Compliance Graduate Certificate
December 1, 2025
January 12, 2026
Navigate complex regulatory environments with confidence.
Ohio State’s Compliance Certificate equips you with the legal and operational knowledge to champion compliance in various industries, offering a pathway to professional growth. You’ll gain knowledge of regulatory bodies and laws governing compliance in healthcare, finance, and other contexts and build expertise in key regulations.
- Understand regulatory bodies and compliance laws in healthcare and finance.
- Master compliance laws, including key regulations like Dodd-Frank, Gramm-Leach-Bliley, and EU GDPR.
- Use compliance databases to interpret regulations and develop risk assessment programs.
- Tackle compliance challenges by implementing risk mitigation strategies and promoting ethics.
- Clearly convey compliance information and collaborate with stakeholders.
Why choose Ohio Stateâs Compliance Certificate?
The Compliance Certificate provides a career-focused curriculum designed for busy professionals aiming to advance their careers in compliance. You’ll gain practical experience and insights from expert legal-practitioners, enhancing your ability to address real-world challenges. With a flexible, 100% online format, you can balance your studies with professional and personal commitments. You can even stack all 15 credit hours toward the Master in the Study of Law program to further your legal knowledge and career prospects.
-
"As an online student, there's so many connections you can make that will have a really meaningful impact on your education. The opportunities that exist at Ohio State feel limitless."
Audra Hanners Ohio State Online Grad -
"I attribute my recent two promotions to educating myself at Ohio State. I really think that getting the coursework done helped me excel at my current position, and it was recognized."
Demi MacLennan Ohio State Online Grad -
"Being able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program."
Derek Danek Ohio State Online Grad
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, this program is 100% online, offering flexibility for working professionals like you to study from wherever you are.
Yes, this online program is fully asynchronous, meaning you can log in to view instructional materials and complete your work whenever it is best for your schedule.
As non-degree students, most types of financial aid and scholarships are not available to students enrolling in certificate programs.
Related Programs
Related Programs
Master in the Study of Law
Business Law Graduate Certificate
Health Law Graduate Certificate
Academic Calendar
Multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for online students in non-degree programs, so you can decide when to take the next step toward earning your Compliance Certificate.
Academic Calendar
Multiple start dates are offered during the academic calendar year for online students in non-degree programs, so you can decide when to take the next step toward earning your Compliance Certificate.
Admission Criteria
To enroll in the online Compliance Certificate program, you must hold a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an accredited institution, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale or equivalent) for the last bachelor’s degree or advanced degree earned. Personal statements require articulation of how the certificate is consistent with the applicantâs professional and career goals. Resumes and transcripts are required from all applicants.
Learn more about non-degree admission requirements from The Ohio State University’s Graduate and Professional Admissions.
The Ohio State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA).
SARA is a national initiative that increases student access to distance education courses and programs while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Institutions participating in SARA can offer educational opportunities in all 49 SARA member states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico without seeking individual approval in each state.
California is not a SARA member state, however, OSU may offer online courses and programs to students located in California under the California Private Post-Secondary Act of 2009.
The Application Process
Once you understand your program’s admission criteria, please note the application deadline. You’ll need a quiet space and a variety of materials for your application. To learn more, please see our Admissions page for the full process. Ready to Apply? Find your application here.
Career Outlook
Ohio State’s Graduate Certificate in Compliance is tailored for professionals aiming to enhance their careers in compliance-related roles. The stackable certificate can be a valuable asset for working professionals across various industries. The knowledge you gain will not only enhance your ability to protect your organization from legal risks but also enables you to contribute more effectively to strategic decision-making processes.
Top Occupations by Median Income
What They Do
Examine, analyze, and interpret accounting records to prepare financial statements, give advice, or audit and evaluate statements prepared by others. Install or advise on systems of recording costs or other financial and budgetary data.
Work Activities
Prepare detailed reports on audit findings. Report to management about asset utilization and audit results, and recommend changes in operations and financial activities. Collect and analyze data to detect deficient controls, duplicated effort, extravagance, fraud, or non-compliance with laws, regulations, and management policies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $52,780
- Mid Level: $81,680
- Senior Level: $141,420
Job Outlook
Bright
Related Careers
- Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
- Budget Analysts
- Financial Examiners
- Tax Preparers
- Treasurers and Controllers
Job Sectors
- Economics and Accounting
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate compensation and benefits activities of an organization.
Work Activities
Direct preparation and distribution of written and verbal information to inform employees of benefits, compensation, and personnel policies. Design, evaluate, and modify benefits policies to ensure that programs are current, competitive, and in compliance with legal requirements. Fulfill all reporting requirements of all relevant government rules and regulations, including the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $81,660
- Mid Level: $140,360
- Senior Level:
Job Outlook
Below Average
Projected Growth
2.1%
Related Careers
- Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists
- Financial Managers
- Human Resources Managers
- Human Resources Specialists
- Labor Relations Specialists
Job Sectors
- Personnel and Human Resources
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Economics and Accounting
What They Do
Conduct programs of compensation and benefits and job analysis for employer. May specialize in specific areas, such as position classification and pension programs.
Work Activities
Administer employee insurance, pension, and savings plans, working with insurance brokers and plan carriers. Ensure company compliance with federal and state laws, including reporting requirements. Research employee benefit and health and safety practices, and recommend changes or modifications to existing policies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $48,300
- Mid Level: $77,020
- Senior Level: $128,830
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
7%
Related Careers
- Compensation and Benefits Managers
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs
- Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping
- Human Resources Managers
- Human Resources Specialists
Job Sectors
- Personnel and Human Resources
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mathematics
- Administration and Management
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities of an organization to ensure compliance with ethical or regulatory standards.
Work Activities
Report violations of compliance or regulatory standards to duly authorized enforcement agencies as appropriate or required. Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation. Discuss emerging compliance issues to ensure that management and employees are informed about compliance reporting systems, policies, and practices.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Compliance Officers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Management Analysts
- Regulatory Affairs Managers
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Administration and Management
- Customer and Personal Service
- Personnel and Human Resources
What They Do
Examine, evaluate, and investigate eligibility for or conformity with laws and regulations governing contract compliance of licenses and permits, and perform other compliance and enforcement inspection and analysis activities not classified elsewhere.
Work Activities
Warn violators of infractions or penalties. Evaluate applications, records, or documents to gather information about eligibility or liability issues. Advise licensees or other individuals or groups concerning licensing, permit, or passport regulations.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,230
- Mid Level: $78,420
- Senior Level: $130,030
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
5.4%
Related Careers
- Claims Adjusters, Examiners, and Investigators
- Compliance Managers
- Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
Job Sectors
- Law and Government
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Public Safety and Security
- Computers and Electronics
What They Do
Inspect and investigate sources of pollution to protect the public and environment and ensure conformance with Federal, State, and local regulations and ordinances.
Work Activities
Determine the nature of code violations and actions to be taken, and issue written notices of violation, participating in enforcement hearings, as necessary. Prepare, organize, and maintain inspection records. Investigate complaints and suspected violations regarding illegal dumping, pollution, pesticides, product quality, or labeling laws.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,230
- Mid Level: $78,420
- Senior Level: $130,030
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
5.4%
Related Careers
- Environmental Engineering Technologists and Technicians
- Environmental Engineers
- Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health
- Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
- Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Computers and Electronics
- Chemistry
- Customer and Personal Service
What They Do
Analyze and measure exposure to credit and market risk threatening the assets, earning capacity, or economic state of an organization. May make recommendations to limit risk.
Work Activities
Analyze areas of potential risk to the assets, earning capacity, or success of organizations. Analyze new legislation to determine impact on risk exposure. Conduct statistical analyses to quantify risk, using statistical analysis software or econometric models.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $62,270
- Mid Level: $106,000
- Senior Level: $182,310
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
8.4%
Related Careers
- Financial and Investment Analysts
- Financial Quantitative Analysts
- Investment Fund Managers
- Management Analysts
- Personal Financial Advisors
What They Do
Plan, direct, or coordinate production activities of an organization to ensure compliance with regulations and standard operating procedures.
Work Activities
Develop regulatory strategies and implementation plans for the preparation and submission of new products. Review all regulatory agency submission materials to ensure timeliness, accuracy, comprehensiveness, or compliance with regulatory standards. Direct the preparation and submission of regulatory agency applications, reports, or correspondence.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $68,860
- Mid Level: $136,550
- Senior Level: $227,590
Job Outlook
Bright
Projected Growth
5.7%
Related Careers
- Clinical Data Managers
- Compliance Managers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Management Analysts
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Administration and Management
- Biology
- Education and Training
What They Do
Coordinate and document internal regulatory processes, such as internal audits, inspections, license renewals, or registrations. May compile and prepare materials for submission to regulatory agencies.
Work Activities
Coordinate efforts associated with the preparation of regulatory documents or submissions. Communicate with regulatory agencies regarding pre-submission strategies, potential regulatory pathways, compliance test requirements, or clarification and follow-up of submissions under review. Prepare or direct the preparation of additional information or responses as requested by regulatory agencies.
Wage Range
- Entry Level: $46,230
- Mid Level: $78,420
- Senior Level: $130,030
Job Outlook
Average
Projected Growth
5.4%
Related Careers
- Compliance Managers
- Environmental Compliance Inspectors
- Government Property Inspectors and Investigators
- Quality Control Systems Managers
- Regulatory Affairs Managers
Job Sectors
- English Language
- Law and Government
- Biology
- Computers and Electronics
- Administration and Management
National occupational information in Ohio State Onlineâs Career Outlook tool is sourced from O*NET Online and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The median annual wage displayed to the right of each occupational title above is based on the BLS Employment Projections program. Outlook and percent change indicate projected growth or decline over the next 10 years.
Curriculum
The Compliance Certificate curriculum focuses on regulatory frameworks, industry-specific compliance laws, and practical tools for developing and managing compliance programs. Delivered fully online, courses provide the real-world expertise needed to thrive in compliance roles.
The Moritz College of Law’s graduate certificate courses are the same as the Master in the Study of Law courses, so you’ll take classes with a diverse group of peers â and 100% of your earned credits can stack toward the MSL degree.
You must successfully complete all five courses (15 credits)Â to earn the stackable graduate certificate.
Analyzes the legal, ethical and policy foundations of regulatory compliance: the effort to translate statutory requirements into compliant corporate and individual behavior.
Description forthcoming.
This course provides a practical approach to understanding the basic elements of a modern health care compliance program. The course provides a practical, case-study-based approach to a modern health care information management and compliance. Students will learn the role of compliance officers in implementing a compliance program, and will develop an understanding of the rules and regulations that are foundational to a health care compliance program, including obtaining patient consent, protecting health care information, and managing health care-related documentation and reporting obligations. Students will also learn how to help develop policies and procedures, provide employee training, and assist with compliance audits.
The course helps students understand the laws, regulations, and policies covering financial services compliance, including money laundering, data protection, SEC filings, and whistleblowing. Students will explore the fundamental elements and risks that impact financial services compliance. The course provides a review of the work and ethical obligations of a financial services compliance officer, including compliance officers’ liability, expectations, risks and effectiveness. The course then provides a substantive review of relevant financial services regulations, including challenges on compliance officers, and provides a way forward to convert these challenges into opportunities.
Examines the legal, policy, operational and risk management issues related to data privacy and data protection in a digital world. Data privacy law affects a vast range of businesses, products, and processes, including social media, marketing, healthcare, manufacturing, finance, retail, and technology. This course reviews U.S. federal and state laws and regulations in depth and provides an overview of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other global data protection schemes. It adopts an operational approach that focuses on a privacy lawyer or privacy professionalâs role within the corporate environment, touching on the various aspects a data privacy function has on legal and compliance, information technology, marketing, human resources, information security, and internal audit.
Understanding Online Course Types
As you research the right online program for you, you likely will come across the terms âasynchronousâ and âsynchronous.” Learn what these terms mean and how they’re important to consider when understanding how a program will fit into your life.
Learn More
Program Faculty
In Ohio State’s Compliance Certificate program, you’ll gain first-hand knowledge from legal experts. The graduate-level courses are led by esteemed Moritz College of Law faculty and seasoned practitioners who practice their subject matters on a daily basis.
Moritz College of Law
The Ohio State University
The Michael E. Moritz College of Law is an integral part of one of the worldâs great educational institutions. Founded in 1891 and consistently the top-ranked law school in Ohio, Moritz has grown into one of the nationâs preeminent public law schools. A collegial community of around 570 students and 60 full-time faculty members, Moritz is known for its rigorous academic programs, the pioneering research of its world-class faculty, a deep commitment to teaching and professional training, and the development of future leaders. The Collegeâs more than 11,000 alumni are central to its national reputation.
For contact information and faculty biographies, visit the Moritz College of Law faculty directory.
For contact information and faculty biographies, visit the Moritz College of Law faculty directory.
Elizabeth Anstaett
Financial ComplianceKevin Grether
Regulatory ComplianceKirk Herath
Data Privacy and Cybersecurity Regulation and ComplianceTrent Stechschulte
Healthcare ComplianceMindi Wells
HR ComplianceTestimonials
Find out how online learning has helped Ohio State students succeed.
âI could not have faced so many obstacles without the support, strength and guidance from the faculty and staff. Even when times were tough, they believed in me, so I believed in me.â
âOhio State is a large institution with a lot of possibilities and opportunities. You will meet people who you can connect with and who will connect you with others.â
âBeing able to apply everything I was working on for school immediately to my work was my favorite part of the program.â
Tuition Fee Overview
Investing in your future with a higher education degree is one of the best investments you can make for your future success. At Ohio State, we know understanding your program’s cost is an important part of your decision-making process. Below are the tuition fees you can expect with your program.
| Tuition Fees | Per Credit Hour (unless otherwise noted) | Estimated Cost Per Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Instructional Fee | $1,043.75 | $6,262.50 |
| General Fee | $32.63 | $195.78 |
| Distance Learning Fee | $100.00 (per semester) | $100.00 |
| Non-Resident Surcharge (if applicable) | $200.00 (per semester) | $200.00 |
Tuition fees are subject to change. The table above serves as a guide and not an official bursar’s bill.
Financial Aid Resource
Financial Aid Resource
Related Articles
Related Articles
How to ask your employer for tuition reimbursement
How to Pay for Your Online Program
Tips for Online Learning from Ohio State Students and Faculty
Get Started
Connect with a knowledgeable Enrollment Advisor who can help answer your questions and explain different aspects of the more than 80 online degrees and certificates offered at Ohio State. They are here to help you on your education journey.
