Professional certificates are more important than ever; they provide additional credibility, improve your career prospects, and open doors to new opportunities without requiring a full degree.
Many Ghanaians pursue such certificates to enhance their resumes, transition into new careers, or develop skills in fields such as accounting, banking, marketing, or management.
In this article, we’ll help you learn the essentials: who is eligible, how to apply, what documents you need, the likely costs, and helpful tips to make the process smoother. Let’s get started!
What are professional certificate courses in Ghana?
In Ghana, “professional certificate courses” refer to specialized programs run by recognized institutions or approved professional bodies, as opposed to regular academic degrees.
Instead, they lead to nationally or internationally recognized professional credentials, typically in business-related fields.
A prime example is the University of Professional Studies in Accra (UPSA) and its Institute of Professional Studies (IPS).
IPS provides tuition for programs accredited by several respected professional bodies, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG); the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA, UK); the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA, UK); the Chartered Institute of Bankers, Ghana (CIB, Ghana); the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM, UK); and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators (ICSA, UK).
Many people choose these courses because they offer flexibility, with classes available on weekdays, evenings, or weekends, which makes them ideal for working professionals.
They also deliver practical, career-oriented training that leads to a recognized professional qualification, which can improve employability and help graduates stand out in the job market.
What are the eligibility and admission requirements?
To enroll in a professional certificate course at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), you must meet certain academic or prior-qualification standards.
For the “Access Program,” the foundation level, acceptable qualifications include a valid West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE), General Business Certificate Examination (GBCE), or comparable certificates such as American High School Grade 12 or Cambridge/GCE O- and A-Levels.
For advanced programs or those requiring previous credentials (for example, for higher levels of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana, ICAG; Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, CIMA; or other bodies), applicants must submit transcripts or prior qualifications (certificate, diploma, or previous professional level completion) as part of their application.
It is crucial to confirm the precise admission requirements of the organization or body issuing the certificate before applying, as requirements may vary depending on the course, level, or professional organization.
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply for Professional Certificate Courses in Ghana
- Identify the program and institution: choose which professional certificate you want (ICAG, ACCA, etc.) and which institution/affiliate offers it. (e.g., UPSA’s IPS)
- Purchase Application / Serial Number / E-voucher: Many institutions require you to buy an application serial number or e-voucher before filling the application form (e.g., UPSA requires the purchase of OSN for professional applications)
- Complete the Application Form (often online): fill in your personal details, educational background, choose courses/modules, etc.
- Attach Supporting Documents: scan and upload certified copies of certificates, transcripts, birth certificates, or national IDs, and any professional body confirmations that are required.
- Pay Application Fees / Submit Payment Proof: Pay required fees (application form, registration, etc.) as per the institution’s instructions (banks, mobile money, etc.).
- Submit Application & Await Response: Ensure correct submission. Track your application, and wait for an admission decision or further instructions from the institution.
- Register with the Professional Body (if required): Some professional certificate courses require that you also register as a student/member of the relevant professional body and pay membership/examination fees.
Typical Costs and Payment Methods
Applying for a professional certificate course at UPSA involves a few costs before you even begin your classes.
First, you normally need to purchase an application voucher or “online serial number (OSN).” For most professional programs at UPSA, this costs about GH¢230.00 for Ghanaian applicants (international applicants pay in US dollars).
If you are applying for a foundation-level access program, the application form alone may cost around GH¢100.00.
Payments can be made in several ways: you may pay via bank deposit at designated banks, by mobile money (on any network), or at certain post office outlets, whichever is listed for the application period.
After admission, you should also expect additional costs: annual tuition or course fees (varies by program), and, depending on the course and professional body, membership dues or examination fees may apply.
Because fee amounts vary by program, level, and professional body, you should always check the latest fee schedule of your institution or the relevant professional organization before applying.
Practical advice and common mistakes to avoid
1. Check eligibility before paying
Always make sure you meet the admission requirements of your chosen professional course before buying an application voucher; if you don’t qualify, you risk losing your money.
2. Prepare and scan documents carefully
All required documents (certificates, transcripts, birth certificate, etc.) should be certified, clearly scanned (PDF), and named properly. An unclear scan or a wrong file name can lead to submission problems.
3. Keep proof of payment and receipt
After paying for the application voucher or fees, retain your payment receipt or bank slip, as you may need it later if there is any issue with your application.
4. Avoid unofficial admission agents
The admission process for the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), is transparent. Do not pay anyone outside official channels claiming they can guarantee admission—such offers may be scams.
5. Start early—don’t wait till the last minute
Application portals often have deadlines. Starting early gives you enough time to gather documents, pay fees, and complete your application without rushing.
After Application: What to Do Next
Once you submit your application for a professional course, track your application status. Many institutions (or professional programs) send confirmation via email or SMS upon receiving and/or accepting your application.
If admitted, get ready for registration: you’ll likely be asked to bring the originals of your certificates, transcripts, birth certificate, or national ID, plus the admission letter and proof of payment. This is standard practice at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA).
If your course is linked to a professional body, be sure to register with that body and pay any required membership or examination fees as soon as possible, which ensures you qualify as a student/member officially.
Finally, keep copies of everything you submitted (application form, scanned documents, receipts, admission letter). These come in handy later, for reapplication, verification, or future reference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is eligible to apply for professional certificate courses at the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA)?
If you’re applying via the foundation (Access) route, you need a valid secondary-school certificate such as the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), Senior Secondary School Certificate Examination (SSSCE), General Business Certificate Examination (GBCE), or equivalent.
For higher-level entries, you may need prior tertiary-level qualifications or certification from recognized professional bodies.
How much does it cost to apply for a professional program at UPSA?
For UPSA professional programs, Ghanaian applicants pay GH¢ 230.00 to purchase an Online Serial Number (OSN) to start the application.
What payment methods are accepted by UPSA?
You can pay for the OSN via bank deposit (at partner banks), at post office branches, or by mobile money (all networks).
What documents are required when applying online?
Applicants must submit scanned, certified copies (PDF) of certificates or transcripts, birth certificates (or national IDs), and, for professional-route applicants, any required confirmations from the professional body.
After submitting my application, what should I do?
Keep track of updates via email or SMS. If admitted, prepare original documents (certificates, transcripts, birth certificate), payment receipts, and any registration or membership paperwork required by the professional body. Always keep copies for future reference.
Wrapping Up
Professional certificate courses in Ghana offer a practical way to boost your skills, credibility, and career prospects, often without the long commitment of a full degree.
Enrolling in a program at a recognized institution, such as the University of Professional Studies, Accra (UPSA), can provide industry-ready qualifications and help you stand out in a competitive job market.
As we have seen, success is dependent on understanding the requirements, gathering the necessary documents, adhering to the proper procedures, and meticulous planning.
If you take the time to complete each step, from the registration application, you will build a solid foundation for future opportunities.
