Is an Undergraduate or Graduate Certificate Right for Me?
If you’re looking to quickly develop new skills, earning a certificate may be ideal for your career goals. You can complete a certificate in as quickly as nine months, and apply the credits you earn toward a bachelor’s or master’s degree. A certificate helps you:
- Acquire skills and complete a credential quickly
- Boost your resume and LinkedIn profile
- Position yourself for immediate career advancement
Stack Your Knowledge
At the College of Professional Studies, we make education work for your life and career. Our stackable credentials let you start small, build momentum, and decide how far you want to go.
Start small. Build momentum. Turn every course, certificate, and degree into career-ready skills you can use right away.
Begin with a single course to experience our flexible format, earn credits, and gain career-ready skills you can immediately use on the job. Then earn a 6-course certificate (in as little as six months) and you’re halfway to your master’s degree!
Every credential you earn applies seamlessly to the next level, creating a clear, flexible path from short-term learning to long-term advancement.
At DU’s College of Professional Studies, your education grows with you—one course, one certificate, one degree at a time.
Graduate Certificate
The graduate certificate is more in-depth and provides both specialized skills and opportunities to customize your certificate through elective courses.
| Cost | $19,584 |
| Courses | 6 |
| Length | 12 Months |
Good fit if you:
- Want to customize your certificate to pursue additional career interests and skills
- Plan to pursue a master’s degree but want to complete a certificate first
- Need a graduate credential for a promotion, a salary increase, or career mobility
Graduate Certificate Student
“The program was straightforward, focused, and challenging. It has prepared me for continuing on to my master’s degree.”
Undergraduate Certificate
Gain new skills and advance your career with an undergraduate certificate. When you complete the certificate, apply your certificate credits toward finishing your bachelor’s degree at DU.
| Cost | $9,648 |
| Courses | 4 |
| Length | 6 Months |
Good fit if you:
- Need an undergraduate credential for a promotion, a salary increase, or career mobility
- Have a high-school diploma and need new skills
- Want to earn credit toward a bachelor’s degree
How Does a Graduate Certificate Compare to a Master’s?
If you’re looking to continue your education and quickly develop new skills, earning a graduate certificate may be ideal for your career goals. If you want to dig deeper into a subject area and cultivate your leadership skills, a master’s degree could be right for you.
Martha Brown
Digital Strategist at UCHealth
“My DU education, even while still being in school, put me ahead of other candidates and landed me a full-time job. Two years later, I am making 45% more than I did at my last job.”