Think you know the difference? Learn the key differences between certificate programs and certifications.

1. &beginners guide to
Certifications
Certificates

2. What is the
difference?

3. what is a certification?

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

5. what is a certificate program?

6. 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?

7. Who is a
candidate?

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

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

10. How do you
achieve it?

11. 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

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

13. What do you
achieve?

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

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

16. How do you
maintain it?

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

18. Certificate
Certificate programs have no
requirements for maintenance.
Maintenance

19. What is the
value?

20. Value
Certification is valued because it:
• Develops knowledge, skills and abilities
• Enhances managerial confidence
• Increases professional recognition
• Differentiates employees for selection and
advancement
Certification

21. Certificate
Value
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

22. Want to learn more?
http://info.icpm.biz/certificate-vs-certification