Explore Online Certificate Programs
Certificate programs are one of the fastest ways to start a new career often in less than a year. DegreeFlex can match you with accredited certificate programs across dozens of fields, online or on campus.
What Is a Certificate Program?
A certificate program is a short, focused course of study designed to prepare you for a specific job or skill set without the time or cost of a full degree. Certificate programs are common at online vocational colleges and trade schools, and many are built specifically around getting you into the workforce quickly. Compared to a two- or four-year degree, certificate programs trade breadth for speed: you learn exactly what a specific role requires, and little else.
- Fast — Most certificate programs take a few months to a year to complete
- Affordable — Lower cost than an associate or bachelor's degree, since the program is shorter
- Career-focused — Built around the specific skills employers in that field are looking for
- Flexible — Many accredited online certificate programs are designed around working schedules
Popular Certificate Fields
Certificate programs are available across nearly every industry DegreeFlex covers, including:
Healthcare
Medical assisting, pharmacy technician, dental assisting
Trades & Technical
HVAC, welding, automotive technology
Computer & Tech
IT support, web development, cybersecurity fundamentals
Business
Bookkeeping, project management, administrative support
Sponsored Schools
A few of the accredited schools you could be matched with.
- VERIFIED
Kaplan has offered specialized, flexible degree programs to students around the globe. Our mission is to empower a diverse student body for academic, personal, and professional success.
- VERIFIED
Don’t just go back to school — come back and move forward with Purdue Global, Purdue’s online university for working adults.
- VERIFIED
For decades, CU Online has helped students build rewarding careers. With personalized support from day one to graduation, you’ll stay on track to reach your goals.
- VERIFIED
Kaplan has offered specialized, flexible degree programs to students around the globe. Our mission is to empower a diverse student body for academic, personal, and professional success.
- VERIFIED
Kaplan has offered specialized, flexible degree programs to students around the globe. Our mission is to empower a diverse student body for academic, personal, and professional success.
- VERIFIED
Don’t just go back to school — come back and move forward with Purdue Global, Purdue’s online university for working adults.
- VERIFIED
For decades, CU Online has helped students build rewarding careers. With personalized support from day one to graduation, you’ll stay on track to reach your goals.
Common Questions About Certificate Programs
How long does a certificate program take?
Most certificate programs take anywhere from a few months to about a year to complete, depending on the field and the school.
Is a certificate program the same as a degree?
No. A certificate program is shorter and more narrowly focused than a degree, and typically doesn’t include the general education requirements that come with an associate or bachelor’s degree.
Can I find certificate programs near me?
DegreeFlex matches you with accredited certificate programs based on your interests and location — including both online options and, where available, programs near you.
Are online certificate programs accredited?
Many are. DegreeFlex only matches you with accredited certificate programs accreditation matters for how employers and licensing boards view your training.
Can a certificate program lead to a higher degree later?
In some cases, yes certain certificate programs offer credits that can transfer toward an associate degree if you decide to continue your education later.
Ready to Get Started?
Answer a few quick questions and see accredited certificate programs matched to you, free with no obligation.