What Is Professional Certification?

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  What Is Professional Certification?
  Professional certification is a process in which a person proves that he or she has the knowledge, experience, and skills to perform a specific job. ...
  
  
  Professional certification is a process in which a person proves that he or she has the knowledge, experience, and skills to perform a specific job. The proof comes in the form of a certificate earned by passing an exam that is accredited by an organization or association that monitors and upholds prescribed standards for the particular industry involved. The National Organization for Competency Assurance (NOCA) is a leader in setting quality standards for credentialing organizations.
  

  A wide variety of industries and careers offer professional certification, from highly technical jobs and human services of all kinds to jobs in the arts, including ballroom dancing. In each case, the certificate assures employers, customers, students, and the public that the certificate holder is competent and professional.

  In some professions, certification is a requirement for employment or practice. Doctors, teachers, Certified Public Accountants (CPAs), and pilots are examples.

  What’s in it for You?

  Professional certification shows employers and clients that you are committed to your profession and are well-trained. It gives them confidence in your abilities. Certification makes you more valuable to employers and so you can expect to:

  • Enjoy better employment and advancement opportunities
  • Have a competitive advantage over candidates without certificates
  • Earn higher wages
  • Receive tuition reimbursement for continuing education

  Sampling of Careers Requiring Certification

  Many of the careers that require certification are represented here at About.com. Below is a list of articles on various types of certifications. At the end there is also a link to the list of NOCA member organizations that require certificates. It offers an interesting glance at the various types of industries from which to choose if you’re uncertain about which certificate you want.

  • Certified Meeting Professional
  • Coast Guard Captain’s License
  • Culinary Arts Certificates
  • Database Certifications
  • Desktop Publishing Certification
  • ESL Certification
  • Graphic Design
  • Interior Decorating
  • Landscaping Certificate Programs
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Management
  • Paralegal certificates
  • Professional Counseling
  • Professional Massage Therapy
  • Professional Studies Certificate in Opera
  • Real estate
  • Retail Certification
  • Specialist Certificate for Sign Language Interpreters
  • Technology Certification Glossary
  • Highest paying jobs in the technology industry
  ..