Just like their brick-and-mortar counterparts, online universities offer certificates for continuing education. Certificate programs entail much less time than degree programs and generally range from a few weeks to a year in length. Graduates earn a certificate stating their mastery of a certain subject area.

Why do people earn certificates online? Some people earn certificates in order to take on new responsibilities at work or become eligible for a promotion. For example, a person holding a bachelor’s degree in business could enhance their résumé with a certificate in human resources. In other cases, people earn certificates in order to remain effective in their present positions. This is common in the rapidly evolving information technology sector. Finally, some people earn certificates simply to add to their quality of life. Online certificate programs let people learn more about their interests quickly and conveniently.

Whether it’s accounting, boating, or calligraphy that interests you, there’s probably an online certificate program that fits your needs. The following reputable schools are among those offering accredited certificate programs online.

Academy of Art University

Boston University

Bowling Green State University

Chicago School of Professional Psychology

City University of Seattle Online

Cornell University

DePaul University

DeVry University

Drexel University

Frontier School of Midwifery and Family Nursing

Harvard University

Kent State University

Lehigh University

Minnesota School of Business Online

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Northern Kentucky University

Portland State University

Seton Hall University

Southern New Hampshire University

Stanford University

University of California-Irvine

University of Delaware

University of Illinois-Chicago

University of Illinois Global Campus

University of Maryland-Baltimore County

University of Notre Dame Online

University of San Francisco

University of South Florida

University of Southern Indiana

Villanova University