Certifications

What’s a certification?

A certification is a credential that you earn to show that you have specific skills or knowledge. They are usually tied to an occupation, technology, or industry. Certifications are usually offered by a professional organization or a company that specializes in a particular field or technology.

How can I earn a certification?

Generally, you need to pass a test to earn a certification. Some organizations that offer a certification exam also provide related training. Or you may find certification preparation training at a local community college.

Why would I want a certification?

Some employers require a certification in order to apply for a job. Many people earn specialty certifications to help them advance in their careers.

Earning a certification can give you a big leg up in the job market. It’s a key item that hiring employers look for on resumes. Some employers may also require workers to have certain certifications. This can be true especially in health care or financial fields.

How do I find out about certifications in my field?

Get started at CareerOneStop's Certification Finder.