How Beneficial are certificate programs to ones career?

The value of certificate programs vary by field and discipline. Any certification programs in quality science (such as certified quality engineer through the American Society for Quality) or in the hot fields of six sigma (consider going for a black belt) or lean manufacturing will bring immediate ROI. These type certifications are vary valuable coupled with an Industrial Engineering degree for a practitioner. Then, I would pursue the MBA once successful as an industrial engineer. The MBA ROI is more valuable as one progresses up the company ladder. As a consultant, which I am one also, certifications are valuable, but the MBA adds more to the credentials. Again, I would obtain the certifications I discussed above first, then pursue the MBA>

Certification courses can only help your career. The more educated you are the better you look to prospective employers and clients. Not saying that a doctorate degree may make you over qualified but keeping up to date with the latest in technology in your chosen field is expected. Go and take those courses. I consistently go to seminars and take training classes as often as I can.