Certificate in Professional Development
Hours: 9 On-Campus Online
About
The Certificate in Professional Development at Fort Hays State University strengthens communication, writing, and presentation skills essential for success in any business environment. This certificate equips students with practical skills to confidently convey ideas through written documents and oral presentations across various professional contexts.
Designed for professionals seeking to enhance their career opportunities, the certificate helps participants distinguish themselves through polished and professional communication abilities. It is available both online and on campus, offering flexible options to fit various schedules.
Why pursue a Certificate in Professional Development at Fort Hays State University?
The Certificate in Professional Development offers a flexible structure, allowing students to complete requirements online or on campus. This adaptability makes it well-suited for working professionals and individuals with demanding schedules. The certificate focuses on developing advanced written and verbal communication skills, preparing students to address a wide range of workplace communication challenges confidently.
Additionally, the curriculum is developed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure that the skills acquired remain current and relevant in today’s job market. FHSU emphasizes practical application, enabling those who complete the certificate to understand communication theory and effectively apply these skills in real-world professional settings.
Who is this program for?
This certificate is available online and on campus, providing flexibility for students to balance their professional, personal, and academic commitments.
- Professionals seeking to enhance their business communication skills
- Recent graduates entering the workforce
- Individuals considering a career transition
- Mid-career professionals aiming for promotion
- Employees looking to improve their interpersonal communication abilities
- Those preparing for leadership or management roles
Real-World Applications
Students develop the ability to craft clear, concise, and impactful business communications essential for success in any professional environment. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, allowing students to apply their communication skills in current or future roles immediately.
Additionally, the certificate enables students to approach the job search process with greater confidence. Through focused instruction on resume writing, cover letter development, and interview strategies, it provides the tools needed to stand out in a competitive job market.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University places strong emphasis on digital communication, preparing students to thrive in an increasingly digital workplace. By keeping pace with industry trends, students are well-equipped to adapt to emerging communication technologies and practices, thereby gaining a competitive edge in their careers.
The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect shifts in the business communication landscape, including the rising importance of virtual communication and remote work. This commitment to staying current ensures that students remain ahead of industry changes and are well-prepared to meet the demands of today’s dynamic business environment.
Hands-on Activities
Through interactive projects, students participate in practical exercises such as writing business reports, delivering presentations, and engaging in mock interviews. These activities build confidence and competence, enabling students to apply their learning effectively in professional settings.
This hands-on approach helps students internalize theoretical knowledge and transform it into practical skills highly valued by employers. Additionally, the certificate provides opportunities for collaboration on group projects, fostering teamwork and leadership development.
What You’ll Learn:
- Develop impactful business documents
- Enhance professional communication skills
- Master job interview techniques
- Learn effective presentation strategies
- Navigate the job search process confidently
How You’ll Learn:
- Online and on-campus coursework
- Interactive assignments and projects
- Real-world case studies and examples
- Collaboration with peers and instructors
- Feedback and guidance from industry professionals
The core courses develop foundational communication and career management skills while exploring advanced business communication techniques, including writing strategies, nonverbal communication, and presentation skills. Additionally, the curriculum prepares students to navigate and succeed in a global business environment. Together, these courses provide a comprehensive education in business communication, equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in a diverse range of professional settings.
BCOM 210: Business Communication for Professional Development
An introductory course in the development of professional communication and career management skills. Coursework will emphasize evaluating and improving personal employability.
BCOM 301: Strategic Business Communication
A study of the various aspects of business communication. The course encompasses the application of written communication principles to business letters and reports, the development of listening and nonverbal communication skills, job search techniques, and presentation skills.
BCOM 400: Global Business Communication
This course prepares students to work in a global environment, whether virtually or face-to-face, and focuses on developing intercultural sensitivity, competence, and skills. Emphasis is on virtual teaming, including the first team meeting, team norms, and team cultural profiles. Case studies will also be shared.
Discover the full Certificate in Professional Development course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who earn the Certificate in Professional Development gain practical communication skills essential for success in a wide range of careers, enhancing their employability and expanding their professional opportunities.
Business Communication Specialist
Business communication specialists develop and manage internal and external communication strategies, delivering clear and consistent messages to employees, clients, and stakeholders to effectively convey the organization’s goals and values.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate trainers design and deliver programs that enhance employees’ communication, collaboration, and professional skills, boosting overall team performance and workplace productivity.
Public Relations Coordinator
Public relations coordinators shape and maintain an organization’s public image by creating press materials, organizing events, and managing media relations. They ensure consistent messaging and foster positive engagement with the public and stakeholders.
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers oversee employee relations, recruitment, onboarding, and internal communication, ensuring a productive and positive workplace. They develop policies and strategies that support organizational goals and employee growth.
Marketing Communications Manager
Marketing communications managers develop and implement strategies that align with business goals, creating messages that engage target audiences and drive results.
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 $1,833.57* (on-campus) or $2,385.45* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 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 related programs that complement the Certificate in Professional Development, providing additional skills in business communication and enhancing career prospects. These programs include:
- Minor in Business Communication
- Certificate in Business Report Writing
- Master of Liberal Studies (Corporate Communication)
- Master of Business Administration (Corporate Communication)
- Certificate in Workforce Development
Students can complete the certificate in as little as two semesters, depending on their course load and whether they study full-time or part-time.
Yes, students can complete the Certificate in Professional Development entirely online, providing flexibility for students who work or have other commitments.
Students completing a certificate can access career development at Fort Hays State University, including resume workshops, job search assistance, and interview preparation to help them transition from education to employment.
Prior experience is optional; however, a basic understanding of business principles may be beneficial. Instructors design the certificate to build foundational communication skills regardless of previous experience.
The skills gained in this certificate are applicable across various industries, including corporate business, education, healthcare, public relations, and any field where effective communication is essential.
Information about the Department of Applied Business Studies
The Department of Applied Business Studies at FHSU is dedicated to preparing students for successful careers in business by aligning individual strengths and goals with the evolving needs of the global marketplace. Whether pursuing a degree on-campus or online, students benefit from programs that emphasize practical business knowledge, real-world case studies, and forward-thinking decision-making skills essential for today’s dynamic business environment.
The department offers a diverse range of academic pathways, including business education, marketing, and tourism and hospitality management. Its immersive curriculum, delivered by faculty who remain actively engaged with current industry trends, equips students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to succeed across a variety of sectors, from local enterprises to international organizations. FHSU graduates are consistently in high demand, reflected in strong job placement rates and a network of successful alumni.
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.
- Collegiate DECA: An international organization for students and educators in the fields of business, finance, hospitality, and marketing. It prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs through co-curricular programs that blend classroom learning with real-world experiences and professional networking opportunities.
- Pi Omega Pi - Business Education Club: The National Business Education Teacher Honor Society is dedicated to promoting academic excellence and service within the field of business education. The organization encourages scholarship, leadership, and professional development among students preparing for careers in business teaching.
- Eta Sigma Delta - International Hospitality Management Society: Recognizes hospitality and tourism students for their exceptional academic achievement, service, and professionalism. The organization provides valuable networking opportunities and fosters connections among students, industry executives, educators, and peers.
- THM Travel Club: Supports domestic and international travel experiences for students in tourism and hospitality. Through participation, members gain practical skills in travel planning, budgeting, organization, and fundraising, offering a well-rounded perspective on career opportunities within the tourism and hospitality industry.
- Certificate
- On-Campus
- Online
