&beginners guide to

Certifications Certificates

What is the difference?

what is a certification?

what is a certification?

Certification is the assessment of previously acquired knowledge, skills and abilities, with the goal of validating competency in a profession.

what is a certificate program?

A certificate program comprises instruction and assessment, with the goal of acquiring new knowledge, skills and abilities tied to a specific learning event.

what is a certificate program?

Who is a candidate?

Audience

Certification is for professionals, with prior education and experience in a profession, that desire to be recognized for their competency.

Certification

AudienceCertificate

Certificate programs are for all levels of workers, regardless of prior education and experience, that desire to acquire new competencies.

How do you achieve it?

Assessment

Certification typically requires (1) eligibility based on education and experience, and (2) assessment in the form of an exam, demonstration or presentation to validate competency.

Certification

AssessmentCertificate

Certificate programs use assessment to evaluate if learning outcomes have been met from a specific learning event.

What do you achieve?

Achievement

Certification is acknowledged by a certification certificate and a professional credential that signify a level of competency has been attained.

Certification

Certificate

Certificate programs are acknowledged by a certificate of achievement that demonstrates specific learning outcomes have been met.

Achievement

How do you maintain it?

Maintenance

Certification requires the holder to engage in continuing professional development annually to maintain current competencies in a profession.

Certification

Certificate

Certificate programs have no requirements for maintenance.

Maintenance

What is the value?

Value

Certification is valued because it:

• Develops knowledge, skills and abilities• Enhances managerial confidence• Increases professional recognition• Differentiates employees for selection and advancement

Certification

CertificateValue

Certificate programs have value because they:

• Introduce new knowledge, skills and abilities• Expand one’s range of competencies• Increase professional recognition• Support employee selection and promotion

Want to learn more?

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