When it comes to professional development, two terms often come up for us here at Exemplar Global: “certificates” and “certifications”, and although these terms might sound similar, they have distinct meanings and purposes. This article highlights the differences and provides clarity on when and how to use each of these terms when promoting your achievements.
A Certificate is a record issued by schools, training providers, vocational colleges, or universities, etc., showing that an individual has completed a specified course, training program, or set of learning requirements as defined by the provider, usually narrow in scope and educationally focused.
There are typically two types of Certificates:
Both Certificate types typically do not require renewal, with their currency lasting for as long as the underlying body of knowledge remains the same.
In contrast to Certificates, Certifications are time-limited to ensure the currency of competence and therefore have renewal pathways built into their requirements that include re-assessment, demonstration of CPD, or submission of workplace evidence, etc. The issuing body defines renewal cycles and currency requirements, and these need to be met by the individual for as long as the Certification is held.
When a training course is completed, you will receive a Certificate issued by the organisation that provided the training. The type of certificate received will depend on whether the learning objectives are met: if they are met, a Certificate of Attainment is awarded; if not, a Certificate of Attendance is issued.
Note: It’s essential to recognise that Certification is not achieved at the end
of a training course, so you should not refer to yourself as being Certified.
The preferred term is Graduate, as you have graduated from the course.
However, those interested in pursuing Certification may apply to a Certification Body, providing evidence such as the ‘Certificate of Attainment’ along with any other evidence specified in the associated certification requirements. When you meet the requirements, Certification is awarded, and this is when you can say you are certified.
Here is a typical pathway from Certificate to Certification to illustrate this point:
As outlined, a ‘Certificate’ and a ‘Certification’ are both credentials used to show that someone has demonstrated specific knowledge or skills, but they differ in purpose, scope, requirements for achievement, validity period, issuing authority, and how employers or regulators treat them. Therefore, it’s important to use the correct term when referring to your achievements.
In conclusion:
If you’re looking to broaden or update your knowledge or skills, think about enrolling in a training course provided by an Exemplar Global certified training provider. A list of training providers and their offerings can be found here.
Note: Exemplar Global does not provide training. Instead, we rely on a network of Training Providers who have met specific requirements.
If you have already completed a training course and are ready to take the next step by having your knowledge, skills, and other evidence assessed (i.e., verified) against the requirements of a specific Certification Scheme, apply for Certification with Exemplar Global. A range of Certifications are available, from entry-level to expert-level requirements. Additional information, along with the Certification Requirements themselves, can be found here.
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