Suffolk University

Programme overview

This certificate examines the dynamics of world-class industry clusters—including those in Boston—and translates those insights into team and innovation practice. It is highly experiential, delivered part-time and designed to be completed in one semester, with classes offered on campus or online. Courses are taught by Sawyer Business School faculty and the curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects tied to Boston’s innovation ecosystems.

What you'll study

The program introduces why and where industry clusters form, how they evolve to survive, and how to emulate the functions of the high-powered teams that drive them. Study areas include collaboration methods and applied entrepreneurial and design thinking, with learning organized around practical projects related to local clusters and innovation ecosystems.

Entry requirements

Application materials include a completed application and $50 application fee (fee can be waived for students who attend a graduate admission event), a resume, unofficial transcripts of all post-secondary work, and a goal statement (essay). Admitted students who enroll must provide official transcripts, including proof of degree conferral, prior to their first class. Application deadlines are rolling with priority dates for fall, spring and summer terms.

Career prospects

The certificate prepares students to contribute to and lead collaborative, innovation-focused teams across industry clusters. Graduates can apply the practical team- and innovation-oriented skills in roles involving team leadership, innovation project work, intrapreneurship or entrepreneurial initiatives, or use the certificate courses toward a future graduate business degree.

Scholarships & funding angle

Federal student loan aid may be available for this program (Suffolk code 002218). Suffolk also lists internal discounts and scholarship options such as Bright Horizons EdAssist Solutions Partner Scholarship and Suffolk Alumni Scholarships; students are advised to consult Student Financial Services for graduate loan and financing options.