Top 11 Administrative Director Certifications

Certifications are important for an administrative director in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in a specialized field. Certifications can provide potential employers with evidence that the candidate has taken the initiative to gain additional skills, as well as show dedication to their profession. Additionally, certifications can give employers confidence that the candidate is qualified to handle specific tasks, such as managing personnel or budgeting. Finally, having certifications may make an administrative director more competitive when applying for jobs since other candidates without certifications may not be considered for the same positions.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Administrative Directors and explain how they can benefit an administrative director's career.

What are Administrative Director Certifications?

Administrative director certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in administrative leadership and management. It is designed to recognize the skills and knowledge required to effectively lead and manage office operations in different types of organizations, including healthcare, business, education, government, and nonprofit environments. This certification can help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in managing personnel and resources, developing goals and strategies for successful operations, and creating a positive work environment. It can also provide an edge when competing for administrative positions or seeking promotion within an organization. The certification can be obtained through an accredited professional organization or university program that offers courses in office administration, leadership, management principles, financial management, customer service, human resources management, organizational development and other related topics.

Pro Tip: To become a certified administrative director, it is important to understand the standards and requirements set by your industry. Research the best certification programs available and take courses that will help you acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful administrative director.

Related: What does an Administrative Director do?

Top 11 Administrative Director Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Administrative Directors today.

1. Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ)

Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) is an internationally recognized certification for healthcare quality professionals. It is awarded by the National Association for Healthcare Quality (NAHQ). The CPHQ certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence and knowledge in the field of healthcare quality.

The CPHQ certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the healthcare quality field, as well as passing a comprehensive exam. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have either a Bachelor’s degree or at least five years of full-time experience in healthcare quality management.

To get the CPHQ certification, applicants must first complete an application and submit it to NAHQ. Once approved, they can register for the exam and pay the fee of $495 USD. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test knowledge on topics such as patient safety, risk management, performance improvement, and data analysis.

The exam can be taken online or at one of NAHQ’s testing centers around the world. It typically takes between 2-3 hours to complete the exam and results are available immediately upon completion. Those who pass will receive their CPHQ certificate within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam.

2. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge and skills of administrative professionals in various areas, including office management, communication, customer service, technology, and project management.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the CAP program. To get certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of administrative experience or an associate degree in business administration. You must also pass an exam that covers topics like office operations and technology, customer service, communication and project management.

The cost of the CAP program varies depending on how you choose to take it. The cost for the online course is $1,495 USD while the cost for the classroom course is $2,095 USD. In addition to these fees, there are additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees ($95 USD) and proctoring fees ($50 USD).

3. Certified Public Manager (CPM)

Certified Public Manager (CPM) is a professional certification for public sector managers. It is the highest level of recognition for public sector management and demonstrates that an individual has achieved a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of public service. The CPM program is administered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, which consists of universities and other organizations dedicated to advancing the practice of public management.

The CPM program requires that applicants complete a minimum of 80 hours of training in core areas such as organizational leadership, budgeting, personnel management, communication, ethics, and problem solving. The training can be completed through online courses or in-person workshops. After completing the required training hours, applicants must pass a comprehensive examination to become certified.

The cost to obtain a CPM certification varies depending on the type of training chosen and whether it is taken online or in-person. Generally speaking, most programs cost between $1,500 - $3,000 USD.

In order to maintain their certification status, CPMs must complete at least 30 hours of continuing education every three years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with current trends and best practices in public service management.

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications for project managers. The PMP certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to effectively manage projects and lead teams in all phases of the project life cycle.

To get the PMP certification, you must have at least three years of project management experience and 35 hours of formal project management education. You must also pass a four-hour, 200-question exam that covers five key areas: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring/controlling, and closing.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the PMP exam. During this time, you should review relevant materials such as books and online courses to gain an understanding of the concepts tested on the exam. You should also take practice exams to familiarize yourself with the format of the questions and become comfortable with answering them under timed conditions.

The cost of taking the PMP exam varies depending on your country or region. In the United States, it costs $405 for members of PMI and $555 for non-members. In addition to these fees, you may also need to pay for study materials or online courses if you choose to use them during your preparation period.

5. Certified Business Manager (CBM)

Certified Business Manager (CBM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Business Managers (ICBM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the skills and knowledge needed to manage businesses effectively. The CBM designation is highly sought after by employers, as it signifies that the holder has achieved a high level of competency in business management.

The CBM program consists of three levels: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Each level requires successful completion of an exam and successful completion of coursework. The exams are administered by ICBM, while the coursework can be completed online or through an accredited institution.

To become certified at each level, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as project management, financial management, human resources management, marketing and operations management. To qualify for certification at any level, applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in business management.

The cost for obtaining the CBM designation depends on which level you are seeking certification for; however, all levels typically cost between $500-$1,000 USD. Depending on your current qualifications and experience, it may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all three levels of certification.

Once you have obtained your CBM certification, you will be eligible for a variety of career opportunities in business management including executive-level positions such as Chief Operating Officer or Chief Financial Officer.

6. Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP)

Certified Nonprofit Professional (CNP) is a professional certification program developed by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their nonprofit career. The CNP program provides nonprofit professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of nonprofit management and leadership.

The CNP program consists of three components: the Core Knowledge Assessment, a portfolio review, and a professional development plan. To become certified, applicants must pass the Core Knowledge Assessment and submit a portfolio that demonstrates their knowledge and experience in the field of nonprofit management and leadership.

The Core Knowledge Assessment is an online exam that covers topics such as fundraising, financial management, board governance, volunteer management, marketing/communications, human resources, and legal/regulatory compliance. The assessment takes approximately two hours to complete.

The portfolio review requires applicants to provide evidence of their experience in the field of nonprofit management and leadership through documents such as resumes, letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues, job descriptions for positions held within nonprofits, articles written about nonprofits or related topics, etc. The portfolio review typically takes four weeks to complete.

Finally, applicants must develop a professional development plan that outlines how they will continue to develop their skills and knowledge in the field of nonprofit management and leadership over time. This plan should include activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to nonprofits; reading books or articles on relevant topics; participating in online courses; joining professional associations; or volunteering with organizations related to nonprofits.

To obtain the CNP certification typically costs $400 - $600 depending on your membership status with the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. There are also discounts available for students or those who are unemployed at the time of application.

7. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification in the field of information security. It is offered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)². The CISSP certification validates an individual’s knowledge and experience in designing, implementing, and managing a comprehensive information security program.

To become certified, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers eight domains of information security: access control systems and methodology; telecommunications and network security; cryptography; security architecture and models; business continuity planning and disaster recovery planning; legal, regulations, compliance and investigations; operations security; and software development security.

The exam typically takes about 6 hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, individuals must have at least 5 years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the 8 domains listed above. Alternatively, candidates may have 4 years of experience plus a college degree or an approved credential from the (ISC)² list of approved credentials.

The cost to take the CISSP exam varies depending on location but usually ranges between $699 - $1,199 USD.

8. Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP)

Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) is a professional designation granted by the Human Resources Professionals Association (HRPA). It is the highest level of certification available to HR professionals in Canada. The CHRP designation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience, and competency in human resources management.

It typically takes two to three years to obtain the CHRP designation. To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of three years of relevant work experience and completing an approved program of study. Applicants must also pass an examination administered by the HRPA.

The cost of obtaining the CHRP designation varies depending on the applicant's individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $5,000 CAD. This includes tuition fees for courses taken at accredited post-secondary institutions and costs associated with taking the exam.

9. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to lead projects and process improvement initiatives. It is an advanced level of training that focuses on the application of Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques in order to improve business processes, reduce waste, and increase customer satisfaction. The certification is offered by many organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), and the Council for Six Sigma Certification (CSSC).

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in leading or participating in Lean Six Sigma projects. Candidates must also complete a series of courses, pass an exam, and demonstrate their ability to apply Lean Six Sigma principles in practice. The total time required to obtain the certification can vary depending on individual experience and learning style; however, it typically takes between four and six months to complete all requirements.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, candidates must first take an online course or attend an instructor-led course that covers topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis, process improvement techniques, and more. After completing this coursework, they must then pass an exam administered by one of the organizations offering certification. Finally, they must demonstrate their ability to apply Lean Six Sigma principles through a project or case study.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification varies depending on which organization offers it. On average, it can range from $2,000-$5,000 USD for both the coursework and exam fees combined.

10. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s skills in Microsoft Office applications. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in the use of the Microsoft Office suite of products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access and OneNote.

The MOS certification program consists of two levels: Core and Expert. The Core level requires passing one exam for each application covered by the program. The Expert level requires passing one additional exam for each application covered by the program.

The exams are administered through Certiport testing centers and typically take between 45 minutes and 2 hours to complete. The cost of taking a MOS exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $59 - $99 per exam.

In order to become certified, individuals must pass all required exams within a 12-month period from the date they first registered for an exam. Once all required exams have been passed, individuals will receive their MOS certification which is valid for three years from the date it was awarded.

11. Certified Association Executive (CAE)

Certified Association Executive (CAE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). The CAE program is designed to recognize association professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills, and commitment necessary to manage an association effectively.

The CAE program consists of three components: an online application, a comprehensive exam, and a minimum of three years of experience in association management. The exam covers topics such as governance, finance, public policy, marketing and communications, human resources, technology, and legal issues.

It typically takes about six months to complete the process from start to finish. To become certified you must first submit an online application that includes your educational background and work experience in association management. Once your application is approved you will be eligible to take the CAE Exam. After passing the exam you will need to demonstrate at least three years of professional experience in association management before being awarded the Certified Association Executive credential.

The cost for taking the CAE Exam is $450 for ASAE members and $550 for non-members. There may also be additional fees associated with submitting your application or other related costs depending on your circumstances.

Do You Really Need a Administrative Director Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their current career goals. For those who are looking to become an administrative director, a certificate may be beneficial in order to demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field. In many cases, having a certificate can help open doors for advancement opportunities or even provide access to higher paying positions.

For those already working as administrative directors, a certificate may not be necessary. However, it could still be beneficial if the individual wants to expand their knowledge base or stay up-to-date on industry trends. Additionally, obtaining a certificate could help one stand out from other candidates when applying for new positions.

Overall, whether or not someone needs an administrative director certificate depends on their current situation and career goals. For some, it may provide an advantage over others vying for the same position while for others it could simply be a way of expanding their skillset and furthering their education in the field.

Related: Administrative Director Resume Examples

FAQs About Administrative Director Certifications

Q1. What is an Administrative Director Certification?

A1. An Administrative Director Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of administrative management. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to effectively manage administrative operations in a variety of organizations.

Q2. How do I become certified as an Administrative Director?

A2. To become certified as an Administrative Director, you must meet the eligibility requirements for the certification program, which typically include having a minimum amount of work experience in a related field and passing a comprehensive exam administered by an accredited organization.

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an Administrative Director?

A3. Becoming certified as an Administrative Director can help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to your career, boost your credibility within your industry, and help you stand out from other job applicants or candidates for promotion. It can also open up new opportunities for career advancement and increased earning potential.

Q4. How long does it take to complete the Administrative Director Certification Program?

A4. The length of time required to complete the program will vary depending on each individual's level of experience and knowledge in administrative management topics, but typically takes between four to six months to complete all requirements for certification.

Q5. Is there any ongoing maintenance required to maintain my certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying organizations require that individuals renew their certification every two years by completing continuing education courses or taking additional exams in order to remain current with industry standards and best practices.