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The Value of a Graduate Certificate

Last Updated July 15, 2019

A woman using a laptop and spiral notebook with handwritten notes determining if a graduate certificate is worth it.

Many professionals are choosing graduate certificates as an alternative to acquiring another degree. According to an article in The Washington Post, approximately 4 million workers, or 3% of the workforce, hold certificates.

What Makes Graduate Certificates a Good Option?

Certificate offerings are typically driven by the market, in that higher education takes note of changing workplace needs and business opportunities, making certificate programs an efficient way to get up to speed on trending industry topics. For busy working professionals, graduate certificates may provide:

  • A means to gain or enhance knowledge in a specialized subject area
  • Additional skills that can help individuals advance in current positions or change career fields
  • A way to meet state or national licensing requirements

Graduate Certificates vs. Master’s Degrees

Graduate certificates can be more targeted, cost-effective alternatives to master’s degrees. A graduate certificate can allow students to expand their knowledge of a particular subject by taking many of the same graduate-level courses as degree-seeking students without the time and money commitment required for a master’s degree. As the time for completion of a graduate certificate can range from a few months to a year in length, those students interested in earning additional credentials but unable to make the initial time and financial commitment to a master’s degree may find a graduate certificate preferable to graduate school.

If earning a master’s degree is still a long-term goal, many schools offer programs that allow students to apply certificate credit hours towards a master’s degree. For instance, earning an MSU Graduate Certificate in Strategic Management can be applied toward a Master of Science in Management, Strategy and Leadership.

Graduate Certificates May Broaden Career Opportunities

“The education, knowledge and experience you have in a field of study is what you want to showcase,” says Dave Campeas, president and CEO of the recruitment company PrincetonOne.

Depending on the industry and desired career path, graduate certificates can provide advanced education in fields such as human resources, business and technology that may bolster credentials and broaden opportunities without requiring a master’s degree.

Regardless of the field, making the most of a graduate certificate can be about applying the new-found knowledge to best meet an employer’s needs and your individual career goals.

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