Four Factors to Consider when Contemplating a Graduate Certificate
August 3, 2020 4:20pm
Have you been sitting idle in your current career position for too long, ready to advance but not quite sure if you are willing or ready to tackle an entire graduate-level degree program? If the answer is yes, then earning a graduate certificate could be the perfect option for you! Here are four things to consider when contemplating a graduate-level certificate.
Career relevancy
Whether you are eyeing a promotion or just wish to enhance your knowledge or skills in a specific area to better your job performance, a graduate certificate may be a great option. Knowledge gained and the additional credential may help you gain the edge you need over your peers for advancement opportunities.
Time to completion
One of the best features of certificate programs is the length – many are comprised of just four to six graduate-level courses. Speak with an admissions representative to be sure the classes required will be offered in succession to ensure faster completion.
Flexibility
Though a certificate program will take far less time to complete, it will take time. Accelerated online format generally allow for greater flexibility with zero commuting to and from a physical campus and the ability to work on your coursework as it fits into your schedule.
Ability to stack into a degree program
Though your graduate certificate will pave the way for promotions and salary increases, you may find at some point that you either need or want to earn a master’s degree. Many institutions offer certificate programs that are stackable, meaning they transfer into a specific master’s degree program. For example, you might consider a graduate certificate in emergency planning because you find all the credits will transfer into a master’s degree in security management, knowing that could be a degree option for you later. Choosing the right certificate program can shave a lot of time off earning a degree, and you’ll always be able to list it on your resume as a focused area of study for which you are trained.
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Comparing Business Graduate Degrees
4 Steps to Find More Time for Your Online Classes
What is an Online Certificate?