Certification: Definition, Types, Process and Standards

What is certification?

Certification is the process by which a person, organisation, or product is formally recognised as meeting specific standards or requirements, usually through evaluation by an independent certifying body or professional organisation. Gaining a certificate typically requires passing an exam or assessment, demonstrating certain skills or competency, and often maintaining standards through renewal or continuing education.

Benefits of certification

• Validation of skills: Provides formal recognition of knowledge and competencies.
• Industry standard: Demonstrates compliance with established requirements and best practices (e.g. ISO or ANSI certification).
• Employability: Enhances job prospects and professional reputation.
• Professional development: Supports career progression and commitment to lifelong learning through continuing education.
• Recognition: Recognised by employers, customers, and peers as evidence of capability.

Types of certification

• Professional certification: Awarded by professional bodies or organisations in fields such as project management, finance, IT, or healthcare. Examples include certifications from ANSI or state boards.
• Academic certification: Issued by educational institutions after completing a course of study or passing qualifying exams—for instance, university certificates and diplomas.
• Technical certification: Validates competency in technical or vocational areas like IT, electrical work, or health and safety. Managed by certifying bodies, sometimes requiring assessment at a test centre.

The certification process: How to get certified

1. Eligibility: Confirm you meet any prerequisites, such as specific qualifications, training, or work experience. These are outlined by the certifying body or governing body.
2. Application: Submit your application and supporting evidence (e.g. qualifications, training records). Pay applicable fees.
3. Exam/Assessment: Pass a formal exam or practical assessment, usually held at a test centre or digitally. The assessment measures your knowledge or practical abilities against industry standards.
4. Validation and recognition: Successful candidates receive a certificate as proof of certification, which can be validated by employers and professional organisations.
5. Renewal: Many certifications require regular renewal, either by re-examination, showing continuing education, or completing professional development activities.

Costs involved in certification

The cost of obtaining certification varies. Typical expenses may include application fees, exam fees, training costs, and renewal charges. Some certifying bodies or professional organisations may offer discounts for members or bulk applications.

Key certifying bodies and their roles

• ANSI (American National Standards Institute): Oversees development of standards and accredits certification programmes ensuring conformity to industry standards.
• ISO (International Organization for Standardization): International body setting global benchmarks for certification and quality assurance across industries.
• State boards/governing bodies: Regulate professions such as medicine, law, or teaching, often requiring official licences or certifications to practise legally.
• Professional organisations: Award and manage industry-specific certifications (e.g. engineering, accountancy, IT) and establish up-to-date requirements for practice via continuing education and assessment.

Knowledge panel: Key facts about certification

• Definition: Formal recognition of meeting specific standards through evaluation.
• Examples: Project Management Certificate, Occupational Health & Safety Certification, IT Professional Certificate.
• Process: Eligibility → Application → Exam/Assessment → Validation → Renewal.
• Duration: Validity typically ranges from 1 to 5 years, with renewal processes in place.
• Top certifying organisations: ANSI, ISO, various state boards, and leading professional organisations.

FAQs

What is a certification?

A certification is formal recognition awarded by an independent certifying body, confirming that an individual has met specific knowledge and skill standards through assessment or an exam.

How do you get certified?

To get certified, you must meet eligibility requirements, apply to a certifying body, pass the designated exam or assessment, and complete any required training or continuing education. Renewal may also be required.

How long does a certification last?

The validity of certification varies by profession and certifying body, but typically lasts between 1 and 5 years. Renewals may involve continuing education or re-examination.

Is certification the same as a license?

No, certification and licence are different. A licence is a legal authorisation from a governing body to practise an occupation. Certification recognises achievement of a standard but does not, by itself, grant legal authority to practise.

Are certifications worth it?

Yes, certifications can enhance your career prospects, validate your skills, promote professional development, and increase your credibility in an industry. However, their value may depend on the field and employer requirements.