What Is the Value of a Certificate from HBS Online?

In an unstable global economy, online certificate programs can equip you with skills to advance in your career, transition to a new industry, or secure your next job. What's more, you can achieve those goals on your schedule and learn from top-tier institutions without ever leaving your couch.

Are you interested in learning more about the benefits of an online certificate course? Harvard Business School Online recently collaborated with market research firm City Square Associates to survey learners about how our courses impacted their careers and economic status. Here's a deeper dive into the results.

The Value of an HBS Online Certificate

The response was overwhelmingly positive. Forty-two percent of more than 2,000 respondents said an HBS Online course helped them increase their compensation. The average increase was $17,000—meaning those who realized such benefits saw a 10-times return on their $1,750 investment in a course. Extrapolated to our global learner base, the total global economic impact was nearly $700 million.

"From previous outcomes surveys, we knew we helped people advance their careers, but we were thrilled to see how we could also help our learners significantly increase their pay," says HBS Online Executive Director Patrick Mullane. "It's gratifying to know we're helping our participants by offering valuable courses that enable them to expand their global networks, improve their confidence at work, and enhance their economic well-being."

Respondents were asked how HBS Online assisted with securing promotions, salary increases, bonuses, and career changes. Here are some of the results, which are included in the infographic below:

• Ninety-one percent of past participants said HBS Online had a positive impact on their careers
• Forty-two percent received a salary increase with a $17,000 average
• Sixteen percent received a bonus with an average increase of $14,000
• Thirty-six percent made a career change
• Thirty-one percent got a promotion
• More than three-quarters of respondents completed their last course within the past two years

Earning Your HBS Online Certificate

Our learners come from more than 190 countries and various industries and career paths. Wherever you are in the world or in your career, HBS Online can help you achieve your personal and professional goals.

If you're interested in advancing your career and increasing your compensation, explore HBS Online's business certificate programs.