Best 12-Month Certificate Programs That Pay Well in 2025

Many people assume all high-paying careers require a bachelor's degree; however, there are many 12-month certificate programs that pay well. These programs can help professionals find rewarding careers in industries like healthcare, IT, or real estate.

If you're looking for 1-year certificate programs that pay well, consider some of the options listed below. We'll discuss median salaries, program details, and more about career advancement in these fields. With the right certification, you can quickly enter the workforce and start building a successful career.

Best High-Paying 12-Month Certification Programs

If you're looking for short-term 12-month certificate programs that pay well, many options are available in numerous fields. These in-person or online courses provide the training you need for entry-level jobs. You don't need a bachelor's degree to find jobs with high salaries. Explore 1-year certificate programs that pay well below.

1. Medical Coding and Billing:

$48,780 per year

Medical coding and billing programs train individuals to manage healthcare data and insurance claims. Certificate programs typically cost between $1,000 and $3,000 and can be completed in six to 24 months.

For example, Nicholls State University offers a year-long medical billing and coding course that costs $2,995. Graduates can pursue careers as medical coders, billing specialists, or health information technicians, working in hospitals, clinics, or insurance companies.

2. Pharmacy Technician

$40,300 per year

Pharmacy technician programs prepare individuals to assist pharmacists in dispensing medications and managing pharmacy operations. After passing the Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam (PTCE), graduates can work in various settings, including retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics.

Training programs typically cost between $1,200 and $3,000 and can be completed in four to 12 months. The pharmacy technician diploma program at Penn Foster can be completed in only four months on the fast track; however, most students take at least 10 months to complete the program.

3. Dental Assisting

$46,540 per year

Dental assisting programs train individuals to support dentists in patient care, procedures, and office management. Dental assistants typically work in dental offices, clinics, or hospitals.

Programs cost between $1,500 and $10,000 and can be completed in nine months to two years. For instance, Delta Technical College offers a nine-month diploma program that may be completed in only nine months and features hands-on training.

4. IT Support

$60,810 per year

IT support specialists can work as help desk technicians or system administrators in various industries to provide technical assistance and support. This career has a fast-growing job outlook and a median pay rate of over $60,000. Graduates of an IT support certificate program can tap into many job opportunities.

The Google IT Support Professional Certificate program equips learners with essential skills in troubleshooting, customer service, networking, and security. The course is available on Coursera and typically costs around $39 per month, with completion possible in about six months.

5. Welding

$48,940 per year

A welding certificate proves an individual has acceptable welding skills and meets industry standards, which can boost job prospects. To obtain a certificate, welders may take programs that last six months to two years.

The American Welding Society offers certificate programs for all welders; no previous courses or certificates are required to participate. Welders can earn multiple credentials that show off their skills and knowledge. Depending on the program or course, the cost can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars.

6. Paralegal

$60,970 per year

Paralegal programs prepare individuals to assist lawyers with legal research, document preparation, and case management. Certification program costs typically range from $2,000 to $10,000 and can be completed in as few as six months and up to two years, depending on the type of certification or college degree pursued.

Some people opt for just a certification, while others may choose to pursue an associate degree or bachelor's degree. While the median salary for this job is high, it's important to note that experience and education level impact earning potential.

Many community colleges and technical schools offer these types of programs. After completing a program, graduates are ready for various entry-level jobs in the legal industry.

7. Real Estate

$56,620 per year

Real estate programs prepare individuals for thriving careers in property sales, management, and investment. This career path generally has minimal educational requirements; those with only a high school diploma can easily enter this field. However, most states require real estate agents to become certified professionals and hold licenses.

Some states have specific requirements regarding education and certifications, so it's necessary to research what type of coursework and job training you need. Courses generally cost between $500 and $1,000. The cost to take the exam and receive a real estate license depends on the state but usually is around $200.

8. Personal Fitness Trainer

$46,480 per year

Personal fitness trainer programs teach the skills to design and implement fitness programs for clients. Graduates can work in gyms, health clubs, or as independent trainers, helping clients achieve their fitness goals through personalized training and guidance.

Certification costs typically range from $500 to $3,000, with programs taking one to six months to complete. For example, the National Academy of Sports Medicine certification (NASM-CPT) is a recognized organization that offers a self-paced online program that starts at $999.

9. EKG Technician

$80,850 per year

Electrocardiography (EKG) technicians use machine technology to monitor patients' heart health. EKG technicians operate in various healthcare settings and interact closely with physicians and other healthcare team members.

The average salary of this profession is quite high, though professionals typically only need an associate degree to enter this field. It's also a job with high demand. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, it's growing at a rate of 11%, which is much higher than the national average.

The cost of a certificate program varies, but Florida A&M University offers a program that only costs $1,995. It's self-paced though it usually takes 12 months to finish.

10. Laboratory Assistant

$61,060 per year

Laboratory assistants may help with various tasks concerning laboratory operations, such as sample collection, testing, and data management. They typically make between $58,000 and $63,000; however, experience and location affect the average salary.

A certification program prepares students for the Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant (CMLA) and the Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) certification. For example, the program from Shippensburg University offers a mix of theoretical and hands-on learning to prepare students for certification and their careers. It costs $4,000 and lasts around four months.

What To Expect from Certificate Courses

Certificate courses offer a focused, practical approach to learning specific skills or knowledge in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional college degree programs. Students can expect hands-on training, industry-relevant content, and often a more flexible schedule.

Unlike bachelor's degree courses, which typically cover a broad range of subjects over several years, certificate programs are designed to provide targeted expertise in a particular field. This makes them ideal for new career changes or those looking to enhance their skills quickly. Graduates often leave with a certification that can boost their employability in their chosen industry.

Benefits of Certificate Programs

Pursuing certificate programs offers several benefits, including accelerated learning options and the ability to acquire a skill set in a specific field. These programs typically require less time and financial investment than traditional degree programs, making them accessible for busy professionals or those with other obligations.

Additionally, many programs offer flexible scheduling options, allowing students to balance their studies with work or personal commitments.

FAQs About 1-Year Certificate Programs That Pay Well

If you're looking for well-paying jobs, a one-year certificate program can give you a competitive edge in the job market. We'll discuss common questions about these short-term programs below.

What Are Some High-Paying Jobs That Only Require Quick Certifications?

The top-paying jobs on this list include EKG technicians, laboratory assistants, and paralegals. All of these professions have a median salary above $60,000. However, it's important to note that salary range often depends on a professional's experience and location.

Is It Hard for Community College Graduates To Find and Get Jobs?

No, it's not hard for community college graduates to find a job, provided that they have completed specialized job training in a fast-growing field. For example, there is a high demand for EKG technicians, which makes it easier for job seekers to find a position.

What Is the Easiest License To Get To Make Money?

One of the easiest licenses to get is a real estate license. Generally, courses are short and don't require extensive time commitments or continuing education requirements. Personal training certificates are also typically easy to obtain.

Explore Online Certificate Programs

If you're ready to find a high-paying job, check out the certificate programs featured here on Learn.org. Contact institutions and trade schools for more information on costs, career training, and program outcomes.