Getting a ‘Certification’? Know the Differences

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The word “certification” is used in a lot of different contexts, but there are distinct differences between the most common uses of the term:
  • Certificate: This is not a certification; going to a course and receiving a certificate (of completion) is not certification.
  • Certification: This term is often misused to describe what is better understood as a certificate of completion. There are private groups that provide training, then claim to issue a certification. Don’t be fooled. Sometimes, however, such organizations will go one step further and provide an exam, usually immediately following training that was tailored to that exam. Others may even do some follow-up work-product review. While this may technically fit some definitions of certification, the value and credibility of that certification in the marketplace rests entirely on the strength and rigour of the examination and review process, and upon the market’s recognition and respect for that organization. There is nothing wrong with this type of certification, but it should not be confused with professional certification. Do your homework before pursuing these types of certificates or certifications, and recognize that the easier it is to attain, the less rigorous it will be, and the less value it will bring you to the marketplace.
  • Associate Certification: This is usually a certification designation that is offered by a certification body that also offers professional level certification. It can either be a level of certification that demonstrates that the candidate has achieved a defined level of competency in a given field, but that he or she either does not practice in that field on a full-time basis or that he or she practices with or under the direction of a professional level certified individual. Associate certification may also be designed as a stepping stone to a professional certification as an individual progresses in a field of practice. Associate certifications should include the same process rigour and ethical requirements as professional certification but require a lower level of knowledge and experience than the professional level.
  • Professional Certification: This requires a rigorous evaluation process, and it requires an organization whose sole focus and goal is to ensure that the people to whom it issues certification designations have demonstrated a defined minimum level of competency and experience in a given field of practice. It also requires adherence to ethical codes of conduct. It should not be “easy” to achieve professional certification through organizations that establish strong, credible professional certification systems. Professional certifications must also incorporate requirements that a certificate holder remains active and continue to learn and stay up to date in their field (this is often called recertification, or continuance of certification).
Getting a 'Certification'? Know the Differences

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