Certificate Overview
The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Graduate Certificate equips you with the structured frameworks and strategic thinking to move from idea to impact. In four online courses, you’ll explore creativity and innovation, business model development, entrepreneurial tools, and the application of knowledge to real-world initiatives.
Designed for professionals seeking to launch new ventures or lead transformative change within their organizations, this fully online certificate delivers academic rigor with courses taught by expert instructors and a curriculum built around practical application.
98%
Of certificate earners would recommend the program
94%
Reported being prepared for their next career steps
Skills You'll Gain
Through the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Graduate Certificate, you’ll learn to:
- Apply methods of idea generation and development, including design thinking and systems thinking.
- Foster and manage a culture of innovation and agility within organizations.
- Analyze business frameworks and models to support new ventures and strategic initiatives.
- Connect innovation and entrepreneurial efforts to broader organizational objectives.
- Communicate, finance, and market new ideas, products, or initiatives.
Career Outcomes
As organizations prioritize agility to remain competitive, the demand for professionals who can translate visionary concepts into viable business models is surging.
Our certificate earners are employed at global organizations like:
- Pfizer
- Microsoft
The hold such roles as:
- Marketing Manager
- Management Analyst
- Sales Manager
- General and Operations Manager
- Fashion Designer
- Human Resources Manager
- Public Relations Specialist
Courses
The Innovation and Entrepreneurship Graduate Certificate includes four online courses in the following topic areas, taken in this recommended order:
- Creativity and innovation
- Business models and frameworks
- Entrepreneurship: tools and skills
- Application of knowledge and skills
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.
Featured Faculty
Tonya Echols, Psy.D.
Managing Principal, Vigere and Adjunct Faculty, Leadership and Organizational Behavior, William & Mary
James Fitchett
Co-Founder, VODA.ai
Carmine Gibaldi, Ed.D.
Professor of Management and Organizational Psychology, St. John's University
Paul Green
Assistant Professor of Management, McCombs School of Business, University of Texas at Austin
Stackable Certificates and Degrees
Stackable credentials allow you to earn multiple credentials by completing courses that meet overlapping requirements.
If you pursue a master’s degree in management, 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.
One of the most rewarding aspects was being able to grow as a leader and apply the knowledge I was gaining immediately at work and in life.
Master of Liberal Arts (ALM) in the field of Management; Graduate Certificates in Innovation and Entrepreneurship and Strategic Management, '21
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 per 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 four 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.
