There are many benefits to industry-based certification programs. They can help you stand out from the competition. They can also give you a better understanding of your industry as a whole. In this guide, we’ll discuss the different types of certificates available online and the benefits and drawbacks (if any) of each one. We will also provide tips on choosing a suitable industry certificate for you.
Article Navigation: What Is an Industry-Based Certificate? | Types of Certification Programs | Common Certifications by Field | Who Should Pursue Online Industry-Based Certificates | Industry-Based Certificate Opportunities | Reasons to Pursue an Online Industry-Based Certificate | Essential Career Skills from Industry-Based Certificates | Industry-Based Certification Job Outlook | FAQs | Take the Next Step with an Accredited Online Industry-Based Certificate
What Is an Industry-Based Certificate?
An industry-based certificate is a credential you earn to show proficiency in a particular area or skill. Schools and organizations offer many certificates specializing in a specific field, such as healthcare or technology.
Certificates range from entry-level to more advanced, depending on the program. Typically, you can complete an industry-based certificate in less time than it would take to earn a degree in the same field.
Industry-based certificates are becoming increasingly popular to stand out in the job market. Many employers view them as evidence of dedication and commitment to one’s chosen profession.
If you are considering pursuing an industry-based certificate, research the different programs available to find one that best fits your needs. Consider the cost, time commitment, and job opportunities available to you after completing the program.
Types of Certification Programs
Competency-Based Certification
Competency-based certification programs assess your skills and knowledge in a particular area. These programs often have specific requirements to meet to be eligible for certification.
Some competency-based certification programs require you to take an examination. In contrast, others may require you to submit a portfolio or participate in an interview process.
Examples of industries that offer competency-based certification programs include healthcare, information technology, project management, and human resources.
Curriculum-Based Certifications
Curriculum-based certifications require completing courses offered by a college, university, or professional organization.
These programs generally take longer to complete than competency-based certification programs. Still, they can offer in-depth instruction and prepare you for a specific career path.
Education, engineering, and accounting are examples of industries that offer curriculum-based certification programs.
Portfolio-Based Certifications
Portfolio-based certification programs require you to submit a portfolio of your work to be certified.
These programs, often used in creative industries such as graphic design or web development, benefit those who need to showcase their skills and experience.
Examples of portfolio-based certification programs include the Adobe Creative Suite Certification Program and the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards Certification.
Common Certifications by Field/Industry
Business
Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
CPAs are certified by state boards of accountancy and must pass the Uniform CPA examination. To sit for the exam, candidates must have completed 150 semester hours of college coursework, including a bachelor’s degree. Once certified, CPAs must meet continuing education requirements to maintain their license.
Accredited in Business Valuation (ABV)
The ABV credential is a professional designation earned by accountants specializing in business appraisals who have met specific education and experience requirements. They also need to pass a rigorous examination administered by the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA). The ABV credential is a mark of distinction in the valuation profession.
To be eligible for the ABV credential, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- At least three years of professional experience in business valuation, financial analysis, or related field
- Completed at least 30 hours of specialized education in business valuation
- Passed a comprehensive written examination
Appraisers with the ABV credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The AICPA administers the ABV credential, recognized by the National Association of Certified Valuators and Analysts (NACVA) and the American Society of Appraisers (ASA).
Certified Financial Examiner (CFE)
The CFE credential is for financial professionals who have met specific education and experience requirements. Candidates must pass a rigorous examination administered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The CFE credential marks a distinction in the fraud prevention and detection profession.
To be eligible for the CFE credential, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- At least two years of professional experience in fraud prevention, detection, or investigation
- Completed at least 75 hours of specialized training in fraud examination techniques
- Passed a comprehensive written examination
Financial examiners with the CFE credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The ACFE administers the CFE credential, also recognized by the National Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (NACFE) and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA).
Education
Special Education Certification
Special education certification is required in all states to teach children with special needs in public schools. Certification requirements vary by state, but all states require a bachelor’s degree and completion of a state-approved teacher preparation program. Many states also require passing scores on one or more Praxis exams.
To be eligible for certification, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Completed a state-approved teacher preparation program
- Passed one or more Praxis exams (depending on the state)
Once certified, teachers must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their license. Some states may also need to renew their certification every five years. The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers voluntary national certification for teachers.
Science, Engineering, and Technology
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certification
The ASE credential is an industry-based certification for automotive technicians who have met specific education and experience requirements and passed a rigorous examination administered by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). The ASE credential is a mark of distinction in the automotive repair profession.
To be eligible for the ASE credential, candidates must have:
- At least two years of on-the-job training or one year of on-the-job training and successful completion of an accredited automotive program
- Passed one or more ASE exams
Automotive technicians with the ASE credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The ASE credential falls under the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE). National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF) also recognizes the ASE.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The CISSP credential is for information security professionals who have met specific education and experience requirements and passed a rigorous examination administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)². The CISSP credential is a mark of distinction in the information security profession.
To be eligible for the CISSP credential, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university or four years of work experience in two or more of the eight CISSP domains
- Passed the CISSP exam
Information security professionals with the CISSP credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The (ISC)² administers the CISSP certificate, recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Defense (DoD).
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
The CCNA credential is for network professionals who have met specific education and experience requirements and passed a rigorous examination administered by Cisco Systems. The CCNA credential is a mark of distinction in the networking profession.
To be eligible for the CCNA credential, candidates must have:
- A valid Cisco Certified Entry Networking Technician (CCENT) certification OR any Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) certification
- Passed the ICND exam or the composite CCNA exam
Network professionals with the CCNA credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. Cisco Systems administers the CCNA credential, recognized by the International Society of Telecommunications Engineers (ISTE).
Health or Natural Sciences
Certified Registered Nurse Physical Therapist (CRNP)
The CRNP credential is an industry-based certification for nurse physical therapists who have met specific education and experience requirements. They also need to have passed a rigorous examination administered by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). The CRNP credential is a mark of distinction in nursing.
To be eligible for the CRNP credential, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in physical therapy
- Passed the ANCC physical therapy exam
Nurse physical therapists with the CRNP credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The American Nurses Credentialing Center administers the CRNP credential. The National Board also recognizes it for Certification in Physical Therapy (NBCPT).
Certified in Long Term Care Occupational Therapists (CLTCOT)
The CLTCOT credential is for occupational therapists who have met specific education and experience requirements and passed a rigorous examination administered by the American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA). The CLTCOT credential is a mark of distinction in the occupational therapy profession.
To be eligible for the CLTCOT credential, candidates must have:
- A bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in occupational therapy
- Passed the AOTA long term care exam
Occupational therapists with the CLTCOT credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The American Occupational Therapy Association administers the CLTCOT credential.
The National Board also recognizes it for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Basic Life Support Nurse (BLSN)
The BLSN credential is for nurses who have met specific education and experience requirements and passed a rigorous examination administered by the Board of Certification for Emergency Nursing (BCEN). The BLSN credential is a mark of distinction in the emergency nursing profession.
To be eligible for the BLSN credential, candidates must have:
- An associate’s or bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a major in nursing
- Passed the BCEN emergency nurse exam
Nurses with the BLSN credential must complete continuing education requirements to maintain their credentials. The Board of Certification administers the BLSN credential for Emergency Nursing, recognized by the American Nurses Association (ANA) and the Emergency Nurses Association (ENA).
Who Should Pursue An Online Industry-Based Certification
An online industry-based certificate is for anyone who wants to improve their career prospects and earn a higher salary.
The courses are usually shorter than traditional college programs. Hence, professionals can complete them in a shorter time frame. Many employers value industry-based certificates to indicate that the holder has up-to-date skills.
There are many different types of online industry-based certificates. Therefore, it is essential to choose one that will give you the skills and knowledge you need for your chosen career. It is also crucial to make sure that employers in your industry recognize the certificate.
Industry-Based Certification Opportunities
You learn the skills and knowledge specific to an industry, trade, or occupation. A professional association or regulatory body often provides the certificate. Working in specific fields or giving you an edge when applying for jobs may be required.
Increased Chance of Getting a Job
The most obvious benefit of getting an industry-based certificate is an increased chance of getting hired. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have a certification, especially in healthcare and IT.
You can show that you have the skills and knowledge required to do the job with a certificate. This can make you more attractive to potential employers than candidates without a certification.
In some cases, having a certification may be required to get a job. For example, many positions in the healthcare field require accreditation from professional organizations such as the National Healthcare Association or American Nurses Association.
High Chance of Job Promotion
In addition to increasing your chances of getting hired, having an industry-based certification can also lead to promotions and pay raises.
Your employer may view you as more qualified for a higher position if you have a certification.
Earning a certificate can also help you negotiate for a higher salary. Many employers are willing to pay more for employees with specialized knowledge or skills. With a certification, you can show that you have the skills demanded by employers. This can lead to better job opportunities and higher salaries over time.
You Learn Cutting Edge Technology and Techniques
One of the benefits of getting an industry-based certificate is learning cutting-edge technology and techniques. Many industries are constantly changing as new technologies enter the workplace.
By getting a certification, you can stay up-to-date on the latest developments in your field. This can make you more valuable to your employer and help you advance in your career.
In some cases, you may even be able to get training from the organization that provides the certification. This can give you a leg up on the competition and ensure that you have the skills that employers are looking for.
Save Time and Money
Getting an industry-based certificate can save you time and money. In many cases, you can get certification without going back to school.
You may be able to take online courses or evening classes to get the certification. This can save you time and money on tuition and other expenses.
In some cases, your employer may even pay for your certification. Many employers are willing to invest in their employees’ development and see it as a way to reduce turnover.
Reasons to Pursue an Online industry-Based Certification
There are many reasons why you should pursue an online industry-based certificate.
An online industry-based certificate can:
- Provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to enter or advance in your chosen field.
- Give you a competitive edge when applying for jobs.
- Help you earn a higher salary.
- Increase your chances of a promotion or a raise. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees who pursue an online industry-based certificate. That means seeking one may end up costing you nothing out of pocket!
- Take less time to complete than a degree. It is ideal for those who don’t have the time or money to invest in a full degree program.
Whether you’re just starting in your career or looking to make a mid-life career change, an online industry-based certificate can help you achieve your goals.
Essential Career Skills from Industry Certifications
These days, more and more employers are looking for candidates with industry-based credentials because they know that these individuals have the skills they need to succeed in the workplace.
Communication Skills
One of the most important things you’ll learn from an industry-based certificate program is communicating effectively with co-workers, clients, and customers. You’ll learn to write clear and concise emails, give presentations, and share complex information.
Time Management Skills
In today’s fast-paced work environment, it’s more important to manage your time effectively. An industry-based certificate program will teach you to prioritize your tasks, set deadlines, and stay organized.
Problem-Solving Skills
Another essential skill that you’ll gain from an industry-based certificate program is the ability to identify and solve problems quickly and efficiently. You’ll learn how to think on your feet and develop creative solutions when facing a challenging situation.
Management Skills
If you’re looking to move into a management position, an industry-based certificate can give you the skills you need to succeed. You’ll learn how to motivate and inspire your team, delegate tasks, and make difficult decisions.
Customer Service Skills
Providing excellent customer service is a valuable skill no matter what industry you work in. An industry-based certificate program will teach you how to handle difficult customer service situations and defuse angry customers. You will also learn to deliver top-notch service to keep customers coming back.
Integrity
One of the most important things that employers look for in candidates is integrity. An industry-based certificate program will teach you the importance of being honest and ethical in the workplace and how to maintain a high level of integrity even when faced with complex challenges.
Industry-Based Certification Job Outlook
The job outlook for people with industry-based certifications is excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of certified workers will grow faster than the average for all occupations between now and 2024.
In addition, many companies are now requiring certification for certain positions. This means that if you have an industry-based certificate, you will be in high demand by employers.
Getting an industry-based certification can open up many doors for your career. It is a great way to show employers that you are knowledgeable and skilled in your field. Getting an industry-based certification is excellent if you want to advance your career or make yourself more marketable to employers.
FAQs: Industry Certification
Is an Industry-Based Certification Worth It?
Industry-based certifications can offer a lot of advantages to job seekers. They are a way to stand out from the competition and demonstrate your knowledge and skills in a specific area. They also show that you are committed to your chosen field.
However, industry-based certifications are not suitable for everyone. They can be expensive and time-consuming to obtain, and they may not be necessary for specific jobs. Before you decide whether or not an industry-based certification is worth it for you, you should consider a few factors.
The first factor is the cost of the certification. Industry-based certifications can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider a less expensive option.
The second factor is the time commitment. Industry-based certifications often require 20 to 40 hours of study, and some may require you to take an exam. If you are already working full-time or taking care of a family, it may be challenging to find the time to study for and take the exam.
The third factor is whether or not you need the certificate for the job you want. In some cases, having an industry-based certification can give you a leg up on the competition. However, if the certification is not required, it may not be worth your time and money.
Is an Online Industry-Based Certificate Hard?
The answer to this question is- it depends. It depends on the person’s work ethic, time management skills, and motivation. Suppose you are naturally good at taking the initiative and working independently. In that case, an online industry-based certificate may not be as tricky as it would be for someone who struggles in those areas.
What Can I Do with an Online Industry-Based Certification?
There are several online industry-based certifications available. But which one is right for you? It depends on your career goals and the industry you want to enter.
Here are some examples of what you can do with an online industry-based certification:
- Enter a New Industry: If you’re looking to change careers or enter a new industry, an online certification can help you get your foot in the door. Many companies will accept online certifications as equivalent to traditional degrees or certificates.
- Advance Your Career: If you’re already working in an industry, an online certification can help you move up the ladder. Whether learning new skills or showing your dedication to your field, an online certificate can help you stand out from the crowd.
- Earn More Money: Online certifications can lead to higher-paying jobs in many cases. If you’re looking to increase your earnings potential, an industry-based accreditation is a great way to do it.
Are Online Industry-Based Certificates Expensive?
The cost of online industry-based certificates can vary depending on the institution you choose to study with. Generally, they are more affordable than traditional four-year university degrees.
One of the benefits of completing an online industry-based certificate is that you can often get credit for prior learning. This can save you both time and money.
Another cost-effective option is to study part-time to continue working while completing your qualification. You won’t have to give up your income while you learn.
At times, employers sponsor staff members and will pay the cost of a certificate.
To sum up, there are several ways to make studying for an online industry-based certificate more affordable. You just need to research and find the right option for you.
Take the Next Step with an Accredited Online Industry-Based Certification
The advantage of industry-based certificates is that they are usually short-term courses offered by colleges and universities. They also tend to be more affordable than traditional degrees. This makes them ideal for people who want to improve their career prospects without incurring a lot of debt.
There are many different industry-based certificates, such as those mentioned in this post. Many of these programs are entirely online, which means you can study at your own pace and fit your education around your work and other commitments.
Check out the GetEducated.com online degree database if you’re thinking about taking the next step in your career with an industry-based certificate.