Is an Online Certificate Program Right for You?

Published on: November 8, 2023

Interested in learning a new skill? Want to expand your professional network and opportunities for career growth? If so, and you don't want to spend years in school, then a certificate program may be right for you. 

Better yet, more schools these days offer online programs that allow students to work towards their certificates at their own pace. If you're looking for a certificate program that suits your busy schedule, online learning could be an ideal path. 

What Are Certificate Programs? 

A certificate program is a college-level program that allows students to earn an academic certificate in a specific field or area of study. These credentials can be excellent as a standalone accomplishment or complement an existing bachelor's degree or other degree. 

Certificates are offered at both the undergraduate and graduate level. What is a graduate certificate? Typically, these are more advanced certificates designed to teach students practical, hands-on skills they can use in their careers or in a new field. While not as in-depth as a graduate degree (such as a master's degree), graduate certificates can be an excellent addition to a prior degree. Certificates allow students and professionals alike to expand their expertise within their respective fields of study without having the same amount of financial or time commitment as an additional degree. 

How Long Is a Certificate Program? 

The length of a certificate program can vary from one school or program to the next.  

However, these programs are generally designed to be completed in one year or less. Most certificates require fifteen credit hours that consist of just a few classes, requiring far less time to complete than a traditional degree program that takes anywhere from two to four (or more) years to finish. 

Reasons to Earn a Certificate Online 

When it comes to pursuing a certificate, there are plenty of options. Depending on the program in which you enroll, you can work toward your certificate with in-person classes, online course options or a combination of both. 

For many, however, a completely online certificate program is the most practical and convenient option. Whether you're already working a full-time job or simply looking for a certificate program you can pursue at your own pace, there are many reasons to earn your certificate online. 

Flexibility and Convenience 

Nothing can beat the flexibility of taking online courses. Rather than having to physically attend on-campus classes for your certificate program, an online program allows you to log into courses at your own leisure so you can work around other life obligations and schedule commitments. This added convenience makes it easier to work toward your certificate—even if you already have a lot on your plate! 

Cost Effectiveness 

Compared to a full degree program or even an on-campus certificate program, an online certificate program is about as affordable and cost-effective as you can get because most online certificate programs involve only a few classes. For example, certificates are usually between 9-15 credit hours to complete and can range from $398-$682 per credit hour. You can estimate your specific certificate cost using our Net Price Calculator. Graduate degrees may vary in cost as well based on the credits required, but on average, a graduate degree takes 36 hours. That means, not only is it likely to be more expensive, but at best it will take twice as long, which means that a certificate teaches you specific skills and saves you time and money! 

Meanwhile, because you won't have to commute to a physical campus, you could even further cut down on other costs associated with on-campus certificate programs (like fuel and wear and tear on your vehicle). 

Curious about what your desired certificate program may cost? Check out our Cost & Aid page to get an estimate of what a graduate certificate is valued at per credit hour. 

Time to Completion 

Online certificate programs are usually designed to be completed in one year or less, so you don't have to make a huge time commitment to better yourself and advance in your career. With most traditional degree programs taking anywhere from two to four-plus years to complete, it's easy to see why so many students opt for a certificate program instead. Since you have the ability to finish your certificate program in less than a year, you don't have to put your life on hold. You can pursue your certificate while you're working, taking care of a family, or tending to any other life obligations. 

Opportunity for Career Advancement 

One of the biggest advantages people enjoy after completing an online certificate program is the opportunity for career advancement. Because certificate programs are designed to teach students the most practical skills in their respective fields, those who complete a certificate program could immediately put those new skills to use. They can also set themselves apart from the competition (i.e., other job applicants) and stand out with a certificate on their resume, which may be more appealing to potential employers. 

Gain Additional Skills 

An online certificate program is a great way to learn new skills, work on your critical thinking while gaining some valuable knowledge without the full-time commitment and cost that often accompanies a bachelor's or master's degree program. 

This can be appealing whether you're interested in exploring a new field, making a career pivot or simply wanting to sharpen your skills in your current area. Certificate programs really boil down some of the most important concepts and skills that you should possess in a given field and help you become proficient in the shortest amount of time possible. 

Expand Your Network 

Furthering your education is always an excellent way to expand your professional network. And no matter what field you may find yourself in, it really is all about who you know these days. Fostering the right connections could help you land your next job or even climb the ladder at your current workplace. 

Regardless, completing an online certificate program opens the door to meeting new people and connecting with reputable names who are already considered thought leaders in your field. Consider attending networking events or other industry gatherings (online or in-person) to build your professional connections even more. 

Establish Credibility 

Last but not least, completing a certificate program could help you establish credibility. This is especially true if you don't already have a formal degree but have been working in your area of expertise for a substantial amount of time. Unfortunately, without formal credentials, you may not initially be taken seriously in your field or at your workplace. With any certificate under your belt, you could have an easier time being respected and appreciated as a thought leader. 

Are Certificates Worth It? 

Ultimately, whether a certificate program is worth the cost and effort depends on your personal goals and aspirations. For many, certificate programs are a cost-effective and timely alternative to a formal degree program—allowing students to acquire essential and practical skills they need to be successful in future professional roles. Likewise, a certificate can be a great way to explore a new field or expand upon your critical thinking skills. 

Interested in exploring some of our certificate options? While there are more options available, check out programs like our Certificate in Animal-Assisted Therapy or our Certificate in Animal Training. If these don’t catch your eye, we offer a number of undergraduate and graduate-level certificates in such fields as accounting, business, human resources. and more. 

Learn more about our program offerings, or start your online application to embark on your journey today!

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