Certificate Program

Is a Certificate Program Right for You?

What is a Certificate Program?

A non-degree certificate program can help students gain specialized knowledge in a particular career and field of study. Different than earning a college degree, a certificate program only involves information and coursework directly related to the skills you will need in your chosen career.  Once you have completed the required training, you will then usually sit for a State exam which will earn you a certificate of completion that allows you to enter the work force in your chosen field.

Benefits of A Certificate Program

  • Because certificate programs are career driven, students have the benefit of learning with other like-minded individuals who are pursuing the same career path. With Bachelor or Associate Degree programs, students who are all entering different fields may be taking the same classes. Certificate programs, especially those in the medical field, involve hands-on training, lab work, or clinical experience that involves all of the students to prepare them for employment.
  • Certificate programs are constantly updated to include the latest advancements, changes and requirements in your chosen career. This ensures that the graduate will be completely knowledgeable and ready for employment upon completing the certificate program.
  • Certificate programs are conveniently offered by adult education centers, technical centers, community colleges, and by taking online college courses. By choosing to take your certificate training online, you will be able to continue working full time in your current position until training is complete. This is an attractive benefit for families that rely on one income.
  • Certificate programs often take less than two years to complete (many can be completed in less than 6 months) making them more practical for some than earning a two-year Associate Degree.
  • Generally, certificate programs don’t have any course prerequisites and the training program can be entered with a high school diploma or its equivalent.

Certificate Programs that Offer Rewarding Careers

A certificate program can offer a quick start to a new career. During these economic times of uncertainty, a certificate program can literally get you back on track financially if you’ve recently become unemployed or are having trouble finding work.

Certain certificate programs are also eligible for government grants and financial aid. Check with the school offering the certificate program you are interested in to find out more. According to Dr. Lurence Shatkin, who has authored over a dozen books on careers and job hunting, “The community college is often referred to as the new master’s degree. It’s a way to repurpose yourself.”

Career Opportunities that Involve a Certificate Program:

  • Court Reporter – Average annual salary: $40,000
  • Automobile Mechanic – Average annual salary: $41,000. Mechanics are especially in high demand during a recession because more individuals are interested in having their vehicle repaired as opposed to trading it in on a newer model.
  • Auto Insurance Appraiser - Average annual salary: $50,000
  • Cosmetologist - Average annual salary: $30,000. Cosmetologists employed in high end locations can earn far more than the national average.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) – Average annual salary: $30,500
  • Fitness Instructor – Average annual salary: $37,000

These are just a few of the certificate training programs available. Check our site for more certificate program career options.

With the ability to enter a new career in a short amount of time coupled with the fact that you can earn your certificate conveniently by taking online college courses, a certificate program may be just what you are looking for!