1 Year Certificate Programs That Pay Well

One year certificate programs give you the skills you need to be successful in the workforce. Take a class or two at your local community college, or look online and choose from hundreds of online courses. Earning your certificate will help you advance your career faster than ever before.

You may find it hard to access the right information on the internet, so we are here to help you in the following article, providing the best and updated information on list of certificate programs, online certificates that pay well. Read on to learn more. We at Collegelearners have all the information that you need about 1 year certificate programs that pay well. Read on to learn more.

What Is a Certificate Program?

A certificate program offers special training to help you develop the skills and experiences necessary for a particular job.¹ There are certificates for jobs in a variety of industries, including healthcare, administration, and information technology (IT).

These programs can be useful for people who are just starting their careers, as well as for people who already have years of experience and want to boost their skills, and even for those who are looking for a mid-life career change.

Note

You can earn some certificates in as little as a couple of months. They also tend to cost less than degree programs

Why Get a Certificate?

There are many benefits to completing a certificate program. If you are starting your job search, completing a certificate program will boost your skills and abilities, and it can even help you stand out in the job market.

For example, a number of IT certificate programs help people develop skills and knowledge bases that are necessary for entry into the IT industry. There are also certificates in management, such as project management certificates.

Keep in mind, however, that certificates are not the same as professional licenses and certifications.² Licenses are required for particular jobs, such as teaching and cosmetology.

Certifications show that a person has gained skills in a particular field. For example, there are accounting certifications that can help an accountant move up in their career. These certifications typically involve taking an exam. Sometimes you can take a certificate program to help you prepare for licensure or certification.

Note

Even if you already have a career, you may still benefit from completing a certificate program to hone a particular skill.

High Paying 1 Year Certificates

If you’re looking for a certificate that will get you paid, check out the following programs.

Certificate in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management: If you’re interested in working as a chef or food service manager, this is the perfect program for you. You’ll learn about the latest trends in food preparation, as well as how to manage a kitchen team and run a restaurant.

Certificate in Business Administration: This program provides an introduction to business administration. You’ll learn how to run a business or organization so that it runs efficiently and effectively.

Certificate in Information Technology Security: This is one of our most popular certificates because it teaches students the skills they need to work with computer systems both inside and outside of the workplace. It’s also an excellent choice if you want to pursue further study in information technology security or cyber forensics at the associate’s degree level.

List of certificate programs

To become a certified professional, one must complete a program. A variety of certificate programs are available in various professions, but with so many available, it can be difficult to find the right one. Below, we have ranked and reviewed certificate programs that are offered by schools across the country to help you learn more about the different types of certificate programs that exist and how they can benefit your educational goals.

Computer Science (Certificate)

This program trains students in the fundamentals of computer programming, including Java and Python. Graduates should be able to write code, as well as analyze existing code. The average salary for this position is $62K/year.

Computer Networking (Certificate)

This program trains students in the basics of network security, TCP/IP networks, and wireless networking. Graduates should be able to design and implement a secure network system for businesses. The average salary for this position is $56K/year.

Cybersecurity (Certificate)

This program trains students in the basics of cybersecurity, including cryptography and data protection technologies such as encryption and hashing algorithms. Graduates should be able to protect company data from unauthorized access through use of these techniques during their jobs as network administrators or information security analysts at companies that need skilled employees in that field like Microsoft or Google but they don’t want them to go through years of college before hiring them so they offer these certificate programs instead which are shorter than regular degrees but still give them enough information so they can do their job well without needing too much experience first; however some employers might want more experience before hiring anyone

Certificate in Web Development

The demand for qualified web developers continues to grow, and this certificate program is designed to help you get started in the field. You’ll gain the skills you need to write code, troubleshoot problems, and understand how websites work.

Certificate in Computer Programming

This program will help you develop advanced programming skills that can be applied to many different types of jobs. You’ll learn how to use Java and other programming languages, as well as how to perform various tasks such as testing, debugging, and documenting code.

Certificate in Software Testing

If you want to become a software tester but don’t have much experience with software development or testing yet, this certificate program is an excellent way to get started! You’ll learn about different types of software testing methods and strategies for finding bugs before they reach customers.

Associate’s Degree in Nursing

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nurses make an average of $70,000 per year, with the highest-paid earning $100,000 or more. If you’re looking to get into this field, an associate’s degree is a great way to start your career. You’ll learn about medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, and pharmacology—all while working toward becoming a registered nurse.

Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems Security

Information security analysts earn an average of $89,000 per year, but this can vary greatly depending on company size and location. The more experience you have in this field (and the higher your degree), the more likely it is that you’ll be able to command a higher salary than someone with less experience or education. A bachelor’s degree program in information systems security could help set you apart from other candidates as well as provide you with some valuable skills for finding employment after graduation.

Associate’s Degree in Computer Science

Computer science majors make an average of $80,000 per year (Bureau of Labor Statistics), so if you’re looking for a job after graduation that has high earning potential with little initial investment on your part, then computer science might be right for

Online certificates that pay well

It is estimated that there are over 200 million certificates on the Internet and it is one of the best paying forms of education out there. It is a great complement to college education and can greatly improve your career prospects. Courses in this certificate range from many different topics including science and technology, business, health and safety as well as areas in law, environmental protection, and public service. A common factor among all these courses though is that they all benefit from the convenience of online learning with respect to both time and location.

Online certificates

Online certificates are a great way to advance your career or pursue a new passion. They offer you flexibility, and they may also be more affordable than traditional classes.

But when it comes to earning an online certificate, what matters most is how much you earn. Here’s a look at five of the highest paying online certification programs:

Cybersecurity-related certifications

Cybersecurity certifications are highly prized by employers, and they can pay well. According to PayScale, the average cybersecurity certificate pays about $70,000 per year in salary for full-time workers. However, if you have experience in this field, you should expect to make even more—$90,000 or more on average.

IT management certifications

An IT management certificate can be an excellent way to move up in your company or enter a new field as an experienced manager. The average salary for managers who hold these credentials is $93,000 per year according to PayScale data from 2018. That’s just under $5k more than entry-level IT technicians earn and almost $15k more than people without any type of certification do!

What Certificate Programs Make the Most Money

A variety of different degree programs can help increase your chances of finding a high-paying job. However, many of these programs are costly and can take years to complete.

A certificate program is an alternative to a degree program. Certificate programs are short-term training programs that often take less time to complete than a degree. 

How to Find the Right Program for You

There are a wide variety of programs available, and it’s important you find the right fit to help you meet your career goals. Consider these ideas for choosing the right program for you.

Use the CareerOneStop Certification Finder

Search the Certification Finder by certification name, organization, industry, or occupation to generate a list of certifications. You’ll also get information on the certifying organization, how to get certified, and exam details.

Ask Your Contacts

If you are interested in starting on a particular career path, ask people in that field what kinds of degrees and certificates people in that field usually have. Set up informational interviews to ask these contacts to recommend certificates that might help you in your career. If one of your contacts has completed a certificate program, get their feedback on both the school and the program.

Talk to Your Current Employer

If you are looking for a certificate program to help boost your career, talk to your employer. They might have some suggestions for certificates that could enhance your resume and even lead to a promotion.

Tip

Check whether your company will pay for—or partially reimburse—a certificate program if it’s related to your current job.

Check Local Schools

Most certificate programs are issued by schools, although some are issued by companies and other organizations. Once you know what kind of certificate you want, check your local colleges, community colleges, and vocational-technical schools to see what programs they offer. In-state and community colleges often have less-expensive certificate programs.

Find an Accredited School

Make sure the school you select is accredited by the Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. For-profit schools are not always accredited, and they sometimes lack rigorous academics and/or useful career services. Just because a school generates lots of advertisements—in print, online, or elsewhere—that doesn’t mean it’s the right school for you.

Find a Program That Works With Your Schedule

Look into what each program costs, how long each takes to complete, and what the program offers. Is there on-the-job training? What about courses or exams? Be sure to select a program that fits your schedule. For example, if you want to continue to work full-time while pursuing the program, make sure its schedule is flexible.

If It Sounds Too Good to Be True, It Probably Is

If you find a certificate program that seems too easy, too inexpensive, or too quick to complete, it likely is.

Important

Do some research to make sure the program is accredited.

Talk to Alumni

Another way to avoid bad certificate programs is to talk to programs’ alumni. Most schools should be willing to put you in touch with alumni who can answer your questions about their program. Ask those alumni what the program was like and whether it helped them secure a job.

Consult With Officers From Your Professional Association or Union

Ask about certifications in your field that will enhance your marketability, and about programs offered or endorsed by your association. 

10 High-Paying Jobs that Require (or Recommend) a Certificate

These are well-paying jobs that require a certificate or for which relevant certificate programs exist. For most of these positions, a certificate can help someone early in their career get a good first job.

1. Web Developer

Web developers design and develop websites. They create the look of the site and handle its performance, speed, and capacity. Web developers might work for computer systems design companies or marketing firms or departments, and some are self-employed. While some web developers have an associate’s degree in web design, others have a certificate in web development instead.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, web developers earn a median income of $77,200 per year and will see job growth of 8% between 2019 and 2029.³

2. Construction and Building Inspector

Construction and building inspectors inspect construction sites and buildings to make sure that all required codes and regulations are met. Many construction and building inspectors have a certificate from a local or community college, although others may have a two-year associate’s degree instead.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, construction and building inspectors earn a median income of $62,860 per year and will see average job growth of 3% between 2019 and 2029.⁴

3. Architectural and Civil Drafter

An architectural and civil drafter creates drawings of the structural features of buildings or creates maps of civil engineering projects—including public works, bridges, and roads. Most drafters have training in computer-aided design and drafting (CADD), engineering, mechanical drawing, and other design and engineering skills. This training can be from a certificate program, a two-year program, or even a four-year program.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, drafters earn a median income of $57,960 per year and will likely see a decline in jobs between 2019 and 2029.⁵

4. Industrial Engineering Technician

Industrial engineering technicians assist industrial engineers with revising methods of operation at manufacturing plants and other industrial sites. Their goal is to help make the factory run more smoothly. Most industrial engineering technicians have either an associate’s degree or a certificate from a vocational-technical school.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, industrial engineering technicians earn a median income of $57,320 per year and will see slower-than-average job growth of 1% between 2019 and 2029.⁶

5. Pipefitter and Plumber

Plumbers and pipefitters install and repair pipes at offices, homes, factories, and other buildings. Many plumbers learn their work through a certificate program and/or a four- to five-year apprenticeship. Some states also require plumbers and pipefitters to be licensed.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pipefitters and plumbers earn a median income of $56,330 per year and will see average job growth of 4% between 2019 and 2029.⁷

6. Court Reporter

A court reporter transcribes legal proceedings such as depositions and trials. Most court reporters work in courts or legislatures. Many court reporters have at least a post-secondary certificate in court reporting from a community college or technical institute.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, court reporters earn a median income of $61,660 per year and could see faster-than-average job growth of 9% between 2019 and 2029.⁸

7. Heavy Vehicle and Mobile Equipment Mechanic

Heavy vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics, also known as “service technicians,” inspect and repair vehicles and machinery used for transportation (including rail transportation), farming, construction, and more. More and more employers want to hire mechanics who have completed a one- to two-year certificate program in diesel technology or heavy equipment mechanics, as some of the latest machinery is very complex.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, heavy vehicle and mobile equipment mechanics earn a median income of $53,370 per year and will see no job growth between 2019 and 2029.⁹

8. Sheet Metal Worker

A sheet metal worker constructs and/or installs products made of thin sheet metal. This work might involve measuring and marking dimensions on sheets; drilling holes in sheets; carrying large sheets; or welding, bolting, riveting, or soldering sheets. Many sheet metal workers learn their work through an apprenticeship or a certificate program from a technical school.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, sheet metal workers earn a median income of $51,370 per year and will see slower-than-average job growth of 1% between 2019 and 2029.¹⁰

9. Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanic and Installer

These mechanics and installers, also known as “HVACR technicians,” work on heating, cooling, ventilation, and refrigeration systems in homes, offices, and other buildings. HVACR technicians usually complete a degree or certificate program from a trade or technical school or a community college. These programs can last from six months to one year.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, HVACR technicians earn a median income of $50,590 per year and will see average job growth of 4% between 2019 and 2029.¹¹

10. Surgical Technologist

Surgical technologists assist in operating rooms in hospitals. They help prepare operating rooms, arrange equipment, and help doctors during surgeries. They often complete a certificate program in surgical technology, which can last from a few months to two years.

Salary and Employment Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists earn an average of $49,710 and could see faster-than-average job growth of 7% between 2019 and 2029.¹²

More Education and Training Options

There are also other high-paying jobs available that don’t require a four-year degree. For some of these career options, vocational training or a two-year degree can qualify you to get started.

There are a variety of careers that require a two-year degree:

• Air traffic controller
• Dental hygienist
• Network and computer systems administrator
• Paralegal
• Respiratory therapist

Others require an apprenticeship:

• Boilermaker
• Carpenter
• Electrician
• Ironworker
• Millwright