What will I learn on a graduate certificate in business administration?

February 27, 2025 BY

A graduate certificate in business administration online provides you with plenty of flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace while working or managing care commitments.

Are you considering studying for a graduate certificate in business administration but aren’t sure what it involves? Figuring out what you will learn on the course can be tricky, but it does not need to be impossible. We can walk you through the units typically included on a graduate certificate in business administration, allowing you to see if it is the right option for you. 

What is a graduate certificate in business administration?

A graduate certificate in business administration is a postgraduate course designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to thrive as a business leader. The course is split into four units, covering the core areas of business administration so that you can apply your knowledge to real-world situations. 

The course can be delivered full-time or part-time, with the option to study online. A graduate certificate in business administration online provides you with plenty of flexibility, allowing you to study at your own pace while working or managing care commitments. The online course can also be cheaper, making it an attractive option for many students. 

What will I learn on a graduate certificate in business administration?

What you learn on a graduate certificate in business administration varies slightly depending on the course provider. There is often overlapping content between these courses, so you can get the same experience and ensure you make the right steps towards your new career. A graduate certificate in business administration features four units, where you will learn about strategic management, marketing management, and more. The unit titles can vary, but you can expect to find the following in your course handbook: 

Strategic management and business policy 

In this unit, you will learn about the processes, decisions, and actions firms take to grow and succeed in their businesses. You will need to learn how to utilise these skills before stepping into a management role where you will be involved in strategic management processes. You will learn about the principle elements that impact organisations, current frameworks, and how to respond to complex issues. 

Business ethics and sustainability 

Here, you will review the sociocultural environment in which businesses operate in, looking at the framework for decision-making and how corporate responsibility and sustainability can impact these organisations. You will also look at the pressures on businesses, how these arise and how you can tackle these challenges. 

Financial analysis

Financial analysis plays a vital role in business administration. You need to learn about the framework and efficient use of financial statement information for business analysis. You will learn about this during this unit, developing your planning, analytical, and decision-making skills while learning about business strategies, financial statements, and data. 

Marketing management 

In this unit, you will learn about the decisions marketers make while balancing the organisation’s objectives, resources, and capabilities with the needs and market opportunities. You will also learn about contemporary marketing practices and the methods successful marketers use. 

What do I need to apply for a graduate certificate in business administration?

The entry requirements for a graduate certificate in business administration vary depending on the course provider that you choose. However, most requirements will be similar and will require the following: 

  • A bachelor’s degree in any discipline or equivalent 
  • Five years of work experience in a relevant field 

Each provider has their own definition of what counts as relevant work experience, so be sure that you check with your course provider before applying. You might also need to meet some English language requirements if English is not your first language. The score that you need to apply for the course will vary, so it’s best to check with your course provider directly if you are not sure what score you need. 

Applying for a graduate certificate in business administration is straightforward, too. Each provider can have slightly different application processes, but you will usually speak to an enrollment advisor first, who will help you find the right course and discuss any flexible options. You will then submit your application, often requiring a CV and an academic transcript. You will receive confirmation of your application and whether further information is required before waiting for your responses. 

What can I do with a graduate certificate in business administration?

You have several career options after completing a graduate certificate in business administration, including: 

  • Account executive 
  • Financial project manager 
  • Marketing manager
  • Project manager
  • Systems manager 

You can also choose to remain in education and gain a graduate diploma or master’s in business administration, which can lead you to higher-paying roles or promotions in your career. 

Start your business administration course today 

A graduate certificate in business administration will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in a business administration or management role. So what are you waiting for? Start your course today!

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