Certificate in Business Law

Certificate

Hours: 12 On-Campus Online

About

The Certificate in Business Law at Fort Hays State University is a 12-credit-hour credential designed to provide students with foundational knowledge of legal principles relevant to the business world. This certificate supports academic and professional development by introducing essential legal concepts that apply across various business contexts.

Whether students are business majors looking to broaden their understanding or working professionals seeking insight into the legal aspects of business, the certificate offers a practical overview of topics such as contract law, tort law, property law, and the law of agency. Through this focused coursework, students gain the ability to identify and address legal issues that commonly arise in business settings.

The Certificate in Business Law is available both on-campus and online, offering the flexibility to fit a wide range of schedules and learning preferences.

Why pursue a Certificate in Business Law at Fort Hays State University?

The Certificate in Business Law offers a distinctive combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills designed to meet the evolving needs of today’s business environment. Its interdisciplinary nature allows students to integrate legal understanding with their primary field of study, enhancing both academic and professional development.

Guided by experienced faculty, participants receive instruction grounded in current legal practices and real-world applications. This certificate strengthens students’ comprehension of the legal landscape surrounding business operations, helping them become more confident and capable professionals in their respective fields.

Who is this program for?

This certificate is designed for individuals seeking a deeper understanding of legal principles as they apply to the business environment. It is well-suited for those aiming to strengthen their professional qualifications and develop the skills needed to recognize and address legal challenges in a variety of business settings. The certificate is particularly beneficial for:

Business majors
Current professionals
Aspiring managers
Entrepreneurs
Non-business majors

Learning Outcomes

The Certificate in Business Law at FHSU is designed to provide students with a solid understanding of legal principles relevant to the business world. Through carefully selected coursework, the certificate fosters critical thinking, strengthens problem-solving abilities, and emphasizes the practical application of legal concepts. As a result, students are better prepared to navigate the legal challenges commonly encountered in various business settings.

Understand Key Legal Principles

Through their selected coursework, students will gain a thorough understanding of fundamental legal concepts such as contract law, employment law, and commercial transactions. This knowledge equips participants to navigate the legal landscape of the business world with confidence and competence.

Analyze and Resolve Legal Issues

Students will develop the skills to identify, analyze, and resolve legal issues within a variety of business contexts. Through case studies and practical assignments, they will learn to apply legal principles effectively to real-world situations.

Navigate Regulatory Environments

Participants will gain an understanding of the regulatory frameworks that govern business operations, with a focus on compliance and risk management. This knowledge enables them to support organizations in meeting legal requirements and minimizing potential legal risks.

Real-World Applications

The Certificate in Business Law is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to address real-world legal issues in business settings. Emphasizing practical knowledge, the certificate enables participants to apply legal principles effectively across a variety of business scenarios. Students gain expertise in analyzing commercial transactions and understanding employment law—key competencies in today’s business environment.

Whether pursuing a career in management, entrepreneurship, or another field, this certificate provides students with essential legal knowledge that can be applied immediately.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

Fort Hays State University maintains a cutting-edge certificate by regularly updating its curriculum to reflect the latest developments in business law. The faculty comprises not only experienced educators but also active researchers and practitioners who bring current, real-world insights into the classroom.

The curriculum integrates recent case studies and practical examples, enabling students to connect theoretical concepts with their applications in business. This approach prepares participants to adapt to emerging legal challenges and remain competitive in their careers. By staying informed about evolving trends and advancements, students are well-equipped to navigate the dynamic business environment.

Hands-on Activities

While the Certificate in Business Law does not include formal internships, it places strong emphasis on applied learning through interactive lectures, case studies, and practical assignments. These carefully designed activities immerse students in real-world legal scenarios, helping them build critical problem-solving skills and practical legal knowledge essential for success in business environments.

What You’ll Learn:

Critical legal concepts
Contract law essentials
Employment law fundamentals
Commercial transactions
Legal problem-solving skills

How You’ll Learn:

Online and on-campus classes
Interactive lectures
Practical assignments
Expert faculty guidance

Courses

In addition to its two core courses, the Certificate in Business Law includes a range of electives that enable participants to customize their learning based on their individual interests and career objectives. These courses are designed for flexibility and practical relevance, allowing students to apply their knowledge directly in professional settings. Below are some of the courses offered within the Certificate in Business Law:

GBUS 204: Business Law I

This course studies the origin of business law, focusing on contracts, agencies, and bailments.

GBUS 403: Commercial Law

This course—the second in the sequence of Business Law courses—examines business law, focusing on the Uniform Commercial Code, sales contracts, negotiable instruments, and creditor-debtor relationships.

GBUS 404: Business Organizations and Government Regulations

The final course in the sequence, this course in business law, is a continuation of GBUS 403, covering additional topics relevant to the CPA law exam.

Discover the full Certificate in Business Law course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.

Career Prospects

The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere

Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $2,444.76* (on-campus) or $3,180.60* (online) per semester.

*Estimated cost based on 12 credit hours at the Undergrad resident/regional tuition rate ($203.73/credit hour) for on-campus courses, or the FHSU Online Undergrad tuition rate (265.05/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.

Ready for the next step?

Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.

Apply

Related Programs

Fort Hays State University offers a variety of related programs that complement the Certificate in Business Law. These programs provide additional opportunities for students to broaden their knowledge and develop skills in areas closely connected to business law. By exploring these options, students can customize their education to better align with their career goals and personal interests.

FAQ

How can this certificate enhance my current program of study?

This Certificate in Business Law provides additional legal knowledge that will complement your major, making you more versatile and competitive in the job market.

What are the admission requirements for the Certificate in Business Law?

This certificate is open to all current FHSU students and working professionals. Applicants must apply through the FHSU admissions portal.

Is the Certificate in Business Law available online?

Yes, the certificate is offered online and on-campus, providing flexibility to accommodate your schedule.

What type of support can students expect while completing this certificate?

Students will receive support from experienced faculty, access to comprehensive resources, and interactive learning and collaboration opportunities.

Information about the Department of Management

The Department of Management at FHSU offers on-campus and online programs that prepare you to lead people and manage resources to maximize organizational success. In a business environment that is constantly evolving, our programs are designed to equip you with essential leadership qualities needed to navigate both daily challenges and long-term strategic planning. Our curriculum emphasizes decision-making, solution-oriented thinking, and team leadership, ensuring that you’re ready to meet the demands of modern management roles.

Our programs are tailored to align with your personal and professional goals, providing you with the tools to excel in business in whichever industry you choose. Through hands-on learning, personalized mentorship, and a comprehensive academic approach, you’ll be positioned to succeed in today’s competitive business world. Our dedicated faculty and staff are committed to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring you have the support needed to achieve your career aspirations.

Student Organizations

Business Law

Certificate

On-Campus
Online

Business Law