Stack your certificate into a degree.

Your certificate is your key to what's next

Stack Track is the process for stacking your Northeastern Online graduate certificate into a master’s degree. It’s designed for learners who want to start smart—earning a Northeastern graduate certificate that counts toward a future degree and saving money along the way.

With the Stack Track process, you can:

• Start small: Begin with an affordable Northeastern Online graduate certificate in a field that fits your goals. See all eligible certificates.

• Stack 12–16 credits: Apply your earned credits toward an eligible degree—credit amounts vary by certificates and degrees.

• Save thousands: Every stacked credit reduces your total degree cost.

• Fast-track your degree application: Transitioning from certificate to degree is quicker and easier with our streamlined stacking application process.

• Keep your options open: Earn a standalone credential now and continue building later.

How it works

Getting started is hassle-free. You don’t need to submit a traditional graduate application to join a Northeastern Online certificate—just complete the Fast App, our streamlined way to get started and enroll in a certificate.

1. Start with a Northeastern Online graduate certificate. Choose from 100% online programs in AI, business, analytics, engineering, communication, and more.

2. Earn your certificate. Gain skills and recognition that immediately strengthen your résumé and career opportunities in a little as 4 to 6 months.

3. Tell us you want to stack your certificate. When you’re nearing completion of your certificate, we'll ask you if you’d like to continue into a degree program and guide you through the Stack Track process.

4. Stack and save. Apply your earned credits (12-16) toward your master’s degree and save thousands in degree tuition.

Why choose the Stack Track process?

The Stack Track process is a smart and flexible way to earn your degree. Start with a cost-effective Northeastern Online graduate certificate— $5,250 total—that delivers immediate career impact, then apply those credits directly toward a master’s program.

Because those same credits transfer into your degree, you’re not just lowering the cost of graduate school—you’re earning a valuable credential along the way. The Stack Track process helps you build career momentum now while reducing the overall investment in your master’s later.

And with many learners using employer tuition reimbursement, you can earn your graduate certificate with little or no out-of-pocket cost.

⇒ Learn about employer tuition reimbursement assistance.