(University Alliance: Tampa, FL) -- Fueled by the rising demand to streamline key processes, business process management (BPM) has become a central requirement in planning, implementing change, and evaluating performance in organizations. In fact, the number of large companies (those with more than 2,500 employees) spending more than $1 million on BPM projects has jumped by 6 percent during the last year, according to the 2010 BPM Partners Annual Survey. To fill the need for experienced individuals in this field, University of San Francisco (USF) has created the industry’s first and only business process management certificate program offered 100-percent online.

USF’s new BPM certificate program is powered by the University Alliance, a worldwide provider of interactive professional education. Each BPM course reveals how this comprehensive management approach evolves department-focused initiatives into companywide solutions. “Business Process Management is the most effective and sustainable method to directly reduce cost, errors, and cycle times and ultimately improve your bottom line,” says USF instructor Dean Walsh, Ph.D., who teaches in the new program. “It’s never been more important to control cost and increase return on investment.”

With many advantages to BPM implementation, businesses are realizing the fundamental need for business process management training. USF’s Master Certificate in Business Process Management is a dynamic online program covering all phases of BPM, key optimization tactics, critical BPM documents and tools, process-based organization, and vital links to business strategy. In as few as eight weeks, students will master key tools and strategies necessary for optimum business results. Students will also discover the critical role business process management plays in cutting costs, improving productivity, decreasing errors, increasing efficiency, and reducing risks. Not only does this business process management certificate program provide individuals with the knowledge and skills employers seek, it also offers professionals a valuable new credential that can open doors to new opportunities and six-figure salaries.

Ideal for professionals interested in expanding their operational knowledge while focusing on targeted improvements, this comprehensive program consists of three, eight-week online certificate courses: Applied Business Process Management,Advanced Business Process Management Methodology, and Business Process Management Design & Implementation. “This program is also a logical next step for professionals with Six Sigma, project management, and business analysis expertise,” notes Walsh.

The University of San Francisco collaborates with University Alliance, the nation’s largest facilitator of online degree and certificate programs, to provide classes via state-of-the-art interactive delivery. Through a proven, video-based e-learning platform, USF’s comprehensive business process management professional development series gives students the knowledge and skills to:

• Implement all phases of business process management methodology • Assess and build organization processes • Transform a company into a process-based organization • Lead process design teams • Utilize centers of excellence

Registration is now open for USF’s Master Certificate in Business Process Management. For more information, visit www.usanfranonline.com.