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Automotive Dealership Management: Training for Future Leaders

Keiser University offers a certificate program in Automotive Dealership Fundamentals designed for professionals seeking to advance their careers in dealership management, operations, and leadership within today’s automotive industry.

Master the Skills Today's Automotive Dealerships Need

Build practical knowledge in sales, service, parts operations, and customer retention strategies that drive dealership success and help you sell more vehicles while improving customer satisfaction.

Learn from Industry Experts with Real-World Experience

Gain insights from experienced faculty who understand the daily challenges facing car dealerships, dealers, and vehicle retail distribution systems.

Study Your Way: Online courses with Campus Residency

Complete online courses and classes on your schedule, then apply your learning during a focused 2-3 day residency at the Flagship campus.

Position Yourself for Management Roles in Automotive Retail

Prepare to lead operations, manage teams, and drive profitability across fixed operations, variable operations, or general management tracks in today's competitive automotive market.

At a Glance

15

Credit Hours

9

Courses

5

Months or Less*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Career opportunities in dealership management, service operations, sales leadership, and more
  • Available Online with Campus Residency
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate Overview

Keiser University designed the Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate program to provide aspiring automotive leaders with the skills necessary for success in management of today’s complex and changing automotive dealerships and distribution systems. Coursework examines customer and employee retention strategies, service and parts functions including repairs and maintenance operations, sales operations that help dealers sell more cars, finance and insurance products, financial analysis, forecasting techniques, and leadership principles specific to automotive retail. Students select from three specialized tracks to align their training with career goals in fixed operations, variable operations, or general management.
 
The program addresses regulatory compliance including DMV requirements, dealer laws, and ethical business practices. Students learn to prepare employees for success, understand the business side of automotive retail, and assist customers throughout their vehicle ownership experience.

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Program Mission

The Mission of the Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Program focuses on providing a quality overall education experience, which provides students with the skills necessary for success in employment, management, or ownership of today’s complex and changing automotive and vehicle retail distribution systems. The program aims to develop trusted professionals who can join the automotive retail industry with confidence.

Program Goals

  • Comprehend and apply current concepts of automotive dealership and vehicle retail management operations
  • Comprehend, discuss, and apply regulatory and ethical practices Enhance research, communication, and presentation skills using professional literature
  • Improve written and verbal competencies, as well as analytical skills
  • Demonstrate the integration of knowledge and professional skills in specific areas of this certificate

Prerequisites

None required for major courses.

Program Highlights

  • Online courses and classes offer flexible scheduling for working professionals
  • Four-week course format allows rapid skill development and training
  • Choice of three specialized tracks tailors training to career goals
  • Campus residency provides hands-on application and networking opportunities with industry professionals
  • Curriculum developed with input from automotive industry leaders and dealers
  • Focus on practical skills that can apply immediately in dealership settings
  • Coverage of key performance indicators that managers use to scale operations
  • Training in financial analysis and business forecasting that contribute to dealership profitability
  • Emphasis on customer service excellence and building consumer trust

Technology Requirement

This program uses a number of business and accounting related software programs in the courses, including Microsoft Office. Students must have access to a PC with a Windows based operating system, internet connection, and the ability to download software programs and data files. Students also need to be able to listen to student presentations and present material to the class (headset preferred).

Estimated Student Costs

The Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate program includes 15 credit hours of coursework plus a campus residency component. Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take. For additional guidance, students should speak with an admissions counselor for accurate cost estimates and to explore financial aid, scholarships, and grants available for students who qualify to help manage the cost of your education.

Accreditation Statuses

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Program Outline

Available Online with Campus Residency
 
Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate Program
The Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate program at Keiser University equips aspiring automotive leaders with the skills needed for success in management of today’s complex and changing automotive dealerships and distribution systems. This program offers theory and practical application focused on one of three specialized tracks: Fixed Operations Management, Variable Operations Management, and General Management. The curriculum teaches solid fundamentals for both the present and future of automotive retailing, helping dealers scale operations and meet consumer demand.
Students complete 15 credit hours through online courses that run four weeks each, with an expectation to take one or two classes per term. The program includes a 2-3 day residency (depending on the track) at the Keiser University Flagship Campus in West Palm Beach, Florida.

Upper Division Courses



All students in the certificate program complete the Upper Division Business Core Courses (9.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Management/Org Behavior 3.0 credit hours
Operations Management 3.0 credit hours
Capstone: Exercising Leadership in Automotive Retail Distribution 3.0 credit hours

Students must also choose a specific track to complete additional credit hours:

Fixed Operations Track (6.0 credit hours)
Customer and Employee Retention Strategies 3.0 credit hours
Service and Parts Functions of Automotive Distribution Systems 3.0 credit hours
Variable Operations Track (6.0 credit hours) Choice of 2
Customer and Employee Retention Strategies 3.0 credit hours
Sales Functions of Automotive Distribution Systems 3.0 credit hours
Automotive Dealership Sales Strategies and Tactics 3.0 credit hours
General Management Track (6.0 credit hours) Choice of 2
Customer and Employee Retention Strategies 3.0 credit hours
Automotive Dealership Sales Strategies and Tactics 3.0 credit hours
Automotive Financial Analysis and Business Forecasting Techniques 3.0 credit hours

If you’re someone who has a passion for …

Cars, customers, and creating success in a fast-moving industry, the automotive dealership fundamentals program might be your next career move forward.

This certificate will help you lead with confidence.

Automotive dealership managers combine business skills with industry knowledge, the ability to build strong teams, and the drive to deliver results for customers and the company. Whether you work with new cars or used vehicles, this training helps you excel.

Whether you focus on service operations, sales management, or general dealership leadership, this program gives you practical tools to make an immediate impact and gain a competitive advantage.

Certificate in Automotive Dealership
Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education Magazine

Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

Forbes

Best Online Ph.D. in Educational Leadership (No. 2) & Organizational Psychology (No. 3)
(2024, Forbes)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Obtain with an Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate?

Graduates of Keiser University’s certificate program prepare to pursue management positions within car dealerships and vehicle retail distribution systems. This certification supports current automotive professionals and career changers by enhancing their ability to manage operations, lead employees, analyze performance data, and implement strategies that improve customer satisfaction and dealership profitability. Jobs in dealership management are in high demand as the industry seeks qualified professionals who understand both business fundamentals and automotive-specific operations.

Career Pathways in Automotive Dealership Management

  • Service manager positions at dealerships and automotive service centers
  • Fixed operations director
  • Parts manager overseeing inventory and staff
  • Sales manager leading sales team performance
  • General manager
  • Dealership owner/operator
  • Customer relations manager
  • Inventory control specialist managing cars and vehicles
  • Warranty administrator
  • Fleet manager
  • Training and development coordinator for dealership employees
  • Business development manager
  • Licensed vehicle sales positions with management responsibilities
Certificate in Automotive Dealership

Gain Job-Ready Skills for an Automotive Dealership Career

  • Customer service excellence and retention techniques for consumers
  • Team leadership and employee motivation strategies
  • Financial analysis and key performance indicators
  • Inventory management for cars, vehicles, and parts
  • Sales processes and techniques to sell effectively and close deals
  • Service department workflow optimization including repairs scheduling
  • Finance and insurance product knowledge
  • Regulatory compliance including dealer laws and DMV requirements
  • Conflict resolution and negotiation tactics
  • Strategic planning and business forecasting
  • Marketing strategies for dealership promotion

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support services, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels. Our commitment to student success provides graduates with a competitive advantage as they enter or advance in their chosen fields.

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See What Sets Keiser Apart

Since 1977, Keiser University has helped students turn their career ambitions into reality through its well-known Students First philosophy. With small class sizes, a focused one-class-at-a-time schedule, personalized support from faculty, flexible learning options, and career-driven programs in nursing, health care, technology, and beyond. Students gain a learning experience designed for success in an environment designed to help students succeed while finding the right path for their future.
 
Keiser is one of Florida’s largest private, non-profit universities serving nearly 20,000 students at multiple Florida campus locations, online, and international sites. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees. The accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay, a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree.  Keiser was a great fit.

Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program. I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.”

Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate program offers professionals and career changers a focused educational path to advance within the automotive retail industry. With flexible online courses and practical campus residency training, the program aligns with your professional goals and schedule. Whether you aim to move into service manager roles, sales leadership positions, or general dealership operations, Keiser provides the specialized education and industry insight needed to make a lasting impact in automotive retail distribution. Graduates receive a certificate recognized by dealers and automotive companies throughout the industry.

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Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Complete online courses on your schedule, then apply your learning during a focused two to three day residency at the Flagship campus.

Financial Services

We guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid are available for students who qualify to help manage the cost of your education.

Top Questions About Earning an Automotive Dealership Fundamentals Certificate

Can I complete the automotive dealership fundamentals program online at Keiser University?

Yes. The certificate program delivers coursework entirely online through four-week courses and classes. You complete academic work on your schedule from any location. The program includes a required 2-3 day residency at the Keiser University Flagship Campus in West Palm Beach, Florida, where you apply classroom learning in practical settings and network with faculty, peers, and industry professionals.

What makes this certificate different from other business programs?

This certification focuses specifically on automotive dealership management rather than general business principles. You study the unique challenges facing today’s automotive dealerships, including changing consumer expectations, technological advances, government regulations, dealer laws, DMV requirements, and personal mobility trends. The three specialized tracks let you concentrate on fixed operations, variable operations, or general management based on your career direction. You learn skills specific to selling cars, managing service repairs, finance and insurance products, and building customer loyalty.

What careers and jobs can I pursue with this certificate?

Certificate holders prepare for management positions and jobs within car dealerships and vehicle distribution systems. Common roles include service manager, parts manager, sales manager leading teams to sell vehicles, finance and insurance manager, customer relations manager, and general manager. Some graduates use this credential to advance within their current dealership or automotive company, while others transition into automotive retail from related industries. Licensed positions in vehicle sales with management responsibilities also become accessible. The certification helps you meet industry demand for qualified professionals.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements. Contact an admissions counselor to discuss your previous education and how it may assist in completing this certificate.

Does financial aid cover certificate programs?

Keiser University’s  financial aid resources are available for qualified students and may be offered to certificate-seeking students. However, some specific scholarship programs might be limited to associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD programs. To get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding financial aid for certificate programs, it is recommended to directly contact Keiser University’s financial aid department. They can provide specific details about eligibility, available aid types, and the application process for certificate programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Which track should I choose for my career goals?

Your track selection depends on your career objectives and passion for different aspects of dealership operations. 

  • The Fixed Operations Track suits those interested in service manager positions, service department management, parts operations, repairs scheduling, and customer retention in post-sale environments.
  • The Variable Operations Track prepares you for sales manager roles, helping teams sell more cars and vehicles, F&I positions working with finance and insurance products, and customer-facing roles.
  • The General Management Track offers a broader perspective for those seeking dealership general manager positions or ownership opportunities, covering all aspects of how dealers operate profitably.

How long does the campus residency last?

The residency lasts 2-3 days depending on your chosen track. This component takes place at the Keiser University Flagship Campus in beautiful West Palm Beach, Florida. You engage in hands-on exercises, case studies, and collaborative learning with other students that reinforces online coursework and builds practical management skills. The residency provides networking opportunities with faculty, classmates, and industry professionals.

How quickly can I complete this certificate program?

Most students complete the 15-credit-hour program in five months or less. The four-week course format and flexibility to take one or two classes per term allows you to progress at a pace that fits your work schedule and learning preferences. The average completion time meets the needs of working professionals who want to advance their careers without extended time away from their jobs.

What does the program cost and what kind of pay can I expect afterward?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

Graduates often see career advancement and higher pay as they move into management positions. Service managers, sales managers, and general managers at dealerships typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their increased responsibilities

What courses and classes make up the Automotive Dealership certificate program?

All students complete three core business courses: Introduction to Management/Organizational Behavior, Operations Management, and a Capstone course on Exercising Leadership in Automotive Retail Distribution. You then select a specialization track and complete two additional courses from that track’s options. Track choices include Customer and Employee Retention Strategies (critical for building loyalty among customers and employees), Service and Parts Functions (covering repairs, maintenance, and parts inventory), Sales Functions (teaching how to sell effectively), Sales Strategies and Tactics (advanced selling techniques), and Financial Analysis and Business Forecasting Techniques (using data to make informed decisions). This combination of classes provides comprehensive training for dealership management.

Will this certificate help me advance at my current dealership or company?

Many students take this program to advance within their current automotive company or dealership. The skills and knowledge you gain apply immediately to your daily work, helping you perform at a higher level and demonstrate readiness for management positions. Your employer may value the proof of completion through this recognized certification. Some companies may assist with tuition costs for employees seeking professional development and training.

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By clicking the "Submit" button, I authorize Keiser University to make or allow the placement of recurring marketing calls, emails, and texts to me at the phone number that I have provided, including through the use of automated technology or a prerecorded or artificial voice. I understand that I am not required to provide my phone number as a condition of purchasing any property, goods, or services. Privacy Policy