The 15 Best 6-Month Online Certificate Programs in 2021 (2023)

The National Center for Education Statistics or NCES data disclose that undergraduate-level or graduate-level degrees remain the goal for most graduating high school students and non-traditional learners. Although many U.S. post-secondary schools have granted more bachelor’s degrees than certifications and associate degrees, times have already changed.

With increasing globalization and technological modernizations, the current educational system around the country also adopts these changes. That said, an increasing student population has already switched to non-traditional academic alternatives, including enrolling in 6-month online certificate programs.

Speaking of non-traditional learning, many students nowadays handle more responsibilities with less time; hence, opting for the best and quickest academic option is the key. Without a doubt, prior education and training are crucial for pursuing rewarding career opportunities. Thanks to the power of technology, more and more colleges and universities have introduced 6-month online certificate programs for students wanting a quick and affordable way to obtain certifications.

Although numerous 6-month certificate programs are offered, students do not have as many online options! Following an exhaustive research, OnlineSchoolsCenter.com has rounded up high-rated academic institutions and their specific online certificate programs you can complete in as fast as six months! Besides accelerating your way to the profession of your dreams, our 15 Best 6-Month Online Certificate Programs impress with these salient features:

• 100% Online or hybrid education on flexible schedules for the convenience of students,
• High-quality, rigorous coursework that emphasizes graduate preparedness for their profession,
• Training and education feature the up-to-date processes and practices in the program’s industry of focus,
• May feature program transfer credits,
• Accredited by official academic governing bodies and agencies,
• High reputation among academic organizations and top ratings in academic rankings,
• May offer scholarships and financial assistance as part of their student support programs.

Need more information on our selection process? Please visit our Methodology page.

Navigate our 15 Best 6-Month Online Certificate Programs with ease! Use these quick links:

• Southern New Hampshire University
• Indiana University
• Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College
• Pennsylvania State University – World Campus
• Sinclair Community College
• Coastal Pines Technical College
• Walden University
• Fort Hays State University
• Kansas State University
• Ashworth College
• Arkansas State University
• Pensacola State College
• University of Washington
• University of Phoenix

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, New Hampshire

Tuition Fee: $320 per credit

Southern New Hampshire University offers 6-month online certificate programs in different discipline areas, including accounting, human resource management, finance, marketing, social media marketing, and public administration. SNHU’s graduate certificates can be pursued as a standalone program by students who already completed graduate degree programs and prefer to update their knowledge and skills. Besides that, students with baccalaureate degrees and relevant educational background and professional experience can also apply for 6-month online certificate programs at SNHU. The majority of certificate programs require 15 to 18 credit hours for completion. All certificate programs at SNHU require a minimum of 3.0 GPA and a grade of “C.” With 24/7 access to virtual classrooms, students can complete their coursework asynchronously.

Types of Aid: Grants, Merit Scholarships, State and Institutional Scholarships, Military and Veterans Benefits, and Student Loans

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• Transcript Release Form
• Electronic Attestation Form
• GED/High school transcripts

Accreditation:

• New England Commission of Higher Education

Aside from the best online certificate programs, financial assistance opportunities offered at Southern New Hampshire University also allow non-traditional learners to obtain their degrees at lesser costs. Students should accomplish their FAFSA requirements for proper screening and evaluation to receive an appropriate financial aid package. As one of the country’s top-rated online schools, Southern New Hampshire University also offers financial aid to students pursuing certificate programs.

Learn more about Southern New Hampshire University’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Indiana University

Bloomington, Indiana

Tuition Fee: Starts at $293.16, depending on the major study

Indiana University has 77 online certificate programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels. As part of its program offering, I.U. also has 6-month online certificate programs that require 12 credit hours for completion at the minimum. Each graduate/undergraduate online certificate at I.U. has different admission requirements. For example, the Information Privacy Law and Policy graduate certificate require students to submit at least one reference, transcripts, resume, and personal statement. All 6-month online certificate programs have a standard format, namely core course requirements and elective courses. Although most certificate programs take about one year to complete, students can quickly accomplish them in as few as six months, depending on their commitment. Distance learners enjoy quick and convenient access to I.U. Online resources, tips, and tools. Some of the student services they can access include a 24/7 contact center, success coaching, research and libraries, student financial services, and career services.

Types of Aid: Military and Veterans’ Educational Benefits, Scholarships, Grants, Student Loans, Employer Tuition Assistance, and I.U. Employee Tuition Benefit

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• Bachelor’s degree (If applicable)
• Official college transcripts
• Essay
• High school transcripts or GED
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume
• Other program-specific requirements

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Indiana University offers financial support for distance learners in educational loans, grants, and scholarships. Aside from the standard enrollment checklist, students must also submit their FAFSA requirements to become eligible for financial aid at Indiana University. The university also offers different self-service platforms for money management, including a budget balancer and IU MoneySmarts. All platforms provide students with the necessary online resources and tools for evaluating their finances related to their education.

Learn more about Indiana University’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College

Shell Lake, Wisconsin

Tuition Fee: $162.80 per credit (In-State) | $232.25 per credit (Out-Of-State)

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College offers three 6-month online certificate programs, namely Business Graphics, Nonprofit Essentials, and Professional Credential for Infants/Toddlers. Although all programs can be completed 100% online, students can freely visit WITC campuses in either Superior, Rice Lake, New Richmond, and Ashland. Aside from coursework completion, students participate in hands-on field experience in a chosen nearby facility. All classes are offered every semester; however, students can take their time in completing their certification. After program completion, distance learners are awarded a pathway certificate or technical certificate, depending on their enrollments. Aside from that, students can easily transfer their WITC credits to a 4-year baccalaureate degree in Wisconsin.

Types of Aid: Grants, Loans, Federal Work-Study Programs, Military & Veterans Benefits, Vocational Rehabilitation Benefits, CARES Emergency Grants, Payment Plans, and External Scholarships

Admission Requirements:

• $30 non-refundable application fee
• Online application
• Minimum high school GPA of 2.1
• ACCUPLACER scores

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College’s wide variety of financial aid programs helps learners to fund their certificate programs. With federal work-study options, grants, payment plans, and special benefits, online students at WITC can easily obtain their certification without a hefty amount of student debts. For active-duty military personnel and veterans, the school also has several federal V.A. education benefits, making them one of the top military-friendly schools around the U.S.

Learn more about Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College’s Online Certificate Programs.

Pennsylvania State University – World Campus

University Park, Pennsylvania

Tuition Fee: $576 per credit hour for 59 or fewer credits | $617 per credit hour for 60 or more credits

PennState World Campus is Pennsylvania State University’s online learning platform. PSU offers 79 online certificate programs in the undergraduate and graduate categories, with most of those completed within six months. Depending on the program, students can complete their certification once they have completed a minimum of 12 credit hours. All PennState courses are completed 100% online, letting students accomplish their courses according to their preference and schedule. Some online certificate programs are uniquely structured across five 10-week terms, including two sessions overlapping in the fall and spring terms. Aside from that, some of PennState’s 6-month online certificate programs can be completed as an independent credential or serve as a preparatory credential for higher-level degree programs. For example, PennState’s Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence Analytics offers an accelerated admission to the Master of GIS program.

Types of Aid: Military and Veterans Benefits, Private Alternative Loans, Scholarships, Payment Options, and Tuition Assistance

Admission Requirements:

• Online application
• High school transcripts/GED
• Prerequisite courses
• Other program-specific requirements

Accreditation:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education

As one of the frontrunners in online learning around P.A., Pennsylvania State University offers non-traditional learners the opportunity to fund their online certificate program. Speaking of special benefits for military students, they may also qualify for military and veterans’ educational benefits. With the submission of complete requirements of FAFSA, students at PSU are eligible to receive the appropriate financial aid package to help them fund their studies.

Learn more about Pennsylvania State University – World Campus’ 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Sinclair Community College

Dayton, Ohio

Tuition Fee: $126.03 per credit hour (Montgomery Residents) | $173.28 per credit hour (Other Ohio Residents) | $329.40 per credit hour (Non-Residents)

Sinclair Community College’s online short-term technical certificates allow distance learners to complete their certificate programs within six months. The areas of study include digital marketing analytics, retail management, software testing, law enforcement, and medical coding and billing specialist. The majority of these 6-month online certificate programs require a minimum of 12 credit hours for completion. Although the programs can be completed within one to two years, students can accomplish their certificates in a fast-tracked learning format. Credits earned through some of the online certificate programs offered at Sinclair Community College can be transferred to an associate degree. For instance, the Digital Marketing Analytics certificate can be applied to the Associate of Applied Science in Digital Marketing. After completing the program, students can qualify for industry certifications, such as HootSuite certification, Google AdWords, and Google Analytics Individual Qualification Certification.

Types of Aid: Grants, Scholarships, Federal Work-Study Options, Loans, and Consortium Agreement

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• ACCUPLACER/ACT/SAT/ALEKS or Compass scores

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Sinclair Community College helps distance learners to finance their online certificate programs through scholarships, loans, and grants. For active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their spouses/dependents, may qualify for tuition discounts and other educational benefits. Through the students’ submission of FAFSA requirements, they will receive a suitable financial aid package to fund their education.

Learn more about Sinclair Community College’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Coastal Pines Technical College

Waycross, Georgia

Tuition Fee: $411 per credit (In-State) | $511 per credit (Out-Of-State)

Students interested in completing accelerated certificate programs around Georgia can choose one out of seven 6-month online certificate programs at Coastal Pines Technical College. The fields of study include business technology, criminal justice, marketing management, and early childhood care and education. For interested students, they can enroll in Coastal Pines’ Technical Certificate of Credit in Microsoft Word Application, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Specialist, Crime Scene Fundamentals, Early Childhood Care and Education, Retail Merchandise Manager, or Small Business Marketing Manager.

Speaking of credits for completion, students can complete their online certificate education with 9 to 15 credit hours, depending on their chosen program. All programs don’t have rigorous enrollment procedures, requiring only a high school diploma or an equivalent credential. Regardless of the program, all distance learners must accomplish a proctored event.

Types of Aid: Military & Veterans Benefits, Federal Pell Grant, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant, Federal Work-Study Program, Zell Miller Grant & Scholarship, HOPE Scholarship and Grant, Scholarships, and Tuition Payment Plans

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• High school transcripts
• High school diploma/GED
• SAT/ACT scores
• ACCUPLACER scores
• Placement Testing requirements

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

With numerous financial aid opportunities for traditional and non-traditional students, Coastal Pines Technical College offers students finance their certification programs. They may be eligible to apply for grants, loan forgiveness, different types of loans, and federal financial aid. Aside from Coastal Pines’ standard admission process, a separate application should be submitted to help them receive an appropriate financial aid program.

Learn more about Coastal Pines Technical College’s Online Certificate Programs.

Walden University

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Tuition Fee: Starts at $495 per quarter hour depending on the major

Walden University mostly offers graduate-level certificates for their 6-month online certificate program offerings. Hence, most programs require a bachelor’s degree to enroll in specific programs. Besides that, online certificate programs accept a maximum of ten transfer credits, letting students save on tuition expenses. Although most programs can be obtained within 12 months, completion still depends on individual progress and credits transferred. Hence, students can complete their online graduate certificate program in six months if they prefer. For example, a graduate certificate in Population Health only requires 20 quarter credits for completion. Students under this program accomplish required courses, such as Population Health Management Applications, Disease Prevention, Care Management, Health Informatics and Population Health Analysis, and Essentials of the U.S. Healthcare Delivery System and Population Health. Walden University’s online certificate programs mostly cover healthcare, business administration, education, criminal justice, and management industries.

Types of Aid: Repayment Plan Options, Tuition Reductions, Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, Federal Pell Grants, Military and Veterans Educational Benefits, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Direct Subsidized Loans, Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Direct Parent PLUS Loans

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• Undergraduate degree

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Both undergraduate and graduates at Walden University enjoy a diverse range of financial aid opportunities to help them minimize the expenses of earning an online program. With the accomplishment of complete FAFSA requirements, students are a step closer to receiving grants, scholarships, and other ways to save on education. More than 60% of the student population at Walden University receive financial aid; hence, all students are highly encouraged to submit their application.

Learn more about Walden University’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Fort Hays State University

Hays, Kansas

Tuition Fee: $226.88 per credit hour (Undergraduate) | $298.55 per credit hour (Graduate)

If there’s an accredited school offering numerous 6-month online certificate programs around Kansas, students should consider looking into Fort Hays State University’s wide selection of certificate programs. FHSU’s online certificate programs have covered various disciplines, including sociology, political science, psychology, philosophy, nursing, management, allied health, criminal justice, and informatics. Most online certificate programs at FHSU requires a minimum of 12 credit hours for completion. Although they can be completed within one year, students can accomplish their online certifications within six months if they wish to do so.

Also, FHSU offers a unique dual department certificate, namely a Certificate in Crime Mapping and Analysis. Students have blended learning of two major components through this program, such as geoscience and criminal justice. Courses under this dual certificate program are Crime Analysis, Criminal Investigation, Intermediate Geographic Information Systems, and Introduction to Geographic Information Systems. Like other online certificate programs, students should have a minimum grade of “C” to complete their Crime Mapping and Analysis certificate program.

Types of Aid: Tuition Reduction Programs, Military and Veterans’ Educational Perks, Student Employment, Scholarships, Loans, and Grants

Admission Requirements:

• Online application
• SAT/ACT scores
• High school transcripts or GED
• Program-specific requirements

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

With a commitment to provide accessible education for everyone, Fort Hays State University helps students complete a program more affordable and attainable through various financial aid options. Like other universities around Kansas, applicants must submit their FAFSA requirements in a separate application aside from FHSU’s standard admission procedures. Upon submission of FAFSA, they may be qualified to avail of loan options, become scholarship awardees, and other need-based or merit-based grants.

Learn more about Fort Hays State University’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Kansas State University

Manhattan, Kansas

Tuition Fee: Starts at $382.50 per credit hour, depending on the major

Kansas State University offers several online undergraduate and graduate certificates, letting students earn the credentials they need for a career shift or develop new skills in the related industry. Most online certificate programs can be completed once students have 12 credit hours; hence, they can obtain their certificates within six months. However, the time of completion still relies on students’ schedule and pace. Some online certificate programs at Kansas State are developed in partnership with external organizations. For example, the Kansas Insurance Undergraduate Certificate was made in partnership with the Kansas Insurance Education Foundation. Hence, each certificate program at the university is guaranteed to have an integrated and relevant curriculum aligned with real-world applications.

Also, Kansas State offers similar support services to both on-campus and online students. Hence, distance learners enjoy access to library services, online exams, proctored testing, tutoring, coaching, and academic advising. They complete their required coursework through Canvas, the university’s online learning management system.

Types of Aid: Scholarships, Payment Options, Military and Veterans’ Educational Benefits, and Grants

Admission Requirements:

• Application for admission
• High school GPA of 3.25 or higher
• ACT/SAT scores
• High school diploma or GED
• $40 application fee
• Prerequisite courses

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

With numerous financial aid options for both traditional and non-traditional learners, Kansas State University provides students with the opportunity to receive their degrees without spending a hefty amount of money. For adult working students, Kansas State offers scholarships to EdAssist client employees. To qualify for this benefit, students can check with their employers if their company is part of the EdAssist network.

Learn more about Kansas State University’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

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Ashworth College

Norcross, Georgia

Tuition Fee: $999 full-tuition ~ $86 per credit hour

Ashworth College’s online undergraduate and graduate certificate programs can be completed within six months. The school allows a maximum of one year from the date of enrollment to earn an online certificate program at Ashworth College. All online certificate programs are self-paced; hence, distance learners can choose their schedule and pace. Aside from the best 6-month online certificate programs, Ashworth College’s flexible payment plans are worth mentioning. The school offers two payment options, namely Full Pay and Monthly Pay. For the Full Pay option, students can pay $999 for the whole certificate program. Otherwise, students can pay $59 per month, with a low initial payment during enrollment. Most programs can be applied toward an associate degree.

Types of Aid: Transfer Credits, and Military and Veterans Benefits

Admission Requirements:

• Online application
• High school diploma or GED

Accreditation:

• Distance Education Accrediting Commission

With less than $100 per credit hour tuition, Ashworth College offers distance learners complete certificate programs without accruing too much debt. As a military-friendly school, Ashworth College offers numerous financial assistance programs for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and eligible spouses. Loans aren’t necessary when completing a program at Ashworth College. Students can enroll with a small down payment, and they can choose a payment option suitable to their budget.

Learn more about Ashworth College’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

Arkansas State University

Jonesboro, Arkansas

Tuition Fee: $3,096 to $7,608 per 12-credit hour to a 24-credit hour depending on the major

Arkansas State University offers two 6-month online undergraduate certificate programs, namely Certificate in Social Media Management and Certificate in Leadership Studies. For 6-month online certificate programs at the graduate level, students can enroll in the Dyslexia Endorsement Certificate program. Most online certificate programs feature accelerated coursework and multiple start dates per academic year. Hence, distance learners can apply anytime they prefer without compromising personal and professional commitments. If you require additional training in strengthening leadership skills, students can enroll in the Leadership Studies certificate. Through the program, students learn through a curriculum integrated with the Social Change Model of Leadership concepts and a community-based service initiative. This 12-credit online certificate program includes Advanced Service Learning courses, Introduction to Service Learning, Seminar in Advanced Leadership Development, and Introduction to Leadership Development.

Types of Aid: Military and Veterans Benefits, Loans, Work-Study Options, Grants, and Scholarships

Admission Requirements:

• $30 non-refundable application fee
• Application for admission
• Official high school transcripts
• Minimum GPA of 2.75
• GED score
• ACT/SAT scores

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

Non-traditional and traditional students at Arkansas State University are offered numerous options to help them minimize their educational programs’ expenses. With the completion of FAFSA requirements, A-State’s team of financial aid experts evaluate the appropriate financial aid programs suitable to every student. As one of the country’s military-friendly universities, A-State also offers educational benefits for active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their spouses.

Learn more about Arkansas State University’s Online Certificate Programs.

Pensacola State College

Pensacola, Florida

Tuition Fee: $9,630 (Resident) | $17,195 (Non-Resident)

Pensacola State College has a diverse range of 6-month online certificate programs, including vocational certificates, college credit certificates, and advanced technical certificates. For Advanced Technical Certificates, students must have an associate degree to enroll in their preferred online program. They are suitable for students requiring additional academic credential and obtain specialized knowledge. In some instances, the course works required for ATC are credited into the baccalaureate program. Hence, students can easily transition from an ATC to a more advanced degree program. For College Credit Certificates, they prepare students for immediate employment into a job prospect in the workforce. These programs require prescribed technical courses. Also, CCC programs can be credited towards the equivalent associate degree program. Lastly, Vocational Certificate or clock hour certificate programs provide distance learners with the necessary preparation for direct entry into the workforce. Through these online certificate programs, students must demonstrate a specified level of proficiency in basic competencies. That said, they must achieve minimum scores on the Test of Adult Basic Skills before graduation.

Types of Aid: Tuition Installment Plans, Grants, Scholarships, Student Loans, Work-Study Options, and Veterans’ Benefits

Admission Requirements:

• Online application
• $30 application fee
• High school diploma or GED
• Residency documentation

Accreditation:

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Pensacola State College helps both undergraduates and graduates to finance their online studies through loans, grants, scholarships, and other financial aid programs. Aside from common enrollment requirements and process, students must also process their FAFSA requirements so they can become qualified to receive financial assistance at Pensacola State College.

Learn more about Pensacola State College’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

University of Washington

Seattle, Washington

Tuition Fee: $3,797 to $4,720 depending on the major

The University of Washington has three 6-month online certificate programs to choose from through Professional and Continuing Education. Interested students can enroll in the Certificate in E-Learning Instructional Design, Certificate in Sales, or Certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership program. All certificate programs are 100% online; however, the Certificate in Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership program also requires real-time meetings with instructors and colleagues. The other two 6-month online programs only require coursework completion with scheduled due dates for assignments. Regardless of the major, each program also offers students a hands-on learning experience. Most certificate programs don’t have standard admission requirements. Hence, anyone can apply regardless of educational background.

Types of Aid: Loans, Loan Deferments, Payment Options, Scholarships, UWPCE Lifelong Learning Incentive, AmeriCorps Education Awards, Veterans Benefits, and Employer Educational Assistance

Admission Requirements:

• $50 non-refundable application fee
• Application for admission
• High school diploma or GED
• Professional experience (If applicable)
• Bachelor’s degree (If applicable)

Accreditation:

• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

The University of Washington has many financial aid opportunities, including veterans benefits, scholarships, loans, and other types of financial aid programs for students. Although not all online certificate programs can be granted financial aid, some programs may qualify for Rotary Scholarship or U.W. Certificate Scholarship. Some companies will reimburse the expenses incurred for adult working students as part of the student’s professional education. Hence, they should verify with their current employer if a program is available.

Learn more about the University of Washington’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

University of Phoenix

Phoenix, Arizona

Tuition Fee: Starts at $398 per credit depending on the major

The University of Phoenix offers 44 online certificate programs, with most of the programs requiring a minimum of six months for completion. The majority of these online programs require 12 to 18 credit hours for graduation. Speaking of course duration, distance learners take one course at a time, with a 6-week course length. Depending on the program, each program offers five to six courses per year. For example, the Small Business Management and Entrepreneurship Certificate require core courses, such as Small Business and Entrepreneurial Planning, Evaluating New Business Opportunities, Fundamentals of Human Resource Management, Financial Management in the Small Business, Small Business Marketing, and Small Business: Structure, Planning, and Funding. Each student is assigned with an academic counselor at the start of the program, helping them schedule their courses for a specific online certificate program. Distance learners enjoy 24/7 access to technical support, library, and other student resource services.

Types of Aid: Scholarships, Military and Veterans’ Educational Benefits, Transfer Credits, Employer Assistance, Federal Grants, and Federal Loans

Admission Requirements:

• Online application
• High school diploma
• Baccalaureate degree
• Other program-specific requirements

Accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission

The University of Phoenix’s wide variety of financial aid programs makes it more inexpensive and accessible for traditional and non-traditional learners to obtain a program without too many expenses. Students pay the same fixed, affordable tuition from the beginning until the end of their specific programs. To receive the right type of financial aid package, students must initially comply with the standards and requirements for FAFSA.

Learn more about the University of Phoenix’s 6-Month Online Certificate Programs.

What accreditations should I look into when choosing a 6-month online certificate program?

The U.S. has three types of higher education accreditation. Regional accreditation emphasizes degree-oriented non-profit academic institutions, whether private or public schools. In the case of sectarian or for-profit trade schools, national accreditation is the primary goal for these schools. Lastly, programmatic accreditations focus on each school’s specific programs with either a regional or national accreditation.

The Department of Education and CHEA facilitate the proper guidelines and procedures for accreditation. Aside from that, they ensure that every accrediting agency has implemented the same rigorous criteria to all programs and academic institutions, adhering to appropriate jurisdictions.

Accreditations offer beyond quality education. If an accredited school is offering 6-month online certificate programs, students can receive federal financial aid. Aside from that, accreditation is crucial when it comes to transferring academic credits. For example, schools with regional accreditation status exclusively accept transfer credits obtained in another regionally-accredited school. In rare circumstances, these schools accept credits from a nationally-accredited school.

When evaluating online certificate programs, choose a college or university that has received accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission.

What are the standard requirements for enrolling in a 6-month online certificate program?

Trade and manufacturing online certificate programs typically require students to have a minimum GED or high school diploma requirement. Speaking of program-specific requirements, I.T. or computer-related online certificate programs initially have specific prerequisite courses in mathematics as part of the admission requirements. If enrollment requirements aren’t completely described, students should contact the school’s admission office for clarity.

Aside from the standard requirements, accredited schools offering online certificate programs also require students to submit transcripts from the school where they completed their secondary education. Students attending more than one high school must submit transcripts from each school. Depending on the school, students’ official transcripts are either mailed by post or electronically.

Students planning to obtain an online certificate program in in-demand areas of study, such as education or healthcare, often become eligible to receive some form of federal financial aid. To know one’s qualification to receive financial aid, students must complete their requirements for FAFSA. Take note, the U.S. Department of Education provides federal funds through accredited institutions only.

Why choose a 6-month online certificate program?

Both traditional and non-traditional learners pursue online certificate programs for personal and professional reasons. In a nutshell, here are some of the good reasons why you should invest in a 6-month online certificate program:

Flexibility

The highlight of every 6-month online certificate program is flexibility. These programs have asynchronous courses, making it easier for students to complete their coursework while maintaining personal and professional obligations.

Inexpensive

Since students only attend classes at home, they won’t spend on accommodation and transportation expenses. Hence, 6-month online certificate programs are inevitably cheaper than traditional on-campus programs.

Professional Requirement

Some industries require candidates to become certified to hold specific roles within their fields. With an online program, it’s easier and quicker for them to receive the training and knowledge they need.

Shortened Completion Time

6-month online certificate programs help students join the workforce sooner than a 2-year associate or 4-year baccalaureate degree programs.

Specialized Learning

With 6-month online certificate programs, students can already develop a specific skill set required for employment. Once they graduate, students are equipped with marketable skills crucial for the workforce.