Student using laptop in library

Popular Online Universities and Certificate Programs

There are several online universities to choose from if you have decided to attend a virtual classroom to earn your degree. Some of the more popular choices are the following:

  • University of Phoenix offers associate's, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.
  • Colorado Technical University Online offers degrees in business management and technology.
  • DeVry University offers online programs that are taught by the same professors who teach in the classroom.
  • American Intercontinental University (AIU) allows you to earn your degree at an accelerated pace from an accredited school that is respected by employers.
  • University of Maryland University College (UMUC) is the Open University of the state of Maryland and of the United States. The University has one focus - the educational needs of the nontraditional student.
  • California State University - Monterey Bay implements outcome based learning, helping students to gain an edge and be more prepared for post-college life.
  • Virginia College Online offers the opportunity to go for a degree while continuing commitments to family and work.
  • Capella University provides working adults the ability to earn online degrees in health care, business management, higher education, information technology, human capital management, mental health, P-12 education, and public safety.
  • Walden University Online offers the opportunity to earn a Ph.D., master's degree, or bachelor's degree online in management, education, psychology, and health and human services.
  • Westwood College - Online Campus offers the opportunity to earn your online degree in as little as 20 months in the fields of business, criminal justice, design and technology.

Certificate Training

For those who are looking for specific job training, a certificate program might be the right choice for you. A certificate program is usually a good fit for those who are looking for entry-level positions in technical fields such as graphic design, automotives, or medical assisting. After earning a certificate, one usually has the opportunity to go on to earn a degree in their chosen area of study. However, the great thing is that after earning a certificate, you have the skills you need to get a job in your chosen field.

Some of the many online certificate programs available are as follows:

  • Medical Assistant
  • Business Management
  • Crime Scene Technician
  • Web Design
  • Paralegal
  • Professional Writing
  • Digital Publishing
  • Dressmaking and Design
  • Audio Technician
  • Interior Decorator
  • Floral Design
  • Women's Studies
  • Medical Transcription and Coding
  • Certified Personal Trainer
  • Massage Therapy
  • Geriatric Care Management
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Professional Child Care Skills
  • Professional Medical Billing and Claims

The list above is only a sampling of the many certificate programs you can earn online. Going to school for specialized training will allow you to be competitive in the job market. An employer will want to see that you have studied and demonstrated specific skills before you are hired for the job. One of the great benefits of getting a certificate is that it takes less time than a traditional degree, and also costs significantly less.