So Duke University has a unique roster of certificate courses. I was wondering if they add value to resumes because some believe that people aren’t aware of the significance of a ‘certificate’ outside of Duke. I wanted to compare the markets and management certificate with the innovation and entrepreneurship certificate and figure out if they really add value- whether to resumes and in applying for jobs or otherwise just in terms of the knowledge. I want to do business but I’m not sure if I want to start one or manage an established business.
Not sure about Duke specifically, but Northwestern University’s certificate programs in conjunction with Northwestern’s Kellogg School are very respected by employers.
Definitely. A certificate is essentially between a major and a minor in terms of number of courses. Certificates exist as interdisciplinary solutions to certain academic tracks that Duke doesn’t have a major for. In my experience during Wall Street recruiting, yes, a certificate definitely adds value. I don’t think they care as much about the word “certificate” as much as they care that you said “management” and “entrepreneurship.”
Duke does not have a business degree so if you want to do anything business-related you should get either the MMS or I&E certificate. Getting one of these degrees is the best way to show demonstrated academic interest in business if you’re at Duke. On-campus recruiters and Duke alums that handle the recruiting process are almost always familiar with these certificates (Duke alums definitely are).
With that said, the most important thing that adds value for business jobs is the Duke name. Business jobs are generally prestige-hungry and not very merit-based (yes, recruiters will tell you “we reward merit at this firm!” but in reality, a lot of nepotism all throughout the business, so no one cares what you majored in). You could major in underwater basketweaving and get a job on Wall Street if you graduated from Duke as long as you: 1) are likable, 2) have a high GPA, 3) participate in at least one business-related EC, and 4) take some business classes like accounting, MMS, or I&E classes and include them on your resume.
As a Duke student, know that certificates, majors, and minors have little weight in the job market. What matters most is how you craft your studies in regards to the classes you take, the grades you get, the information you actually learn (don’t forget about that) and most importantly, the relationships you build.
If you have a strong character, good recommendations, experience, and good grades, certificates mean little in terms of prestige.
The benefit of a certificate or minor is mentorship within an academic area of interest. Some certificates, like Duke’s Science and Society certificate, require a Capstone project with all members of your certificate. This is a great example in why a certificate may be useful. Other Duke certificates are the "leadership and entrepreneurship"certificate. Again, you gain access to knowledgeable people in an area of interest.