Online Graduate Certificate in Workplace Performance Improvement

Courses

The online Graduate Certificate in Workplace Performance Improvement is operational and performance-focused, addressing immediate workplace challenges through practical tools and techniques.

In this program, you will gain the skills to assess performance gaps, apply process models for workplace improvement and improve organizational learning. You will also develop practical expertise in needs assessment, performance solutions and strategies to foster continuous growth and development.

This 18-credit program includes the following:

• Required Courses – 12 credits
• Elective Courses – 6 credits. Choose two courses to meet this credit requirement. If you are earning more than one certificate, you cannot apply the same electives used toward one certificate to another. The electives applied must be unique to each certificate.

Need help deciding between this certificate and the Certificate in Organizational Development? Read our blog post: How does Boise State prepare you for a change management career?

Review the following table for details on required courses and electives.

Course Descriptions

Official course descriptions and degree plans are published on the graduate catalog website.

To find a course, click the “Courses” tab and select the drop-down list that aligns with your desired course prefix (e.g. OPWL 529). You may also use the search bar to search for the course prefix.

Costs

Boise State Online offers reasonably priced tuition, ongoing support and financial aid options to help ensure you reach your goals quickly and efficiently. Review the following table for details on program costs.

*The per-credit fees listed above are for the 2025-26 academic year. Future academic year per-credit fees may vary slightly and are finalized each May.

**Most courses use books that are available as free ebooks from Albertsons Library. Some courses require e-learning development software but can be accessed through free trials; purchasing is optional.

***Costs for room, board and transportation are used to calculate financial aid and are included to disclose the full cost of attendance. These costs are not required for students pursuing a fully online program.

Notice to Boise State, State of Idaho and other Idaho higher education employees: Fee waivers do not apply to this program. For more information on reciprocal fee agreements, please visit the HR website.

Admissions Requirements

To be considered for the online Workplace Performance Improvement certificate, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Documented evidence of an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution.
• A cumulative GPA of 3.0 for all undergraduate credits. All course work must be verified by official transcripts. If a person fails to meet the GPA requirement, that person may submit a petition to the Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning Program Committee.
• Appropriateness of background experience and of the fit between the prospective student’s career goals and what the program offers.
• In accordance with Boise State Graduate College policy, a student MUST apply and be admitted to a graduate certificate prior to completing the requirements.

This content is provided as a quick reference for planning. All official admission standards are published on the graduate catalog site.

Application Deadlines by Semester

Admission is offered each fall, spring and summer semester. Space is limited, so early application is recommended. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. Review the following table for priority deadlines to submit materials.

To Apply For This Program

Step 1 – Apply to Boise State University

Complete the Boise State Graduate Admissions Application. On the Degree Path page within the application, select “Workplace Performance Improvement Graduate Certificate-Online” from the Program or Certificate drop-down list.

Step 2 – Request Official Transcripts

Request official transcript(s) from all previous colleges and universities you attended.

Please note: All transcripts must be RECEIVED by Graduate Admissions and Degree Services by the application deadline.

If you have served in the military, please make sure to send your Joint Services Transcript and/or Community College of the Air Force transcript.

Step 3 – Apply to the Online Workplace Performance Improvement Certificate Program

After submitting the graduate admission application (Step 1) and requesting your transcripts (Step 2), you will complete the online Workplace Performance Improvement certificate program application which includes the following:

Resume

Submit a resume that reflects your professional work experience.

Statement of Purpose

Submit a statement of purpose containing the following:

Formatting/Style

• 500-1,000 words, single-spaced, devoid of errors (spelling, punctuation, word choice or grammar), uses proper syntax (sentence and paragraph structure), includes sufficient detail and is clear and has coherence (logical progression of ideas and information with internal consistency)
• Heading that includes your name, email address, telephone and the program(s) to which you are applying

Content

• Description of your career goals and how the program coursework or programs to which you are applying will help you reach those goals
• Description of the strategies you will use to be successful in online graduate study

Submit your program application using the online graduate admission application form.

If you fail to meet the 3.0 undergraduate GPA requirement you will also be required to submit a petition to the Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning Program Committee.

Career Opportunities

The Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning field is growing. By 2030, the occupation is estimated to grow by 16% in the U.S., 7% in western states and 57% in Idaho. Many jobs are also eligible for remote work.

In addition, program faculty and staff assist with internship placements and the job search process after graduation. We’re committed to helping you succeed!

Possible careers:

• Change Management Specialist
• Performance Improvement Consultant
• Organizational Development Strategist
• Project Manager
• Human Resources Business Partner
• Director of Human Resources
• Data Analyst/Specialist

We’re Here to Help

The online Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning program at Boise State features a network of individuals who are here to make sure you are a success in the program.

From student success coaches who guide you through the admissions process, to advisors who help you overcome challenges as you navigate your degree plan, to faculty with real-world experience, to staff who work to remove barriers and solve problems for students — we are here to help.

Contact a Student Success Coach

Meet the Staff and Instructors