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If you are trying to get hired or promoted, you know the value of an advanced degree. But how many folks can afford an extra two years of college?

One alternative might be an Information Technology Certificate, or IT Certificate. Courses in contact management, design and drafting, publishing and presentations, or graphics and web design can increase your value at work.

One study by Microsoft showed 47 percent of IT certificate holders received a raise within one year of getting it.

Russel Sarder, the CEO of NetCom Information Technology and a registered IT educator, believes the short mini-courses have occupational advantages.

"We providing complete training that's going to give all the necessary skills to do that job now," says Sarder.

He says many people find the courses take their careers in new directions or make them stronger in their present field.

"The person was working as a writer, so she came in and said, 'I not only want to write but I want to learn the skills to develop my own website.' So we have her the skills to develop her own business," says Sarder.

"I have my own graphic design business and I'm expanding into web design," says student Cindy Martinez. "And that's what I'm doing right now, taking web courses in design and programming. I've already got clients lined up."

Sarder recently came up with a way to expand the reach of the school, while adding to a person's knowledge. Once a month, a prospective student who meets certain qualifications receives a $2,500 scholarship.

"We want to help somebody passionate about learning who doesn't have the financial background to be in this program," says Sarder.

So far, the company's given away two of these mini-scholarships. For more information about the Sarder Scholarship Program, visit www.netcominfo.com.

Those who are rich in ambition but poor in pocket can look to an IT certificate to help build or rebuild their career.