Business Fundamentals Certificate Program

Acquire the fundamentals for making informed decisions to drive growth and build a strong foundation for any career.

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Courses

7 Required

3 Elective

Methods

Online

F-1 Visa Eligible

Yes

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This program is perfect for...

Individuals wanting to learn or update principles in accounting, finance, law, and economics

Students who want a strong introduction to the basics of business

Business professionals looking to polish up their skills

Those seeking an overview of management principles

What you can learn.

An understanding of the legal system and how it impacts business

Marketing methods and practices

Principles of accounting and finance

Entrepreneurship

Build Your Business Foundation: Master the Essentials for Success

Whether you're launching a new career or looking to sharpen your professional edge, the Business Fundamentals Certificate provides a powerful introduction to the core principles of management and is ideal for early-career professionals, career changers, or those looking to enhance their current skills.

Our 36-unit program offers a structured, well-rounded overview of today’s business environment, drawing from key financial, economic, and organizational disciplines. It will equip you with the tools to think strategically, lead effectively, and make informed decisions. From understanding financial statements to navigating organizational dynamics, this program lays the groundwork for success in any business role or industry.

This certificate may be completed online or in the classroom.

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:

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.

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Step 2: Become a Candidate

Establish candidacy in the program to receive tailored information, lock in course requirements, and access exclusive student benefits. Registration fees vary by program and are listed under Cost and Fees.

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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

$820

Estimated Program Tuition

$8411

International Student Fees

Payment Options

Eligible for VA Benefit
Federal Financial Aid is not available

Required Courses

Customize your experience

Principles of Financial Accounting

This course is the first in a two-course Principles of Accounting sequence that provides an introduction to accounting theory, principles and practice.

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Principles of Financial Accounting II

The second in a two-course Principles of Financial Accounting sequence, this course covers corporations in more depth, analysis and interpretation of financial statements and statements of cash flows.

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Applying Economics to Business Decisions

This course examines the effort of the enterprise to secure profits and the nature of demand for its products. Instruction emphasizes both micro and macro-economic issues that have relevance in the business environment.

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Business Law: Fundamentals

Examine the fundamental laws and key legal topics that are integral to operating a business in today's legal environment.

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Applied Managerial Finance

Learn the fundamentals of corporate finance, with an emphasis on the methods and sources of financing for corporations, planning procedures, capital budgets and market efficiency.

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Marketing Principles and Practices

Build a strong foundation of knowledge with this introductory course to marketing.

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Ethics Requirement

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.

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Elective Courses

Customize your experience

Electives

Students must complete three elective courses.

Business Communications

In the business world, writing clear, concise and comprehensible copy is critical to success. For those with limited business experience, this course provides the opportunity to improve communication in a business setting.

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Mathematical Solutions for Businesses

This course provides a fundamental background of quantitative techniques applicable for administrators in the public and private economic sectors, as well as a solid review of pre-MBA mathematics.

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Business Statistics

The intent of this course is to provide the fundamental quantitative knowledge necessary for professionals to utilize the results of analyses to enhance the decision-making process.

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Advertising Principles and Practices

Hone your skills in advertising in this survey course and develop a broad base of knowledge that will help you navigate the complexities of the current advertising world.

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Management Theory, Policy and Process

Develop your management skills with this introductory course on the theory and applications of managerial functions.

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Fundamentals of Investing

Learn the basics of investing, including investment analysis, investment risk, capital markets, portfolio development, management and rebalancing.

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Elements of Human Resources Management

This course introduces the foundations of human resources management and provides an overview of all the functions needed to be a generalist practitioner.

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Introduction to International Business

This course provides students with a basic understanding of international business, presenting views from both the home and host country perspectives through examination of various international business topics.

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Entrepreneurship and New Venture Formation

Starting a new business venture requires an understanding of the business landscape. This survey course explores the essentials factors for turning an idea into a successful business.

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Developing a Business Plan

The foundation of a successful business is a solid business plan. This comprehensive course dives into the details of developing a plan and students emerge with a first draft of a sound business plan.

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Fundamentals of Business Administration and Management

The building blocks of a successful business require a strong operational foundation. Learn about how to build a sound structure and efficient systems to effectively manage your business.

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