A certificate program consists of focused coursework designed to help you develop skills and credentials in a particular occupation or field of study. Unlike a certification, which is an assessment of competency in a subject or profession, a certificate program can help you build foundational and industry knowledge when starting or transitioning into a new career.
Types of certificate programs include:
- Academic
- Professional
- Technical
- Graduate
- Industry or trade-specific
Benefits of certificate programs include:
- Career and skills-focused curriculum
- Shorter completion times than traditional degree programs
- Specialized training
- Flexible formatting: online, in-person or hybrid delivery
- Opportunities for career advancement
At Boise State University, certificates can be earned independently or as part of a customized undergraduate or graduate degree program. These certificates range in subject from technology and cyber operations to business and communications management, and are both affordable and accredited.
Common fields that offer certificate programs
- Business and management: This can include areas such as project management, leadership, human resources and communication.
- Information technology: This can include areas such as cyber operations and cybersecurity, data analytics, IT support and cryptography.
- Health care: This can include areas such as administration, imaging sciences and healthcare foundations in clinical and rural settings.
- Marketing and digital media: This can include areas such as innovation and design, user experience design, social media management and digital marketing.
Some of these certificate areas may require prerequisites or prior field experience.
Certificates vs. degree programs
How certificate-based degree programs work
If you’re interested in pursuing a degree along with or after earning a certificate, Boise State Online has programs like the Bachelor of Applied Science, Bachelor of Arts in Digital Innovation and Design, Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Innovation and Design and Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Professional Studies that allow you to build or stack your certificates to create a full degree plan in your area of interest.
Certificates can vary in the number of credits toward degree completion — typically seven to 13 credit hours — and often include both required courses and electives selected to give you relevant, hands-on experience. Some certificates may also have prerequisites, such as those related to health care.
The online digital innovation and design degree, for example, starts with the Certificate in Innovation and Design and then gives you the option of choosing three additional certificates from a growing list of options. If you’re unsure which certificates best fit your path, program advisors are available to help you determine the best plan for you. You can also use the “Design Your Experience” tool below to explore your possibilities.
Frequently asked questions about certificate programs
Can certificate credits transfer to a degree program?
This depends on the particular certificate, degree program and school. At Boise State, online certificates are designed to be standalone or transferable toward a full degree program. There are also degree programs, like the online digital innovation and design degree, that are built from certificates.
What is the difference between a certificate and a certification?
A certificate is earned after completing an educational or training program and demonstrates knowledge in a specific area. A certification is a professional credential or standard awarded by an industry association or organization after meeting qualification requirements and passing an exam. Those who have earned a certificate may pursue certification in their field.
How long does it take to complete a certificate program?
Completion times can vary depending on the subject. You can expect to complete most Boise State Online certificates in six to 12 months, depending on your pace and course availability.
Are online certificate programs respected?
Yes. Online certificates earned from accredited institutions, major tech companies or professional organizations are generally well-respected within their fields. That said, a certificate isn’t a substitute for degree requirements in professions like healthcare, accounting, law and engineering.
Learn more about Boise State Online
Boise State Online offers 100+ online programs and 900+ unique online courses to help you make your educational dreams a reality — and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring if an online program is right for you or need help transferring credits, connecting with a student success coach is the perfect first step.
Ready to learn more? Attend one of our online information sessions or contact a student success coach today.