HR & other hiring pros: advice please

[Miss Critter]

I have an old bachelors degree in marketing and am looking for the most time- and cost-efficient way to update my skills. I saw a "Master Certificate in Internet Marketing" program offered by the University of San Francisco that encompasses courses in 3 areas: integrated online strategies, search engine marketing and usability, and advanced interactive marketing and measurement. The program is completely online and takes only 12 weeks to complete.

Question: Would this "certificate" have any value to a hiring manager when I applied for a job in marketing? If not, what would be the best way to bring my skills up to date? Full-time school is not an option right now.

Thanks in advance for your input.

[LeBoeuf]

MissCritter: Sorry to be somewhat vague, but it really would depend on the job you are applying for and the hiring manager. Many hiring managers are looking for practical experience in areas specific to the job. Online certificates do not offer value unless coupled with experience in applying the education. However, if you are applying for an entry-level marketing job, the online certificate could come in handy as a differentiator to other candidates. Depending on how "old" your marketing degree is (as well as any past experience), you many have to start at the bottom and prove your way up. You may also want to expand your opportunities beyond just marketing.

My advice is to take the online courses if you think they will improve the skills you can offer regardless on how a potential employee might view them. Don't waste your time if you just want to add something to your resume.

[Miss Critter]

Thanks, LeBoeuf. My degree is from the mid-80's. Needless to say, much has changed in that time. I was mid-level management before leaving corporate to stay home with my son. Then followed several years of marginally-related self-employment. Starting at the bottom puts me in competition with recent college grads, whose degrees are obviously more relevant. I'll need SEO and marketing analytics regardless if I want to work in marketing, so I agree with your assessment.

Thanks much for your input.

(And ironically, I'm in sowal in body, but often in your neck of the woods in spirit )