Certificate in Operations Management
Hours: 12 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Operations Management at Fort Hays State University equips students with the essential knowledge and skills necessary for managing operations effectively. It prepares individuals to advance their careers by strengthening their ability to manage processes, improve efficiency, enhance quality, streamline workflows, and oversee supply chains. Grounded in core management principles, the certificate prepares students to support operational success in a wide range of organizational settings.
This certificate is ideal for individuals seeking to gain a competitive edge or advance into roles with increased responsibility. Students develop expertise in key areas, including production operations, Lean Six Sigma, process improvement, and project management. With flexible online and on-campus options, the certificate accommodates the schedules of working professionals while delivering practical, career-focused learning.
Why pursue a Certificate in Operations Management at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Operations Management offers a rare blend of flexibility and practical, career-focused learning. Students can choose online or on-campus courses, allowing them to balance their studies with work and personal responsibilities. This flexible format makes it easier to pursue the certificate without interrupting their current lifestyle or professional commitments.
The curriculum incorporates the latest industry research and is taught by experienced faculty who ensure the learning experience is current and relevant. Along with foundational concepts, the certificate emphasizes hands-on application through projects and case studies. This practical approach enables students to develop real-world problem-solving skills, equipping them to address operational challenges and excel in their careers confidently.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is ideal for individuals looking to enhance their management skills and advance their careers. It is specifically designed to accommodate a wide range of students, including:
- Current professionals looking to move into management roles
- Employees seeking a competitive edge in their current job
- Professionals needing flexible learning options
- Aspiring managers and leaders
Real-World Applications
Students gain hands-on experience by working through real-world scenarios, case studies, and projects that simulate common management challenges. This practical approach ensures they can immediately apply what they learn in their current roles or future positions. The certificate is structured to prepare students to make meaningful contributions to their organizations by emphasizing practical application and equipping them to improve key performance indicators.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University ensures that students stay current with evolving industry trends by offering a curriculum that is regularly refreshed to reflect the latest advancements in operations management. New tools, techniques, and best practices are integrated into coursework, and faculty members actively engaged in research bring cutting-edge insights directly into the classroom. This ensures students receive an education that is contemporary and highly relevant to today’s business environment.
Students explore innovative strategies and emerging technologies that are shaping the future of operations management, preparing them to navigate the fast-changing landscape of modern practices. This forward-thinking approach equips learners with up-to-date knowledge and the adaptability needed to respond to future industry shifts. By staying ahead of the curve, participants in this certificate are well-positioned to lead innovation and drive efficiency within their organizations.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Operations Management offers a strong blend of theory and practical experience, giving students a well-rounded foundation for success. While the curriculum builds essential theoretical knowledge, it also provides extensive opportunities for hands-on application. Students engage in projects and case studies that mirror real-world management challenges, helping them connect classroom learning with practical execution.
Interactive coursework promotes collaboration with peers and faculty, enriching the educational experience and fostering a supportive learning environment. Through these activities, students strengthen critical skills in problem-solving, decision-making, and team management. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates understand key concepts and are fully prepared to apply their skills effectively in their careers.
What You’ll Learn:
- Core management principles
- Effective communication strategies
- Decision-making and problem-solving skills
- Understanding of organizational behavior
- Techniques for improving operational efficiency
How You’ll Learn:
- Flexible online and on-campus courses
- Expert faculty with industry experience
- Engaging and interactive coursework
- Applied learning through real-world scenarios
- Opportunities for networking with professionals
The core curriculum features comprehensive courses that build a strong foundation in essential management principles. Students begin with key introductory concepts and then move into specialized areas such as supply chain management, quality control, and process improvement. These courses equip learners with the tools needed to manage operations efficiently.
Elective options allow students to tailor the certificate to their career goals, ensuring they gain the specific knowledge and skills most relevant to their professional path.
MGT 600: Lean Systems
This course introduces Lean principles for business sustainability, emphasizing waste elimination and process improvement. It draws on operations excellence leaders and covers techniques like value-stream mapping and continuous improvement.
MGT 602: Project and Operations Management
This course addresses planning and control challenges in world-class manufacturing operations, examining specific production issues and their interconnections through key processes, frameworks, and managerial considerations.
MGT 603: Supply Chain Management
This course explores supply chain management theories and tools for integrating suppliers and manufacturers. It focuses on optimizing production and distribution to minimize costs and meet service levels, including in service industries.
Discover the full Certificate in Operations Management course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
A Certificate in Operations Management offers a significant career advantage for individuals pursuing or holding degrees in business, management, engineering, or related fields. It provides specialized knowledge that enables professionals to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and manage supply chains with greater effectiveness.
Upon completion, students are equipped to handle key aspects of operational leadership, including Lean Six Sigma practices, project management, and supply chain optimization. This credential enhances competitiveness for roles in project management, operations management, and supply chain management, serving as a strategic complement to existing academic and professional qualifications.
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.
Related programs
Fort Hays State University offers several related programs that complement the Certificate in Operations Management. These programs provide students with additional opportunities for specialization and further career advancement:
- Certificate in Human Resource Management
- Certificate in Management
- BBA in Management (Operations Management)
- Master of Business Administration (Operations Management)
- Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
The Certificate in Operations Management provides additional skills and knowledge to complement your current studies and enhance your career prospects. Focusing on core management principles and practical applications offers a solid foundation that can be applied across various fields.
The certificate is available both online and on campus, offering flexible learning options to accommodate your schedule. This flexibility allows you to balance your studies with work and other commitments.
No specific certifications or industry affiliations are associated with the Certificate in Operations Management. However, students are exposed to the core content of Six Sigma, Lean Systems, and PMP Certification.
The Certificate in Operations Management will equip students with essential management principles, practical communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and team management skills. These outcomes ensure students are well-prepared to take on managerial roles and contribute effectively to their organizations.
Information about the Department of Management
The Department of Management at FHSU offers both on-campus and online programs designed to prepare students to lead teams and manage resources effectively in today’s dynamic business environment. With a strong emphasis on leadership development, the programs equip students with the skills needed to handle daily operational challenges and engage in long-term strategic planning.
The curriculum focuses on critical areas such as decision-making, solution-oriented thinking, and team leadership, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the demands of modern management roles. Each program is tailored to align with students' personal and professional goals, providing the tools necessary to succeed across a wide range of industries.
Through hands-on learning experiences, personalized mentorship, and a comprehensive academic approach, students gain the confidence and capabilities to thrive in competitive business settings. The department’s dedicated faculty and staff are committed to supporting each student’s journey, offering guidance and encouragement every step of the way.
While earning a degree remains the primary focus, college life offers much more than classroom learning. Students are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that foster leadership skills, deepen their understanding of their chosen careers, and provide opportunities to make a positive impact in their communities.
- Alpha Kappa Psi: Alpha Kappa Psi is a professional co-ed business fraternity dedicated to developing principled business leaders. Founded in 1904 by four students at New York University, the organization has grown into the oldest and largest co-ed business fraternity in the world, with over 298,000 initiated members across 219 universities in four countries.
With a strong network of alumni, Alpha Kappa Psi provides members with valuable professional connections and access to opportunities at some of the world’s most successful companies. The fraternity emphasizes leadership, professionalism, and career readiness, preparing members for lifelong success in the business world.
The Zeta Pi Chapter at FHSU, chartered in 1965, remains an active and engaged part of the campus community. Students interested in joining are encouraged to connect with the chapter’s leadership for more information. - The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM): The SHRM student chapter at FHSU provides valuable resources, industry best practices, and networking opportunities for students interested in human resource management. The organization serves as an excellent platform for those pursuing careers in HR, leadership, management, training, and organizational development.
Through SHRM, students gain exposure to real-world HR practices, connect with professionals in the field, and enhance their academic and career development. Students interested in joining or seeking more information are encouraged to contact Dr. LeAnn Brown, the chapter’s faculty advisor.
- Certificate
- Bachelor's
- MBA
- On-Campus
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