Product Management, Graduate Certificate (Boston)

The Graduate Certificate in Product Management is designed for students with undergraduate degrees in a wide range of fields—including computer science, engineering, economics, business administration, design, and psychology—who want to build the skills necessary for success as product managers. This certificate equips students with the expertise to excel in this dynamic field, whether they are early career professionals, transitioning into product roles, or looking to differentiate themselves in a competitive job market. The program provides a flexible, cost-effective alternative to a full MS program while offering hands-on learning experiences.

Curriculum and Structure

This interdisciplinary certificate offers a structured yet adaptable curriculum that balances foundational knowledge with practical, industry-relevant skills.

The program consists of four courses (12–13 semester hours total):

• Three core courses covering fundamental concepts across key product management functions
• One experiential course (1 credit) providing hands-on learning opportunities tailored to students’ backgrounds and career goals in product management

This certificate allows students to gain real-world experience, develop in-demand skills, and enhance their career opportunities within a streamlined, flexible structure.

Admissions and College Affiliation

Students are admitted to the certificate program through one of the following colleges and follow the academic policies of their home college:

• College of Arts, Media and Design
• College of Engineering
• D’Amore-McKim School of Business
• Office of the Provost and College of Professional Studies¹

This certificate provides a fast, flexible, and practical pathway for students looking to build expertise in product management while benefiting from Northeastern University’s strong academic and professional support network.

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Program Structure and Transition

• For the 2025–2026 academic year, the Graduate Certificate in Product Management is being offered as a collaboration between the College of Professional Studies and the Office of the Provost. During this period, students will follow Northeastern's graduate academic calendar and be governed by the academic policies and procedures outlined in the university’s Graduate Catalog. 
• While designated under the Office of the Provost, students will receive full academic and student support services from the College of Professional Studies including academic advising, co-op and career advising, and access to the International Tutoring Center.
• Beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, the certificate program will transition fully to the College of Professional Studies. At that time, students will be officially designated under CPS in the academic system of record and governed by its academic policies as outlined in the university’s Graduate Catalog.

Requirements

Course List

Code	Title	Hours
Fundamental Concepts
ARTG 5600	Experience Design Studio 1: Principles	4
EMGT 6750	Advanced Product Management	3-4
or PDM 6000	Foundations of Product Management
INNO 6409	Innovation Portfolio Management	4
Experiential Course
Complete one of the following:		1
ARTG 5540	Design and Product Management
EMGT 6760	Technical Product Management
INNO 6411	Product Innovation Management
PDM 6940	Product Analytics

Program Credit/GPA Requirement

12 total semester hours required (additional hours may be required based on student choice of course options)
Minimum 3.000 GPA required