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College of Professional Studies

Principles of Manufacturing

Certificate

The online Principles of Manufacturing Certificate offers the tools needed to advance your manufacturing career. Gain practical knowledge in manufacturing systems, CAD, and safety regulations—all in a convenient format.

A woman in a blue jumpsuit, white hard hat, and yellow ear protection speaks to a colleague in a factory. She holds a clipboard and appears engaged in a discussion. The environment is industrial, with machinery around them.
Program Format
Online
Time Commitment
Part time, Full time
Duration
8 Months
Entry Term(s)
Fall, Spring, Summer
Meets F1 visa requirements
No
Plus One
No

Program overview

Fast-track to manufacturing

The Certificate in Principles of Manufacturing provides a solid foundation in manufacturing systems, preparing you for entry-level roles in this growing field. This flexible, 100% online program lets you study on your schedule. Gain core skills in product design, CAD drafting, manufacturing processes, and workplace safety regulations.

Designed for those starting fresh or enhancing existing skills, this program offers insights from industry-aligned faculty and opportunities for virtual networking with peers. Stackable credits make it easy to transition into the Bachelor of Science in Advanced Manufacturing program to support your career goals.

  • 100% online format: A flexible online format allows you to study on your own schedule, and courses are offered regularly so you can complete the certificate in as few as two terms.
  • Industry-relevant skills: Gain practical competencies taught by faculty experts, helping you succeed in the manufacturing field.
  • Career-ready curriculum: Developed for those in manufacturing with minimal college-level coursework, this program offers a valuable entry point to industry opportunities.
  • Stackable credits: Apply credits from this certificate toward a Bachelor of Science in Advanced Manufacturing to cover foundational requirements.

 

At Northeastern, experiential learning is woven into every program. By combining rigorous academics with real-world practice, this certificate empowers you to apply your new skills immediately in your workplace. You’ll gain hands-on knowledge through research, industry-led projects, and student networking, ensuring that your education aligns with current industry demands.

Learn more

Graduates of the Principles of Manufacturing Certificate are prepared for entry-level roles in high-demand areas, such as:

  • Electrical and mechanical maintenance
  • Engineering/R&D
  • Logistics and supply chain
  • Production and assembly
  • Quality assurance/control
  • Sales

With an estimated 3.4 million manufacturing jobs expected over the next decade (Deloitte, 2015), this certificate places you on a path to success.

Admissions

Support at every step

Ready to complete your bachelor’s degree? Discover our streamlined admissions process, designed to guide you through each step and answer your questions along the way.

The deadlines below are recommended; however, admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis and applications submitted after these deadlines will still be considered for the upcoming term.

The domestic deadlines below allow time for those transferring credits. More details.

Domestic Application Deadlines

International Application Deadlines*

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.


  • Completed online application

  • English Language Proficiency Proof (if English is not your primary language)

  • Official transcript

  • Official high school transcript

  • Official GED

  • Associate degree (with conferral and date) sent directly from your undergraduate institution to Northeastern

Stack your certificate

Earning a certificate is a fast and affordable way to acquire specialized skills and help you stand out in the workforce. Upon completion of this certificate, you may be able to apply your credits to an eligible bachelor’s program, saving time and money on your degree.

Some of the eligible bachelor’s programs for this certificate include:

Contact an enrollment counselor to learn more about eligibility requirements.

Program objectives

Skills for real-world success

Gain a practical understanding of manufacturing systems, processes, and safety regulations to prepare for entry-level manufacturing roles or to build on your existing skills.

Foundational manufacturing knowledge

Develop key competencies in product design, CAD drafting, and manufacturing operations that align with industry standards, giving you a competitive edge in the field.

Core skills for manufacturing success

Build a foundation in manufacturing systems and processes, preparing you to confidently navigate entry-level roles in diverse manufacturing sectors.

Career outlook
Discover where a degree could take you
Open doors to new roles, promotions, and higher earning potential with a degree from Northeastern. Our programs align with industry demands to give you a competitive edge.

Occupations

Tuition and aid

An affordable path forward

  • $541
    Cost Per Credit

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2024-2025 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

There are many ways to pay for your education, including scholarships, financial aid, and more. Connect with a financial counselor to learn about your options and make your dream a reality.

Visit tuition & financial aid

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Get started today

Ready to take the next step? Complete the form below, and our admissions team will reach out to help you explore your program options and answer any questions you may have.

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