Introducing Career Pathway Certificates at Nexford University

With the launch of two new offerings in April 2025 – the Career Pathways Certificates in Professional Sales and in Operations Management – we continue our mission to bridge the gap between education and job market demands. Here’s everything you need to know about these stackable certifications and why they might be the right fit for your career goals.

Why choose Career Pathway Certificates?

Career Pathway Certificates are ideal for learners who want to gain focused, industry-relevant skills within a shorter timeframe. While traditional degree programs are highly valuable, not everyone has the time or resources to dedicate years to advanced education. That’s where these career-focused programs come in.

• Fast and flexible learning: Each pathway is designed to be completed in as little as 6 to 9 months, allowing you to quickly transition to a new role or boost your existing skills.

• Affordable education: Get practical education at a fraction of the cost of a full degree program – and far below the costs of a similar offering at another university.

• Industry-aligned skills: These programs are all designed in collaboration with experts to ensure you’re learning what today’s employers need most.

• Stackable credentials: The credits you earn can be applied toward a Nexford Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business Administration and, eventually, a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA).

Whether you’re taking a new direction in your career, a newly aspiring professional, or someone seeking relevant credentials to boost your employability, these pathway certificates are tailor-made for you.

Get to know the Professional Sales pathway certificate

What It Offers

Selling is not just an art; it’s a science. The Professional Sales pathway certificate equips you with the skills required for roles in today’s dynamic and competitive sales environment. This isn’t about retail sales. It’s about strategic approaches that drive business results in B2B and B2C contexts.

Here’s what you’ll master in these courses:

• Advanced Sales Techniques: Build expertise in consultative selling, storytelling, and social selling.

• CRM and Sales Automation: Learn how to use industry-standard CRM tools and automation to drive efficiency.

• Data-Driven Sales Strategies: Incorporate sales analytics to improve forecasting, decision-making, and customer relationships.

Who Should Enroll?

Are you someone who thrives on relationships and enjoys helping others solve problems? Do you want to take your sales skills to a professional level? This certificate prepares learners for roles like Sales Development Representative, Account Manager, or Customer Service Specialist. With sales-related occupations expected to see continued growth according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the time to invest in these skills is now.

Learn more about the Professional Sales pathway certificate

Get to know the Operations Management pathway certificate

What It Offers

For those passionate about optimizing processes and improving efficiencies, the Operations Management pathway certificate lays the foundation for impactful careers. This pathway is designed to get you into operations roles quickly - even if you don’t have prior experience or an existing degree.

Here’s what you’ll master in these courses:

• Process and Quality Optimization: Get educated on Lean Six Sigma principles and, if you’d like, prepare to test for the Green Belt Certification, an industry-standard credential.

• Data and Technology in Operations: Learn to leverage workflow automation, enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, and data visualization tools.

• Agile Management Techniques: Stay ahead of trends with agile methodologies that improve organizational efficiency.

Who Should Enroll?

If you’re ready to solve big operational challenges and drive organizational success, this certificate is for you. Whether transitioning from manufacturing, logistics, or from an unskilled role, this program provides the skills to succeed as a General Manager, Operations Manager, or Business Manager.

Training for the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt exam, included as part of this program, offers a recognized advantage on your résumé. You can find details about the certification here.

Learn more about the Operations Management pathway certificate

Career Pathway Certificates at Nexford are just the beginning

We’re focused on delivering education that aligns with the demands of a global marketplace. Career Pathway Certificates are just one part of our broader commitment to bridging education with employability.

We’re continuously developing new programs tailored to meet the challenges of a dynamic workforce, emphasizing practical application, flexibility, and affordability.

Whether you’re looking to start a new career, advance in your current role, or position yourself with skills aligned for future success, Nexford’s innovative programs are here to help you achieve your goals.

Take the First Step Today

Your pathway to career success begins here. Get in touch with a member of our Admissions team and discover how quickly and effectively you can gain industry-relevant skills.