Quick answer: Some of the best online MSc degree-providing platforms that offer certifications along with the course include Amity University, Manipal University, Chandigarh University, Jain University, LPU, and DY Patil Vidyapeeth, each combining a UGC-approved degree with certifications and add-ons.
Many universities today have combined their Online MSc programs with some sort of certification course, whether in tools, an internationally recognized platform, or even industry-backed skill modules, to make the degree program more relevant to companies. But not every certification adds value. Hence, it is good to understand which of these platforms provide the above combination and what that certification includes. Here’s a blog about the same.
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Top Platforms At A Glance
Here are the top platforms where you can apply:
|
University Platform |
Accreditation |
Fees (Approx.) |
Certification Add-On |
|
UGC-entitled, NAAC A+ |
₹90,000 – ₹1,50,000 |
Industry-aligned certifications in select specializations | |
|
UGC-DEB approved, NAAC A+ |
₹85,000 – ₹1,40,000 |
Tool-based certifications through partnered ed-tech platforms | |
|
UGC-entitled, NAAC A+ |
₹70,000 – ₹1,20,000 |
Certification modules bundled with select electives | |
|
UGC-DEB approved, NAAC A++ |
₹75,000 – ₹1,30,000 |
Skill certifications in Data Science and Analytics tracks | |
|
UGC-DEB approved, NAAC A++ |
₹80,000 – ₹1,35,000 |
Certifications through corporate and industry tie-ups | |
|
UGC-entitled, NAAC A++ |
₹95,000 – ₹1,45,000 |
Add-on certifications in newer-age specializations |
Fees, certification tie-ups, and specialization availability can be updated periodically, so it's always worth cross-checking the current details directly with the university or through free counseling before you enroll.
What Does A "Certification" Actually Add To Your M.Sc Degree?
These are some of the things one should consider before assuming that their certificate brings value to the resume:
- Certification granted is from an established third-party institution, not the educational institution itself.
- Certification must satisfy special software-related criteria and meet certain requirements relevant to the specialization.
- It is clearly stated whether the certification cost is included in the program fee or not. A certification number or a credential ID is delivered to verify the information.
- Certification is acknowledged not only within the institution but outside it.
- It is important to know if it has an expiry date (if yes – how often it has to be renewed to remain valid).
- The certification company must be prestigious and respected in the industry, not one of those unknown firms.
- There should be a separate exam or a project to charge the certificate, not another precondition for course enrollment.
- The certificate can be listed on a LinkedIn profile/resume as separate from the qualification.
- It complies with some recognized skill system framework (for example, NASSCOM or Skill India).
How To Verify If A Certification Is Genuinely Valuable
However, it might be a good idea to research the certification issuer’s credibility, get a sample certificate, and ensure that it is verifiable via the credential ID or registry:
- In case a university cannot clearly answer who issued the certification and how it was verified, it might be better not to take the risk.
- Firstly, try researching the certification issuer on your own rather than accepting everything written in the university's brochure.
- A real certification should have its own website, a certain verification procedure, and a little bit of publicity beyond the university's marketing materials.
- It might also be helpful to see if any other students who graduated from the same program put their certificates on their LinkedIn accounts and if those certifications are recognizable by recruiters from the related sphere.
- Also, consider contacting the graduates to hear their opinions, as their experience will tell you more than admission counselors' statements.
- Moreover, it is important to be suspicious about any certifications that are briefly described on the course page only.
Choosing The Right Platform For Your Career Goals
After confirming that the university is accredited and the certification is authentic, there are a few things that need to be considered when selecting the certificate that will complement the program:
- Specialization Fit: Ensure that the certificate relates directly to your specialization and is not just another addition to the program for everyone.
- Relevance: The certificate should be relevant to the kind of job that you want to take up or the industry you wish to join, as there is no benefit in acquiring something which you may never need.
- Cost Structure: Verify whether the certificate is included in the course fee or not and whether or not it provides any value.
- Recognition: Certificates that are recognized by employers and not only in the placement cell of the university should be preferred.
- Skill Set: Ensure that the certification requires you to do projects and tests in order to get it and is not automatic once you finish your course.
- Value: Will the certification still have any value after a few years, or is it related to something that may become obsolete soon?
- A certificate that does not suit your specialization provides little value.
Summing Up!
Many platforms have started offering certifications along with their Online M.Sc programs, but the effectiveness of that certification would depend on who is certifying and whether it is verifiable and in line with your specialization. And here's what you need to do before joining – check whether the certification is credible in addition to the university's accreditation. Searching for a suitable platform for your Online M.Sc but confused about which one to choose? Benefit from our free counseling sessions.
