Online Graduate Certificate in Systems
The 100% online Graduate Certificate in Systems equips professionals with essential skills to analyze and solve complex problems using systems thinking. Across industries such as engineering, economics, design and humanitarian studies, students gain practical expertise in applying systems methodologies. This flexible 9-credit program can be completed on its own or applied toward a master’s degree.
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Overview
Develop Advanced Systems Expertise
Purdue University’s 100% online Graduate Certificate in Systems strengthens your ability to approach complex challenges through systems thinking. The program emphasizes the study of interconnected technical, social and organizational factors that influence system performance. Students gain experience applying proven frameworks and methodologies to real-world projects, developing the analytical skills needed to design practical, sustainable solutions across industries.
Through three graduate-level courses (nine credits), students develop the ability to design holistic, adaptable solutions that cut across industries such as engineering, economics and design. The 100% online program offers flexibility for working professionals while fostering collaborative learning through team-based projects.
This graduate certificate can stand alone as a valuable credential or serve as a pathway to Purdue University’s online Master of Science in Systems Engineering, allowing students to continue building advanced expertise and positioning themselves for leadership in systems-focused roles. Most students complete the graduate certificate in two to three semesters.
The cost of attending Purdue varies depending on where you choose to live, enrollment in a specific program or college, food and travel expenses, and other variables. The Office of the Bursar website shows estimated costs for the current aid year for students by semester and academic year. These amounts are used in determining a student’s estimated eligibility for financial aid. You can also use our tuition calculator to estimate tuition costs.
Program Specifics
More information on courses and faculty can be found at the program website.
The certificate requires three graduate systems courses (9 credit hours) that introduce fundamentals of systems thinking by teaching systems methodologies that can be applied to a variety of complex problems – both at the micro and macro level.
- SYS 50000 – Perspectives on Systems
- SYS 51000 – Tools and Methodologies for Designing Systems
- SYS 53000 – Practical Systems Thinking
Tackle complex, interdisciplinary problems
Students learn to apply systems thinking to real-world challenges across industries such as engineering, economics, design and humanitarian studies. Through case studies and applied projects, students explore how to develop solutions that address interdependent technical, social and organizational factors in today’s complex environments.
Apply systems methodologies and tools
From model-based systems engineering to holistic design frameworks, students gain hands-on experience with the core methodologies that define the systems field. By practicing these tools in simulated and applied settings, students develop the skills to translate theoretical concepts into practical, adaptable strategies.
Advance your credentials
Credits earned in this program can be applied toward Purdue University’s Master of Science in Systems Engineering, creating a seamless pathway for continued professional growth. This flexible option allows students to leverage the graduate certificate as a standalone credential or as the foundation for a master’s degree.
A graduate certificate is a specialized credential that provides advanced knowledge in a specific field. Available to those with a bachelor’s degree, Purdue’s 100% online graduate certificates take less time than a full master’s degree program. They are valuable for individuals looking to quickly advance their careers or pivot to a new industry. Graduate certificates also can serve as a stepping stone toward a master’s degree since they allow students to earn academic credits that may apply to a future graduate program. Ask your enrollment counselor for details or learn more about graduate certificates here.
Career Outcomes
Top Job Titles
- Software Engineers
- Systems Engineers
- Principal Software Engineers
- Software Developers
- Principal Systems Engineers
Top Industries
- Aircraft Manufacturing
- Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System
- Instrument Manufacturing
- Research and Development -Education
Source: LightcastTM (2023). Unique job postings for July 2022-2023. Projected growth for years 2023-2033.
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