It takes more than just a good idea to launch a successful business in today's digital-first economy—it takes knowledge of product development processes, business models, and competitive strategies. When you earn your Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship, you'll learn the process for turning a promising idea into reality and build a complete business plan for your own high-potential venture.
Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship Program Overview
- Program Structure: 12–15 credits
- Class Schedule: Monday–Thursday evenings at 5:20 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
- Start Term: January or September
- Time to Complete: 8 months when studying full-time; 8 months to 3 years when studying part-time
Full-time Graduate Certificate | Typical program timeline
*Starts in September or January. May be completed at a flexible pace but is usually completed in two semesters.
*Starts in September or January. May be completed at a flexible pace but is usually completed in two semesters.
Part-time Graduate Certificate | Typical program timeline
*Starts in September or January. May be completed at a flexible pace but is usually completed in three semesters.
*Starts in September or January. May be completed at a flexible pace but is usually completed in three semesters.
Unique Features
- Learn core business skills that will help you turn an entrepreneurial concept into a real, thriving enterprise
- Build a complete business plan for your own high-potential idea
- Specialize your studies with electives that are relevant to your goals, such as disruptive technologies, intellectual property, or design thinking
- Build your confidence and experience through applied project work and case studies—key components of Northeastern's practice-oriented approach to learning
- Build the foundation for a future master's degree from Northeastern—you may be able to apply your earned certificate credits toward an eligible master's degree or MBA
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Curriculum
You can study for your Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship full-time or part-time.
In both formats, you'll be learning from world-renowned faculty—industry leaders, leading consultants, and founders of startups—and you'll study alongside a diverse group of students with a mix of industry and academic backgrounds.
Through core coursework and electives, you'll explore the fundamentals of entrepreneurship, focusing on the skills and knowledge you need to launch and manage a successful business. You'll dive into topics such as designing a successful organization, developing next-generation products, building business plans, creating a positive business culture, harnessing lean design, and uncovering opportunities for disruption.
Enrolled students should reference the academic catalog for current program requirements.
Experience-Powered Learning
Experience is the signature feature of a Northeastern education. Your Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship courses will include applied project work that strengthens your collaboration and problem-solving skills. Some of your learning will happen outside your formal curriculum—take advantage of these non-credit opportunities to expand your knowledge base.
Bloomberg Business Lab
DATA Club
Data KIPS
IDEA Student-Led Venture Accelerator
Career Outlook
The D'Amore-McKim Graduate Certificate in Entrepreneurship prepares you to bring high-potential ideas to market. This program builds your expertise and develops competitive strategies so that you can bring your own high-value ventures to life. Depending on your experience, your certificate may lead to roles like founder, public relations specialist, business consultant, financial manager, account executive, or sales. Our graduates are recruited by companies of all sizes, from startups to multinational organizations.
Plan a successful career with genuine support
Dedicated career support through our Graduate Career Center
Tap into the extensive career planning tools and the deep understanding of the job market that our Graduate Career Center offers. Attend events, build your network, forge connections with fellow students, staff, and faculty, and hear insider insights from employer partners
Meet Our Students
Admissions
- Interview required? Upon request.
- English language proficiency: English proficiency, both written and verbal, is necessary for success in D'Amore-McKim classrooms. For more information, review our admissions policies.
- GMAT required? No.
- Where do I apply? Learn more here.
- Eligible for International Student Visa? Yes. This program is F-1 visa compliant.
- Is a graduate business certificate worth it? Learn more here.
| Application Deadlines | Decision Notifications | Classes Begin |
|---|---|---|
| Sept. 26, 2024 | Rolling Basis | January |
| Oct. 24, 2024* | Rolling Basis | January |
| Dec. 5, 2024 | Rolling Basis | January |
| Jan. 9, 2025 | Rolling Basis | September |
| March 27, 2025** | Rolling Basis | September |
| May 15, 2025 | Rolling Basis | September |
| June 26, 2025 | Rolling Basis | September |
| Aug. 7, 2025 | Rolling Basis | September |
**March 27, 2025 deadline is the final deadline for international candidates who require a new F-1 or J-1 visa for a September start for eligible full-time programs
Tuition
Northeastern Student Financial Services publishes the tuition rates for Graduate Certificates. Under the “Graduate Programs” section, the cost per credit appears next to “D'Amore-McKim School of Business Programs.”
Financial Aid
Northeastern offers resources to help you finance your graduate education, and the Student Financial Services team will guide you through your options. Please visit the Graduate Financial Aid page.
Once you are a student, your financial aid advisor will work with you one-on-one to answer your questions, point you to resources and provide valuable insight as you navigate the financial commitments of your program.
Scholarships
Northeastern University has a variety of scholarships. As a graduate certificate applicant you may be eligible for the Full Circle Scholarship. You may also qualify for funding support as an alum, U.S. servicemember, or veteran.
Application Fee Waivers
D'Amore-McKim offers application fee waivers to applicants that meet specific criteria. You can review the policy on the Graduate Application FAQ web page.
The D'Amore-McKim community believes that understanding and solving problems requires constant interaction among people who bring different contexts and experiences to the conversation.
We value uniqueness, recognize the power and importance of belonging in our own and surrounding communities, and ensure engaged participation. Numerous student groups and campus resources focus on building dynamic communities.
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Graduate Certificates Overview
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D'Amore-McKim Graduate Programs Application Q&A
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D'Amore-McKim Graduate Programs Overview
Join us to gain insights into D'Amore-McKim's programs and discover how you can propel your career forward.
D'Amore-McKim Graduate Programs Application Q&A
Get all of your application process questions answered and explore topics like financial aid, scholarships, and making your app stand out.
