Business administration is a growing field with lucrative, diverse career possibilities. A career in business brings plenty of opportunities for learning and enhancing your skills. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects eight percent growth for business occupations from 2020 to 2030. Due to this, business administration certificates are becoming popular among students and professionals.
Some people who want to learn business administration choose a business administration certificate program before transitioning to a more demanding undergraduate degree program. Others pursue a business administration college certificate to enhance their skills and knowledge to open doors for career advancement.
What Is a Business Administration Certificate College Program?
A business administration certificate college program is a short learning program. It provides students with an opportunity to explore key business areas such as marketing, finance, and human resources, through theoretical and experiential learning. A certificate program focuses on developing an understanding of general business education to streamline your career.
What’s the Difference Between a College Business Administration Certificate and Professional Certification in Business Administration?
There are several differences between a business administration college certificate and professional certification. Some people might confuse the two because they sound similar, but they differ in their content and applicability. Overall, a certificate program teaches you about a subject while certification proves your skills in that subject through a standardized test. Read more about the differences between the two below.
Business Administration College Certificate vs Business Administration Certification: Key Differences
| Business Administration Certificate | Business Administration Certification |
|---|---|
| The cost of a business administration college certificate is higher than a professional certification. | A professional business administration certification is often more affordable than a college certificate. |
| Certificates are offered by colleges and universities. | Certifications are offered by independent organizations, companies, and professional associations. |
| A college certificate does not make you a certified business administration expert. | Professional certification in business administration results in certifying you to work in this field. |
How Long Does It Take To Get a Business Administration Certificate at College?
It takes six to 12 months to get a business administration certificate at college. The certificate program usually consists of four to six courses that can be completed within a year. Some graduate certificates might take more than a year to complete. Some schools also offer self-pacing, in which case the length of time for completion can vary considerably.
Best Business Administration Certificate Undergraduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Certificate in Business Management | $520/credit |
| Colorado State University Global | Certificate in Business Administration | $350/credit |
| Florida Atlantic University | Certificate in International Business | $203.29/credit (in state); $721.84/credit (out of state) |
| Golden Gate University | Certificate in Management | $462/unit |
| Husson University | Certificate in Business Administration | $398/credit |
| Missouri State University | Certificate in Business Principles | $267/credit |
| University of Minnesota Duluth | Certificate in Business Administration | $520.50/credit |
| University of the West | Certificate in Business Administration | $538/unit |
| Westcliff University | Certificate in Business Administration | $9,900 |
| Wilmington University | Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management | $399/credit |
Best Undergraduate Business Administration Certificate Programs: Explained
The best undergraduate business administration certificates provide you with a comprehensive learning experience. Before applying for admission, explore the various programs in detail to make the best decision. Following is more information on the best undergraduate business administration certificate programs.
This undergraduate certificate is offered by Boston University’s Metropolitan College, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business. This flexible program equips students with critical business administration skills through four courses. The university also provides extensive learning resources including IT help centers, educational resource centers, and centers for career development.
Certificate in Business Management Details
- Cost: $520/credit
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
This undergraduate certificate program from Colorado State University-Global Campus consists of six courses worth 18 credits. You can complete the program online in six months and transfer the credits toward a bachelor’s degree. The courses focus on key business areas including marketing, business law, organizational change, leadership, and management.
Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $350/credit
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: High school transcripts, resume, ACT/SAT/Accuplacer scores
This undergraduate certificate program is for professionals working in business with an international element. There are three courses required, plus a practical component worth three credits that includes a study abroad option. Students can enter the business world after completing the program or transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree.
Certificate in International Business Details
- Cost: $203.29/credit (in state); $721.84 (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: At least 2 years of postsecondary education
- Other Requirements: Transcripts, ACT/SAT scores
The undergraduate certificate program in management from Golden Gate University offers knowledge and skill-based learning in the key areas of business administration. It introduces students to the principles and practices involved in leadership and management and is available in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats.
Certificate in Management Details
- Cost: $460/unit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online, in person, hybrid
- Minimum Education: High school diploma with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, statement of purpose (optional)
This certificate in business administration from Husson University helps students develop the essential skills required to succeed in the business sector. It includes foundational and upper-level courses in topics such as business law, ethical practices, innovation, and marketing strategies. In addition to three courses in the major, you can select two electives.
Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $398/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Transcripts
This undergraduate certificate from Missouri State University is ideal for students who want to expand their business knowledge through a flexible and quick learning program. It focuses on the study of three key business areas, including finance, marketing, and business law. You can earn the certificate by completing four courses.
Certificate in Business Principles Details
- Cost: $267/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: ACT/SAT scores, official transcripts
This online undergraduate certificate from University of Minnesota Duluth is created for students who aren’t ready to declare a major in business but want to learn the fundamentals of the field. Once the certificate is earned, through eight business-focused modules, students will have the prerequisites satisfied for the school’s MBA program.
Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $520.50/credit
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: ACT/SAT scores, official transcripts, personal statement
This University of the West undergraduate certificate allows students and professionals to work with an advisor to devise a program of study catered to their own interests and needs. It provides the fundamentals in business administration, including accounting, economics, marketing, and more, through modern business principles and practices.
Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $538/unit
- Length: 21 units
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, minimum GPA of 2.5
This Westcliff University undergraduate certificate focuses on practical skills in key areas of business that can be put into practice immediately. Principles and foundations in law, finance, accounting, and other business areas prepare students to enter or advance in the business world.
Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $9,900
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: On campus
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, interview, personal statement
This Wilmington University undergraduate certificate program allows students to explore the fundamentals of small business. It is ideal for those seeking to become an entrepreneur or earn a bachelor’s degree in the same field. Six courses focus on key business areas such as business law, finance, and marketing. It also includes experiential learning.
Certificate in Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management Details
- Cost: $399/credit
- Length: 18 credits
- Learning Format: Online, in person
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: High school transcripts
Business Administration College Certificate Program vs Business Administration Associate Degree
After completing your secondary education, you can opt to get a business administration certificate or an Associate Degree in Business Administration. The former provides you with 12 to 15 credits that can be transferred to a bachelor’s degree. An associate degree takes more time to complete and provides you with more transferable credits. Below are several differentiating factors that distinguish an associate degree from a certificate in business administration.
- Cost. The cost of getting a college certificate is comparatively less than the cost of an associate degree. That’s because the former requires fewer credits and takes less time to complete.
- Admission requirements. The admission requirements for a certificate program in business administration usually do not include standardized test scores. To gain admission into an associate degree program, you normally need to provide ACT or SAT scores.
- Timeframe. A business administration certificate takes a few months to a year to complete. On the other hand, an associate degree is a two-year program.
- Coursework. The business administration certificate coursework includes four to six core courses focused on key business areas. The coursework of an associate degree includes general education courses along with core and elective business administration courses.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Associate Degrees
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Is an Undergraduate Business Administration Certificate Worth It?
Yes, an undergraduate business administration certificate is worth it because it provides you with valuable business and managerial skills. Day-to-day business operations require an understanding of the business environment, which an undergraduate certificate provides. It also provides you with credits that you can transfer toward a bachelor’s degree program.
Best Business Administration Certificate Graduate Programs
| School | Program Name | Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Graduate Certificate in International Business Management | $520/credit |
| Missouri State University | Graduate Certificate in International Business | $347.22/credit (in state); $640.22/credit (out of state) |
| Northeastern University | Graduate Certificate in Business Administration | $1,640/credit |
| Pennsylvania State University-World Campus | Graduate Certificate in Business Management Foundations | $1,236/credit |
| Rowan University | Business Certificate of Graduate Study | $816.40/credit |
| University of Maine | Graduate Certificate in Business Administration | $650/credit |
| University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Business | $575/credit |
| University of South Florida | Graduate Certificate in Business Foundations | $347.91/credit |
| University of Texas at Arlington | Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics | $11,044/year |
Best Graduate Business Administration Certificate Programs Explained
The graduate business administration certificate allows you to explore various aspects of business administration in detail. A business certificate, along with a degree in business administration, provides the best learning combination to excel in your career. Following are the best graduate business administration certificate programs explained.
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This graduate certificate from Boston University equips students with the concepts and basic skills required to excel in the field of international business management. You will complete four courses for the program, which incorporate real-world applications for a more effective learning experience.
Graduate Certificate in International Business Management Details
- Cost: $520/credit
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Unofficial transcripts, recent resume, personal statement, letters of recommendation
Students who want to excel in the field of international business can take this graduate certificate offered by Missouri State University. It provides students with insight into key business areas, including finance, marketing, and management. In addition to the core course in international management, you can select three other courses as per your learning interests. Students seeking this certificate must be admitted to a graduate program at the university.
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $347.22/credit (in state); $640.22/credit (out of state)
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, GRE or GMAT scores
Decision making and leadership are the focus of this graduate certificate from Northeastern University. The program prepares current and prospective managers to contribute to their businesses and organizations through strategic, human-centered decisions. Three paths are offered, including a part-time MBA, build-your-own curriculum, and accelerated four-month curriculum.
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $1,640/credit
- Length: 12-15 credits
- Learning Format: Online, on campus
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
This comprehensive online graduate certificate program from Pennsylvania State university develops students’ foundational knowledge and skills in a variety of business disciplines. The program consists of four courses that can be selected according to your preference. Some of the choices are executive leadership, financial management, strategic business architecture, and marketing in a global environment.
Graduate Certificate in Business Management Foundations Details
- Cost: $1,236/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, minimum 3.0 GPA, resume, statement of purpose
This graduate certificate program in business studies is ideal for students planning to pursue a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. It helps them earn valuable foundational knowledge, along with credits to transfer to their master’s degree program at Rowan’s Rohrer College of Business. The program includes five courses.
Business Certificate of Graduate Study Details
- Cost: $816.40/credit
- Length: 9 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, professional resume, foundation courses
This University of Maine online graduate certificate is ideal for students who are already working as business administrators, customer service managers, business data analysts, or any similar position. It enables them to get an affordable education with a flexible learning schedule. The program includes the study of various aspects of corporate business and features an easy admission application process to facilitate students.
Graduate Certificate in Business Administration Details
- Cost: $650/credit
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: Online
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume
This graduate certificate program in foundations of business trains students to develop their skills and strengths in key business areas to excel in their careers. The program is offered by UMass Lowell’s Manning School of Business, accredited by AACSB. You must complete six courses to earn the certificate, which aims to help non-business graduates prepare for their MBA degree.
Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Business Details
- Cost: $575/credit
- Length: 12 credits
- Learning Format: Online, in person, hybrid
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts
This University of South Florida graduate certificate program in business foundations trains current and future managers to make informed decisions for their businesses and organizations through decision-making, measurement, and market-orientation skills. The program also fulfills the school’s MBA prerequisite.
Graduate Certificate in Business Foundations Details
- Cost: $347.91/credit
- Length: 16 credits
- Learning Format: Online, in person, hybrid
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation
The graduate certificate in business analytics offered by University of Texas at Arlington focuses on developing the analytical skills of students to help them achieve company goals. The academic coursework consists of five courses including programming and basic computer skills. You can transfer the earned credits toward a master’s degree in a related field.
Graduate Certificate in Business Analytics Details
- Cost: $11,044/year
- Length: 15 credits
- Learning Format: In person
- Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree
- Other Requirements: Official transcripts, resume, letters of recommendation, personal statement
Business Administration Graduate Certificate Program vs Business Administration Master’s Degree
After getting an undergraduate degree, those who want to continue their college education in business administration generally have two learning program options. These include a graduate certificate or a master’s degree. They both offer a graduate-level education but differ significantly. The differences highlighted below will help you decide which one is better for you.
- Program scope. A business administration graduate certificate focuses on a key business area and its relevant knowledge. On the other hand, a Master’s Degree in Business Administration involves an in-depth, broader study of the field.
- Credits earned. A graduate certificate in business administration usually involves 12 to 18 credits, whereas you will earn around 60 credits in a master’s degree program. This is reflective of the latter’s more involved overall education.
- Career opportunities. A graduate certificate can help you improve your current job performance through enhanced skills. Some of the higher-level job positions, such as executive roles, require a master’s degree.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Master’s Degrees
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Is a Graduate Business Administration Certificate Worth It?
Yes, a graduate business administration certificate is worth it. You can develop your knowledge of key business processes involved in business administration. The curriculum provides you with an opportunity for experiential learning to solve complex problems in this field. This not only results in enhancing your current job performance but also provides you with additional training to grow in your career.
Business Administration Certificate Program Coursework
The courses in business administration certificate programs focus on the best practices in key areas of the business field. This helps students understand the workings of various business organizations and gain related skills. Following are some of the most common business administration certificate program courses.
Fundamentals of Marketing
This course deals with the study of marketing strategies, techniques, and tactics to help a business grow and create recognition. It is one of the most crucial study areas in business administration. You will learn how to analyze market forces, trends, and practices, and incorporate them into your marketing plan to achieve your goals.
Organizational Behavior
This is an important managerial course that trains students to understand and manage different types of organizational behaviors effectively. You will learn how to align the behavior of people with the organization’s goals and objectives. The course helps develop the foundation for bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business administration.
Financial Accounting
The fundamental knowledge of financial accounting concepts plays a significant role in business decisions. The course provides an introduction to financial accounting practices and their relevance to the strategic planning of an enterprise. The main focus is on the preparation and analysis of financial statements for various business functions.
Fundamentals of Business Operations
This course provides the basis for understanding and managing various operational activities in an organization. You will learn to use quantitative tools to monitor the operational performance of a firm and help it achieve operational excellence by adopting effective practices. The main emphasis of the course is on operations management and analysis.
Business Law
This is an important course that includes the study of the laws, rules, and regulations surrounding the business world. After completing this course, you will be aware of the legal business environment along with key business laws including corporate law, labor law, and employment law.
Best Online College Courses for Credit
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What Can You Do With a Business Administration Certificate from College?
With a business administration certificate, you can apply for some of the highest-paying jobs in this field. A graduate certificate holder in business administration earns $59,000 annually, on average, according to PayScale, but salaries average much higher than this, depending on the exact position. Following are some of the highest-paying jobs with a certificate in business administration.
Best Business Administration Jobs and Careers With a Certificate
| Job Role | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Marketing Manager | $133,380 |
| Sales Manager | $127,490 |
| Human Resources Manager | $126,230 |
| Training and Development Manager | $120,130 |
| Administrative Services and Facilities Manager | $99,290 |
Best Business Administration Certificate Jobs and Careers: Explained
Getting a business administration college certificate can help you get some of the best business administration jobs. These jobs have average salaries in the six figures. Following are some of the best business administration certificate jobs and careers and details on them.
A marketing manager is responsible for developing and executing the marketing plans in an organization. Besides having an undergraduate degree, you typically also need field experience in the form of an internship. Some business administration certificate programs offer internship opportunities to students enabling them to get real-world experience.
- Average Salary: $133,380
- Job Outlook: 10% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree with relevant internship
A sales manager monitors the sales teams of an organization and directs their efforts to achieve the sales targets for the company. A business administration certificate introduces you to modern tools and techniques to monitor sales activities, forecast future trends, and execute better sales strategies.
- Average Salary: $127,490
- Job Outlook: 7% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree with field experience
A human resources manager deals with matters related to the employees of the organization including their recruitment, training, appointment, and appraisal, and solving their issues. Having deep subject knowledge along with fine interpersonal skills is crucial for this job. After completing your bachelor’s degree, you can get a graduate certificate in business administration to prepare for this position.
- Average Salary: $126,230
- Job Outlook: 9% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree with five or more years of field experience
As a training and development manager, you are responsible for preparing effective training programs for the staff of the organization. This requires fine communication and interpersonal skills that come with skill-based learning and experience. A business administration certificate can provide these skills.
- Average Salary: $120,130
- Job Outlook: 11% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree with five years or more experience in the field
An administrative services and facilities manager helps an organization improve its efficiency by coordinating with and supervising the administrative staff. Although the position requires a bachelor’s degree, an undergraduate or graduate certificate can help you have better communication skills and planning techniques to prepare for the job.
- Average Salary: $99,290
- Job Outlook: 9% from 2020 to 2030
- Required Education and Experience: Bachelor’s degree with less than five years of field experience
Should I Also Get a Business Administration Certification?
Yes, you should also get a business administration certification. This credential is offered and recognized by industry professionals and improves the worth of your resume. It can also help you hone in-demand professional skills that lead to improving your job performance. This helps you explore better career opportunities even at your current place of employment.
Best Business Administration Certifications
- Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP). This certification is offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis. Eligible professionals can take the exam online to earn the certification after fulfilling the course requirements.
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM). The Project Management Institute offers this online certification in project management. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can take the three-hour online exam and get your industry-recognized professional certification.
- PMI Professional in Business Analysis. Working professionals with experience in project management can explore new career enhancement opportunities through this professional certification in business analysis. The Project Management Institute offers the program completely online, which can be completed in four hours.
- HubSpot Inbound Marketing. HubSpot provides you with an opportunity to earn this professional certification for free. The program consists of seven lessons taught through 24 courses. You earn your certification after taking all seven quizzes within the given time limit.
- Project Management Professional (PMP). This project management certification is offered to professional project managers to develop their leadership and management skills. The program is offered by Project Management Institute and is widely recognized in the industry.
Best Professional Certifications
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Is a College Certificate for Business Administration Worth It?
Yes, a college certificate in business administration is worth it because it offers a fast and affordable learning path to develop business-related skills, including technical and soft skills. After getting a college certificate in business administration, you can enroll in any of the best online business administration bachelor’s degree programs or take on a new business management role.
Business Administration Certificates FAQ
No, it is not hard to get a business administration certificate. Whether or not you have a business background, you can develop a solid foundation in this field with a college certificate program. It will offer a variety of entry routes for a career in business.
A business administration certificate program focuses on developing basic business skills among students, including business communication, problem-solving, decision making, interpersonal, and other foundational skills.
Yes, business administration certifications require an examination. The exam or assessment usually consists of multiple-choice questions. Some certifications have as many as 200 of these questions. The examination for every certification varies.
No, you can’t become a business executive with a college certificate. The minimum education requirement for business executives is usually a bachelor’s degree. You can get a college certificate in business administration along with your degree to get better business insights and qualify to become a business executive.
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