.
- Applicants must be at least 18 years of age.
- Proficiency in English is a must.
Accreditations:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Find more information on Harvard University’s online business certificate program.
University of Pennsylvania – Wharton Online
Tuition Fee: $537.30 | $199 (per individual course)
Business owners who want to refine their business strategies and evolve with an ever-growing digital landscape can take advantage of the online certificate program offered by the University of Pennsylvania through Wharton Online. The Professional Certificate in Strategic Management helps students improve their leadership skills and teaches them how to develop a more sustainable business approach.
In this program, practical lecture knowledge and hands-on application concepts come together to guide managers and leaders of various industries in advancing their business in the face of growing competition. They will learn how to minimize costs, maximize operational efficiencies, and enhance their customer experience. These concepts are integral in ensuring that they can augment and maintain their competitive advantage even as the world of business is constantly changing. They emphasize the best way to provide the best customer experience in the era of modern technology.
The program offers three skill-building courses, including Connected Strategy, Connected Strategy Capstone, and Business Strategy from Wharton: Competitive Advantage. It takes six weeks for each course to be completed. The program can be earned fully online and can be completed at one’s own pace.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Accomplished online application
Accreditations:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Find more information on the University of Pennsylvania’s online business certificate program.
Cornell University
Tuition Fee: $769 to $1,380 Per Course
Cornell University is one of the many higher learning institutions that offer valuable certificate programs in various fields. One of their offerings is the online certificate in Business Management Essentials. This program is most suitable for those who want to expand their knowledge and skills in business management. They will learn how to manage their finances, market their products, and motivate their employees in achieving their set goals.
The program provides a broad overview of an organization’s key functions, integral in the decision-making process. Some of the program’s courses are Marketing Fundamentals, Finance, and Accounting Principles, Managing Organizations, Navigating the Global Business Landscape, and Finance and Accounting Principles, among many others. Each course can take up to two weeks to complete. The whole program completion can be done in 3 months, requiring students to render 4 hours a week for the needed coursework.
Since it is in an online format, students will have the flexibility and convenience of taking the courses at their own pace. The program is highly beneficial to new managers, individual contributors transitioning to leadership, professionals exploring the corporate field of business, and small owners and entrepreneurs.
Types of Aid: Discounts, Military and Veteran Benefits, Private Educational Loans, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Enrollees must be 18 years of age.
- English proficiency is required.
Accreditations:
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Find more information on Cornell University’s online business certificate program.
University of Notre Dame
Tuition Fee: $1980 Per Course
For those working for nonprofit organizations, a certificate in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the University of Notre Dame is ideal. This program is designed to help them develop into great leaders, assess and manage ever-changing environments, and effectively mobilize resources.
Students will be able to gain knowledge and skills essential to their professional development, which will allow them to master the fundamentals of nonprofit management and leadership, improve their business acumen in budgeting and finance, and efficiently manage media relations. The program is composed of 3 courses, including Principles of Leading Transformational Nonprofits, Nonprofit Business Administration, and an elective. The electives have two options: Leading Nonprofit Boards and Legal Issues in Human Resource Management.
While it is mainly geared towards established nonprofit professionals, the program can also be valuable to those looking to transition into the nonprofit sector.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Partner Employer & Association Discounts, Scholarships, Yellow Ribbon Program, Military Tuition Assistance, and many more.
Admission Requirements:
- Complete application form
- Application fee
- Statement of intent
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume
- Transcripts
Accreditations:
- The Higher Learning Commission
Find more information on University of Notre Dame’s online business certificate program.
Penn Foster College
Tuition Fee: $2524
The Undergraduate Certificate in Business Management program offered by the Penn Foster College is ideal for those who wish to build new skills and develop better business knowledge. The program aims to help students advance their education and boost their credentials in the field of business.
Some of the foundational courses covered in this certificate include economics, human resources management, business law, management principles, and many more. These knowledge and skills are applicable across various industries. The program’s online format means that one will be able to study on their schedule. They have the freedom to set their own pace and go through the coursework at their own time. The program consists of 31 credits, which are transferable to an associate degree in business management offered by the college.
Apart from the fact that it is 100% available online, its coursework is also mobile-friendly. It is even possible to set one’s goals and track their progress, offering a customized learning experience.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Scholarships, Military Tuition Assistance and Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
- High school diploma or GED
Accreditations:
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Find more information on Penn Foster College’s online business certificate program.
University of Virginia
Tuition Fee: $ 10,620
The University of Virginia offers a certificate program ideal for working professionals who wish to transition into leadership and management roles. The Graduate Certificate in Leadership provides solid foundational knowledge and skills in community development, organizational leadership, and financial management, among many others.
The program is part-time and fully available online. It usually takes students a semester to complete two courses, allowing them to finish the program in 12 months. Students need to complete four required courses and two elective courses. It includes Foundations of Leadership, Organizational Leadership, Communication & Team Development, and Financial Management for Leaders. The electives areas are focused on General Leadership, Technology Leadership, and Project Management.
Types of Aid: The program is unfortunately ineligible for financial aid.
Admission Requirements:
- An undergraduate degree
- Complete online application
- Official transcripts
- $70 application fee (payable by credit card only)
Accreditations:
- American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business
Find more information on University of Virginia’s online business certificate program.
Liberty University
Tuition Fee: $565 per credit hour
Composed of 8-week courses, the Graduate General Business Certificate program from Liberty University is a good way to boost one’s credentials in a competitive workplace. This program allows students to undergo advanced training in various areas, including the core business practices, international business strategies, and organizational behavioral issues.
Earning this certificate is an advantage to anyone, whether they work at the domestic or international level. The skills one can gain from this program apply to many industries, expanding one’s career track. Here, they will learn the essential business concepts, including communications, business law, management, international business, leadership theory, and practices, among many others. The program also allows students to delve deep into legal issues often dealt with by all companies, from small startups to corporations.
Graduates of this certificate program are expected to gain a competitive advantage in business, allowing them to assume higher-level roles and earn better compensations. The program’s online format lends flexibility to working professionals. It is also suitable for those who want to meet their MBA program requirements, especially for students who did not pursue undergraduate business studies.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Military Discounts, Scholarships
Admission Requirements
- Admission application
- Deferred $50 application fee
- Official college transcripts
- English proficiency proof
Accreditations:
- Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
Find more information on Liberty University’s online business certificate program.
University of California Extension
Tuition Fee: $7,400 estimated cost
For those who want to gain a solid foundation in business and management principles, the Certificate Program in Business Administration from the University of California Extension is a good start. Students can learn relevant knowledge and skills that will help shape them as business leaders and decision-makers. The program focuses on the key areas of established enterprises and startups.
Some of the program’s offered courses include Applied Economics for Business, Essentials of Business, Organization and Management, and Basic Corporate Finance, among many others. Students can also choose from several electives such as Marketing Strategy, International Finance, Small Business Management, and many more.
The program’s online format makes it a suitable choice for those who want to transition to management or program-leadership roles, as this allows them to earn the certificate at their own pace. It is also beneficial for those who want to invest in an MBA program or manage a small business.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Loan Deferment, UC Alumni Discounts, Scholarships, Veteran’s Benefits, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Online registration
- Non-refundable fee
Accreditations:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
Find more information on University of California Extension online business certificate program.
Northeastern University
Tuition Fee: $19,700
An ideal choice for those who aspire for leadership positions in the business field, the Certificate in Business Administration program offered by Northeastern University is 100% online with a customizable schedule and curriculum. Some of the program areas include healthcare management, finance, innovation entrepreneurship, international management, and marketing.
The courses are taught by experienced faculty from a wide range of professional fields. Students are expected to build their business intelligence and enhance their skills to usher in new career opportunities, providing them with a competitive edge in the workplace. The program is part-time and can be completed from 25 weeks to two years. Students can earn their certificates after completing the 12 credits required. What is even better is the option to customize their study within a specific business discipline or across disciplines.
The credits earned from this program can be applied to eligible master’s programs in the university, including an online master’s in business administration.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Application form
- Application fee
- Personal statement
- Resume
- Two professional letters of recommendation
- Official academic transcripts
- GMAT test score or five years of work experience
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
Find more information on Northeastern University’s online business certificate program.
Oregon State University
Tuition Fee: $ 2,200 Per Credit Unit
Acquiring a mastery of business fundamentals is important if one wants to thrive in the field of business. Oregon University offers a Business Administration Certificate that is specially designed for working professionals. The four-course program builds on its students’ existing skills to help them enhance their capabilities and expand their career options, whether they are working in a large corporation, joining a nonprofit, running their own business.
The essential practices and valuable insights on what makes a good business leader and decision-maker are covered in this certificate program. They will explore essential concepts and practices in finance, marketing, human resources, and negotiation, among many others. The program is also instrumental in equipping students with the necessary tools to implement business strategies effectively. The courses are taught by expert instructors whose expertise in public administration is a valuable addition to a great learning journey.
They will manage to develop their business skills and improve their decision-making abilities, which is integral for a business to thrive. Earning this certificate online is a bonus, allowing one to juggle their educational pursuits and professional responsibilities. The program can be completed in 8 months.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Grades in any college or dual-credit courses
- Personal statement
- Application essay prompts a response
- Test scores (as a supplement)
Accreditations:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Find more information on Oregon State University’s online business certificate program.
Villanova University
Tuition Fee: $ 2095 Per Credit Unit
One of the elements that greatly impact an organization’s success is the core business processes that one employs. The Certificate in Business Process Management at Villanova University helps students identify and evaluate the business processes that can help them achieve their organization’s key objectives, such as reducing costs, improving efficiency and productivity, minimizing risks, and learning to be agile and adaptable to an increasingly evolving field.
Defining the process business management (BPM), the program does a good job at imparting a deeper understanding of how this concept is used and why. It sets out the best practices that businesses must follow and the ways to avoid its pitfalls. Apart from this, students are also expected to identify process opportunities, develop business cases for improvement, leverage Business Process Outsourcing (BPO), changing management techniques, and many more.
The program is composed of a three-course track with an optional certification exam. This includes the Essentials of Business Management, Mastering Process Methodology and Solutions, and Advanced Process Strategy and Practices.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Scholarships, Military Discounts and Savings
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
Accreditations:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Find more information on Villanova University’s online business certificate program.
University of Southern California
Tuition Fee: $2,050 Per Credit Unit
Obtaining advanced knowledge to boost one’s resume in the field of business is made possible with the array of certificate programs on offer at the University of Southern California School of Business. One of these is the Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics, which equips students with the necessary statistical and organizational skills to analyze large and unstructured data sets.
In this program, they will be able to acquire tools, ideas, and frameworks integral to decision-making in business. These decisions are often made based on actual data to boost the performance of a particular organization. The learning method follows an application-based approach where case studies and relevant projects play important roles. They are also taught to use analytical tools applicable in various industries and business situations where big data are vital.
As an online offering, this certificate program provides ample flexibility to students, making it an ideal choice for working professionals who wish to expand their knowledge, learn new skills, and improve their work credentials. They have the option to complete the program either part-time or full-time.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Reimbursements, Partner Employer & Association Discounts, Scholarships, Yellow Ribbon Program, Military Tuition Assistance, and many more.
Admission Requirements:
- Completed the equivalent of a 4-year undergraduate bachelor’s degree with a GPA of at least 3.0.
- A few years of work experience (preferred, but not required)
- Score in at least the 90th percentile on the GMAT or the GRE.
Accreditations:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Find more information on University of Southern California’s online business certificate program.
Michigan State University
Tuition Fee: $3,000 Per Credit Unit
As essential credentials for those in leadership positions, understanding and mastering the fundamentals of management, leadership, and analytics can advance one’s career. Michigan State University offers a Professional Certificate in Supervisory Management to help one do just this. The program aims to guide the next generation of leaders in adapting to the workplace changes, from the advancements in technology to emphasis on purpose and work engagement.
This program will teach students the essential knowledge and skills integral to leadership positions, be they aspiring supervisors, junior managers, and other key managerial positions. They will learn the management theories that will aid them in finding the best approach for their team. They will be equipped with the techniques important to achieving effective communication, decision making, and emotional intelligence. The program offers three required courses, including Management Essentials, Leadership Essentials, and Essential Analytical Skills.
Available 100% online, this certificate program is designed for working professionals who are looking to enhance their leadership qualifications and management skills.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Scholarships, Grants
Admission Requirements:
- Complete online application
Accreditations:
- Higher Learning Commission
- Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Find more information on Michigan State University’s online business certificate program.
What difference can an online Business Certificate program make in your career?
While a business certificate does not hold the same weight as a business degree, it can certainly make a difference career-wise. A business certificate can be a good stepping stone for high school graduates to jump straight into work without going through four years of rigorous academic coursework. It is a quick and easy way to learn the fundamentals of business, including the essential business concepts and practices.
A certificate can also be useful to work professionals who wish to transition into a business field career. Knowing the essentials of business can be a huge boost on one’s resume, especially if they are looking for career advancement with leadership positions. It can provide a competitive edge in the workplace, opening a wealth of opportunities to a certificate earner.
The graduates of certificate programs in business can join the 505,000 strong workforces of management occupations. According to BLS, this occupation is expected to grow by 5 percent over ten years, faster than average. They can earn a median annual wage of $105,660.
What does it take to complete an online business certificate program?
This will largely depend on the kind of business certificate program that one is trying to complete. Some certificate programs can be completed in as quick as four months, while others can reach up to two years. There are also certificate programs that are only offered part-time. Added to that, most online business certificate programs allow students to set their own pace, which means it can take them longer to complete a program if they choose to. Even so, some follow a regular semester schedule, which often takes up to eight weeks.
How can you choose the right business certificate program?
Deciding to earn a certificate program in business is not something that should be rushed. If anything, it requires just as much mulling over to make sure one is pursuing the right program that they could use as a competitive advantage or necessary skill enhancement.
Some programs may deal with business fundamentals, making them an ideal choice for those who have no undergraduate degree or those who are trying to transition into the business from an unrelated field. Other business certificates provide more specialized skills and knowledge integral to career advancements in the business field. This includes programs for leadership, human resource, business analysis, nonprofit management, and many others.
The key here is to examine one’s goals before determining the kind of business certificate that one should pursue.
