Applied Business Certificate—Undergraduate Level

Program Description

The certificate may be completed totally online or in the late afternoon or evening.

An applied approach to business integrates business theory and its practical use in the workplace. This program provides students an opportunity to develop and practice the skills and perspectives that are vital to success in the world of business. The certificate curriculum offers an understanding of basic business principles, sales and marketing relationships, management and organizational needs, and operational and financial functions. But, it's just as important to have interpersonal and leadership knowledge, public relations and communication skills, and effective speaking and writing abilities.

The Applied Business Certificate Program is intended for working adults interested in becoming more effective in their daily work by learning business theories and their applications. The certificate is designed for students who may have a liberal arts degree, but have little or no business background. 

Program Features

The program integrates basic business academic courses with two distinct tracks:

  • Applied Business Functions--focuses on developing  foundations in accounting, marketing and sales, management, and operations;
  • Applied Business Communication and Leadership—focuses on human resource functions and using obtained information in an effective and efficient manner.

Student Benefits

  • Designed for working professionals
  • May be used as an area of study for a degree program.
  • Enhances your skills in order to be more effective in your current position.
  • The certificate may be completed totally online or in the late afternoon or evening.
  • Prepares you for a career move by gaining new skills.

Getting Started

See the section on admissions for detailed information. If you would like to get started by taking a class before seeking admission to the Applied Business certificate, visit our registration page.

For more information on this or any other certificate program, contact us at cceinfo@umn.edu or call 612-624-4000.

To take online courses, you'll need basic computer skills, Internet access, and a fairly new computer with an up-to-date operating system. Be sure to check out the technology requirements for online courses on our "Before You Register" page.