Certificate Programs: A Resource for Career Advancement

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The job market is competitive. Many professionals – both young and tenured - are finding that completing a certificate program can provide the “leg up” needed for career advancement.

So, what exactly IS a certificate, and why does it matter?

Unlike degree programs, certificate programs can be pursued and completed in a short amount of time; typically taking anywhere from six months to one year to finish, depending on the course. They prepare people for technical and skill-based careers in business, healthcare, computer programming, information technology, and more. For established professionals, certificates provide continuing education and advanced training opportunities in their field, often paving the way for higher pay and promotions.

The certificate programs at HCC offer quality education to help people get to the next level, at all stages of their careers. They are designed and facilitated in partnership with MindEdge, an ed tech company that was founded in 1998 and is recognized as an industry leader in the delivery of web-based courses covering a wide spectrum of topics. Courses are structured to support adult learners with a need to learn at their own pace.

“We look at ourselves as digital textbook publishers and are committed to creating a process of learning that people will love,” said Mike Golden, Director of Business Development at MindEdge. “We concentrate on making it easy for people to access useful content, whether their goal is to enter a new field, become more educated in their current field, or advance in the current field.”

Over time, it has become clear that certificate programs appeal to people of all ages, working in various industries. Even the busiest professionals can make time to pursue a certificate, since the learning process is facilitated online and with the flexibility to complete coursework on demand, at all hours of the day and night. And certificate programs are especially valuable for those working in fields that have seen a lot of change, over time.

“Think, for example, about a professional who earned their MBA 20 years ago,” explained Golden. “The world is very different now. That person may need to build new skills, so they are better equipped to work in today’s workforce. They might find the learning opportunities and the answers they need through a certificate program.”

MindEdge partners with more than 450 higher education, association, and training partners, including Training & Development Solutions at HCC.

“We are proud to partner with HCC and to see the power of our ed tech platform helping so many students and professionals as they work to achieve their personal goals” said Golden.