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Business Principles

Graduate Certificate

About this program

The Graduate Certificate in Business Principles gives you a clear introduction to core business topics and helps you get ready for an MBA program. You’ll explore subjects like accounting, marketing, operations, and business communication. The program supports people returning to school, those unsure about performing in an MBA, or anyone new to business studies. By the end, you’ll feel better prepared to pursue an MBA or begin a business-focused path.

Program Curriculum and Requirements

Graduate Certificate

What you can do

Employment Opportunities

A Certificate in Business Principles prepares you for careers such as: Accountants and Auditors, Advertising/ Promotions and Marketing Manager, Economists, Financial Managers, Human Resources Managers, Human Resources Specialists, Insurance Sales Agents, Loan Officers, Market Research Analysts, Purchasing Managers, Real Estate Brokers and Sales Agents, Sales Engineers, Sales Manager, Securities/ Commodities and Financial Service Sales Agents, Wholesale and Manufacturing Sales Representatives

Program Scope

This certificate introduces students to business foundations in preparation for applying to the Master of Business Administration (MBA) program.

Many students do not feel prepared to enter an MBA program including:

  • Students who have been out of school for a number of years
  • Students who are unsure whether they want to do an MBA program
  • Students who know very little about business

These students will benefit from this program, which introduces them to business foundations and prepares them for MBA coursework. The program provides an opportunity to explore the business field while meeting basic entry requirements for the MBA degree.

Program Learning Outcomes

a. Accounting
b. Economics
c. Finance
d. Information Systems
e. Marketing
f. Management
g. Operations
h. Statistics

a. Research skills
b. Creativity skills
c. Ethical awareness
d. Oral and written communications
e. Problem formulation and solving
f. Self-awareness and professionalism
g. Teamwork

Admissions Information

The certificate is available to individuals who have a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a 3.0 GPA in any subject.

The GMAT / GRE may be waived for applicants who have 7+ years of full-time, professional experience or a doctoral degree. In lieu of completing this test, applicants will be invited for a personal interview and writing test. If applicants do not pass the writing test they will be asked to complete an online course before they begin the certificate program.

All others need to provide GMAT / GRE scores along with their application. If applicants do not earn a minimum score of 5.0 on the GMAT AWA or 4.5 on the GRE AWA, they will be asked to complete an online writing course before they begin the program.

Current MBA, MSA or MSBA students are not required to apply for admissions into a graduate business certificate program. The requirements can be met while seeking the graduate business degree.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis with deadlines in May and October.

Ready to apply? Visit the Graduate Students page to get started.

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Questions about the program or how to apply? Don’t hesitate to reach out.

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