Certificate Programs Offer New Opportunities

by Kurt Robar  |   

Certificate Programs Offer New Opportunities

August 10, 2021

Last year the College of Business and Public Policy developed six new certificate programs designed to help meet Alaska鈥檚 workforce needs from the entry-level to the executive suite. Certificates are a way to show a level of expertise that is attainable in a short period of time, usually 12 to 18 months.

At the undergraduate level, Occupational Endorsement Certificates (OEC) are offered in bookkeeping, business analytics, business leadership and entrepreneurship. They are a manageable goal for students who aren鈥檛 ready to tackle an AAS or BBA program.

Graduate certificates immerse managers and executives in contemporary business issues, like how to harness data strategically and how to lead effectively amid today鈥檚 real-world challenges. They are also beneficial for all industry sectors vital to Alaska鈥檚 economy.

Benefits of certificate programs:

  • Manage easily within a busy life schedule (work, family).
  • Strengthen resume with demonstrated knowledge in an official program.
  • Gain momentum for additional learning. Most coursework finished for a certificate can also be applied toward an advanced degree.
  • Access information and skills development relevant to today鈥檚 changing business environment.
  • Develop new connections. Students network with, and learn from, a peer group. This is helpful for students just starting their higher education journey, and can be invigorating for those who have been out of school for some time.

Who should consider a certificate program?

  • Prospective students looking for a 鈥榝irst-step鈥� educational accomplishment.
  • Employees looking for additional certification or relevant training beyond 鈥榦n-the-job training.鈥�
  • Employees whose companies may offer tuition reimbursement.
  • Supervisors and executives seeking to differentiate themselves with advancing training in highly relevant areas.
  • Current AAS, BBA or MBA students. Coursework for these programs often applies to one of the certificates. You could earn a certificate along the way.

鈥淲hen we developed these programs, we thought carefully about the needs of Alaska businesses,鈥� said CBPP Associate Dean Dr. Terry Nelson. 鈥淲e are focused on ensuring our students are ready for the workforce. Whether you are just graduating high school or have been on a career path for 20 years, one of these certificates will give you a boost up and steep you in knowledge that provides immediate value in the workplace. That helps you - and that helps Alaska.鈥�