Certificate in Workforce Development
Hours: 9 Online
About
The Certificate in Workforce Development at Fort Hays State University equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed across various industries. The curriculum emphasizes practical application of theoretical concepts, equipping students to address real-world challenges effectively.
Designed with flexibility in mind, the certificate accommodates the needs of working professionals. Courses are developed and taught by experienced faculty who bring valuable industry insights into the classroom, ensuring the content remains relevant to today’s job market.
Why pursue a Certificate in Workforce Development at Fort Hays State University?
Faculty design the Certificate in Workforce Development to align with current job market demands, ensuring students gain immediately applicable skills. Offered entirely online, the certificate allows students to learn at their own pace without interrupting their professional or personal commitments.
Whether seeking career advancement, transitioning to a new role, or enhancing existing skills, students benefit from practical tools and knowledge that support long-term professional success.
Who is this program for?
The certificate is tailored to meet the needs of professionals pursuing career growth or a transition into workforce management roles. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Managers seeking to improve their leadership and team management skills
- HR professionals looking to specialize in workforce development
- Individuals transitioning into roles that require strategic workforce planning
- Professionals aiming to enhance their problem-solving and decision-making abilities
- Those interested in gaining a competitive edge in their current careers through specialized training in workforce management
Real-World Applications
The certificate emphasizes practical, real-world applications that prepare students to make an immediate impact on their careers. Faculty design the curriculum to reflect workplace challenges, enabling students to apply their learning directly to their jobs.
The certificate includes case studies, project-based learning, and interactive assignments that simulate real business scenarios. As a result, participants gain the skills and experience needed to address diverse challenges in workforce management and development, making them valuable assets to any organization.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
Fort Hays State University continually updates the curriculum to incorporate the latest strategies, technologies, and industry practices. It emphasizes adaptability and innovation, preparing students to respond effectively to the rapidly changing demands of the workforce. By staying aligned with industry developments, students acquire the skills and insights necessary to lead and manage teams effectively in today’s dynamic business environment.
Hands-on Activities
The Certificate in Workforce Development incorporates a variety of hands-on activities to enrich students’ learning experiences. These include practical exercises, case studies, and collaborative projects that enable students to apply concepts to real-world situations.
The certificate also offers interactive learning opportunities through online discussions and group work, allowing students to engage with peers and instructors to deepen their understanding of the material.
What You’ll Learn:
- Key leadership and management strategies
- Effective communication in team settings
- Problem-solving techniques for business challenges
- Understanding of workforce dynamics
- Application of business principles in various sectors
How You’ll Learn:
- Online asynchronous classes for flexible learning
- Real-world case studies and practical exercises
- Access to experienced faculty with industry expertise
- Interactive discussion boards for peer engagement
- Projects focusing on workplace applications
Core courses in this certificate provide a strong foundation in effective team management and talent development, essential for professionals aiming to enhance organizational performance and drive business success.
In addition to the core curriculum, the certificate offers specialized courses that emphasize practical applications and advanced concepts in workforce development, providing students with a deeper understanding of the complexities of managing people and processes in today’s dynamic business environment.
BUED 421: Electronic Media in Instruction
In this course, students explore the techniques, methods, and skills essential for delivering instruction through electronic media.
BUED 612: Methods of Talent Development
This course identifies and examines planning procedures and strategies that lead to effective talent development programs for adults learning in various settings. Students will gain skills in course planning models, needs assessments, marketing, evaluation, and program management.
BCOM 350: Business Communication Applications
This course is designed to introduce students to new web-based (and often free) technologies that they can use to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of business communication. Students will work together in virtual teams to complete some of the required course activities.
Discover the full Certificate in Workforce Development course listing by visiting the Academic Catalog.
Students who complete this certificate gain enhanced skills and knowledge that open doors to a variety of rewarding career opportunities. Potential career paths include:
Human Resources Specialist
Human resource specialists manage employee relations, recruitment, and workforce organization. They develop workplace policies, resolve disputes, and ensure compliance with labor laws to optimize organizational human capital.
Training and Development Manager
Training and development managers plan, develop, and oversee programs that enhance employee skills and performance. They assess organizational needs, implement effective learning strategies, and ensure employees have the tools and knowledge required to contribute to business success.
Organizational Development Consultant
Organizational development consultants analyze business processes and structures to improve efficiency and effectiveness. They provide strategic insights, recommend solutions, and guide organizations in implementing changes that enhance performance and support long-term goals.
Workforce Planning Analyst
Workforce planning analysts assess current and future staffing needs and develop strategies to ensure the organization has the right talent in place. They use data analysis and strategic planning to optimize workforce efficiency and support organizational goals.
Employee Relations Manager
Employee relations managers cultivate positive communication and collaboration between management and staff. They address workplace issues, mediate conflicts, and implement policies that promote a productive and supportive work environment.
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 $2,385.45* (online) per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 9 credit hours at 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
For individuals seeking to further expand their knowledge and skills, Fort Hays State University offers a range of related programs that complement the Certificate in Workforce Development.
- Certificate in Human Resource Management
- BBA in Management
- Master of Business Administration (Human Resource Management)
- Certificate in Leadership Studies
- Certificate in Management
Students can complete the Certificate in Workforce Development in one year, depending on their course load and pace.
Students can complete the certificate entirely online, offering flexibility for working professionals.
Fort Hays State University’s online students have access to various support services, including academic advising, career development, and technical support.
While there are no specific prerequisites, a background in business or a related field is beneficial for success in the certificate.
Yes. With approval, credits earned through the Certificate in Workforce Development may be applied toward other degree programs at Fort Hays State University.
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.
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