Skip to main content
  • Online Location
  • Online Format
  • Fall, Spring, Summer Entry Terms
  • No Meets F1 Visa Requirements

Overview

According to a 2015 study by The Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte, an estimated 3.4 million manufacturing jobs will be created over the next decade. The 100% online Certificate in Principles of Manufacturing provides students with a fundamental understanding of manufacturing systems and prepares them to better succeed in entry-level positions in the manufacturing industry. More specifically, upon graduation, students will be able to:

  • Understand and optimize manufacturing operations given a broad understanding of manufacturing support systems including product design, manufacturing planning, manufacturing control, and business functions.
  • Select and apply the appropriate manufacturing processes for a product given its design specifications and material properties.
  • Obtain basic engineering drafting and introductory design skills needed to function in a computer-aided drafting (CAD) environment.
  • Understand the scientific and technical foundations of manufacturing principles, including policy decisions and safety regulations that provide a solid basis for students to recognize hazards at the workplace and in the environment.
  • Understand fundamental principles, critical technologies, processing parameters and strengthening mechanisms of composite materials and apply these to various advanced manufacturing applications.

The courses in the certificate program also allow for students across a variety of industries and experience levels to interact and share and learn from each other’s workplace experiences. By encouraging student engagement and virtual networking opportunities, students will also be exposed to career paths in real time and gain first-hand knowledge of the potential job opportunities available.

The credits from this certificate can easily be stacked into the Bachelor of Science in Advanced Manufacturing program and will fulfill most of the foundational course requirements for the bachelor’s degree program.


More Details

Unique Features

  • The 100% online format provides all the flexibility you need, so you can study when and where it’s convenient for you
  • Courses will be offered on a regular schedule allowing for full-time students to complete the certificate in as little as two terms
  • The program meets the needs of people currently working in the manufacturing industry who have little or no college-level coursework or credentials completed
  • You’ll learn from faculty experts who have extensive real-world experience and will ensure you get practical skills that will help you advance your career

Curriculum


For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills. 

View curriculum

Experiential Learning

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Learn About Getting Real World Experience

 

Experiential learning hero image

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Certificate in Principles of Manufacturing program can take advantage of the high demand within manufacturing by gaining the competencies they need to begin entry-level careers, including:

  • Electrical & Mechanical Maintenance Technicians
  • Engineering / R&D
  • Logistics & Supply Chain
  • Production & Assembly
  • Quality Assurance / Control
  • Sales

Industry-Aligned Faculty

Our industry-aligned faculty bring relevant real-world experience, knowledge, expertise, and connections that will help you achieve your career goals.

Krassimir Marchev
Professor of the Practice

Admissions

    Fall, Spring, Summer
    Entry terms
    Are you ready to take your career to the next level? If so, take the next step.

Financial Info

The university's financial aid policies are designed to enrich our campus community by ensuring that Northeastern is affordable for all admitted students. The below cost per credit is for non-lab courses. You can find the cost per credit of lab courses by visiting our Tuition and Fees page.

Starting Fall 2023, active U.S. servicemembers and their spouses are eligible to receive an amended tuition rate of $250 per semester hour for our Bachelor Completion Programs through the College of Professional Studies. Northeastern is committed to making education within reach and affordable for our military-affiliated students. To learn more, visit our Fund Your Education page.

  • $541 Cost Per Credit
  • $10.2K Avg Institutional Aid
  • 45% % Receiving Aid