General Business Studies Certificate Program

Build essential business skills or refine your acumen with this flexible, customizable program. We recommend you speak with one of our student advisors before beginning this program.

Courses

Required

Elective

Methods

Online

F-1 Visa Eligible

Yes

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This program is perfect for...

Students who want a general grounding in business before selecting a specialized concentration

Individuals seeking fresh direction and focus in their career

Professionals looking for a customizable program that fits their specific interest and needs – with the option of advanced coursework

Those whose current professions require additional coursework in management and business

What you can learn.

Understand business theory and practice

Study management principles essential to every business

Analyze ethical challenges facing today's businesses

Learn the basics of business essentials including but not limited to: marketing, accounting, finance, real estate, international trade, human resources and risk management

Chart Your Own Course: A Business Program Built Around You

Looking for a business program as unique as your goals? The General Business Studies Certificate offers the freedom to design a personalized curriculum from a wide range of courses tailored to your interests or career ambitions. Whether you're launching a new career, leveling up your current role, or exploring a new industry, this flexible program delivers key benefits:

Build Foundational Skills – Master essential business knowledge applicable across industries.
Enjoy Career Flexibility – Open doors to roles in marketing, management, finance, and more.
Boost Your Resume – Gain in-demand skills that set you apart in today’s job market.
Learn on Your Terms – With flexible formats, you can study at your own pace, online or in the classroom.

Shape your future in business—your way.

Program Curriculum:

The General Business Studies program curriculum consists of 36 units of elective coursework in the business management discipline (MGMT X 1-199 and 400-499)*, and one required ethics course. Courses are typically four units each, but can vary. An average student may take a total of nine courses, plus one required ethics course/seminar, to complete this program.

*Some elective courses may not be available for open enrollment and can only be taken with instructor approval, such as internships, accelerated courses and some advanced courses. Please consult with a student advisor for more information.

This certificate is approved for international students to study full time in the U.S. on an F-1 visa.

International students must meet English language proficiency requirements for admission into the program.

While most certificate programs begin each quarter, some have limited intakes for students studying on F-1 visa. Find this program on the Browse Certificate Programs page to confirm entry quarters before applying.

Learn more:

Student Advising

Before enrolling, connect with a student advisor who’ll help customize your course of study and address all needs, interests, and goals.

To prepare for your appointment, consider the following:

What’s your expectation of this certificate program?
Are you looking to learn the basics of business essentials -OR- more specialized/advanced business management topics?

Email bamcertificate@uclaextension.edu to schedule a meeting with an advisor.

Get Started

Step 1: Enroll in a Course

Courses in this program are open enrollment and paid for individually. You may take courses without committing to the program.

See Courses

Have questions? Talk to an Academic Advisor

Step 2: Become a Candidate

Establish candidacy in the certificate program to receive tailored information, lock in course requirements, and gain access to exclusive student benefits. Registration Fee: $200

Apply Now

Important Note for International Students: Candidacy fees are included in your program fees and do not need to be paid separately.

View Dates & Program Fees for International Students

Cost and Fees

All courses in this program are paid for individually, unless otherwise noted. An application form is required to establish candidacy in this program. From the 'Apply Now' button, complete the online application and pay the application fee if applicable.

Application and Candidacy Fee

$200

Estimated Textbooks and Materials

$1100

Estimated Program Tuition

$8500

International Student Fees

Payment Options

Eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available

Drop-In Advising Hour
This informal Zoom session is a platform for current and new program students to connect and ask questions to program staff. Drop in for 10 minutes or stay for the hour. Have questions about the certificate or courses, bring them with you!

Every first and third Wednesday of the month, 11am-12pm PT.

Email bamcertificate@uclaextension.edu for the meeting link.

Required Courses

Ethics Requirement

Students must complete one ethics course from the following list.

Business Ethics

This course explores the theoretical foundations and applications of business ethics.The coursework, tools, and discussions in business ethics provide a solid ethical foundation integral to all business careers.

View Course

Ethics for Human Resources Professionals

HR professionals function as a key source of ethical awareness for managers and employees. This course reviews the role of HR professionals in advising others but also ethical issues faced by HR professionals.

View Course

Elective Courses

Customize your experience

Electives - Business Management

Complete 36 units (typically 9 courses) from courses numbered MGMT X 1-199 or X 400-499 in the business management discipline. Select from courses in:

Accounting & Finance

Entrepreneurship & Small Business

Human Resources Management

International Trade & Commerce

Leadership & Management

Marketing, Advertising & PR

Project Management and Technical Management

Real Estate