Continuing Education Certificates

I have an undergraduate degree in finance. I had previously considered the MBA route, but in my late-20's on my current career path I don't see the upside in taking on the debt.

That said I have been looking at continuing education opportunities online which is apparently being expanded and pushed hard by universities. I am interested some sort of energy finance, real estate development, natural resources, infrastructure, or legal fundamentals certificate to expand my knowledge base and upgrade my resume.

Below are some ideas for programs I saw. My questions are there - has anyone completed anything similar? Are there any recruiters or hiring managers on here who could comment on whether or not this would be impressive on a candidate's resume? What is the worth of a certificate without getting an MBA or master's degree? Is this a good idea?

https://scs.georgetown.edu/programs/483/certifica…

https://www.uclaextension.edu/real-estate/real-es…

https://sfws.auburn.edu/online-professional-gradu…

https://cligs.vt.edu/begin-your-journey-with-a-ce…

All responses are appreciated, thanks!

 
Most Helpful

I've completed a certificate at UCLA Extension. Here are my thoughts:

I learned a lot. My favorite course and most insightful one was in person, though. It is only offered in person and you live in Texas as I recall. Some classes were a waste, others were great. Although this could be said of nearly any school.

It was a great resume boost. It showed that I really am capable of handling multiple things in my life at once and a focus on real estate.

This is not a Master's Degree by any stretch of the imagination. It is not an MSRED and certainly not an MBA. It could help you land more interviews but it is not a cheaper, shorter way into big shops (Hines, Related, etc).

If you're worried about debt, look at part time options. If you're set on staying in Texas and want some credential, consider Georgetown's online MSRED. I have not done that but have a coworker who has and she has said great things about it.

Edit: Also check if your company pays for this. I'm getting two more certificates and getting reimbursed for it. Reimbursement isn't too bad because I get those cc points.

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