In this article, we profile the 30 best online certificate programs of 2022.
Want to advance your career in the short-term? Online certificate programs allow students to explore a discipline without having to commit the time it takes to earn a degree. Students may earn a certificate by taking non-degree courses. Undergraduate certificate programs online have become a popular way to explore a discipline before electing to major in the area of study. In many certificate programs, students may also earn transfer credits that can be applied to a degree at a later date.
30 Most Affordable Online Certificate Programs Methodology
We reviewed approximately 110 colleges and universities offering online certificate programs at the undergraduate level. Our selection was based on accreditation and affordability. We gathered pertinent information from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator and verified accreditation on the school’s website. We then selected schools that cost less than $30,000 per year for undergraduate tuition and ranked them according to raw affordability. We also considered school and program rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
Ranking the 30 Most Affordable Online Certificate Programs for Undergraduates
#30 – Lesley University
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Those seeking a professional certificate program in art and design will find many options available at Lesley University. Undergrad certificates are available online in areas like:
- Graphic Design
- User Experience
- Web Design
Lesley also has options for those seeking an online bachelor’s degree. Lesley prides itself in offering quality and accredited programs online. In fact, the institution is fully accredited. It is also ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Recent rankings include #249 in best national universities and #303 in top performers on social mobility.
Undergraduate Tuition: $29,550
#29 – Ohio Christian University
Circleville, Ohio
Ohio Christian University offers some of the best programs on our list. In fact, with 18 available certificates, Ohio Christian University has one of the most abundant selections. Certificates for online students are available in a diverse array of disciplines. Examples include:
- Accounting
- Business and Operations Management
- Computer Literacy
- Emergency Management
- Health information technology
- Organizational Leadership
- Social Media
- Liberal Arts
Each online certificate program is available 100% online. They are designed to enhance vocational skills and increase professional development. Ohio Christian ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The most recent rankings include #119 – #156 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
Undergraduate Tuition: $22,506
#28 – Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
The accredited online certificate programs available at Liberty University include a wide range of undergraduate programs. Online students may pursue a certificate program in the areas of:
- Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Business & Human Resources
- Counseling
- Education
- Government
- Health
- IT
- Law
- Religion
Specifically, online undergrad certificates are available in:
- Accounting
- Autism Education
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Data Networking
- Information Assurance
- Paralegal Studies
- Public Administration
All certificates are available entirely online. Plus, they are flexibly designed to be practical and career-focused. In addition to being accredited, Liberty ranks with U.S. News and World Report among the top national universities and top performers on social mobility.
Undergraduate Tuition: $22,713
#27 – Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, Arizona
The online certificate program at Grand Canyon University can be the next step in pursuing your career. Online learners may earn an undergraduate certificate in:
- Cybersecurity Foundations
- Java Programming
Depending on the program, the certificate may be earned in just a few months. For example, the cybersecurity certificate requires 16 credits (four classes), which may be earned in 15 weeks, as online certificate courses run eight weeks in length. The Java programming certificate also requires 16 credits and four classes. However, since classes run seven weeks in length instead of eight, the certificate may be earned in 16 weeks. GCU is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report.
Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800
#26 – University of Massachusetts Online
Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
UMass offers certificate programs online through their UMass Online institution. Accredited and affordable undergraduate certificate programs are available in 28 disciplines. Some of the available certificates for undergraduates include:
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Computer Assisted Manufacturing
- Film Studies
- Graphic Design & Digital Imaging
- Human Resources Management
- Networking & Security
- Sustainable Business Practice
Certificates require anywhere from 12 to 30 credits depending on the program. UMass Online is a fully accredited institution. It ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include top national universities, best value colleges, and best colleges for veterans, to name a few.
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,480
#25 – University of Massachusetts Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
At UMass Lowell, students may enroll in certificate programs online in a wide range of disciplines. Certificates at UMass are designed to improve employability and showcase additional skills to potential employers. Undergrad certificates are available in areas like:
- Accounting
- Computer Assisted Manufacturing
- Graphic Design & Digital Imaging
- Paralegal Studies
- Security Management & Homeland Security
- Digital Marketing
- Criminal Justice
For those seeking IT certificates, several are offered in areas like:
- Information Technology
- Java Development
- Multimedia Applications
In addition to being fully accredited, UMass Lowell is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as #176 on their list of best national universities.
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,698
#24 – University of Illinois
Champaign, Illinois
Some of the top online certificate programs on our list are offered by University of Illinois. For an affordable price, students may earn an undergraduate certificate that complements their degree and/or skills. Affordable online certificate programs for undergraduates are offered in areas like:
- Environmental Sustainability
- Global Labor Studies
- Horticulture
- Information Accessibility Design & Policy
- Professional Development in Applied Mathematics
Most certificates require six three-credit online certificate courses. Still, requirements vary by program. According to U.S. News and World Report, the University of Illinois ranks #47 in the list of best national universities and #144 in best value schools. Also, veterans seeking an online certificate program will find the school ranks #23 on the list of best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,442
#23 – University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Affordable certificate programs online are available at the University of Minnesota. The school offers undergraduate certificate programs in areas of study like:
- Agricultural Business
- Applied Business
- Business Administration
- Election Administration
- Finance
- Criminal Justice
- Sport & Recreation Management
- Health Management
All certificates are offered at the affordable price of approximately $451.50 per credit. An online certificate program requires anywhere from 12 to 32 credits depending on the discipline. The University of Minnesota ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The most current rankings include #66 in best national universities, #138 in best value schools, and #38 in best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,254
#22 – Mount William University
Chicago, Illinois
Mount William University offers virtual certificate programs designed to help students in their career advancement. Undergrad certificates at MWU require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent international education. Depending on the program, students typically complete three online certificate courses in less than three months. Study is online and self-paced. According to the school’s website, Mount William is fully accredited and ranked by several publications. The school reports a #3 ranking among top online universities in the United States and a #8 ranking among top global universities online. Due to the affordable tuition, MWU earns a spot on our list of affordable online certificate programs.
Undergraduate Tuition: $14,400
#21 – Pennsylvania State University World Campus
University Park, Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University World Campus offers quick certificate programs online to help students achieve their career goals. Penn State’s undergraduate certificate courses are designed to help students gain useful knowledge by allowing them to take a few courses that they find interesting in a specific area of study. Undergrad certificates are available in:
- Adult Development & Aging Services
- Digital Arts
- Diversity Studies
- Financial Planning
- Information Sciences & Technology
- Nursing Management
- Organizational Communication
- Weather Forecasting
- Project Management
Programs are offered entirely online with classes taught by Penn State faculty. An academic advisor and other student services are available to those enrolled in online classes. Penn State ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. The most current rankings include #63 in the list of best national universities, #164 in best value schools, and #35 in best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $14,338
#20 – National University
La Jolla, California
The programs offered by National University are affordable and designed to leverage your career. For over 20 years, National University has offered flexible online programs for busy and working adults. Their extensive experience has garnered a wide range of programs in various disciplines. Certificates are available in the areas of:
- Business & Marketing
- Social Sciences & Psychology
- Engineering & Technology
- Health Care & Nursing
- Criminal Justice
- Education
National University is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Their current rankings include #95 – #124 in the list of best regional universities in the West.
Undergraduate Tuition: $13,320
#19 – Oregon State University
Corvallis, Oregon
Oregon State University offers affordable an online certificate program in seven different areas of discipline. Students may earn an undergraduate certificate in:
- Cybersecurity
- Criminal Justice
- Food in Culture & Social Justice
- Geographic Information Science (GIScience)
- Medical Humanities
- Organic Farming Systems
- Women, Gender, & Sexuality Studies
- Urban Agriculture
- Project Management
Some online certificates have prerequisites that must be met before enrolling. Anyone enrolled in an OSU bachelor degree program can enroll in an online undergraduate certificate program. OSU is accredited and also ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. OSU’s rankings include #153 in best national universities, #133 in best value schools, and #108 in best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $12,188
#18 – Ohio State University
Columbus, Ohio
The accredited online certificate programs at Ohio State University include areas of study like arts & sciences, education, nursing, and public affairs. Open to undergraduate students and those seeking online certificates, the school offers unique programs designed to help leverage employability. Students gain valuable skills in niche areas that can benefit their employer. Areas of study for online certificates include:
- Assistive & Rehabilitative Technology
- Core Practices in World Language Education
- Criminal Justice Administration
- Healthcare Environmental & Hospitality Services
- Public Management
Ohio State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 53rd best national university.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,936
#17 – Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State University’s certificate program online is designed for undergraduates seeking additional skills and knowledge that will make them a valuable asset to any employer. Affordable online certificates are available in areas like:
- Geographic Information Science
- Homeland Security
- Mathematical Concepts of Engineering
- Veterans, Society, & Service
Online certificates can be completed in conjunction with a degree program or as a stand-alone certificate. ASU, a fully accredited institution, ranks with U.S. News and World Report as #103 in the list of best national universities. Other rankings include #68 in best colleges for veterans and #16 in best undergraduate teaching programs.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,348
#16 – Oregon Institute of Technology
Klamath Falls, Oregon
If you’re looking to advance your career, a robust online certificate program is available at Oregon Institute of Technology. This fully accredited and ranked institution offers certificate programs in clinical and health-related disciplines. Students may earn online certificates in:
- Clinical Sleep Health
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Picture Archiving & Communication Systems (PACS)
- Polysomnographic Technology
Oregon Tech ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the fifth best regional college in the West. Additional rankings include third in the list of best colleges for veterans and 11th in best value schools.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,622
#15 – Indiana University
Bloomington, Indiana
Indiana University’s online certificate programs are designed for busy students seeking additional knowledge and skills in a niche discipline. Certificates may be completed entirely online in various areas of study. Complete coursework for certificate training is available in:
- Analog Audio Electronics
- Applied Computer Science
- Applied Mathematics
- Business Foundations
- Cultural Heritage Tourism
- Rehabilitation & Disability Studies
- Events Management
- E-commerce Development
- Project Management
Certificate program requirements range from 12 to 21 credits, depending on the program. Indiana University ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 76th best national university and 136th best value school. Also, IU ranks #47 in best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,333
#14 – Ashworth College
Norcross, Georgia
Ashworth College’s certificate programs online are affordable and flexible. For many students, the Ashworth undergraduate certificate is a gateway to a college education. Once you finish the certificate requirements, you have the option of transferring credit to an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Certificates are available at Ashworth in areas like:
- Accounting
- Business Management
- Construction Management
- Criminal Justice
- Early Childhood Education
- Marketing
- Paralegal Studies
- Security Management
- Project Management
Credit requirements and online courses vary among programs. Ashworth College is fully accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. Also, the school is authorized by the Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission to offer instruction in career programs and certificates.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,192
#13 – Kent State University
Kent, Ohio
The many types of certificates offered at Kent State University help prepare students for careers in various fields. Undergraduate certificate programs include:
- Business Analytics
- Environmental Geographic Information Science
- Financial Management
- Health Informatics
- Medical Billing
- Online & Blended Learning
- Web-Enabled E-learning Knowledge Management
Kent State is a fully accredited institution. It is ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Current rankings include #217 in best national universities, #109 in top public schools, and #174 in top performers on social mobility. Federal financial aid awards are plentiful and can reduce the cost of earning an undergraduate certificate. Plus, a variety of student services are available, including access to an academic advisor.
Undergraduate Tuition: $11,934
#12 – Purdue University Global
Indianapolis, Indiana
Purdue University Global offers certificate programs online that are both affordable and flexibly designed. Undergraduate professional certificates provide skills that can be directly applied to your chosen field. Undergrad certificates include:
- Crime Scene Technician
- Human Services
- Legal Secretary
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Billing & Coding
- Medical Office Administration
Under the guidance of an academic advisor, students may earn a certificate in conjunction with a degree or as a stand-alone program. Purdue Global ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 114th best global institution. The school has also received numerous subject rankings in the top 20, 50, and 100.
Undergraduate Tuition: $10,125
#11 – Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University offers online certificate programs that are awarded by either the institution or the individual academic department. Depending on the certificate program, certificates may be earned as part of a degree or independently. Available undergrad certificates include:
- Communication Studies
- Dispute Resolution
- Correctional Intervention Strategies
- Early Childhood Director
- Game Design
- Global Supply Chain Management
- Homeland Security
- Industrial Fire Protection
- Veterans Studies
EKU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 51st regional university in the South. Additional rankings include #32 in best colleges for veterans and #36 in best value schools. EKU is fully accredited to offer online classes.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,752
#10 – Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New Hampshire
Affordable online certificate programs can be found at Southern New Hampshire University. Flexible undergraduate certificates may be completed entirely online with online courses taught by SNHU’s expert instructors. Certificates are available in niche areas of:
- Accounting
- Human Resource Management
- Introduction to Computer Programming
Earning an undergraduate certificate can be a quick way to gain documented progress to a higher-level degree. Certificates are also beneficial in showcasing new skills that can be looked favorably upon by employers. SNHU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 75th best regional university in the North and the number one most innovative school.
Undergraduate Tuition: $15,380
#9 – University of Arkansas
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Some exceptional online certificate programs are available at the University of Arkansas. These certificates are designed to equip students for both their degree program and career. Academic certificate programs are available in:
- Child Advocacy Studies
- Geospatial Technologies
The child advocacy studies certificate consists of nine credit hours and can be completed entirely online. All certificate programs at the University of Arkansas are led by nationally recognized faculty and start during any semester. In addition to being accredited, University of Arkansas ranks #160 in best national universities and #163 in best value schools.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,574
#8 – North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
North Carolina State University offers various associate and undergrad certificates that are designed to equip students with additional skills in their career. Available professional certification includes:
- Agricultural Business Management
- Agricultural Leadership
- Animal Nutrition
- Business Essentials
- Computer Programming
- Crop Science
- Food Safety & Quality Management
- General Horticulture
- Microbiology
- Renewable Energy Assessment
- Soil Science
NC State offers one of the largest groups of certificates for undergrads of any school on our list. Also, NC State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 80th best national university.
Undergraduate Tuition: $9,131
#7 – Colorado State University Global
Aurora, Colorado
Colorado State University Global’s online certificate programs include a number of undergraduate certificates. These certificates are designed to help students improve knowledge in a particular subject area without having to earn a degree. The undergraduate certificate is a stand-alone program that showcases proficiency in a certain subject area. Online certificates are available in areas like:
- Business Administration
- Computer Programming
- Cybersecurity
- Data Management & Analysis
- Digital Marketing
- Fundraising
- Information Technology Operations
- Marketing
- Networking
- Project Management
- Web Application Development
The option is available to earn multiple certificates. CSU Global ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report and is fully accredited.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,400
#6 – Boise State University
Boise, Idaho
Boise State University offers some of the top online certificate programs based on both affordability and flexibility. The accredited online certificates are offered to undergraduates in areas of discipline like:
- Applied Leadership
- Business
- Communication Management
- Cyber Operations
- Media Content Management
- Public Health
Students can focus their studies by gaining knowledge and skills in a particular subject area. Boise State is fully accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. BSU ranks #298 – #389 in best national universities, #265 in top performers on social mobility, and #154 – #209 in top public schools. The institution was founded in 1932.
Undergraduate Tuition: $8,060
#5 – University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland
The online certificate programs offered by the University of Maryland Global Campus are both affordable and flexibly structured. Designed for working or busy students seeking knowledge in a particular subject area, these certificates offer the opportunity for a student to study in a discipline without having to earn a degree. Professional certification is offered to prospective students in:
- Computer Networking
- Facebook Digital Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- Management Foundations
- Project Management
- Public Safety Executive Leadership
- Spanish for Business & the Professions
UMGC is one of the nation’s fully accredited higher education institution. It has earned rankings with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Rankings include #136 – #176 in best regional universities in the North.
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,704
#4 – Montana State University
Bozeman, Montana
At Montana State University, students may enroll in online certificate programs designed to equip them with skills and knowledge in a particular subject area. Without having to commit to earning a college degree, an undergraduate certificate can showcase skills gained in a discipline. While the school only offers a limited selection of undergrad certificates, studies in liberal arts and gerontology are available. The gerontology undergraduate certificate requires the completion of 15 credits and focuses on courses dealing with the issues of aging and gerontology. MSU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. These rankings include #249 in best national universities and #121 in top public schools.
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,528
#3 – Thomas Edison State University
Trenton, New Jersey
With one of the widest selections of online certificate programs, Thomas Edison State University ranks high on our list of affordable certificates. Undergrad certificates are offered to prospective students in areas of discipline like:
- Accounting
- Communications
- Computer Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Electronics
- Finance
- Fitness & Wellness Services
- General Management
- HR Management
- Organizational Leadership
- Psychology
Undergraduate certificate programs typically require 18 credits; however, requirements vary among programs. Thomas Edison State University is a fully accredited institution that is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. For instance, the school is recognized as being among the best nursing schools.
Undergraduate Tuition: $7,182
#2 – Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Florida International University offers some of the leading online certificate programs on our list. Not only are there several graduate certificate programs available, there are also a large number of undergrad certificates available. FIU’s online certificate programs for online learners include:
- African & African Diaspora Studies
- Asian Studies
- Conflict Dispute Resolution
- Global Black Studies
- Health and Fitness Marketing
- Labor Studies
- Leadership Studies
- National Security Studies
- Women’s & Gender Studies
In addition to being fully accredited, FIU ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Current rankings include #187 in best national universities, #117 in best value schools, and #136 in best colleges for veterans.
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,565
#1 – University of Florida
Gainesville, Florida
The most affordable online certificate programs on our list are offered by the University of Florida, a top-ranked institution. UF’s online certificate programs for undergraduates are available in disciplines like:
- Emergency Management
- EMS management
- Environmental Horticulture Management
- Geology
- Geomatics
- Horticultural Therapy
- Landscape Pest Management
- Medical Entomology
- Senior Fire Official
- Urban Pest Management
The credit for some of these certificate programs may be transferrable towards an advanced degree program. The University of Florida ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 30th best national university and 116th best value school. UF is fully accredited.
Undergraduate Tuition: $6,381
______________
Frequently Asked Questions
Why earn an online certificate?
Both personal and professional reasons can push students to earn an online certificate. Online certificates emphasize an area of interest. Students do not have to commit to enrolling in a degree program, but can explore their studies by taking only a few courses in an area of interest.
Online learning is known for making education accessible. Below are several benefits of earning an online certificate.
Affordability
The online certificate programs on our list are chosen for their affordability. Also, online programs offer a unique set of benefits. Since students are not expected to travel or live on-campus, they don’t incur costs associated with room, board, or transportation. Online certificate programs are much more affordable than traditional on-site programs.
Flexibility
Aside from affordability, online certificate programs are flexible. Online learning includes asynchronous classes and online forums that make attendance flexible and convenient. Students earning an online certificate often have full-time jobs as well. Also, online students are able to juggle other tasks such as family responsibilities while earning a degree or certificate.
Focused learning
Certificate programs allow students to focus their studies on a specific area. They gain marketable skills in an area of their interest while enjoying the same student support afforded to on-campus students.
Shorter completion time
Online certificate programs are shorter than degree programs. Most online certificates can be earned in less than one year, while bachelor’s degree programs take four years to complete. This accelerated completion time can lower tuition costs as well.
What are some popular online certificate programs?
Is earning a certificate something you’re considering? A list of popular online certificate programs that are valued by employers is important in your search. Below, we’ve detailed several popular online certificate programs. We’ve also included some certificates with a favorable earnings potential in terms of median annual salary projections.
Popular online certificate programs
Computer information technology:
Popular computer information technology programs include classes to prepare students for various careers. Examples include computer support specialist, cybersecurity specialist, data services specialist, information security specialist, or programmer.
Construction trades:
The selection of construction trades is vast. Still, certificate programs can help students learn skills in a specific area. Certificate programs available in the construction industry include building inspection, electrician, and hazardous waste & materials removal, to name a few.
Healthcare:
Well-trained healthcare workers are in demand, as the population ages and current healthcare workers reach retirement age. Popular healthcare certificate programs include licensed vocational nurse, medical assistant, and pharmacy tech.
Protective and safety services:
Protective and safety services include firefighters, law enforcement, and private security officers. These individuals often have credentials, such as an online certificate in a specialty area. One of the most popular certificates associated with protective services is the homeland security certification.
High-paying certificate programs (in terms of median annual salary)
- Dental assistant
- Licensed vocational nurse
- Massage therapist
- Medical assistant
- Phlebotomist
- Wind turbine technician
Are there admission requirements for online certificate programs?
Like degree programs, online certificate programs have particular admission requirements for all applicants. The online certificate programs on our list require at least a high school diploma or GED. Other admission requirements vary by program.
For example, manufacturing and trade certificate programs typically ask only for a high school diploma equivalent. But some computer technology and IT certificate programs require the completion of specific courses (prerequisites) that must be taken in high school. Computer-related online certificate programs may require that certain math courses are taken before enrollment. If you’re unsure which courses may be required, reach out to the program you are interested in to discuss prerequisites. Most programs inform applicants of the prerequisites on their website.
Accredited colleges and universities offering online certificate programs will require the submission of transcripts from each school attended. This includes both high school and postsecondary schools. Transcripts may need to be mailed directly from the school to the college or university you are applying to.
If you are seeking financial help for your online certificate program, you must complete the FAFSA. This application will determine your financial aid eligibility. Also, it is important to remember that federal funds are only awarded through accredited institutions.
Are certificate programs online worth it?
There are several benefits offered by online certificate programs. One of the most significant benefits is that the time it takes to complete a certificate program is less than that required to get a degree. In fact, most online certificate programs can be completed in less than a year. Still, certificate programs online are only worth it if you attend an accredited school.
Attending an accredited institution for your online certificate can impact financial aid eligibility, future employment, and transfer credits. Accredited programs like the ones on our list allow you to get financial aid to help pay for the certificate. Remember, federal funds are only issued to accredited institutions and programs. As long as you are sure to choose an accredited online certificate program, you will be eligible for financial aid.
Besides financial aid eligibility, choosing an accredited online certificate program can offer focused learning and valuable skills. Employers value both the accreditation and the marketable skills gained in an area of interest. Certificate programs allow students to gain specific skills required in a job or industry. Upon graduation from one of these programs, certificate holders have valuable training and marketable skills in a specific area.
Does accreditation matter when it comes to online certificate programs?
As with any college program, accreditation matters. Employers and career advisors value accredited programs, whether they are degrees or certificates. Accreditation from a reputable governing agency means the school or program has met the principles and standards set forth by the governing body.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) classifies a certificate as a non-degree, postsecondary award. A certificate does not mean certification, which is often awarded by a certifying body or professional organization. A certificate is award by the institution or by a department within the institution. The certificate is awarded upon completion of the requirements stipulated by the school or program.
So, why does accreditation matter?
When you graduate from an online certificate program and pursue employment, potential employers consider the school you attended. They often ask if you’ve attended an accredited institution. If your certificate was earned from a school or program with a questionable reputation, or questionable accreditation, you may not be considered a good job candidate.
Another important factor to consider when choosing an online certificate program is whether you plan to transfer credit. If you plan, at any time in your academic career, to transfer credit earned toward a degree, your program must be accredited from a reputable governing agency. No institution will take transfer credits from an unaccredited college or university.
CVO Staff
- Best Colleges Online
- Fast Online Degrees
- Cheap Online Colleges
- Best Accredited Online Colleges
- What is the Right Teacher Certification Program?
- Important Considerations for Trade School Graduates
- Great Food Science Jobs
- Highest Paying Nursing Jobs
- Best Trade School Careers for the Future