Certificate vs Certification

Brittany Iafrate Updated by Brittany Iafrate

Am I earning a certificate or certification?

eCornell offers professional development certificates, not certifications.

Certifications typically require passing an exam and award a credential upon successful completion of the exam (ex: PMP, GPHR, SPHR). Certifications also require re-certification to stay current in a specific area.

A certificate represents the completion of courses/a program in a specific area. There is no requirement to take a program more than once.

Does eCornell offer academic credit or degree programs?
eCornell's specialty is in providing executive development and continuing education programs for professionals. At present, we do not offer degree programs, and our individual courses do not qualify for academic credit at most institutions. We offer a number of certificate programs in conjunction with Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, School of Hotel Administration, College of Engineering, Johnson Graduate School of Management, and College of Human Ecology.

Was this article helpful?

Academic Credit For eCornell Courses

Editing Your Name On Your Record

Contact Support