The 10 Best Online Business Certificate Programs

In today’s changing business world, staying ahead of the curve requires a constant influx of new skills and knowledge. Whether you’re a business newbie or a seasoned pro, the best online business certificate programs can boost your skills. And what can you expect in return? Benefits like career advancement, higher salary, and more job prospects, to name a few.

These programs provide focused online learning to equip you with the expertise needed to thrive in business. For example, you can sharpen your skills in project management, marketing and data analysis. You can even explore entrepreneurship.

Let’s take a look at how an online business certificate can shape your future. Whether it’s to land your first job, advance your career, or launch your own venture, success is waiting.

Article Navigation: Types of Online Business Certificate Programs: Choosing the Right Fit  | Best Online Business Certificate Programs 2024 | Online Business Certificates vs Business Certifications | Accreditation | Admission Requirements | Are Online Business Certificates Worth It? | Start Working Toward an Online Business Certificate Today!

Types of Online Business Certificate Programs: Choosing the Right Fit

Finding the perfect online business certificate program depends on your career goals and educational background. It is crucial to choose accredited business schools to ensure they meet the highest standards. Here’s a quick rundown of popular options:

Online Business Certificate Areas of Focus

Business Management: Builds a strong base in core business areas like accounting, marketing, and HR, providing a competitive advantage in the business world. Ideal for entering various business roles or enhancing management skills.

Business Leadership: Students learn to motivate and lead teams. If you’re interested in supervising or managing, this is a solid choice.

Business Analytics: Equips you to analyze data and translate it into business insights. This is the perfect choice for careers in data analysis, business intelligence, or marketing analytics.

Project Management: Teaches how to plan, execute, and oversee projects effectively. This is ideal for anyone who wants to manage large-scale projects with lots of moving parts.

Supply Chain Management: Focuses on optimizing the flow of goods throughout a supply chain. This benefits those seeking careers in supply chain management, procurement, or logistics.

Undergraduate vs. Graduate Business Certificates

Next, let’s explore the key differences between undergraduate and graduate certificates in business:

Undergraduate Certificate: Typically requires a high school diploma (or GED) and focuses on basic business skills or introducing core concepts in specific areas. This is a good option for those with no prior business experience or seeking a general understanding of a business discipline.

Graduate Certificates require a bachelor’s degree in business or a related field, and offers a focus on specific areas of business management. This is ideal for individuals with existing business knowledge who want to specialize or advance their careers in a particular field.

Choosing the Best Business Certificate

Finally, there are a few other things to consider before deciding on a program. You should make sure you meet the entry criteria, including work experience. Next, review the curriculum to see if it aligns with your interests and career goals. Then, consider the program length and how it fits with your schedule. Find out whether it’s self-paced, or if you have to attend classes at specific times.

Finally, consider cost and financial aid. Check not only tuition fees but also any additional program expenses.

By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the best online business certificate program for your career.

10 Best Online Business Certificate Programs in 2024

Let’s explore the top 10 schools offering the best online business certificate programs for 2024. We’ve chosen these programs based on accreditation, flexibility, cost, and access to student services.

1. Bay Path University

   Accreditation: NECHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $410 per credit hour

   This program is offered by The American Women’s College of Bay Path University. Here, women develop leadership skills to set them apart in the business world.  With real-world application and interactive exercises, graduates emerge ready to make an impact.

   This 100% online program is comprised of 5, six-week courses.  There are no specific prerequisites, but some business knowledge might be helpful.

   You’ll dive into critical leadership areas like communication skills and negotiation. The program boasts a strong focus on ethics and building a positive company culture. One unique aspect is the option to take graduate-level courses while enrolled in the certificate program. This allows for a seamless transition to a Master’s degree if desired. Graduates are ready to take on leadership roles in any field.

   Find Out More:
   Certificate in Leadership and Organizational Studies

    

2. Penn Foster

   Accreditation: DEAC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $877-$2599 per program

   Penn Foster offers a budget-friendly and self-paced business certificate online. It’s ideal for those seeking basic business knowledge or wanting to refresh their skills. The stacked certificate program allows you to earn credits toward an Associate degree in Business Management upon completion. Small business owners also benefit from this online business certificate.

   The program is online and can be completed quickly. In fact, it takes just ten months. Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent.

   The Undergraduate Certificate in Business Management offers core business concepts like management principles, business math, and business communication. Then, it builds upon this base with human resources, accounting, and computer applications. The program offers a flexible learning structure, allowing you to study at your own pace.

   Find Out More:
   Undergraduate Certificate in Business Management

    

3. APUS

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $350 per credit hour

   APUS offers online business certificates that focus on practical skills at an affordable price.

   APUS has two certificate programs – Strategic Leadership and Employee Relations and Engagement.  Both are fully online and can be completed in under a year. Admission requires just a high school diploma, though some work experience may be helpful.

   The Certificate in Strategic Leadership will help you inspire and lead teams effectively. Coursework includes strategic planning, recruitment and retention strategies. In short, you’ll graduate ready for a management position in any industry.

   The Certificate in Employee Relations and Engagement focuses on creating a positive, productive work environment. Resolve conflict, motivate employees, and master change management. This program is the gold standard for aspiring HR professionals, managers, or those in employee relations.

   Both programs consist of five, 3-credit hour online business certificate courses, and offer flexible start dates monthly. These certificates enhance your skills and set you up for career advancement or a new career path.

   Find Out More:
   Certificate in Strategic Leadership
   Certificate in Employee Relations and Engagement

    

4. Rasmussen University

   Accreditation: HLC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $279 per credit hour

   Rasmussen offers a broad Business Certificate program that is both flexible and affordable. This program is perfect for those who want to understand business fundamentals or intend to pursue further education.

   This online program can be completed in a short amount of time. There are no specific prerequisites, so it’s accessible to people from diverse backgrounds.

   The certificate program covers essential points in accounting, business law, marketing, and finance. Rasmussen’s credit transfer policy allows you to apply your earned credits toward an Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Business.

   Find Out More:
   Certificate in Business

    

5. Liberty University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $390 per credit hour full-time, $455 per credit hour part-time

   Liberty University’s online Certificate in Business Administration combines faith-based principles with business skills. The program’s core principles are workplace excellence paired with an ethical foundation.

   This 100% online program consists of six courses. Full-time students can complete it in a single semester.  Applicants must submit high school transcripts or GED.

   The program covers business areas like management, human resources, marketing, and business law.  One of Liberty’s unique goals is affordability. So, they offer competitive tuition rates and financial aid options.  In fact, they haven’t raised tuition rates in almost a decade.

   This program equips graduates with the business knowledge they need for entry-level or mid-level roles. It can also open doors to a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration at Liberty University.

   Find Out More:
   Certificate in Business Administration

    

6. Brenau University

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, IACBE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $824 per credit hour

   Brenau offers graduate certificates to boost skills in management or business analysis. Students can choose between two distinct paths – Management and Business Analytics. Full-time students can complete these online programs in one year. Admission to either program requires a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 GPA from an accredited school.

   The Graduate Certificate in Management teaches the leadership skills needed to thrive in business. Courses cover negotiation, mediation, project management, leadership, and human resource management. This program meets the standards set by the Project Management Institute.

   The Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics explores data analysis. In other words, graduates learn to extract valuable insights from business data. The curriculum emphasizes data mining, statistics, and business intelligence tools. Graduates gain the skills to support data-driven decision-making. After that, they can pursue careers in data analysis, business intelligence, or marketing analytics.

   Both programs consist of four, 3-credit-hour courses with multiple start dates throughout the year. Brenau boasts small class sizes. In other words, you can expect personalized attention from teachers. If you’re looking for career advancement or interested in data analysis, these may be the right fit.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Management
   Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics

    

7. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities

   Accreditation: SACSCOC, AACSB
   Tuition (In-State): $28,286
   Tuition (Out-of-State): $42,334

   This highly-regarded business school offers a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management.  The program teaches strategic decision-making, preparing grads to excel in leadership roles.

   Online students can choose from a fully online or hybrid (online with some in-person intensives) format.  Admission requires an accredited bachelor’s degree and a competitive GPA.

   Expect a hearty curriculum that dives into core strategic management skills.  Courses teach business portfolio management, strategic alliances, industry analysis, and managing in a global economy.  This program uses case studies, group projects, and real-world scenarios to provide a practical learning experience.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management

    

8. Ohio University

   Accreditation: HLC, AACSB
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $508 per credit hour in-state, $527 per credit hour out-of-state

   OU’s online Graduate Certificate in Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship focuses on the skills to launch or grow a successful business. It’s ideal for both aspiring entrepreneurs and experienced business pros.

   Full-time students can complete this flexible program in just three semesters. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in any field.

   You’ll have a chance to practice product development and learn to create business models. New businesses, including startups and corporate ventures, are the focus of this course. Besides how to launch and run a new business, you’ll learn financing options and legal concerns. The hands-on projects assigned during this program sharpen these skills.

   Those with a business idea or an existing business will benefit the most from this online business certificate.

   Find Out More:
   Request More Information

    

9. American University

   Accreditation: MSCHE
   Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $1485 per credit hour

   This online Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics & Management caters to those passionate about sports. Here, you’ll learn to leverage data analysis and strategic thinking for careers in the sports industry. Sports industry pros designed this program. Therefore, graduates are sure to learn the skills sought by sports teams and leagues.

   With flexible online learning, students can complete this program in 12-15 months. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in any field, a resume, and 2 letters of recommendation.

   The curriculum covers both sports management principles and data analysis. Courses delve into areas like strategic management of sports organizations, sports analytics and evaluation, digital technology in sports, and revenue generation strategies.

   A unique aspect is the program’s focus on “next-generation sports management skills.” Students prepare for careers involving social media engagement, interactive fan experiences, and new technologies within the sports industry.

   This graduate certificate teaches how to make data-driven decisions and develop effective sports marketing strategies. In short, grads prepare for management roles across the ever-changing sports industry.

   Find Out More:
   Graduate Certificate in Sports Analytics & Management

    

10. Calvin University

    Accreditation: HLC
    Tuition (In-State & Out-of-State): $660 per credit hour

    This Graduate Certificate blends practical data analysis skills with Christian ethics.  Students learn to make data-driven decisions that align with their values and make a positive contribution.

    It takes just 6-12 months to complete this online program. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree in any field, but some background in math in statistics is useful.

    Learn the core concepts of business analytics, including how to visualize data and analyze statistics. Courses focus on using data to solve real-world business problems with an ethical approach to decision-making. The program offers smaller class sizes, which means students get personalized attention.

    This certificate is ideal for those seeking careers in data analysis, business intelligence, or marketing analytics. Graduates learn how to use data to make smart choices, making them valuable to any company.

    Find Out More:
    Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics

     

Online Business Certificates vs Business Certifications

Deciding between certificates and certifications can be confusing. Online business certificates and business certifications offer different advantages. Let’s look at the key differences to help you decide.

Online Business Certificates

Business Certificates expand your knowledge and skills in a specific business. Delivered through online colleges, they’re typically shorter and more flexible than traditional degrees. In fact, they often range from a few months to a year. Certificates are generally more affordable than degree programs. Students develop foundational and practical skills in a chosen business discipline. Certificates are ideal for career changers, recent grads, or pros seeking to build upon their existing skill set.

Business Certifications

Certifications show your skills in a specific area of business. You earn certifications by passing an exam offered by an organization. They often involve additional requirements like coursework or a certain amount of work experience. The time commitment varies depending on the certification. In any case, you’ll need to pass an exam to get certified. The cost can vary depending on the certifying body and required training materials. Certifications show a deep understanding and ability to apply specific business knowledge. Like certificates, they are valued by employers in certain industries. This means they often lead to higher positions and salaries. You’ll have to renew certifications, whereas earned certificates are always on your transcript.

Is an Online Business Certificate Program Right For You?

The best choice for you depends on your specific career goals and current skill set. If you’re seeking a broad understanding of a business area, then a certificate program might be a good fit. If you want to specialize and gain industry recognition, then certification may be the better option. Certificate programs can provide foundational knowledge, while certifications often require mastery. Consider how much time you can realistically dedicate to studying. Factor in the program cost and any additional fees associated with certifications.

Think of online business certificates as building blocks, expanding your knowledge base. Business certifications, on the other hand, validate your expertise in a specific area. The best approach might be to earn a certificate to build the skills, then a certification to prove your mastery. Ultimately, both can be valuable tools for career advancement. By carefully reflecting on your needs and goals, you can choose the path that’s best for you.

Accreditation of the Best Online Business Certificates

Imagine college accreditation as a good quality check for schools. It ensures that a college meets a certain standard of education. This means they have qualified teachers, good resources, and meet learning outcomes. So, when you graduate from an accredited college, your degree is recognized by other schools and employers, and you know you got a good education.

Schools are accredited by third-party agencies like the Higher Learning Commission or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Programs, on the other hand, can be accredited by agencies relevant to the area of study. For example, Ohio University’s Graduate Certificate in Business Venturing and Entrepreneurship is accredited by the AACSB. However, it should be noted that accreditation of certificate programs isn’t common, and is usually reserved for degree programs.

Admission Requirements of Business Certificate Programs

Admission requirements for online business certificate programs vary depending on the school and program level.

Undergraduate Certificates often require a high school diploma or equivalent.  While uncommon, some programs may have prerequisites like specific coursework or work experience in a related field.

Graduate Certificates often require a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0.  Some programs might consider relevant work experience instead of a specific business degree.

Are Online Business Certificates Worth It?

Online business certificates offer a targeted approach to career advancement, but the value proposition depends on your specific goals and the level of certificate you pursue (undergraduate vs. graduate).  Let’s delve into the potential return on investment, considering salary expectations:

Careers With a Certificate in Business Online

Those with online undergrad business certificates can expect entry-level positions. However, salaries vary depending on the specific field and location.

Sales managers earn a median salary of $135,160. While some positions may require a bachelor’s degree, sales ability and experience can go a long way. If you’re already showing promise in your field, then an online business certificate will raise your chances of promotion. Sales managers in Colorado, Delaware, and New York earn median salaries up to $246k.

Market Analysts: Without a doubt, there’s a growing need for skilled online marketing pros. An online certificate in digital marketing can equip you for entry-level or specialist roles in this growing field, earning a median salary of $74,680 nationwide. That median increases to $100k in Washington, California, and New York.

The demand for data-driven decision-making is fueling growth in business analytics roles. Online certificates in business or data analysis can position you for these in-demand jobs. A graduate certificate can prepare you for this career, earning a median salary of $99,410.  This job also has a projected 10% job growth. Massachusetts, Wyoming and New York are the highest-paying states, with median salaries ranging from $126k-$134k.

Effective project management is crucial across most industries. Hence, a bachelor’s degree and a project management certificate can enhance your skills and prepare you for project coordinator or project manager roles. This position earns a median salary of $98,580. New Jersey, Washington and Virginia are the top paying states, boasting median salaries ranging from $120k-$136k.

Career Outlook

The overall business job market is expected to experience steady growth. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 9% growth rate for business and financial operations occupations by 2030, which is higher than the average for all occupations. However, specific business sectors may experience faster or slower growth rates.

Investing in Yourself

Ultimately, online business certificates can be a strategic investment for career advancement.  If you want to gain specific business skills, enhance your prospects, or move into a new business field, then an online certificate program is a worthwhile option.  However, for leadership or executive positions, employers may often prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in business or a related field, followed by an MBA or more experience for the highest positions.

Start Working Toward an Online Business Certificate Today!

The ever-evolving business world needs a skilled and adaptable workforce. Whether you’re seeking a career change, aiming for a promotion, or simply want to refresh your knowledge, an online business certificate program can equip you with the tools to thrive. With flexible learning options and a range of specialties to choose from, there’s a program suited to your goals. Don’t wait – take charge of your future and invest in yourself today. Start exploring online business certificate programs and open the doors to a rewarding and successful career in business!