Graduate Certificates FAQs

Are there prerequisites for applying to the Graduate Certificate programs?

The Business Analytics Graduate Certificate program is available to all professionals, regardless of their work experience or degree. The only official prerequisite for applying to the program is a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. However, to succeed in your coursework, some technical background is helpful.

If you need a refresh on technical subjects while applying, below are some helpful resources:

• Calculus: 3Blue1Brown's Calculus
• Linear Algebra: 3Blue1Brown's Linear Algebra
• Statistics: StatQuest: Statistics Fundamentals Playlist
• Python*: Introduction to Data Science in Python
• R Coding*: Introduction to R 
• Excel*: Introduction to Excel

*The first chapter of each DataCamp module is free. Purchasing access to additional modules is not necessary. Admitted students will get free access to additional resources on LinkedIn Learning upon starting the program. 

I graduated from another Georgia Tech graduate degree program. Do I need to submit a new application to this program?

No. If you graduate with a Georgia Tech graduate degree, completing a new application is not required. Please contact our student services team to inquire about your next steps to enroll in the program. 

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Do I need to submit my official transcripts when applying to the Graduate Certificate programs?

When applying to the Graduate Certificate programs, you don’t have to submit your official transcripts. You can submit the unofficial transcripts as a downloaded copy or a PDF of the transcripts. Once accepted into the program, you will submit the official transcripts. 

What is the process for submitting my letters of recommendation?

You don’t have to submit hard copy recommendation letters when applying to the Graduate Certificate programs. In your online application, you will be asked for the contact information (names and email addresses) of the recommendation providers. Once we receive the contact information, we will reach out to the recommenders via email with instructions on how to upload their letter.  

How much is the application fee?

The application fee is $95 for domestic applicants and $105 for international applicants.

Prospective students who attend an information webinar are eligible to receive an application fee waiver. Instructions will be given during the session. 

How can I learn more about the courses in the Graduate Certificate programs? 

The Business Analytics Graduate includes four courses. To learn more about each course and the covered topics, see the course descriptions outline for Business Analytics.

Course Descriptions 

How many credits is a Business Analytics Graduate Certificate?

The Business Analytics Graduate Certificate program requires a total of 12 credit hours. The program has four credit-bearing courses, with each course being three credit hours. The courses are for seven weeks. After completing the courses, students receive a letter grade for each course.

Do the credits in the Business Analytics Graduate Certificate count toward a Georgia Tech master’s degree?

Yes. Admitted students can apply select courses toward certain Georgia Tech Master's degrees. Specifically, if you pursue the Full-time or Evening MBA programs, you can apply up to nine credit hours (three courses). Alternatively, for the Online M.S. in Analytics program, you can apply up to six credit hours (two courses). Specifically, MGT 6452 (Machine Learning for Business) and MGT 8833 (Analysis of Unstructured Data) can be counted toward the Online M.S. in Analytics program.

If you aren’t ready to commit to a master's degree, the Graduate Certificate program is a great way to experience the curriculum and test your availability and commitment to pursuing an MBA or an online master’s. 

I already have a Master's Degree. Is a Business Analytics Graduate Certificate worth my time?

Yes, it can be beneficial. Many of our students already possess other graduate degrees and are looking to further enhance their technical and analytical skills. Our courses are designed to teach students how to effectively translate data into actionable insights, solve problems, and drive success for their organization as they move their business into the future. For more details on the curriculum, see the course descriptions outline for Business Analytics.

Course Descriptions 

What can a Graduate Certificate do for my career? What type of industry role does this program align with?

A Graduate Certificate can aid in career advancement because companies have analytical and technological needs. Professionals with the skillsets to address those needs provide a high level of value. The program is not aligned with a specific industry and instead provides a set of tools applicable to a wide range of organizations. The instructor’s exercises in coursework will use a variety of data and digital technology applications that are useful in multiple industries. 

Can I apply for data analyst roles after receiving this certificate?

Job opportunities and salaries will vary depending on the organization, desired role, and applicant experience. Obtaining this certificate should qualify students for many entry-level positions. Students with prior experience combined with the knowledge gained from this course, higher level positions may be attainable.

Is the Board of Regents Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) applicable to the Graduate Certificate programs?

Georgia Tech employees interested in pursuing the Business Analytics or Leveraging Digital Technology Graduate Certificate programs can use their Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) employee benefit. This special education benefit provides tuition waivers for full-time Georgia Tech employees who have completed six months of employment in a full-time, benefits-eligible position. Visit the Georgia Tech Office of Human Resources website for more information and to submit your TAP application. 

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Are individuals 62 or older eligible to enroll into the Graduate Certificates programs for free or at a reduced cost? 

According to the University System of Georgia, individuals who are 62 or older and meet certain requirements are eligible to enroll in USG courses on a space-available basis at little or no cost. To learn more about the requirements, visit the Board of Regents Policy Manual. 

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