Best Certificate Programs in NYC
In New York’s fast-paced and competitive professional landscape, obtaining the right skills and credentials can make all the difference when it comes to advancing your career. Catering to the diverse needs of individuals seeking to excel in their respective fields, the city boasts several top-notch professional certificate programs. Professional certificate programs cover a wide range of topics, including Human Resources, business administration, technical skills, and healthcare.
Keep reading for a comprehensive exploration of the best professional certificate programs in New York City. These courses empower individuals to thrive in their chosen fields and pave the way for a fulfilling future.
American Management Association: Business Communication Certificate Program
Key Information: This program costs $2,995 per student. It lasts for three full weekdays, from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. There are no prerequisites listed on the course website; the only requirement is that participants are professionals wanting to improve their communication skills. Participants who complete this course will also receive numerous post-graduation resources for continued support. These include access to on-demand video content when they need a refresher and a library of practical articles that provide concrete tips for improving skills.
Communication skills are vital for professionals working in virtually every field. This includes both communication with teammates and supervisors, as well as with customers and other external stakeholders. This course helps students meet various crucial learning objectives to improve their skills in communicating and collaborating with others.
Some of the lessons in this program include building relationships based on mutual trust, how to tailor your messaging depending on your target audience, and how to effectively communicate in an age where many business relationships primarily take place in a digital environment. The course also encourages students to learn more about their personality types and the personality types of their peers to alter their communication patterns depending upon the personality of the person they’re interacting with. There are also units that discuss visual, written, and nonverbal communication.
American Management Association: Women’s Leadership Certificate Program
Key Information: This course costs $2,995 to attend and takes two full weekdays to complete. There are no prerequisites to enroll in this program. It is recommended for women at any professional level as long as they have a desire to advance their careers and significantly contribute to their workplaces. This program is especially beneficial for those already in leadership roles. At the end of the program, participants receive an AMA Certificate demonstrating the completion of hands-on training.
This women’s leadership course starts by encouraging participants to think of leadership as a combination of other skills— introspection, vision, and acumen. The program's primary aim is for women to gain confidence in taking risks and learn to present themselves as a valuable team member in their organization. There will also be discussions about how the preconceptions people have about women in business can be damaging to them and how these can be overcome.
Participants will spend time learning to understand their unique and authentic leadership voice as it relates to inspiring their teammates. Students will also learn about the value of respectfully giving and receiving feedback and how to share resources amongst peers in a way that helps achieve a shared goal. In some of the final units, participants will discuss how to build and maintain their professional networks.
American Management Association: 5-Day "MBA" Certificate Program
Key Information: This program costs $3,995 to attend. It lasts five days (Monday through Friday) from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm. This class is suitable for any business professional looking to enhance their professional and analytics skills. Participants must be 21 or older. This course also provides additional resources after the program, including on-demand lessons to improve fundamental skills, skill refreshers, and a library of articles with practical tips.
This intensive program is designed to quickly prepare students to handle a variety of real-world business challenges through case studies, group discussions, and hands-on activities. Through these exercises, students will gain crucial leadership skills to help guide their team through any obstacle that might arise. By the end of the program, students will have a better understanding of collaboration strategies, more effective communication skills, and a wider range of creative problem-solving techniques.
The early units in the class discuss finance and accounting principles, so students can understand the basic financial concepts that drive their everyday work. Students will also learn to prepare a balance sheet and a cash flow statement. This will help them learn to evaluate and monitor their performance and improve profits at their place of employment.
York College CPE: Phlebotomy Technician
Key Information: The tuition for this program is $1,269, which does not include the cost of any testing fees or the required textbook, Phlebotomy: A Competency Based Approach,4th Ed. Participants must also have a high school diploma or GED to sit for the official phlebotomist exam.
In this course, participants will learn how to collect blood and handle blood samples properly. They will study the circulatory system, ways to keep things clean, infection control, effective communication skills, medical ethics, and safety rules. They will practice these things in a lab using mannequin arms. The course isn't just about lectures and labs; they will also do supervised live blood draws.
Once all the necessary health forms are submitted on time, students will work under the guidance of a certified phlebotomy instructor. They will get hands-on experience by doing at least 30 live sticks, all abiding by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) rules. Since they will practice on each other and volunteers, everyone attending must sign an "Acknowledgement of Risk" form before participating.
York College CPE: Hybrid Emergency Medical Technician
Key Information: Tuition for this program is $1,569, which includes a $20 registration fee and $250 for books and materials. Students who complete this program will receive credentials in basic life support, FEMA Introduction to Incident Command Systems, FEMA Introduction to National Incident Management System, and Hazardous Materials Response- Awareness Level. Successful participants will also be eligible to register for the New York State and National Registry Practical & Written Examinations.
The main objective of this course is to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide life-saving care in emergencies in a prehospital setting. It is a comprehensive program that combines web-based learning, team-based projects, hands-on practical activities, patient simulations, standardized patient encounters, and real-life clinical experiences.
Upon completing this program, students will be well-prepared to deliver a wide range of basic life support techniques that fall under the approved scope of care for a New York State Certified Emergency Medical Technician. The course covers essential healthcare topics, including legal and ethical issues, basic anatomy and pharmacology, patient assessment skills, and trauma management for special patient populations.
Noble Desktop: Data Analytics Certificate
Key Information: Tuition for this program is $4,995 per person. It takes roughly six weeks to complete on a full-time basis, with sessions being held from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. There are no prerequisites for attending, and Noble Desktop offers a free retake within one year so students can refresh themselves on the fundamentals and gain additional practice.
Data analytics is the process of examining and interpreting data to discover meaningful patterns and trends. It involves collecting, transforming, and modeling data to make data-driven decisions. Data analysts play a crucial role in businesses today because they help businesses understand their customers, operations, and market trends, enabling smarter decision-making and strategic planning. By analyzing data, they also help identify potential opportunities for growth and areas of concern, allowing businesses to stay ahead of the competition and mitigate risks.
This practical course equips students with the skills to collect, manipulate, analyze, and present data using diverse tools and technologies, aiding businesses in decision-making and strategy. Through real-world projects, students can enhance their career prospects in analytics. The training covers predictive analytics, which uses regression models and forecasting techniques to predict future outcomes based on past data, and prescriptive analytics, which optimizes decision-making using tools like Scenario Manager and Solver.
This certificate program also offers participants individual career mentoring sessions with an industry expert. These one-on-one meetings are designed to prepare students for the job market as thoroughly as possible. Here, students can get help editing and polishing their resumes, discuss interview tips, and discuss other networking opportunities so they’re ready to land an entry-level position once the class is complete.
Noble Desktop: Web Design Certificate
Key Information: Tuition for this program is $4,995 per person. This certificate takes approximately seven weeks to complete. Some weeks, classes occur every day, while others only have classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The classes are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, so enrolling in this program does require a full-time commitment for the duration.
A Web Designer is responsible for creating a website's visual elements and overall layout. They use their design skills to craft an aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly interface. These roles are important for many businesses because a well-designed website enhances the user experience, making it easier for visitors to navigate and interact with the site. A visually appealing website also helps establish a strong brand identity and attract and retain more customers.
Throughout this comprehensive web design course, students will learn to design web pages and emails, as well as code them using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Additionally, participants will master the art of building websites using WordPress, the world’s most widely-used Content Management System. The beginning portions of the program focus on HTML to structure content, CSS for styling, and JavaScript to add interactivity. Students will then learn to use Figma to design webpage layouts before designing and coding their digital portfolios to effectively showcase their newly acquired skills to potential employers or clients.
This certificate program also offers participants exclusive one-on-one career mentoring sessions led by seasoned industry experts. These personalized meetings are tailored to equip students with the necessary skills and confidence to excel in the job market. Students receive personalized guidance on fine-tuning their resumes, mastering interview techniques, and exploring various networking options to ensure they are prepared to secure an entry-level position upon completing the course.
Noble Desktop: Video Editing Certificate
Key Information: This certificate program costs $2,995 to attend. It takes roughly four weeks to complete; there are 14 sessions that each last from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Noble Desktop also allows students to retake the program for free within one year of their original course date. This option helps students solidify core concepts and gain additional material for their portfolios.
A Video Editor is responsible for assembling and editing raw video footage into a cohesive and visually appealing final product. They work with video, audio, and sometimes special effects to create videos for various purposes, such as films, commercials, social media, or corporate presentations. Businesses today often use Video Editors because engaging video content has become crucial for effective marketing and communication strategies. Video has proven to be a powerful medium to convey messages, tell stories, and capture the audience's attention.
Throughout this program, students will gain proficiency in video manipulation, audio enhancement, and the fundamentals of motion graphics and animated content. They will participate in numerous projects to learn more about the step-by-step process of transforming an idea into a fully polished video. Students will use Adobe Premiere Pro to edit videos, incorporate music and voice overs, and synchronize video clips. They will also explore motion graphics with After Effects, master greenscreen removal, and create simple visual effects for their videos.
In addition to the academic coursework, this program offers students a unique opportunity to engage in one-on-one career mentoring sessions facilitated. These meetings aim to empower students with essential tools and insights required for a successful transition into the job market. From refining their resumes to discussing interview tips, students gain the expertise needed to confidently secure entry-level positions once they finish the program.
CAPM : CAPM® Certified Associate Project Management
Key Information: Students can attend this program for $1,977. The class is held at their Tribeca location from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Thursday. There is an average class size of ten students per class. To attend this program, you need either a secondary degree and 1,500 hours of project experience or 23 hours of project management education completed before taking the test.
Project management is the process of planning, organizing, and overseeing tasks and resources to achieve specific goals within a set timeframe. It involves defining objectives, creating schedules, allocating resources, and coordinating team members to complete projects while adhering to constraints and delivering desired outcomes. Geared towards professionals with limited project management experience, the CAPM® (Certified Associate Project Management) helps students better understand various tools and processes associated with project management.
Students who complete this program will be equipped to effectively manage various projects. They will know how to prepare and plan, budget accordingly, and ensure quality at all phases.
Westchester Food Safety: Food Safety Certification + Live Exam
Key Information: This course lasts just one weekday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. It costs $260 to attend. The price includes a downloadable Food Safety Study guide, and students who attend and pass the exam will receive their certification on the same day.
A Food Manager's Safety Certification is a credential obtained by food service managers after completing a training program on food safety principles and practices. These professionals are vital in the hospitality industry because they know how to handle and prepare food safely, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses and maintaining high food safety standards. This certification helps protect public health, ensures compliance with regulations, and boosts consumer confidence in the food service industry.
The class begins at 8:00 am. After a lunch break, the focus shifts to reviewing for the exam. Students have until 4:00 pm to complete the exam, but it may take less time. All students who successfully pass will be given a Servsafe Food Manager’s Certificate.
FAQ for Professional Certificates
With so much information to sort through, it’s understandable that you would have some questions. See below for answers to some of the most common questions people generally have about professional certificate programs:
What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
A certificate signifies the successful completion of a specific training program, demonstrating that the holder has attained proficiency in a particular skill set. Once earned, a certificate either remains valid indefinitely or for a pre-designated period. No further renewal or maintenance is necessary.
On the other hand, a certification is awarded when someone demonstrates competence in knowledge and abilities, usually by passing an exam. Generally, ongoing requirements such as continuous education must be fulfilled to maintain a certification. Failure to meet these requirements may result in the revocation of the certification.
Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?
A certificate or certification is extremely helpful for those who want to change careers or advance in their current profession. It’s more affordable and less time-consuming than going back to a traditional four-year degree program while still gaining reputable credentials in your chosen field. Certificates can also help you grow your professional network. These courses afford participants the opportunity to meet like-minded colleagues while learning from experienced instructors.
Obtaining a certificate or certification also comes with some drawbacks, so it's crucial to weigh these factors carefully before enrolling in a program. Certificate programs might lack recognition beyond certain institutions, potentially limiting your access to a broader field. Pursuing a certification also demands a great deal of time and expenses due to extensive requirements and exam preparation. Continuous education or periodic renewal may be necessary for many certifications, further adding to the commitment required.
Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?
The short answer to this question is: not necessarily. There are many jobs that don’t require professional certification, but here are a few examples of jobs where it is either mandatory or highly recommended:
- Information Technology (IT): Certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, Microsoft, and others are highly valued for IT professionals, including network administrators, cybersecurity experts, and software developers.
- Accounting and Finance: Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) and Chartered Financial Analysts (CFAs) are common certifications in the financial industry.
- Human Resources (HR): HR professionals may seek certifications like SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management) or HRCI (Human Resource Certification Institute).
There may also be situations where you don’t need a certificate or certification to land an entry-level job, but you will need one to progress in your career. For example, those aspiring to become Project Managers often benefit from certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or CAPM (Certified Associate in Project Management).
What Certificate Program is Right for Me?
Many factors depend on deciding which program to attend (or whether to attend at all). Because these courses typically require a significant investment of both money and time, it’s important to ask yourself a few questions. Finances are often a primary concern for people hoping to improve their job prospects through a professional certification.
You also can feel more secure about the financial commitment to a certificate program if you evaluate some of the other resources that will be provided to you. For instance, does your employer offer any tuition reimbursement for attaining a certification? Will they allow you to take time off to attend a program? Having a supportive employer is a good indicator of being able to complete one of these programs. Many certification programs also offer perks like career support services and ongoing access to training materials, which can be another way to get the most bang for your buck.
You will also want to consider the reason why you’re enrolling in a certification program. If it is a professional requirement to advance your career and will help you earn a larger salary, the initial investment will likely give you a greater return down the road. Reflect on your passions before attending as well. A certification is only worthwhile if you will truly use and maintain it, so be sure friends or coworkers aren’t swaying you.
Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes
In-person and online classes have different advantages, and your chosen modality may come down to personal preference. Many people feel that in-person courses help them stay more focused on their goals because they have to attend classes at a physical location and develop a relationship with peers and instructors. Other students prefer online courses because they enjoy learning in a familiar environment, like their home, local library, or favorite coffee shop.
In-person classes also may provide more opportunities for socialization and networking. When you attend a program like this, you can attend happy hours or other events with your classmates and engage in any educational talks or career fairs the school offers. These events still exist in an online platform, but they may be more challenging to engage with, and it can be harder to build relationships with people in a completely virtual setting. However, online classes offer flexibility because you don’t have to commute or pay for transportation to an educational facility. This may be especially important for those who already have to commute for work or live in more remote areas where transportation is not easily accessible.
Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?
Before enrolling in a live online or an on-demand certification, it’s best to consider the pros and cons of each modality. Some thrive in live environments with immediate feedback and social interaction, while others prefer the flexibility of on-demand courses. Live online courses offer immediate interaction with instructors and fellow participants, encouraging active engagement and real-time questioning. The structured schedule helps learners stay on track, but it may not suit everyone's availability.
On the other hand, on-demand courses allow learners to access content anytime, study at their own pace, and review materials as needed. However, they lack real-time interaction and immediate feedback, which may lead to procrastination since there isn’t an instructor or regular assignments to keep them accountable. Each option can be highly beneficial for different types of people, so there’s not necessarily a wrong answer. Reflecting on your preferences and being realistic about your ability to commit time to a program will ultimately help you decide which type of certification program you want to attend.
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