COB certificate programs grow

The College of Business offers numerous certificates, including one for hospitality management.

The College of Business’ graduate certificate programs are currently riding a five-year high.  In 2014, the College awarded 59 graduate certificates.  In 2018, it awarded more than 100 in seven areas: business analytics, hospitality management, management information systems, marketing, project management, supply chain management and sustainable tourism.

Initially, one obtained a certificate as part of an MBA degree. College leaders then began to see a demand for the certificates to be stand-alone programs. Today, prospective grad students can obtain either their certificate separately or as part of the College’s MBA program.

Jacquitta Boone received her project management certificate in 2018. Her story can be found in the links of interest.

“We started hearing from students that they needed to do something to not only enhance their skill set but make it easier for them to shift industries,” said Paul Russell, COB’s graduate programs director. “Our certificates can complement anyone’s experience and education. Plus, having these certificates allows the student to take care of the electives portion of an MBA if they should choose to pursue that avenue.”

Russell adds the College waives the entrance requirements for its degree programs if one obtains a certificate from the College of Business.

“This generally is the preferred method for those who don’t do well in standardized testing,” added Russell.

Simply stated, COB’s graduate certificate programs are there for people to enhance their careers and continue their education after graduation. And, from the looks of it, people are taking advantage of this program more and more.

“Having our certificates program available online, as well as our MBA program, gives people options that they can take advantage of,” said Russell.

For more information about the graduate certificate programs, visit https://business.ecu.edu/grad/certificates/

Links of Interest

College Issues First Project Management and Business Analytics Certificates

• Categories:
• Graduate Programs