Best Online Business Certificate Programs
Several factors contribute to the increasing number of accredited schools offering business administration certificates online; these factors include technological advances, consumer demand, and industry diversification. Non-degree educational programs such as business certificates offer a pathway for high school graduates to enter the business world without a four-year degree. Business certificate programs give students the skills and knowledge they need to qualify for entry-level jobs.
Business administration certificate programs also help professionals with non-business careers shift to the business arena. Additionally, business professionals often earn business certificates to improve their current skill set and/or develop new skills that can expand their career options and income potential.
Most schools offer online business administration programs that can be completed in one year. Certificate holders can often transfer certificate credits toward a two-year associate or a four-year bachelor’s program. Graduates with business administration certificates enter a growing job market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% growth rate for the business and financial operations field through 2026.
Business Certificate Program Ranking Guidelines
We selected these online business programs based on quality, curricula, faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation, including the school’s reputation for effectively providing quality online programs.
The Best Online Business Certificate Programs
1. West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Paducah, Kentucky
Western Kentucky Community and Technical College is a public institution in Paducah. The school is one of 16 schools in the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. WKCTC students can earn a business administration certificate online.
Business students complete 15 credits for the certificate in advanced business administration. Required classes include applied management skills, principles of management, productivity software, and principles of marketing. The curriculum prepares learners for entry-level careers or to pursue further education in related fields. Full-time students typically complete the program in less than one year.
WKCTC subscribes to an open admissions policy and accepts all interested learners with a high school diploma or GED. Prospective students must submit a free online application and high school or GED transcripts. WKCTC also requires business administration certificate seekers to submit standardized test scores. Applicants without ACT or SAT scores may take a free placement test before enrolling.
Distance learners enjoy one-on-one tutoring, remote library access, and personal and academic counseling services. Through the career services center, students can search for internships and employment, prepare for job interviews, and attend career fairs and professional workshops. Online students may also participate in special interest student groups and activities.
Accreditation
West Kentucky Community and Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
2. Stanly Community College
Albemarle, North Carolina
Located in Albemarle, North Carolina, SCC is one of 58 community colleges in the state’s community college system. The school hosts approximately 10,000 students and offers a variety of comprehensive online programs. Students can pursue a certificate in business administration education online.
This program introduces students to the essential components of free enterprise. Certificate seekers develop managerial techniques, effective marketing evaluation methods, and business communication skills. Additionally, students learn to prepare managerial accounting reports.
Learners study business law, economics, marketing, management, and accounting. Required classes include college student success, business ethics, people skills, and principles of management. In total, students complete 16 credits.
SCC follows an open admissions policy and accepts all learners with a GED or high school diploma. All certificate students need to submit an online application along with their high school transcripts. They must also take a placement test before enrolling in classes.
Distance students can take advantage of online academic support, career preparation services, remote library access, and financial aid assistance. Remote learners also enjoy access to 24/7 information technology assistance.
Accreditation
Stanly Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
3. Northwest Iowa Community College
Sheldon, Iowa
Established in 1966, NCC is a public institution in Sheldon. This community college offers more than 40 vocational programs and academic degrees, including several online and hybrid programs. Students can pursue a certificate in business administration online.
The curriculum gives learners the time management, math, writing, and people skills necessary for entry-level positions. Graduates pursue careers as department store managers, administrative assistants, upper-level managers, and entrepreneurs.
Required courses include three general education classes in communications, math, and social science. Business-focused courses include principles of accounting, business math, personal finance, and principles of management. Students choose from a variety of business electives to tailor the diploma to their goals and interests. Popular electives include real estate pre-licensure, risk management, and principles of banking. Students usually complete this program in two semesters.
Distance pupils can take advantage of a variety of federal and state funding sources to help cover the cost of their education. Remote learners work directly with the financial aid office to develop payment plans and compile applications for funding opportunities. Additionally, remote students can take advantage of academic advising, personal counseling, veteran services, and online library access. The NCC learning center offers free tutoring services, national workshops, and career planning opportunities.
Accreditation
Northwest Iowa Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
4. Liberty University Online
Lynchburg, Virginia
Liberty is a private Evangelical Christian university established in 1971. Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, the school serves approximately 110,000 students on campus and online. Liberty students can pursue an online certificate in business administration.
This program gives learners managerial skills that are applicable to a variety of industries, including public administration, entrepreneurship, marketing, and human resources. Distance students complete 18 credit hours. Classes follow an eight-week schedule and most students graduate in less than one year. Required courses include organizational ethics, human resource management, principles of management, and organizational behavior.
Prospective students need a minimum 1.5 GPA. Applications must include official transcripts from any previous college coursework, a high school self-certification form, and proof of English proficiency.
Current military members, discharged or retired veterans, and spouses of service members or veterans receive tuition discounts and flexible start dates throughout the calendar year. Distance students can take advantage of student counseling services, online tutoring, remote library access, and a variety of online ministry and spirituality resources. Remote learners also enjoy access to an IT helpdesk seven days a week.
Accreditation
Liberty University Online is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
5. Richmond Community College
Hamlet, North Carolina
Established in 1967, RCC is a public institution located in Hamlet, North Carolina. RCC students can earn one of the top business administration certificate programs online. Most remote students complete the program in one year or less.
Distance students learn the basic practices and principles of contemporary business and the free enterprise system. In addition to introductory courses in management, pupils examine standard legal and ethical frameworks in business, including contracts, constitutional law, and court systems. Additionally, remote learners acquire strategic marketing, communication, team-building, and decision-making skills.
Required courses for the business administration certificate include basic computer literacy, principles of macroeconomics, principles of management, business law, and principles of marketing. In total, distance students complete 17-18 credit hours. Graduates can pursue careers in government agencies, businesses, and financial institutions.
RCC subscribes to an open admissions policy and accepts all learners with a high school diploma or GED. The school also offers a program for high school students who wish to earn college credit while finishing their diploma. Applicants must submit official transcripts and financial aid information.
All incoming students complete a placement test in math, reading, and English. Students who test low on these exams must take developmental studies courses before engaging with required business classes. Online learners receive a one-on-one consultation with an academic advisor to ensure they get the most out of their business administration program.
Accreditation
Richmond Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
6. Wayne Community College
Goldsboro, North Carolina
Located in Goldsboro, North Carolina, WCC is a public institution that offers a business administration certificate online. Distance students may complete this program in as few as eight months.
Business administration students prepare for careers in today’s technology-based global economy with a variety of computer and finance classes. Certificate seekers also learn the basics of business management, financial management, business ethics, and decision-making.
Over the course of two semesters, remote learners complete 18 credits, taking courses such as business law, principles of marketing, and human resource management. Additionally, WCC ensures that all incoming students obtain introductory instruction in business basics and computer technology.
WCC follows an open admissions policy. Interested students must submit official transcripts and financial aid information. All incoming freshmen must take placement exams in math, writing, reading, and computer skills.
Online students gain access to career services, professional workshops and seminars, one-on-one career counseling, and online resources for young professionals. Using video chat and whiteboard technology, remote students can receive free online tutoring through the academic skills center. This center also features a website with downloadable instructional PDFs to help remote students complete assignments in all major academic subjects.
Accreditation
Wayne Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
7. College of Central Florida
Ocala, Florida
CF is a public state institution that serves approximately 11,000 students. Located in Ocala and established in 1957, the school is a member of the Florida College System. CF students can pursue a business administration certificate online.
This business specialist certificate prepares students for entry-level business occupations. Remote learners develop a strong foundation of business communication skills and problem resolution methods. Graduates can secure employment in customer service representation, company outreach, sales and service, and a variety of specialized roles.
Business administration certificate students need to complete 12 credit hours. Learners take three required courses and one elective. Popular electives include elementary statistics, financial accounting, and college algebra. The school recommends that certificate students take the college algebra elective if they plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree in the field.
CF is an open-access institution and accepts all high school graduates. Prospective students must submit an application fee, Florida residency declaration form, and high school transcripts or GED scores.
Remote learners can take advantage of academic advising and student success resources, including free online tutoring. Additionally, CF offers extensive career services for young students and experienced professionals. The talent center helps business students locate job opportunities, provides feedback on job application materials, and conducts practice job interviews.
Accreditation
College of Central Florida is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
8. Ocean County College
Toms River, New Jersey
OCC is a public community college located in New Jersey. Established in 1964, the school serves approximately 9,500 students. Distance students can pursue the business administration certificate online.
The certificate in administrative office management in bookkeeping prepares distance students for entry-level employment across industries. Graduates secure positions in small businesses; nonprofit organizations; and local, state, and federal governments. Certificate holders may work as bookkeepers, office managers, management trainees, bank tellers, and loan officer trainees.
The certificate requires 30 credit hours. Required classes include principles of accounting, business communications, integrated office software, and intermediate spreadsheets and databases. Learners choose two electives to customize their certificate, such as small business management, business law, principles of management, and human resource management. Remote students can also pursue licensure with the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers in lieu of one elective.
OCC subscribes to an open admissions policy and admits anyone 18 years of age or older who may benefit from taking college-level classes. The school accepts applications year-round and admits students on a rolling basis. Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA or higher to remain in good standing. In some cases, transfer students may apply previous college credit toward the business administration certificate.
Accreditation
Ocean County College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
9. Surry Community College
Dobson, North Carolina
Located in Dobson, North Carolina, SCC is a public institution founded in 1964. The school serves over 18,000 students with online associate degree, diploma, and certificate offerings. SCC students can pursue an affordable business administration certificate online.
This program introduces business students to the free enterprise system. Remote learners study standard business processes and functions and how professionals operate in today’s global economy. SCC offers a well-rounded curriculum that prepares certificate seekers for careers in financial institutions, businesses, and government agencies.
Remote learners complete five courses for a total of 16 credits. Most students complete the certificate in two semesters. Required classes include principles of marketing, principles of management, business law, financial accounting, and introduction to business.
SCC offers professional development services, career coaching, and job search assistance. Online students can also receive free, short-term personal counseling and academic success coaching.
SCC follows an open admissions policy. Interested students submit a North Carolina residency determination form and official high school transcripts or GED scores. All incoming students must take placement tests. Learners with lower scores take remedial courses before engaging with required business coursework.
Accreditation
Surry Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
10. Northwest Technical College
Bemidji, Minnesota
NTC is a public technical college established in 1965. Located in Bemidji, Minnesota, the school serves approximately 1,300 students. NTC students can pursue a business administration certificate online.
The business foundation certificate gives students essential computer, communication, and mathematics skills for entry-level careers. Pupils learn how to develop strong working relationships with colleagues. Graduates can pursue careers as operations managers, educators, administrative assistants, bookkeepers, and administrative service managers.
Certificate seekers need 16 credits to finish the program. All business students take classes in business communications, customer relations management, and financial planning. Learners also choose four elective credits. Elective options include business communications, information systems, network essentials, and microcomputer operating systems.
NTC follows an open admissions policy. Applicants must submit high school transcripts or GED scores. All incoming students meet with a personal admissions representative to ensure they enroll in appropriate classes. The registrar considers transfer credits on a case-by-case basis.
Online business students can take advantage of NTC’s career services and professional networking opportunities. Additionally, students can receive free online tutoring in all major subjects. The school also offers an IT help desk to assist remote pupils with connection issues, online learning software, and general computing questions.
Accreditation
Northwest Technical College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
11. University of Minnesota – Duluth
Duluth, Minnesota
UMD is a public institution established in 1947. The school offers over 100 academic programs, including a business administration certificate online.
The certificate in business administration benefits working professionals who wish to improve their business knowledge and new students without professional experience. Over the course of eight modules, or 16 credits, learners gain an understanding of business fundamentals, business management vocabulary, and solutions to common challenges that business managers face daily.
Business students engage with all major areas of business, including accounting, economics, and human resource management. Learners can complete classes entirely online or in a hybrid format.
Prospective students must possess a 2.0 GPA or higher. Applications must include ACT or SAT scores and official high school transcripts. Students may begin courses during any semester provided they meet the two-week application deadline before each start date. Most business students complete the certificate in two semesters.
Students gain access to discounted software, hardware, and cellular phone options. Additionally, students enjoy access to a remote library, online workshops, professional development services, and various tutorials for learning platforms.
Accreditation
University of Minnesota – Duluth is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
12. Scottsdale Community College
Scottsdale, Arizona
SCC, a public community college established in 1969 with a campus in Scottsdale, Arizona, now features a diverse slate of distance education programs. In addition to fully online and hybrid degrees in psychology, English, and human resources management, the college also offers online certificates, including a certificate of completion in business administration.
Learners enrolled in this program can advance their existing knowledge in the field to prepare for fulfilling roles in a modern business environment. Requiring 27 credits total, students can enter accelerated five- or eight-week courses to explore topics such as workplace communication skills, human relations in management, and principles of marketing, along with owning and operating a small business.
Full-time enrollees can typically receive this certificate in two semesters, while those taking classes part time commonly take three semesters. SCC lists no specific admission criteria, but students must earn a “C” grade or better in all certificate courses.
SCC maintains an open admission policy, so anyone with a high school diploma, GED, or is age 18 or higher may become a member of its growing student population. Aspiring students must complete a student admission application to receive a school ID and a student email account. Distance students can take part in eLearning classes through the Canvas platform, and SCC maintains a digital help desk to assist students in navigating their education in an online space.
Accreditation
Scottsdale Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
13. Craven Community College
New Bern, North Carolina
Craven offers academic programs in several technical fields and hosts approximately 3,200 curriculum students and 10,000 continuing education students. Distance students at Craven can pursue a business administration certificate online with a concentration in banking or customer service. The school also serves online learners who wish to transfer to four-year business programs.
This program gives learners fundamental knowledge of the essential business topics commonly used in today’s global economy. In addition to studying business law, economics, and marketing, distance students develop the interpersonal and communication skills necessary for success in the modern business world.
Online students in the banking concentration complete classes like principles of banking, teller training, personal finance, and principles of marketing. Students in the customer service concentration take classes including customer service, principles of management, and introduction to computers. In total, certificate seekers need 17-18 credits for graduation.
Craven subscribes to an open admissions policy for applicants with a high school diploma. Incoming students must be at least 18 years old. The school offers free academic and personal counseling resources for distance learners. Online students also enjoy access to online academic tutoring, a full-text library, and a writing lab.
Online certificate students can apply for financial aid through the financial aid office. Active duty military personnel and students with military experience may be eligible for tuition assistance.
Accreditation
Craven Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
14. Hazard Community and Technical College
Hazard, Kentucky
HCTC is a public community college established in 1968. The school subscribes to an open admissions policy and accepts all learners with a high school diploma or GED. In addition to five campus locations, HCTC provides extensive online academic programs. HCTC students can earn a business administration certificate online.
The advanced business administration certificate requires 17-18 credits. Required classes include introduction to business law, introduction to quality systems, and productivity software. Additionally, HCTC students receive instruction in marketing and management.
HCTC’s certificate in advanced business administration prepares students for a variety of careers in management, general business, and supervisory roles. Graduates pursue careers as retail store managers, office managers, administrative assistants, operations managers, and executive directors.
Applicants submit high school transcripts and ACT or SAT scores. HCTC uses standardized test scores to place students in the correct courses upon admission. Incoming learners also take a series of placement tests. Applicants with above-average test scores may receive a placement test waiver.
Accreditation
Hazard Community and Technical College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
15. West Valley College
Saratoga, California
Located in Saratoga, California, WVC is a community college that serves approximately 8,100 students. Students at WVC can earn a 12-credit business administration certificate online.
This program introduces students to common business theories and concepts. Learners develop teamwork skills through group project assignments and professional business presentations. Upon completion of the certificate, WVC students can analyze legal and business cases, develop strategic marketing plans, and solve business problems.
Faculty deliver courses fully online and in a hybrid format through the Canvas system. WVC students work through synchronous classes with their classmates and complete regular assignments, exams, and online class discussions.
Online students pursuing a business administration certificate online choose from a variety of classes, including business law, business communication, and strategic management. Learners also explore useful computer technologies through classes like beginning spreadsheets, introduction to Microsoft Office, and presentation skills using PowerPoint.
WVC has an open admissions policy. Any interested learner over age 17 with a high school diploma or GED may attend. Admitted students can take advantage of remote student support services, including online tutoring, career coaching, and academic and personal counseling.
Accreditation
West Valley College is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC).
16. St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, Florida
Located in Florida, SPC is a state college established in 1927. SPC hosts more than 20,000 students each year. The school is part of the Florida College System and its students can earn a business administration certificate online.
This certificate program offers a diverse curriculum that covers essential topics in marketing, business law, budgeting, and strategic planning. Online students learn to make educated financial decisions and manage business information with the latest technologies. Additionally, certificate seekers develop effective communication and leadership skills.
In total, certificate students complete 24 credits for graduation. Most learners complete the program in one year or less. Required major courses include financial accounting, principles of finance, supervisory management, and principles of marketing. Learners must complete all classes with a “C” grade or higher to remain in good standing. Certificate students may participate in an optional business internship program to gain hands-on experience.
SPC follows an open admissions policy and accepts all learners with a high school diploma or GED. Distance students must apply online and submit an application fee and their high school transcripts. Incoming students take a college placement test, which helps SPC determine which prerequisite classes incoming students need, if any.
Incoming online learners work directly with a career and academic advisor to plan their coursework and discuss the school’s remote learning resources. Online students enjoy access to SPC’s online library and remote tutoring. Additionally, distance learners may receive research help from librarians and attend virtual office hours with faculty.
Accreditation
St. Petersburg College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
17. Central New Mexico Community College
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Established in 1964, CNM serves approximately 22,300 students in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and online. The community college offers a variety of associate degrees and professional certificates, including a certificate of completion in business administration.
Learners in this program develop the skills necessary for entry-level jobs in business. Learners engage with real-world case studies, hands-on learning experiences, and community-based projects. While earning the business administration certificate online, students study business law, entrepreneurship, marketing, and accounting. Students typically graduate in one year.
Graduates pursue careers in the private and public sectors, including roles in human resources, real estate, retail, and advertising. Certificate holders often hold positions as team leaders, project managers, supervisors, and administrative support team members.
Incoming students must have taken high school math and writing. Business certificate students take prerequisite courses as needed or as determined by their placement exam scores. In total, online students complete 39-40 credits over the course of three terms.
Interested students must submit official high school transcripts with a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA. Students with lower GPAs may submit scores from the ACT, SAT, or ACCUPLACER exams to supplement their applications. CNM allows students to take the ACCUPLACER exam for free on any CNM campus.
Accreditation
Central New Mexico Community College is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
18. Southeast Community College
Lincoln, Nebraska
Established in 1941, SCC offers a variety of academic programs at its three campus locations and online. SCC students can earn a certificate in business administration education online. Students study essential business concepts and their practical applications in online or hybrid formats.
Online learners at SCC take only 6 classes — 15 credits — to complete the business administration certificate. Required classes include principles of accounting, introduction to business, career transition and management strategies, and business communication.
During their second term, online students typically choose nine credits of approved electives to tailor the certificate to their goals and interests. Incoming students must possess prerequisite courses in reading and writing before taking certificate coursework. Online students need to complete all required courses with a “C” grade or better to remain in good standing with the department.
Prospective students must submit an online application for consideration. Completed applications include high school or college transcripts and standardized test scores. The school accepts the Compass, ACT, or ASSET exams. Standardized tests also serve as placement exams for new SCC students. Online learners may apply at any time and begin classes during the fall, spring, or summer terms.
Distance students can take advantage of SCC’s learning resources through its entrepreneurship center and career services specialists. Additionally, the school offers advising services and online tutoring for distance students.
Accreditation
Southeast Community College Area holds regional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
19. Broward College
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, BC is a public institution established in 1949. The school offers a variety of academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and multiple certificates. BC students can earn a business administration certificate online.
This management-focused program prepares students for entry-level careers that lead to entrepreneurship, management roles, and administrative positions. The curriculum covers foundational topics in management, communications in the workforce, microeconomics, accounting, and public speaking. Certificate seekers complete 15 credits of online classes and most complete the program in one year or less.
Applicants must submit high school transcripts for consideration. Students seeking in-state tuition rates must provide proof of Florida residency. Online students can apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA and internal BC scholarships with a separate application. Incoming students may also receive credit for prior learning depending on their educational histories.
Online students enjoy access to academic advising, research assistance from librarians, and various career exploration tools. BC also offers online academic tutoring and a comprehensive online writing lab. Additionally, learners may pursue internship opportunities with the help of BC advisors upon completion of their coursework.
Accreditation
Southeast Community College is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
20. Great Basin College
Elko, Nevada
GBC is a public institution established in 1967. Located in Elko, Nevada, the school serves approximately 4,000 students. GBC offers a variety of academic programs, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and professional certificates. Remote students can pursue its business administration certificate online with no on-campus obligations.
This certificate of completion in business administration gives students a foundational understanding of business practices that affect financial success. The curriculum trains students to make ethical decisions in the workplace and exposes learners to a variety of customer service strategies and business networking skills.
Remote students complete six credits of English and communications courses, up to three credits of human relations courses, and three credits of mathematics. Certificate seekers must also pass a computer competency evaluation. Online learners typically complete the certificate in two semesters, which requires a total of 30.5 semester hours. GBC’s program prepares students to enter its associate program or pursue entry-level positions.
GBC has an open admissions policy. While some classes require prerequisite courses, the school accepts students of most academic backgrounds. Most incoming learners have at least a high school diploma or GED, and incoming students must take a placement test.
Distance students can take advantage of services through the academic success center, including free live tutoring, proctored testing, computer lab access, and online instructional workshops.
Accreditation
Great Basin College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
The Advantages of a Business Education
Online business administration certificate programs and associate degrees in business administration cover fundamental business topics, such as financial planning, accounting statements, business controls and operations, and financial reporting. Both types of programs prepare students to assume a range of professional responsibilities, including administrative and operational tasks.
However, there are several distinct differences between an associate program and a business certificate. An associate program typically takes two years to complete, while a business administration certificate usually takes one year. Given that associate students receive more education than certificate students, they also enjoy higher salary potential, as demonstrated by the following table.
Additionally, many associate programs in business administration offer concentrations, such as healthcare, human resources, or information management systems. The career-focused coursework of most associate programs qualifies graduates for entry-level jobs in specific fields.
An online business certificate program is a faster and more affordable alternative to an associate degree, allowing students to decide whether a business career is right for them without making significant time and financial commitments.
Average Salary by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Certificate in Business Administration | $33,280 |
| Associate Degree in Business | $52,000 |
Source: PayScale
Business Certificate Salary Information
Earning a business administration certificate online allows students to jumpstart a career in business without sacrificing existing commitments. Depending on their background, work history, and career objectives, certificate in business administration graduates find jobs in fields such as accounting, purchasing, and office administration. The following positions are common among business administration certificate holders.
- Personnel Assistant
- Personnel assistants typically maintain employee records, process and review applications, verify employee references, and check criminal backgrounds. The position requires strong computer and office equipment skills.
- Administrative Assistant
- Administrative assistants work for organizations to maintain files, schedule appointments, optimize office space, and route calls and information requests. They often need strong typing skills since most administrative assistants manage a department’s correspondence, billing, and inventory control.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $28,000
- Mid-Career: $29,000
- Experienced: $31,000
- Late Career: $33,000
- Accounting Clerk
- Working closely with a company’s accounting head, an accounting clerk reconciles bank transactions, records billing, and verifies accounting codes on company forms. In smaller companies, an accounting clerk also handles vendor transactions and customer inquiries.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $29,000
- Mid-Career: $30,000
- Experienced: $32,000
- Late Career: $33,000
- Purchasing Assistant
- Purchasing assistants maintain accurate purchase order records for a company. They must cultivate professional relationships with manufacturers and distributors to ensure a steady supply of merchandise. Purchasing assistants need knowledge of industry trends to make timely recommendations.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $30,000
- Mid-Career: $31,000
- Experienced: $33,000
- Late Career: $35,000
- Project Assistant
- Most project assistants facilitate communication among project team members and other concerned departments to ensure the completion of a project. They set schedules and deadlines within budget limits and issue progress reports to keep all parties informed at every stage of a project.
-
Salary based on experience:
- Entry Level: $33,000
- Mid-Career: $35,000
- Experienced: $39,000
- Late Career: $44,000
Source: PayScale
Choosing an Online Business Program
There’s no shortage of options for students seeking to earn a business administration certificate online. It often benefits students to opt for schools in their home state as in-state students often pay lower tuition and qualify for more scholarship opportunities. Other factors to consider include program length, on-campus requirements, and transfer policies.
- Program Cost
- Although most schools maintain the same tuition rates for on-campus and online programs, online programs often yield significant savings in terms of living and transportation costs. Programs also typically cost less for in-state students than out-of-state students.
- Transfer Policies
- Before enrolling in an online business administration certificate program, students should research articulation agreements. An articulation agreement facilitates credit transfers, which can lead to a seamless transition from a certificate program to a degree program.
- School Size and Type
- Public institutions are typically bigger and offer more scholarship opportunities than private schools. However, private schools often boast smaller class sizes, allowing for more individualized attention.
- Program Length
- The time it takes to earn a business administration certificate online depends on whether a student studies full time or part time. Other factors, such as the availability of courses, can also impact how long it takes to earn the certificate.
- On-campus Requirements
- Many online business administration certificate programs feature no on-campus requirements, while others require some campus visits. In fully online programs, students complete assignments and partake in class discussions through the school’s online platform.
Accreditation for Online Business Programs
Accreditation ensures that a school meets high academic standards. Regional accrediting agencies typically accredit degree-granting colleges and universities. National accrediting bodies focus on vocational, technical, and sectarian schools. Programmatic accrediting agencies evaluate a specific program within a school. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accrediting bodies to ensure fair evaluations.
Accreditation expands employment, financial aid, and education opportunities. Regionally accredited institutions typically do not accept transfer credits from non-accredited schools. Additionally, the ED only dispenses financial aid to accredited colleges and universities. Furthermore, employers increasingly seek employees with accredited degrees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Certificate in Business?
Most online business administration certificate programs take less than 1.5 years to complete. Some programs follow a regular semester schedule, while others follow accelerated eight-week formats with several start dates throughout the year. Students enrolled in programs that follow the accelerated delivery schedule typically earn their business administration certificate sooner.
Many colleges give credit for relevant work or education experience, which can expedite graduation. Additionally, most online business administration certificate programs offer coursework that follows an asynchronous delivery format, allowing students to complete courses at their own pace. Although few certificate programs require students to complete a practicum, those that do may take longer to complete.
Courses in an Online Certificate in Business Program
- Accounting
- Students in this course gain a basic understanding of accounting principles as they relate to administrative roles in business. They study topics such as managerial accounting and financial decision-making and learn how to prepare financial statements.
- Business Strategy
- Students in this class explore various economic, political, societal, and technological issues that impact the business environment. They learn how to devise effective problem-solving strategies that address the challenges these issues present to different types of businesses.
- Fundamentals of Marketing
- This course teaches students basic marketing principles. They study concepts such as price, promotion, consumer trends, distribution, and market positioning for goods and services. Students learn how to use these and other marketing tools to meet customer needs.
- Human Resources Management
- In this course, students learn fundamental human resources management concepts. They study benefits and compensation; the hiring process; and personnel training, management, and retention.
- Introduction to Project Management
- Students in this class examine basic project management principles. They study key concepts such as budgeting, project planning and implementation, and resource allocation.
Business Membership Associations
Business students and graduates benefit from joining professional associations. Many associations sponsor regional and national conferences where members can learn the latest news, developments, and trends in the field. Associations also help members build a strong professional network that they can tap into for work referrals, mentoring opportunities, and joint ventures. Some business associations also offer discounted products and services that help members advance their careers.
- American Business Women’s Association
- The ABWA sponsors more than 5,000 business and networking conferences each year. The association also administers the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund, which grants scholarships to female business students. The ABWA maintains a career page where members can post resumes and explore job prospects.
- Association of Business Process Management
- ABPM offers certification programs, on-demand webinars, professional conferences, and discounts on various products and services. The organization also maintains an online job board and offers a resume review service.
- Business Professionals of America
- BPA boasts more than 45,000 members and over 1,800 chapters across the country. It sponsors an annual business leadership conference in addition to several regional conferences. Members can access interactive webinars on current topics and trends. The organization administers three scholarship programs for student members.
- Chartered Association of Business Administrators
- CABA administers several industry-recognized certification programs, such as Chartered Business Administrator and Chartered Certified Business Consultant. Members enjoy certification discounts. The association also provides members with resume reviews and free online tutorials.
- National Business Association
- NBA supports the small business community. Members receive discounts on medical services, pharmaceutical products, print materials, business seminars, and software. NBA also assists members in securing capital and keeps members apprised of the latest IRS regulations affecting small businesses.
