Certificate Overview
The Business Communication Graduate Certificate develops your command of the written, verbal, and presentation strategies that matter most in the workplace — from persuasive messaging and public speaking to negotiation and conflict resolution.
Designed for professionals looking to communicate with greater clarity and impact, this fully online certificate gives you the flexibility to choose courses that suit your goals — with options in business rhetoric, strategic communication, grant writing, mediation, and advanced negotiation.
Skills You'll Gain
Through the Business Communication Graduate Certificate, you’ll learn to:
- Compose effective business communications, including proposals, presentations, and reports.
- Apply communication strategies such as informational briefings, persuasive messaging, and conflict resolution.
- Develop and deliver clear, structured presentations for diverse audiences.
- Use public speaking techniques, including message development, delivery, and audience engagement.
- Communicate ideas with clarity and confidence in professional settings.
Courses
The Business Communications Graduate Certificate requires three online courses.
Selecting courses. Multiple course options are available during fall, spring, and summer terms. Offerings vary by term. Explore current options in the DCE Course Search & Registration platform.
Upcoming Term: Fall 2026
Enroll in your first certificate course this fall — no application required.
Pre-registration opens July 6. Registration opens July 20 at 9 a.m. ET.
Stackable Certificates and Degrees
Stackable credentials allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements.
You may apply the two courses from the Advanced Negotiation & Conflict Resolution Microcertificate to this graduate certificate.
If you pursue a master’s degree in one of the following two fields, you can earn this graduate certificate along the way by completing courses that fulfill both certificate and degree requirements:
This approach allows you to build specialized knowledge while making measurable progress toward your goals.
Tuition
Support and Resources
Access to career resources, including webinars, advising, and career fairs
Weekly virtual office hours with the student advising team
Affiliate membership in the Harvard Extension Alumni Association
Earning Your Certificate
If you take two courses in one semester and one course in a second semester, you can complete your certificate in 8 months. If you prefer a more flexible pace, you have up to three years to finish.
There is no formal application required. You simply register for each course.
To meet the requirements for the certificate:
- Complete the three certificate courses for graduate credit.
- Earn at least a B grade in each course.
- Complete all courses within three years of starting your first eligible certificate course.
Learn more about pursuing a certificate and the process of requesting your certificate.
