Gone are the days where most people assume that you can’t find well-paying career opportunities without having some form of a traditional degree. With the best online certificate programs, non-traditional learners can even pursue lucrative employment without an undergraduate degree. Through these programs, students are provided with specialized training in specific areas of study. Although you can enroll in online certificate programs, there are many certificate offerings designed for students with high school diplomas/GED and want to learn more skills and training to get hired in entry-level positions.
For many non-traditional high school students, technical/trade certifications are the most practical and suitable pathway to an immediate career. Also, employers and companies have invested in certifications due to their significant business value. Unlike the usual college degrees, online certifications portray transparency on its curriculum and what competencies a candidate brings to the table when they’re already working.
On the contrary, it’s not concluding that undergraduate and graduate degrees don’t have any value at all. Instead, the best online certificate programs that pay well can be economical and significant to jump-starting a rewarding profession.
Without a doubt, online certificate programs are more inexpensive than a college degree; however, the costs add up eventually. Some programs have $100 per credit tuition; thus, it’s not much of an expense. However, if you’re pursuing a 12- to 18-credit course to obtain a certification, you can spend more than $1,000. Despite that, a college degree can still cost more than $1,000 per semester. Hence, the best online certificate programs that pay well are undoubtedly more affordable.
Our profiled list presents the 15 Best Online Certificate Programs That Pay Well with core components and excellent academic features. The top-rated institutions offering these programs made it to our list because these features characterize their online certificate programs:
- 100% Online or hybrid class schedules emphasizing convenience and flexibility,
- Emphasis on rigorous coursework for career competence in top-paying industries,
- Coursework may include school-to-work transition initiatives designed to prepare students for entry into the job market,
- Impressive degree outcomes: graduates enjoy high rates of acceptance to the profession or industry for which they earned their particular skill sets,
- Accepts credit transfers, as applicable,
- Recognized by accreditation agencies and well-performing in numerous college listings and similar resources,
- Offers scholarships and financial assistance options
To find out more about our selection process, please visit our Methodology page.
Use these quick links to discover the 15 online certificate programs across the United States that lead to well-paying jobs:
- Georgetown University
- Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
- American Military University
- University of California Berkeley
- Cornell University
- University of Florida
- University of Massachusetts
- University of Wisconsin-Platteville
- Liberty University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Full Sail University
- Oregon State University
- Thomas Edison State University
- Wilmington University
- Grand Canyon University
Georgetown University
Washington, District of Columbia
Tuition Fee: $1,441 per credit hour
Georgetown University offers some of the best online certificate programs that help students land in well-paying careers. In a digitally-connected era, a cybersecurity-related profession is one of the high-paying employment opportunities to pursue. Hence, Georgetown University has a graduate certificate program in Cybersecurity. Students must accomplish four courses through this well-paying online certificate program, totaling 12 credit hours for certification. Some of the courses they take include Ethics in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance and Risk Management, Security Architecture and Design, Communication Strategy for Information Security Professionals, and Cybersecurity Governance Frameworks. The online certificate programs at Georgetown University can be completed within two years, depending on the students’ pace and schedule. However, if you require shorter time completion, the university also offers professional certificate programs that can be completed within six months or less.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Federal Loans, Employer Education and Training Budgets, Federal Agency Training Funds, Tuition Assistance Program, Payment Plans, Military and Veterans’ Educational Benefits, Private Education Loans, and Tuition Discounts
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $50 non-refundable application fee
- Resume or CV
- Statement of Purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Official/Unofficial transcripts
- Writing and Work samples
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Aside from being one of the reputable schools around Washington, Georgetown University offers various financial aid opportunities for non-traditional learners. That said, they may be eligible for tuition assistance programs, scholarships, and grants as some of the ways to save on tuition expenses. Before qualifying, students must initially accomplish their FAFSA requirements at Georgetown University aside from the school’s standard enrollment process to its online certificate programs.
Learn more about Georgetown University’s Online Certificate Programs
Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Tuition Fee: $576 per credit hour for 59 or fewer credits | $617 per credit hour for 60 or more credits
Pennsylvania State University has a diverse range of online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs for helping students advance in their careers and earning potential. Undoubtedly, the healthcare industry continues to be one of the spotlights in innovation. As a result, the industry produces some of the well-paying career opportunities in the modern world. That said, Pennsylvania State University offers an online undergraduate certificate in Nursing Management program as one of its well-paying options. This certification program is a 12-credit hour program suitable for nurses who aspire to management positions. It’s also one of the best online programs for non-nursing students who want to learn healthcare administration and organization basics. Seminar for Nurse Managers, Nursing Management of Human Resources, Data Management for Nurse Managers, and Organization and Administration for the Nurse Managers are some of the courses students take in this program. Besides healthcare-related programs, PennState World Campus also offers business administration, management, I.T., and education-related certificate programs that pay well.
Types of Aid: Military and Veterans Benefits, Private Alternative Loans, Scholarships, Payment Options, and Tuition Assistance
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
- High school transcripts/GED
- Prerequisite courses
- Other program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Pennsylvania State University provides both undergraduates and graduates with scholarship opportunities to finance their online certificate studies. To qualify for financial aid at PSU, students must first submit their complete FAFSA requirements at the university. Application to FAFSA is 100% free of charge; hence, students can easily apply together with their standard admission requirements.
Learn more about Pennsylvania State University’s Online Undergraduate Certificate and Online Graduate Certificate Programs
American Military University
Charles Town, West Virginia
Tuition Fee: $250 per credit hour
American Military University’s online graduate and undergraduate certificate programs cover some of the industry’s well-paying career opportunities. Regardless if you’re pursuing a career in the I.T., leadership, e-commerce, and security sectors, American Military University has an ideal online certificate program for students seeking a short curriculum that emphasized a specific area of discipline and career development. For interested students, AMU requires a high school diploma or an equivalent credential for enrolling in its undergraduate certificate programs, while graduate-level certificate programs require an undergraduate degree. AMU’s online certificate programs range from 18 to 27 semester hours or approximately six to nine courses. Some credits obtained from an online certificate program can be applied to associate, baccalaureate, or graduate-level degrees. For example, the university has an online graduate certificate in Security Management that requires 18 credit hours for certificate completion. Some of its core required courses include Computer Crime, Cases in Executive Decision Making, Industrial Espionage, Assets Protection & Loss Prevention, and Contemporary Issues in Security Management. Like AMU’s Security Management program, most online certificate programs at AMU have an 8-week program format.
Types of Aid: Veterans Benefits, Employer Benefits, Military Tuition Assistance, Scholarships, Private Loans, Direct Subsidized Loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Pell Grant, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grant, and Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- High school diploma or GED
- Proof of high school completion (If applicable)
- Official transcripts (If applicable)
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
With numerous financial aid options exclusively for military students, American Military University remains steadfast in its mission to provide affordable quality education for everyone. Aside from its financial aid offerings, the university has one of the most affordable per-credit tuition fees worldwide. For military students, their spouses can also qualify for tuition assistance once they’ve submitted their application.
Learn more about American Military University’s Online Certificate Programs
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, California
Tuition Fee: Starts at $4,700 depending on the major
Hailed as one of the best higher education institutions in the country, the University of California Berkeley designs some of the U.S.’ best online certificate programs that pay well. Depending on the students’ preference, they can choose among UC Berkeley’s online part-time, boot camp, full-time, post-baccalaureate, or teaching credential certificate programs. Through the UC Berkeley Extension, students can enroll in an online part-time Agile Project Management certificate program to establish their careers as project managers in the modern workforce. The online program consists of three core courses and three electives. As a standard requirement for completion, all certificate programs at UC Berkeley requires a GPA of 2.5 and a grade of “C” for each course. Although coursework completion must be accomplished within 36 months, most online certificate programs can be obtained within one year. The university doesn’t have strict admission requirements, but a baccalaureate degree is highly recommended among students.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Loan Deferment, Veterans’ Benefits, U.C. Alumni Discounts, AmeriCorps, and Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Bachelor’s degree (Recommended)
- High school diploma or GED
- Prerequisite courses
- Other program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
The University of California Berkeley helps non-traditional online students to lessen the expenses they’ll incur while pursuing their online certificate studies. Once distance learners have accomplished their FAFSA requirements at the university, students can enjoy different ways to save on tuition, such as scholarships, tuition discounts, and even loan deferment options. Like other universities around California, a separate application for financial aid assistance is required for each student.
Learn more about the University of California Berkeley’s Online Certificate Programs
Cornell University
Ithaca, New York
Tuition Fee: $565 to $950 per credit hour, depending on the online certificate program
Through eCornell, non-traditional students interested in pursuing their online certificate studies at Cornell University can choose a related program of interest. The online certificate programs at Cornell University are developed by Cornell faculty with real-world expertise in either one of the 14 areas of discipline at Cornell, namely marketing, data science, technology, leadership, project management, human resources, business and finance, hospitality, healthcare, real estate, engineering, partner, beekeeping, and nutrition. Regardless of the major that students pursue, they’re guaranteed to have an online certificate program that pays well in their career endeavors. For instance, eCornell’s online Data Science with SQL and Tableau certificate program requires five complete courses before students get certified. Some of the courses include Telling a Data-Driven Story with Tableau, Enhancing Data Visualizations with Tableau, Creating Data Visualizations with Tableau, Working with Data Using SQL, and Querying Relational Databases. Most online certificate programs at eCornell have cohort-based learning with a class size of 35 students or less. Each course has a 2-week duration, letting students spend three to five hours attending classes per week.
Types of Aid: Military/Veterans Educational Benefits and Discounts
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- School report
- Counselor recommendation
- Two teacher’s recommendations
- Midyear Report
- Cornell Questions and Writing Supplement
- Official high school transcripts
- SAT/ACT scores
- $80 application fee
- Other program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Although Cornell University doesn’t offer many financial aid opportunities for distance learners, the university has two unique payment options. The first option is a full-time tuition basis, where students can schedule all their courses at once and pay full tuition via PayPal or credit card. For the Pay As You Go option, they have the opportunity to pay fixed monthly tuition depending on the program they enroll.
Learn more about Cornell University’s Online Certificate Programs
University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
Tuition Fee: $501.38 per credit hour (Residents) | $725.75 per credit hour (Non-Residents)
University of Florida’s online certificate programs is available for both graduate and undergraduate learners. The university awards online certificates in specialized subjects, including agricultural & life sciences, arts, health & human performance, journalism & communications, veterinary medicine, engineering, pharmacy, medicine, education, design, construction planning, and public health & health professions. Students that have obtained credits from U.F.’s certificate programs can be accepted towards advanced degrees. Non-traditional learners who want to be part of a well-paying healthcare industry can apply to U.F.’s Medical Anatomy & Physiology Online Certificate Program. Through this program, students obtain a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology for clinical medicine. They take required courses, such as Principles of Medical Physiology, Medical Histology, Medical Anatomy Laboratory, and Medical Human Anatomy. U.F.’s online certificate programs require students to have a minimum grade of “C” on all courses and a GPA of 3.0 for completion.
Types of Aid: Grants, Scholarships, Student Employment, Loans, Non-SFA Administered Aid, State of Florida Aid Programs, Academic Scholarships, Endowed Scholarships, Florida Bright Futures, and Private Loans & Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- $30 non-refundable application fee
- Completed online application
- High school transcripts
- Previous college credits
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Through numerous financial aid options for distance learners, the University of Florida makes it possible for its students to earn their certification with a reduced tuition rate. Students can also become eligible to apply for state aid and other unique financial assistance programs depending on their academic status and background. To qualify for a specific financial aid package, students must first submit complete requirements for FAFSA.
Learn more about the Online Certificate Programs at the University of Florida.
University of Massachusetts
Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Tuition Fee: $125 to $1980 (Undergraduate Courses) | $1230 to $2250 (Graduate Courses), depending on the online certificate program
UMassOnline is the University of Massachusetts’ online learning platform for both undergraduates and graduates interested in pursuing university certification. Some of the major subjects offered at UMass in the certificate studies include Social and Political Sciences, Science, Engineering, and Math, Liberal Arts and Humanities, Health Sciences, Fine Arts, Design and Communications, Education, Criminal Justice, and Legal, Computing and Information Technology, and Business Management. As an overview, UMassOnline offers an online certificate program in Accounting that requires 18 credit hours for completion. This online accounting program is suitable for both accounting and non-accounting students who already completed a baccalaureate degree. With an open enrollment basis, students can apply anytime they’re ready. Like most online certificate programs at UMass, students who have completed their certificate studies can fulfill the prerequisite courses for more advanced education. That said, students can either pursue undergraduate or graduate-level studies at UMass.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Grants, Tuition Waivers, Loans, and Veterans and Military Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
- High school diploma or GED
- Program-specific requirements and prerequisites
Accreditation:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
The University of Massachusetts offers undergraduates and graduates several financial aid options to finance their online certificate studies. For active-duty military, veterans, and eligible spouses, can enjoy tuition discounts and other educational benefits at the University of Massachusetts. Aside from UMass’s standard enrollment process, the school also requires complete requirements of FAFSA to determine the appropriate financial aid package for students.
Learn about the University of Massachusetts’ Online Certificate Programs.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
Madison, Wisconsin
Tuition Fee: $495.45 per credit hour (Resident) | $1,657.44 per credit hour (Non-Resident)
The University of Wisconsin offers almost 50 online certificate programs that help distance learners land well-paying career opportunities. Are you part of an engineering-related sector? Students can enroll in UW-Platteville’s Engineering Design Graduate Certificate that combines technical and management courses, such as Simulation Modeling of Engineering Systems, Optimization with Engineering Applications, Engineering Management, Engineering Communication, and Linear Algebra. Aside from core courses, students can choose elective courses that best suit their professional goals. Students can select an area of emphasis through this program, such as Structural/Geotechnical Engineering, Engineering Design, Control Electrical Systems, and Applications of Engineering Management. Thirty credit hours are required for completion.
Types of Aid: Bucky’s Tuition Promise, Badger Promise, Fastrack, Banner, Scholarships, Grants, Federal Work-Study Options, Student Jobs, Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans, Graduate PLUS Loans, Parent PLUS Loans, Institutional Loans, and Private Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- High school transcripts
- High school diploma or GED
- Prerequisite courses
- Program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has a diverse range of opportunities for both on-campus and online students to reduce their online certificate studies expenses. For Wisconsin residents, the University of Wisconsin offers additional financial aid options through its Badger Promise, Bucky’s Tuition Promise, Banner, and Fastrack programs. That said, the university doesn’t only commit to offering high-quality online certificate studies to learners but also a more accessible and affordable education for all.
Check out the University of Wisconsin Platteville’s Online Certificate Programs.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Tuition Fee: $390 per credit hour (Undergraduate) | $565 per credit hour (Graduate)
Liberty University is a Virginia-based university with online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs for students who want to join the modern workforce. If you want to pursue an immediate career in any sector, Liberty University offers an online undergraduate International Business certificate program that can be completed within 12 months. This 18-credit hour online certificate program has core required courses, such as Export Management Strategy, International Market Integration and Trade Agreements, Global Industries and Operations, Contemporary Issues in International Business, Principles of Management, and International Business. The majority of certificate programs at Liberty University have 8-week courses that can be completed asynchronously. With eight start dates offered every year, students can enroll anytime they prefer.
Types of Aid: Grants, Scholarships, External Aid, Work-Study Programs, Federal and Private Loans, Payment Plans, Deferred Corporate Tuition Assistance, First-Responder Discounts, Military Tuition Assistance, and Veteran Affairs Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- $50 application fee
- Application for admission
- Official/Unofficial transcripts
- High school diploma or GED
- A high school self-certification form
- Bachelor’s degree (For Graduate Certificates)
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Liberty University’s different types of financial aid options allow its students to obtain their online certificates without accumulating a hefty amount of debt. The university is also a military-friendly school, providing tuition discounts and educational benefits to active-duty military, veterans, and their eligible spouses. Student’s complete FAFSA requirements must initially be submitted to help Liberty University evaluate each student’s right financial aid package.
Learn more about Liberty University’s Online Certificate Programs
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Tuition Fee: $320 per credit hour (Undergraduate Certificates) | $627 per credit hour (Graduate Certificates)
Southern New Hampshire University’s online graduate programs help students earn academic credits for professional examinations. For instance, SNHU’s Online Graduate Certificate in Accounting courses can be credited towards the required credits to qualify for the CPA certification exam. Through the online accounting program, students can gain advanced knowledge and skills for pursuing graduate-level degrees or jump-start a career in an accounting-related position. Some of the core required courses include Federal Taxation, Intermediate Accounting, Managerial Accounting, and Financial Accounting. Another online certificate program that prepares students for well-paying careers in the university’s Project Management Graduate Certificate program helps prepare students for the PMI’s Project Management Professional and Certified Associate of Project Management certification exams. Speaking of high-paying industries, SNHU’s majority of online certificate programs are within the finance, business, management, and healthcare sectors.
Types of Aid: Grants, Federal Work-Study Options, Federal Loans, Merit Scholarships, State and Institutional Scholarships, Military and Veterans Benefits, and Student Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- Transcript Release Form
- Electronic Attestation Form
- GED/High school transcripts
Accreditation:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
With less than $400 per credit hour tuition, Southern New Hampshire University offers one of the most affordable tuition rates around New Hampshire. Hence, it’s easier for students to complete their online certificate studies regardless if they’re an undergraduate-level or graduate-level. Also, SNHU is one of the regular schools on our list for being one of the best online schools around the country.
Find out more about Southern New Hampshire University’s Online Certificate Programs.
Full Sail University
Winter Park, Florida
Tuition Fee: $400 to $525 per credit hour, depending on the online certificate program
Full Sail University is one of the unique online universities around Florida that offers an innovative approach to distance learning. A total of 15 online certificate programs is taught by Full Sail, helping distance learners jump-start their careers in well-paying positions. Non-traditional learners who have a passion for design can take advantage of the university’s online certificate programs. For example, distance learners can enroll in an online Game Design Undergraduate Certificate program completed within seven months. Students take core required courses through the program, such as Introduction to Game Design, Design Tools, Introduction to Programming, Project I: Game Design, and Technology in the Entertainment and Media Industries. One of the noteworthy aspects of Full Sail’s online certificate programs is its Project LaunchBox. It is the university’s program that offers distance learners with state-of-the-art technology to assist in developing projects. All students’ coursework, portfolio, multimedia creations, and documents can be accessible 24/7 via Project LaunchBox.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Military Benefits, Grants, Loans, and Work-Study Options
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
- Interview
- Government-issued photo identification
- A completed online orientation module
- Portfolio (If applicable)
- Prerequisite courses
- Skills Assessment Test (If applicable)
- Math Self-Evaluation (If applicable)
Accreditation:
- Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Full Sail University has many financial aid programs for undergraduate and graduate students who qualify for such assistance. Each student must complete their requirements for FAFSA. Similar to other online schools around Florida, Full Sail University has a dedicated financial aid team to guide students in the process of applying for FAFSA. The FAFSA is crucial in determining the type of financial aid package that students receive.
Learn more about Full Sail University’s Online Certificate Programs.
Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Tuition Fee: $318 to $508 per credit hour (Undergraduate Certificates) | $560 to $863 per credit hour (Graduate Certificates)
Oregon State University’s eCampus is home to a diverse range of online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs for non-traditional students aiming for well-paying employment prospects. Some online certificate programs at Oregon State require a set of prerequisites before enrollment to the program; hence, students should verify the program’s curriculum guidelines. The university’s sole healthcare-related undergraduate certificate is the Medical Humanities program, requiring 27 credit hours for completion. It is an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes the study of healing, medicine, and health professions. The 27-credit hour online program has courses in the History of Medicine, Biological and Cultural Constructions of Race, Death, and Dying, History of Medicine, and Biomedical Ethics. Like most programs, OSU eCampus students are granted with the same transcript-visible certification as traditional on-campus learners. The credits obtained toward an online certificate program at Oregon State can be applied to an undergraduate degree program.
Types of Aid: Military Benefits, Scholarships, Need-Based Grants, Financial Hardship Grants, and Private/Alternative Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- High school diploma or GED
- High school transcripts
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- SAT and ACT scores (Optional)
- Prerequisite subjects
Accreditation:
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
In terms of financial matters, Oregon State University provides online students with the option to have a more manageable and inexpensive means to accomplish online certificate programs in a specific area of study. Depending on the students’ chosen program, they can pay per-credit tuition of less than $500 range. Hence, they are guaranteed to earn an online certification at Oregon State without accumulating too many expenses.
Learn more about Oregon State University’s Online Undergraduate Certificates and Online Graduate Certificate Programs
Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
Tuition Fee: $399 per credit hour (Residents) | $519 per credit hour (Non-Residents)
Online graduate and undergraduate certificate programs at Thomas Edison State University provide distance learners with the opportunity to earn the essential skills and training so they can pursue employment opportunities that pay well. For example, TESU’s online graduate certificate in Human Resources Management program is a 12-credit hour program that can be credited towards a master’s program in Management or MBA. Through the HR-related online program, students accomplish 100% online courses, including Lifestyle Benefits and Compensation in the New Millennium, Strategic Recruitment and Selection, Human Resources as a Strategic Partner, The Legal and Ethical Environment of Human Resources, and Intellectual Capital and the Workplace Learner. Are you still exploring your options? TESU offers a “Test Drive a Course” feature, allowing prospective students to try out some of its online courses as an overview.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Military and Veterans Educational Benefits, Federal Loan, and Outside Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- $50 application fee
- Completed online application
- High school degree or GED
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement (If required)
- Program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
The majority of students at Thomas Edison State University receive financial aid to help them finance their studies. Also, TESU is well-known for being one of the best universities in New Jersey, offering affordable tuition to all its students. As a standard requirement, students at TESU should file their FAFSA requirements to receive the right financial aid package to supplement their studies.
Learn more about the Online Certificate Programs at Thomas Edison State University.
Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Tuition Fee: $381 per credit hour
Wilmington University has several 100% online certificate programs in the I.T., social and behavioral sciences, healthcare, education, business, and arts and sciences fields. Although the university’s programs are completed online, students synchronously take their courses with classes delivered on a block or semester schedule. That said, distance learners must participate three to five days weekly during the virtual classroom session or other weekly deliverables. Aside from that, Wilmington features a WilmU Dual-Credit Certificates option. Through this program, students can complete an online certificate program and obtain a credit for a degree simultaneously. If you want to become part of the I.T. industry, you can enroll in WilmU’s Web Applications Development Certificate program. Students complete 15 credit hours of 100% online courses in JavaScript I and II, Mobile App, Database Foundations, PHP Applic Development, and Web Design & Development.
Types of Aid: Private/Alternative Loans, Scholarships, Payment Plans, VA Education Benefits, Employer Tuition Assistance, Grants, Loans, and Work-Study Programs
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- $35 non-refundable application fee
- Official high school transcripts or GED
- Baccalaureate degree (For Graduate and Post-Bachelor’s Certificates)
- Official transcripts
- Completed Student Conduct Training
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Distance learners at Wilmington University have the option to minimize the financial burden they’ve gained in pursuing an online certificate program. Aside from that, WilmU has a dedicated financial aid staff that readily helps online students regarding their FAFSA eligibility and the appropriate financial aid package. Through the submission of FAFSA, students at Wilmington University can be eligible to receive scholarships, student employment opportunities, and tuition assistance.
Learn more about Wilmington University’s Online Certificate Programs.
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
Tuition Fee: $395 to $470 per credit hour (Undergraduate) | $365 to $695 per credit hour (Graduate)
Depending on the program, Grand Canyon University’s online certificate programs only take a few months to earn. Hence, students can easily earn their certifications and apply their knowledge in well-paying careers. One of GCU’s undergraduate certificate programs includes a Java Programming Certificate that helps students pursue a high-paying career in the I.T. industry. Through this program, distancer learners participate in a virtual discussion with an instructor and colleagues simultaneously. GCU’s Java Programming Certificate takes four months or 16 weeks to complete. The program’s core courses include Open Source Computing and Computer Programming I to III. Each course has a 7-week duration and can be completed 100% remotely. Aside from I.T. -related majors, GCU offers online certificate programs in theology, education, humanities & social sciences, science, engineering & technology.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Grants, Private/Alternative Loans, Loan Deferment and Forbearance, Loan Forgiveness Programs, Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, Federal Perkins Loans, and Military and Veterans’ Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official/Unofficial transcripts
- High school transcripts or GED
- Minimum high school GPA of 3.0
- Program-specific requirements
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Most students at Grand Canyon University have received some form of a financial aid package. As one of the most affordable schools around Arizona, students at GCU can complete their chosen online program without spending a hefty amount of money. Like other universities and colleges, students must first accomplish their FAFSA requirements at GCU to be eligible to receive an appropriate financial aid package regardless of their academic background and social status.
Learn more about Grand Canyon University’s Online Certificate Programs.
How to find a suitable online certificate program that pays well?
Finding the best online certificate program that has a good return of investment can be a challenging endeavor. Unless you’re already 100% sure of which certificate program to pursue, you can follow some of these guidelines to help you find the right program for your online certificate studies.
Speak to your current employer
If you’re aspiring to pursue an online certificate program for career progression, speak to your manager or supervisor for recommendations and insider tips. Chances are, your current employer can provide suggestions for online certificate programs that could boost your earning potential and improve your chances of becoming more marketable.
Consult with someone on the same professional network
If you’re within a union or association, inquire about online certifications within your industry that help boost your marketability. Aside from that, you can also inquire regarding the online certificate programs recommended or offered by your professional organization.
Ask for feedback
Students interested in starting a career or shift in a specific industry can ask people within that field regarding certifications and degrees. Hence, an interview with these people can enlighten you regarding the type of online certificate program to pursue. If one of your colleagues has obtained an online certification, ask for feedback regarding the school and its program offerings.
Browse through the CareerOneStop Certification Toolkit
The U.S. Department of Labor features a CareerOneStop Toolkit to help you find the right certificate program that pays well in the future. You can browse through the one-stop-shop platform through the certification finder by Occupation, Industry, Organization, or Certification Name. From there, you can generate a specific list of certificate programs with a comprehensive overview of the program.
Ask an Alumni
One of the best options to avoid the wrong type of online certificate program is to speak with alumni. The majority of schools are more than willing to help you get in touch with alumni who can respond to your inquiries regarding a specific online certificate program. That said, you can ask the alumni regarding their experience with the program and how marketable the program is when it comes to pursuing career opportunities.
What are some of the well-paying careers that I can pursue with an online certificate program?
Most high-paying jobs on this list require a certification or a relevant certificate program to jump-start in the profession. Although you can always pursue a high-paying of your choice, here are some of the professions to help you get started:
- Application Developer
- Architectural and Civil Drafter
- Human Resource Manager
- HVACR Technicians
- Industrial Engineering Technician
- Medical Assistant
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator
- Programmer
- Project Manager
- Radiologic Technologist
- Surgical Technologist
- Web Developer
What documents should I submit when applying for an online certificate program?
Every online certificate program has a unique admission procedure. That said, prospective students must plan ahead of time to go through the school’s application process and complete the required documents for admission. As a standard requirement for most online schools, students must prepare the following documents for their application:
- Essay/Personal Statement
- Letters of Recommendation
- Official Transcripts/GED
- Resume
- Additional Testing Requirements