Concordia’s graduate certificates help you grow your skills without stepping away from your work, family or calling.
For many working professionals, the question is not if they need additional education—it’s how to fit it into an already full life.
A promotion may call for stronger financial understanding. A new role might require leadership skills you haven’t formally developed. In other cases, emerging tools like artificial intelligence are becoming part of everyday responsibilities. The need is clear, but the traditional path forward can feel less practical.
At Concordia University Wisconsin’s Batterman School of Business, graduate certificates offer a different approach. This approach meets professionals where they are and helps them move forward with purpose.
Focused learning for real-world roles
Graduate certificates at Concordia help individuals grow in specific areas without committing to a full degree program. Each certificate includes four courses—12 credits total—and can be completed in one semester.
Each course is designed for busy professionals, with practical content that is immediately relevant to today’s workplace. Students gain skills they can apply right away.
Certificate options cover a range of business disciplines, including business administration, management, accounting and finance, human resources, leadership, and management information systems. Beginning in the 2026 to 2027 academic year, Concordia will also offer a graduate certificate in artificial intelligence, preparing professionals to understand and apply AI in their organizations.
Built around your schedule
Flexibility defines Concordia’s graduate certificates.
Courses follow eight-week formats. Whether you prefer in-person classes, live online sessions or fully asynchronous learning, there’s an option that fits your routine.
This structure allows students to continue working and managing their responsibilities while advancing their education.
A practical starting point — or next step
Graduate certificates serve professionals at many stages of their careers. Some are looking to build new skills quickly. Others are preparing for leadership roles or considering a shift into a new area of business.
For those thinking about pursuing an MBA, a certificate can also be an entry point. Students can apply earned credits toward Concordia’s MBA program, allowing them to continue their education without losing time or momentum. Amber Gray, EdD, CPA, MSA, assistant dean for academic innovation, graduate and continuing education, said, “Our 12-credit graduate certificates let you start small, gain immediate career value, and keep the door open to finish your full MBA when the time is right.”
“Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership skills, transition into a new role or simply stay competitive, the graduate certificate in business equips you with practical knowledge you can apply right away—while also serving as a pathway into the MBA,” said Dr. Kimberly Schave, MBA program director.
Straightforward admission
The admission process reflects the program’s flexible design. Applicants must complete a graduate application, hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75. No entrance exams are required.
Transfer credit may also be available for prior graduate coursework.
Moving forward with confidence
CUW’s graduate education prepares students to pursue their purpose. Programs address the needs of today’s professionals while fostering meaningful growth—both personally and professionally.
Graduate certificates provide a clear next step. They allow you to focus on what matters most, build relevant skills and move forward with confidence.
For more on graduate certificates, read “Are Graduate Certificates Worth It?”
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.