Top 25 6-Month Certificate Courses Online

6 month certificate programs online

Are you planning to get into a career soon and need some qualifications to help you land entry-level jobs in your field? If yes, then a six-month certificate course is just right for you. They are focused on a specific skillset, so you can choose from the career path that interests you. They are recognized and can be completed in a short time. And most importantly, they are very affordable. 

There is growing demand and interest for short-term, online certifications during the pandemic. A recent survey showed that one in five Americans had shown a preference for non-degree options. The study found that skill-based training topped the list of preferred education options. 

Many people are looking to add viable credentials that may lead to jobs and career growth. Online education has become popular and more so this year. Stay-at-home orders have led to more time on hand. Many have decided to use this time by joining a course or program. 

There is growing interest in online certifications from individuals looking to get into jobs without waiting for a four-year college degree. The good news is several 6-month certificate courses will help in this goal. 

The online 6-month certificate courses mentioned here are: 

These programs or courses offer training in specific fields, and they are for graduate as well as undergraduate levels. Those with a high school diploma or GED can get specific training and get an entry-level position. These technical certifications offer a direct route to a promising career for many high school students. It shows employers the exact skills an employee is bringing into the team. We have outlined some jobs that one can get into with a six-month certificate course. 

 A few notes about the listings:

  • In this article, we have shortlisted courses that lead to entry-level jobs fast.
  • They are offered by many colleges and industry-led associations.
  • Many courses are flexible so students can study at their own pace. 
  • We have provided an estimation of the cost and the salary potential for each based on our research.
  • We have ranked the courses based on affordability. 
  • For programs with same average cost, we have further classified them by the annual average salary.

#25 Pharmacy Technician

Pharmacy technicians are licensed healthcare providers who perform various pharmacy-related functions. They work under the supervision of a licensed pharmacist to prepare and distribute medications to patients. They work across pharmacy settings in the community, health-systems, ambulatory care, and others. They are trained to:

  • Receiving prescription requests
  • Collecting and recording accurate patient records
  • Labeling bottles
  • Maintaining patient profiles
  • Preparing insurance claims
  • Stocking shelves

There is an increasing demand for pharmacy techs. They are trained in the fundamentals of pharma science to contribute to medication safety and effective patient care. They use technology to maintain inventory and place orders. They also ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

  • Average salary per year: $35,983
  • Average program Cost: $7,000 

#24 Computer Technician

Computer Technicians can start in the IT field with a short certification course but have ample scope to grow. They work in a variety of industries that are in high demand. Their main job is to repair and maintain computers and servers. They are trained to:

  • Setting up and configuring new hardware
  • Installing and configuring software and drivers
  • Maintaining and repairing technological equipment (e.g., routers) or peripheral devices
  • Installing well-functioning computer networks and managing components (servers, IPs, etc.)

Students who have completed the certificate program can take the CompTIA IT Fundamentals and A+ certification exams. These will help them qualify for entry-level jobs as computer support technicians.

  • Average salary per year: $61,330
  • Average program cost: $4000

#23 Carpenter

6 month degree programs online

Anyone who likes working with their hands can get into the lucrative career of carpentry. While taking a course is not mandatory, going in for a quick certificate course is a great idea to learn the basics. It shows employers that the candidate is more invested and dedicated. Even if one works independently, these credentials will go a long way to instill faith in clients of one’s ability. Carpentry requires hands-on skill, stamina, and strength, which means one must be physically fit most of the time. They are trained to: 

  • Create frameworks for buildings
  • Help in building homes
  • Design and create furniture 
  • Carry out a variety of repairs
  • Manage a variety of projects

Many trade schools and undergrad colleges offer vocational training in carpentry. One gets to learn the essential skills and tools of the trade. They also prepare for local licenses.

  • Average salary per year: $57,543
  • Average program Cost: $4,000 

#22 Business Certification

6 month certification programs

Business certificate programs add to a candidate’s qualifications. They are industry-recognized credentials that help individuals show their abilities in different areas. These programs typically include training materials, course instruction, and some hands-on learning. The courses culminate in an examination. Some popular short business certificate programs are: 

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
  • General Business Certificate
  • Business Analytics Certificate
  • Business Accounting Certificate
  • Leadership and Management
  • Risk Management Certificate
  • Digital Marketing Certificate

These certifications, along with many others, provide candidates with extra knowledge and training. It helps them improve their resume and grow in their careers. 

  • Average salary per year: $52,079
  • Average program cost: $4000

#21 Electrician

6 month degree programs online

Electricians are always in demand and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future. They work on many projects like inspecting electrical components, rewiring equipment or fixtures, troubleshooting electrical problems, installing wiring and lighting, etc. They ensure a proper and safe installation of all electrical devices and outlets. An online electrician course helps one prepare for the necessary licenses required to practice and get into jobs right away. They are trained to:

  • Install systems for lighting and control
  • Follow state & local regulations for all jobs
  • Adhere to the national electrical code while working
  • Inspect, troubleshoot & repair electrical malfunctions.
  • Read technical and wiring diagrams, including blueprints

Most online electrician courses typically last between four and six months. 

  • Average salary per year:: $49,884 
  • Average program Cost: $4,000

#20 Certified Wind Turbine Technicians

six month courses

Certified Wind Turbine Technicians are in demand as the wind energy industry is growing rapidly. A certification course in wind turbine technology prepares individuals to get entry-level jobs in the field or grow in their current roles. They get a strong background in mechanical systems and industrial electricity. They are trained to:

  • Install, inspect, maintain, and operate wind turbines
  • Diagnose, repair, and fix problems that cause turbines to shut down or malfunction 
  • Collect turbine data for testing or research and analysis
  • Perform routine maintenance on wind turbines
  • Troubleshoot mechanical, hydraulic, or electrical malfunctions

These courses also prepare students for the Electronics Technicians Association International (ETAI) certification. 

  • Average salary per year: $43,362
  • Average program cost: $4000

#19 Certified Flight Attendant

6 month certification programs

Flight attendants have to be on board all aircraft by law. They ensure the comfort, safety, and security of the passengers. Flight attendants are trained to:

  • Inspect and clean the airplane cabin before and after boarding
  • Explain emergency protocol to passenger before takeoff
  • Assist travelers with storing baggage in overhead compartments
  • Serve beverages and snacks
  • Verify ticket and passenger information
  • Keep passengers calm during turbulences or disasters 
  • Guide passengers to safety in the event of an emergency

There are many training programs to attend after completing high school. While there are many comparable flight attendant certification programs, the training that includes an aircraft with more than 20 seats is the one recognized by the FAA. 

  • Average salary per year: $78,286
  • Average program cost: $3750

#18 Certified Medical Assistant (CMA)

A Certified Medical Assistant is an allied health professional who forms an integral part of the medical team. They support the day to day work of physicians and other health professionals. They are trained to:

  • Taking basic laboratory tests
  • Disposing of contaminated supplies
  • Sterilizing medical instruments
  • Instructing patients about medication or special diets
  • Preparing patients for various procedures
  • Removing stitches, drawing blood, or changing dressings

They are also trained to take medical histories, prep patients, provide treatment explanations. They ensure that patients have a favorable experience at various healthcare facilities. It is an entry-level career but a good fit for those who love working in the medical field and with patients. 

  • Average salary per year: $36,728
  • Average program cost: $3500 

#17 Child development specialist

6 month certificate programs online

Child Development is a rewarding career that has immense growth potential. A Child Development Certificate helps students gain the knowledge and skills to start in entry-level roles. They develop the essential skills to work with young children effectively. They cover essential areas of learning in professional child care areas that prepare them to apply for the CDA credential. The subjects covered in the certificate programs include:

  • Early childhood education
  • Child growth and development
  • Assessment and observation
  • Health, safety, and nutrition for young children
  • Child psychology 

A Child Development Certificate fulfills the minimum educational requirements of most states. Students interested in entering or advancing in the field will find these programs beneficial. 

  • Average salary per year: $61,093
  • Average program cost: $3000

#16 Commercial Truck Driver

6 month certificate programs online

While truck driving may not seem like a career that needs training, CDL training is actually a popular choice for many. It is a quick training program that helps one get into the truck driving industry. Most industries depend on trucks for goods, supplies, and deliveries which make commercial truck drivers in great demand. Truck driving involves long-hauls most of the time, which means one is on the road for a long time with overnight stays in between. This requires stamina and alertness in the drivers along with the ability to drive and maintain large trucks. A typical CDL course trains one to drive and legally operate the following vehicles:

  • Combination vehicles carrying a gross weight of 26,0001 pounds
  • Single vehicles carrying a gross weight of 26,001 pounds and above
  • Vehicles designated to transport hazardous materials and toxins
  • Vehicles that accommodate and transport sixteen or more passengers
  • School buses of all sizes

CDL drivers are highly paid. They need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) license to operate these vehicles in the United States in commerce.

  • Average salary per year: $45,897
  • Average program cost: $3000

#15 Welder

6 month certificate programs online

A certificate course in welding technology prepares students for entry-level welder positions. They start as a welding apprentice but can soon rise to senior positions like a senior welder or underwater welder. It is a top paying trade school career that leads to work in various industries. The course trains students to: 

  • Weld plate and pipe in various positions, including vertical, horizontal, and overhead
  • Learn the techniques for cutting and preparing metal for welding procedures
  • Qualify as a structural and pipe welder using any one of three standard welding processes
  • Complete pre-qualification tests for any construction structural or pipe related projects
  • Work in varied settings like construction, fabrication, or plant maintenance 

Students develop skills and apply them using different and more complex welding procedures. An online course prepares them for a lucrative and long-term career.

  • Average salary per year: $42,319
  • Average program cost: $3,000

 #14 Travel Agent

6 month certificate programs online

A travel agent’s career is perfect for those who like traveling and helping other people get the best of travel experiences. This is one of the most lucrative and enjoyable jobs to get into with a 6-month certification course. Travel agents have good knowledge of places around the world. They also have research skills to get more information about each destination. They simplify the travel planning process for their clients. They are trained to: 

  • Create itineraries for travelers and provide them with details and advice for their trips
  • Provide consultation services and entire travel packages
  • Book flights, rental cars, resort stays, cruises, and hotels, and events 
  • Specialize in a particular area like business or leisure travel, destination wedding or eco-travel, etc. 
  • Relay important information travel advisories, weather conditions, safety information, and required documents

The online certificate courses help one prepare for certification exams to practice as agents.

  • Average salary per year: $36,479
  • Average program cost: $3000

#13 Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)

6 month certificate programs online

The demand for nurses and nursing assistants have been growing over the years. Certified nursing assistants training prepares students to take the certification exam.  There are many accredited local and online CNA schools across the nation. They take care of patients that reside in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes. They are trained in areas like:

  • Patient hygiene
  • Movement of bed-ridden patients
  • Record patient information for nurses to review,
  • Measure the vital signs
  • Serve food to the patients that cannot feed themselves

One can enroll for CNA programs at trade & vocational schools, local community colleges, and some teaching hospitals. 

  • Average salary per year: $32,891
  • Average program cost: $3,000

 #12 Medical Transcriptionist

6 month certificate programs online

A medical transcriptionist (MT) is an allied health professional who specializes in transcribing voice-recorded medical reports. Physicians mostly dictate these, but also nurses and other healthcare practitioners. MT’s are in demand because typed doctor’s notes are mandatory for insurance companies now. These medical reports are various forms of spoken material like voice files or notes taken during a lecture. They are trained to:

  • Transcribing doctor’s reports from voice recordings
  • Converting them into written reports
  • Interpreting medical abbreviations and terminology
  • Editing medical documents
  • Discharging summaries

MTs need to be precise and accurate in their work. The documents they handle are important for hospitals and clinics.

  • Average salary per year: $47,822
  • Average program cost: $2500

#11 Personal Trainer

1 month certificate courses

Personal trainers help people reach their fitness goals. They are trained in physical fitness techniques. They also learn about nutrition, exercise science, and related fields. Personal training is a rewarding and high-paying career. Professionals work in public gyms, corporate & hotel fitness centers, and private fitness facilities. They can also build up their own client bases by offering individual coaching sessions virtually or in clients’ homes. Some certificate options include:  

  • National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM)
  • National Strength and Conditioning Association-certified Personal Trainer (NSCA-CPT)
  • Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS)
  • American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM)

Personal trainers are physically fit and have the right attitude to motivate and encourage others to do the same.  

  • Average salary per year: $62,576
  • Average program cost: $2,000  

#10 Dietary manager  

best certification programs

A dietary management certification program trains individuals in nutrition, patient health, and wellness. They are food specialists or experts with in-depth knowledge of the human body, various conditions, and food & nutrition. They work in hospitals and nursing homes, where they oversee the management of a kitchen facility. They also work in hospitality and educational settings. They are trained to:

  • Create meal plans and menus
  • Manage daily food-service operations
  • Work closely with doctors, cooks, and registered dietitians
  • Oversee the purchase and preparation of foods 
  • Supervise and educate dietary team members on food safety and sanitation
  • Ensure food preparation per patients’ dietary restrictions
  • Maintain food-related medical documentation 

A certification helps individuals upgrade their skills and improve their job prospects. 

  • Average salary per year: $59,900
  • Average program cost: $2000

#9 Certified Medical Billing Specialist

Certified Medical Billing Specialists are in demand. They work in healthcare facilities to manage invoices, payments, and insurance claims. 

The certificate programs train students to perform tasks like: 

  • Understand and verify the industry codes before submitting the initial claim
  • Correctly code services, diagnoses, procedures, and treatments
  • Prepare and send invoices or claims for payment
  • Track payments and follow up about outstanding bills
  • Correct rejected claims and re-submit

A billing specialist manages important administrative work in a healthcare facility. They ensure that healthcare providers are reimbursed for their services. They allow clinical workers to focus on patient care and maximize patient satisfaction. 

  • Average salary per year: $42,495 
  • Average program cost: $2000

#8 Online EMT Certification  

EMTs (emergency medical technicians) are healthcare professionals trained to provide basic emergency medical care during emergencies. Emergency calls can range from life-threatening situations to injuries. EMT training teaches them to: 

  • Respond to 911 calls as part of the ambulance crew
  • Work closely with the other first responders like firefighters and police
  • Have the basic skills and equipment to assess the situation and provide life-saving measures to patients
  • Transport individuals to medical facilities efficiently 
  • Interact directly with nurses and ER doctors to transfer patient care

They are often first on the scene, including patients’ homes, businesses, schools, parks, and on the streets. They are trained to remain calm during stressful situations. 

  • Average salary per year: 36,780
  • Average program cost: $2000

#7 Medical Coder

Medical coder certification is a popular choice for students looking into healthcare-related careers that they can get in within one year. Typically, a certificate takes six months to complete. Healthcare organizations need qualified medical coders to translate and communicate medical content. They translate the doctor’s notes on the patient’s chart into proper insurance coding.  Their work is important as it ensures that patients get billed correctly and the insurance company accurately reimburses the doctor’s office. Some standard codes in these certificate program include: 

  • CPT Code: The Current Procedural Terminology code
  • ICD9/ICD-10: ICD codes to track the incidence and spread of disease 
  • HCPCS Codes: HCPCS, aka Hicks Picks, for Medicare and Medicaid

Students with a high school diploma can become medical coders. They need a medical coding certification through the AAPC. 

  • Average salary per year: $41,634
  • Average program cost: $2,000 

#6 Gaming Services Worker 

A gaming service worker certificate trains students to work and serve customers in gambling establishments. Most casinos have their own training requirements, so workers get some hands-on training. However, a certificate course with a high school diploma or the equivalent is usually sufficient to get a job. A 6-month certificate course makes it easy to gain entry-level casino jobs. Workers are trained to:

  • Tend slot machines and deal cards
  • Take bets or pay out winnings
  • Develop good customer-service skills
  • Oversee gambling activities like bingo or kino
  • Learn the rules of the game and be familiar with related local and state laws

As they grow in their jobs, gaming service workers may manage or supervise other workers and operations. These courses prepare them for the mandatory Licensing by a state regulatory agency.

  • Average salary per year: $27,050 
  • Average program cost: $2000

#5 Physical Therapy Aides

Physical therapy aides work with senior physical therapists as a part of their support teams. They work under the supervision of physical therapists to help patients recover from injuries and illnesses. They also perform a range of nonmedical tasks like setting up equipment, cleaning treatment rooms. They even help in transporting patients to different areas of a healthcare facility. They are also expected to work on various administrative tasks related to each patient. They work in clinics and hospitals are often expected to work in shifts. They are trained to:

  • Assist with patient treatment and intake
  • Prepare, clean, and manage therapy equipment
  • Observe patients and document their responses and progress
  • Transport patients efficiently and safely 
  • Prepare hot and cold packs for patients

It is a good career for those who like helping patients. One can get into jobs with a quick course that prepares them for a local state’s licensing requirements.

  • Average salary per year: $26,546
  • Average program cost: $2000

#4 Home Health Aide

Home Health Aides or HHAs help older adults who have a hard time and need more help. They work in hospices as well as patient homes. They look after patients suffering from cognitive impairments, a chronic illness, or those who are disabled. They work under the supervision of a doctor or a nurse to take care of patients. They are trained to:

  • Preparing and serving meals and snacks
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Running errands
  • Shopping for food and other household requirements
  • Help patients in bathing, dressing, and grooming

Compassion, communication, patience are skills they need to have, along with medical knowledge. 

  • Average salary per year: $25,114
  • Average program cost: $1500

#3 Certified Court Clerk

A court clerk certification can be obtained through a state accreditation board or the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC). The latter is recognized by several state agencies and education programs at the federal level. A high school diploma or GED and on the job, training prepares students for the job. Court clerks are trained to:

  • Perform administrative duties in the criminal and civil justice systems
  • Maintain court records
  • Administer oaths to witnesses and jurors
  • Assist judges and lawyers, and other officers of the court 
  • Authenticate copies of the court’s orders with the court’s seal

A court clerk might work in a district court, a court of appeals, a bankruptcy court, or the Supreme Court. 

  • Average salary per year: $41,334 
  • Average program cost: $1500

#2 Certified Cardiographic Technician

Certified Cardiographic Technicians (CCTs) work under physicians’ supervision to help treat patients suffering from cardiovascular illness. They specialize in performing electrocardiography tests on patients. They help diagnose the condition and track patient conditions. They work in the areas of Holter monitoring, ECG, and stress testing. They are trained to:

  • Provide care and prepare patients for EKGs (electrocardiographs) 
  • Administer EKG by placing the EKG electrodes on the patient’s chest, arms, and legs
  • Operate the EKG machine and interpret patients’ results.
  • Troubleshoot the EKG machine for technical issues when needed

Those with extra training may also perform stress tests and Holter monitoring. Individuals with a high school diploma can complete a formal training program in telemetry monitoring. 

  • Average salary per year: $47,345
  • Average program cost: $1500

#1 Automotive Service Technician and Mechanic

An Automotive Service Technician’s job is perfect for those who love cars. While it’s a very hands-on job and practical training is required, getting an online certification boosts one’s career. A 6-month certification program helps students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to work as an auto mechanic. They can immediately get jobs in repair shops and garages, car factories, and car dealerships. An online Auto Repair Technician course is a quick and affordable way to start a great career. Students are trained to: 

  • Work on different makes and models of cars 
  • Work on lightweight trucks and similar vehicles
  • Understand how traditional mechanical systems like engines and transmissions work
  • Handle routine maintenance, diagnose and repair issues 
  • Understand how computer and electronic components of more modern vehicles

These courses prepare students to take the Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification exams.

  • Average salary per year: $40,604
  • Average program cost: $1000

More about six-month certifications online 

Why get an online six-month certifications?

If you plan to get into a career soon, you may be looking for courses to help you in this effort. One of the best ways to give yourself an edge is to enroll in a short-time certificate program. You will gain the required knowledge, skills, and qualifications that will help you land entry-level jobs in your field. In fact, a six-month certificate program may just be the right answer because they provide the skills training and make students job-ready in no time at all. 

Depending on your interests and the courses you choose, these Short-term certificate programs will immediately help launch you in your field. Even if you just have a high school diploma or equivalent degree, you will be a top candidate since you have the specific skills training. Make sure you do your research and choose a program well. Some lead to well-paying jobs, while others help one grow in an existing one. One can choose from these depending on skills, interests, costs, educational, and career backgrounds. 

As mentioned, many entry-level roles need only a high school diploma and specialized certificate. Some of these roles may need longer certificate programs or a college degree to grow in the field. But the reason why six-month programs are popular is that they allow people to find jobs faster to begin earning right away. With six months of training or less, you can get a foot in the door. You can start working and earning while you continue learning on the job and advancing your new career.

What kind of online six-month certifications in demand?

The demand for certificate programs has been increasingly growing over the past few years. A part of the reason is that many industries are looking for skills-based training instead of a college degree. While a four-year college is still a great way to ensure career growth, a certificate program is a good option for students who need to start earning right after high school. It provides them with training and knowledge to succeed in particular fields. It gives them a direction to proceed with specific careers that pay well and align with their interests.

The interest in certification programs has never been more than it is now. The pandemic has affected the economy, and many have lost jobs during this time. There is a sense of urgency in people amidst the turmoil. They want to improve their job prospects and develop alternative pathways to careers. Enrolling in career-advancement courses is an easy and affordable choice for many. They are choosing to add various skills-based, online credentials, or non-degree/certificate programs.

There is also interest in 6-month certifications from professionals looking to upgrade their skills or learn something new. They are using their stay-at-home time to learn new skills. These short term courses are a perfect solution for their needs. 

What are the different types of online six-month certifications?

Are you confused about which short-term program to choose? Well, here are some options for you to consider. All these can be completed in half a year or less.

  • Pharmacy Technician 
  • Computer Technician 
  • Carpenter 
  • Business 
  • Electrician 
  • Wind Turbine Technician 
  • Certified Flight Attendant 
  • Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) 
  • Child development specialist 
  • Commercial Truck Driver 
  • Welder 
  • Travel Agent 
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) 
  • Medical Transcriptionist 
  • Personal Trainer 
  • Dietary manager 
  • Certified Medical billing Specialist 
  • Online EMT Certification 
  • Medical Coder 
  • Certified Cardiography Technician 
  • Certified Court Clerk 
  • Home Health Aide 
  • Automotive Service Technician and Mechanic 
  • Physical Therapy Aides 
  • Gaming Services Worker

Choose the program that best interests you so that you can shine in your field. Most of these are very affordable and pay reasonably good salaries at the entry-level.

Which industries are looking for workers with a certification? 

Many industries give importance to skills-based training and hire individuals who hold a certification in the field for their entry-level roles. Industries like health care and manufacturing are particularly facing a chronic shortage of skilled workers. They are looking for skills-based certifications in their new hires. The industries that are urgently looking for skilled workers are:

  • Healthcare: With a rising elderly population, the healthcare industry desperately needs to fill up positions at various levels. More skilled professionals are needed to fill jobs, but there aren’t enough qualified applicants to fill them. 
  • Manufacturing – The industry is struggling to find enough workers to keep factories operating. Employers seek out qualified individuals or basic skills training to fill up the many high-tech and highly-skilled positions. 
  • Energy – The energy industry is evolving from traditional to renewable resources. That, along with a large number of upcoming retirements, will leave a gaping hole in the industry. Therefore, the job market is flush with opportunities for workers who can operate and install modern smart grid technologies.
  • Technology – Businesses are looking for tech-savvy workers in many areas. Job openings in IT, computer science, and programming will help them maintain growth over the coming decade. Individuals will not only get career options but job security as well. 
  • Mining, Oil, and Gas- These industries have continued to perform well, even during the pandemic. There is a boom in employment, and they are looking for field workers. Anyone who has special training and skills will easily find jobs in these sectors. 
  • Engineering – The engineering sector has reported that it is unable to find enough qualified engineers to hire. They are looking for specific skill sets that students can get from short-term certification programs rather than the universities. 
  • Sales – Companies are on the lookout for employees that are willing to jump onto the end and help them bring in new clients and build revenue. Anyone with a certification in sales, marketing, and business will make a good candidate for the many jobs out there. The industry is looking to hire more salespeople in the coming year as the pandemic related restrictions ease and businesses begin to pick up. 
  • Construction – The construction industry needs skilled workers like electricians, carpenters, plumbers, and welders. Despite the high demand, there is a severe shortage of potential new hires. Lack of skilled tradespeople is the biggest reason for this problem. 
  • Childcare- jobs created in child care as the industry is expected to grow quickly. With both parents working in many families, the need for quality childcare has become very important. Yet, the industry is struggling to find and maintain qualified and trained workers.

The job market is slowly making a recovery, but it is still hard to find a job that does not ask for a college degree or work experience. Yet, not all industries have been hit hard by the recession. For those just graduating from high school, a career in one of these most in-need industries may be a good place to start. They can opt for six-month certification that teaches specific skills. They will be better prepared for work once the economy improves and hiring freezes are over. 

Are six-month certifications online  programs accredited? 

Many online six-month certification programs are accredited, but not all are. However, even the non-accredited ones are recognized and accepted by the industry. Some short-term programs prepare students to apply for specific licenses and industry certifications. Students can also do some research to determine if there are any state-approved certificate programs in their fields. While they may still require some licenses to practice, these programs will give them an edge over the other candidates. It is important to do thorough research before enrolling in an online certification program. 

How to choose six-month certifications online ?

Choosing an online program can be challenging with so many options out there. However, the online format makes it easy for students to select the exact program they want without worrying about location or commuting. The online format’s flexibility helps students gain the skills they need, even if they are in a day job. Here’s a step by step guide and questions that will help you choose the right certification program:

  • First, decide on which certification to pursue
  • Then begin your research 
  • Make sure your choice aligns with your interests and career path
  • Ask yourself whether you are looking for an entry-level or advanced certificate
  • Understanding the value of certifications before you make a selection
  • Find out the Professional credibility of the program 
  • Find out the salary and growth potential with the certificate your earn
  • Find out how it will help you in your job search. Will it give you an advantage during the hiring process and help you stand out in a competitive market?
  • Find out if the program is industry-recognized?
  • If you are already in a job, determine what career advancements can occur with the new technologies or skills you learn.
  • Is the program going to help you establish yourself as a subject matter expert?
  • Discuss a variety of certification options with experts in the field 
  • Find out what the requirements to get into the program are?
  • How much time will you need to invest?
  • How does it link to your career path?
  • What is the format, and how soon can you graduate? 

What does a typical program format look like?

The online programs are typically offered through a specific learning portal. All students are given a unique login and password. The institutes use specific software that students are given access to. There is not much needed from the students except their laptops and a steady Internet connection.

Most of these programs are offered asynchronously. This means that students log in at their convenience at different times and study at their own pace. A few may have some synchronous classes, especially for group discussion and such, where they may need all students in a particular class to log in at the same time. Or they can be offered asynchronously, which means that 

 Are there special software or hardware requirements for online programs?

No. Students simply need their laptops and a fast Internet connection. Everything works through the web browser and the online learning programs.

What is the value of six-month certifications online?

There is immense value in certificate programs, even the short-term ones. More and more employers are on the lookout for skilled professionals who can fill the employment gap. They recognize the technical and skills-based training even if the student does not have a college degree. This is because they are facing an acute shortage of trained workers.

Short-term career training programs or certificate programs that take six months of training or less can help one launch into a new field. Some lead to well-paying jobs, while others help one grow in an existing one.

One can choose from these depending on skills, interests, costs, educational, and career backgrounds. Many entry-level roles need a high school diploma and specialized certificate. Some of these roles may need longer certificate programs or a college degree to grow in the field. But the reason why six-month programs are popular is that they allow people to find jobs faster to begin earning right away.

Students want to stack more credentials as a driver of their education preferences. This is especially true of high school diploma holders. The extra qualifications will improve their job prospects. It will also provide an advantage as they compete with college degree holders. Professionals with a college degree are also looking to add specific skill sets to their resume. It is an easy way for them to upgrade their skills as they continue to work.

What will you learn?

Depending on the field one chooses, the certificate programs will blend theory, practice, and industry training. This combination will ensure that the student has fundamental knowledge about a field, has some hands-on training, and is trained to be creative and adaptable.

Since these are short-term programs, the courses are packed with information. At the same time, they are stacked as a guide for professionals to refer to and apply in their line of work.

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