Top 11 Administrative Office Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for administrative office managers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, skill and experience that employers look for when hiring. Certifications provide evidence that an individual has the necessary qualifications and abilities to successfully perform the duties of an administrative office manager. They also show that an individual is committed to professional development and is willing to invest time and money into furthering their career. This can be attractive to potential employers as they want employees who are dedicated to their work and understand the importance of staying up-to-date on industry trends. Additionally, certifications provide recognition from respected organizations, which can give an individual a competitive edge over other applicants who do not have such credentials.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Administrative Office Managers and explain how they can enhance an administrative office manager's career.

What are Administrative Office Manager Certifications?

Administrative office manager certification is a certification program designed to help prepare individuals for the role of administrative office manager. This certification program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage an administrative office. The courses included in this certification program cover topics such as basic office procedures, customer service, records management, financial management, human resources management, and technology management.

The administrative office manager certification can provide many benefits for those looking to enter this profession or even advance their current career. It can give individuals a competitive edge in the job market by demonstrating their knowledge of the subject matter and commitment to their professional development. Additionally, having this certification can also open up more opportunities for career advancement within an organization as employers often look for personnel who have specialized training and expertise in managing an administrative office environment. Furthermore, having a certification may also be beneficial if one wants to pursue other roles in the field of business administration, as it shows that one has completed a rigorous course of study that covers all aspects of managing an administrative office.

Pro Tip: When considering an administrative office manager certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications for the program you are interested in. Many certifications require a combination of work experience, professional development activities, and other qualifications to ensure you are fully prepared for the role.

Related: What does an Administrative Office Manager do?

Top 11 Administrative Office Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Manager (CPM)

Certified Professional Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). The CPM program is designed to recognize and reward outstanding managers who have demonstrated superior managerial skills and competencies.

The CPM certification process requires applicants to complete an online application, including a written essay, and submit their resume for review. After successful completion of the online application, applicants must pass an exam that covers core management concepts, such as planning and organizing, leading teams, managing resources, problem solving and decision making. Upon passing the exam, applicants are awarded the CPM designation.

The CPM certification process typically takes up to six months to complete. The cost of the program varies depending on the level of certification sought; however, it typically ranges from $600-$1,200 USD.

To get certified as a CPM, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by ICPM. These include having at least five years of experience in a managerial role or related field; having a bachelor’s degree or higher; and having completed at least 60 hours of approved continuing education courses within the past three years. Once these requirements have been met, you can then apply for the CPM program through ICPM's website.

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 individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of administrative management. The CAP credential is recognized and respected by employers, peers, and customers worldwide.

The CAP certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as business communication, office technology, project management, customer service, and financial management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

To become certified as a CAP, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having at least two years of full-time work experience in an administrative role or completing an approved postsecondary program in business administration or office management. You must also pass the CAP exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost to take the CAP exam varies depending on your IAAP membership status. For non-members, it costs $295 USD; for members, it costs $245 USD; and for student members, it costs $195 USD.

3. Certified Office Manager (COM)

Certified Office Manager (COM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to manage an office efficiently. The COM certification is offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

It takes approximately three months to complete the COM certification process. To become certified, applicants must first pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as office management, communication, customer service, technology, and project management. After passing the exam, applicants must submit a portfolio of their work experience and accomplishments to demonstrate their proficiency in office management.

The cost of the COM certification varies depending on the country in which it is being taken. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD for members of IAAP and $400 USD for non-members. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or submitting a portfolio.

4. Certified Professional Secretary (CPS)

Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of administrative professionals. The CPS designation is a mark of excellence that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their career and their dedication to providing quality service.

The CPS exam consists of three parts: an online test, an in-person interview, and a written essay. The online test covers topics such as office management, communication skills, technology applications, customer service, problem solving, and business ethics. The in-person interview focuses on the applicant’s experience and qualifications for the position. The written essay requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the principles of professionalism and ethical behavior in the workplace.

It typically takes about six months to complete all requirements for the CPS certification. To get started, applicants must first register with IAAP and pay a $150 registration fee. After registering with IAAP, applicants must complete an online application form and submit it along with supporting documents such as transcripts or proof of work experience. Applicants must then take the online test within 90 days of submitting their application form. Once they have passed the online test, they can schedule an in-person interview with an IAAP representative at a local chapter meeting or through video conferencing software such as Skype or Zoom. Finally, applicants must submit their written essay within 30 days after completing their in-person interview.

The cost for taking the CPS certification exam varies depending on where you live; however, it typically costs around $450 USD for international candidates and $350 USD for US candidates (including registration fees).

5. Certified Executive Assistant (CEA)

Certified Executive Assistant (CEA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of executive assistants. It is offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

The CEA program consists of two parts: a written exam and an oral assessment. The written exam covers topics such as business communication, office management, financial management, technology, and customer service. The oral assessment tests the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the CEA program. Candidates must complete a minimum of 40 hours of study before taking the written exam, which can be done through self-study or through an approved training provider. After passing the written exam, candidates must take the oral assessment within one year.

The cost for taking the CEA program varies depending on whether you are studying independently or through an approved training provider. If you are studying independently, it will cost approximately $495 for materials and registration fees. If you are using an approved training provider, costs may vary depending on their services and fees.

6. Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM)

Certified Medical Office Manager (CMOM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a medical office. The certification is offered by the American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC).

The CMOM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as medical terminology, insurance coding, billing and reimbursement, health care regulations, patient privacy laws, and practice management. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes up to three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CMOM examination, applicants must have at least two years of experience in a medical office setting or have completed an AAPC-approved course in medical office management. Applicants must also submit proof of their current membership in the AAPC.

The cost of taking the CMOM exam varies depending on whether you are an AAPC member or not. For non-members, the cost is $299 USD; for members, it is $249 USD. After successfully completing the exam, you will receive your official CMOM certification from the AAPC.

7. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate the highest level of knowledge, experience, and competency in records management. This certification is administered by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM).

The CRM certification requires a minimum of five years of full-time records management experience and passing an examination. The exam consists of four parts: Records Management Principles & Practices, Regulatory Compliance, Technology & Systems, and Professionalism & Ethics. Candidates must also complete continuing education requirements every three years in order to maintain their certification.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the CRM exam. During this time, candidates should become familiar with ICRM’s Body of Knowledge which outlines the topics covered on the exam. Candidates should also review relevant materials such as books and online courses to ensure they are fully prepared for the exam.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their records management experience and pay a fee of $395 USD. Once approved, applicants will be sent an invitation to take the exam within 90 days from when their application was received.

The cost for taking the CRM exam is $495 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees. After passing all four parts of the exam, applicants will receive their official CRM certificate from ICRM within two weeks.

8. Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP)

Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) is a certification program offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). The CITP credential is designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to succeed in today’s information technology industry.

The CITP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as software development, systems analysis, network administration, database management, project management, and security. Candidates must also demonstrate their commitment to professional ethics and standards.

It typically takes between 12-18 months for an individual to complete all of the requirements for the CITP certification. To get certified, candidates must complete a series of exams that cover topics such as technical aptitude, problem solving skills, business acumen, and communication proficiency. Candidates must also submit evidence of their work experience in the IT field.

The cost of obtaining the CITP certification varies depending on where you are located. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $600-$1,500 USD depending on your location and other factors such as exam fees or additional training courses you may need to take.

9. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in project management. It is the most widely recognized certification for project managers and is seen as a mark of excellence within the industry.

To become a PMP, you must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to adhere to PMI’s code of ethics. To be eligible for the exam, you must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a four-year degree with at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of PMI. For members it costs $405 while nonmembers pay $555.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official certificate in 6-8 weeks. You will also need to complete 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years to maintain your certification status.

10. Six Sigma Green Belt

Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help individuals become more knowledgeable and effective in their roles as process improvement specialists. It is based on the Six Sigma methodology, which focuses on improving processes by eliminating defects and reducing variation. The certification is intended to provide professionals with an understanding of the tools, techniques, and principles of Six Sigma.

The Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically takes between four to eight weeks to complete depending on the program chosen. Most programs include a combination of self-paced learning materials, instructor-led classroom instruction, and hands-on project work. The cost of the certification will vary depending on the provider and the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 to $5,000 USD for a full course package.

To obtain a Six Sigma Green Belt certification, individuals must first complete all required training courses and pass an examination administered by an accredited provider or certifying body. Upon successful completion of the exam, candidates will receive their official Six Sigma Green Belt certificate. In addition to completing the training courses and passing the exam, some organizations may require additional experience or qualifications in order to be eligible for certification.

11. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is a certification program designed to teach professionals how to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of their organization's processes. It is based on the Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, which are two popular approaches to process improvement. The Lean methodology focuses on eliminating waste and non-value added activities, while Six Sigma focuses on reducing variation and defects in processes.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification requires participants to complete a comprehensive training program that typically takes four weeks or more (depending on the provider). During this time, participants will learn about the Lean and Six Sigma methodologies, as well as how to apply them in their own organizations. They will also learn about project management techniques, data analysis tools, problem solving strategies, and other related topics.

In order to become a certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification). The cost of the exam varies depending on the provider but can range from $500-$1,000 USD.

Additionally, many organizations require their employees who wish to become certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belts to complete additional training courses or workshops before taking the exam. These courses may be offered by universities or professional organizations and can cost anywhere from $500-$5,000 USD depending on length and content.

Do You Really Need a Administrative Office Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your goals and the type of job you are looking for. If you are seeking a managerial role in an administrative office, then obtaining an administrative office manager certificate may be beneficial. This certification can provide a higher level of credibility to employers and demonstrate that you possess the knowledge and skills necessary for the position.

Having an administrative office manager certificate can also provide a sense of accomplishment and give you more confidence in your abilities. It is important to note, however, that not all employers require a certificate in order to be considered for a position as an administrative office manager. In some cases, experience in the field is more important than certifications or degrees. Before deciding whether or not to pursue a certificate, it is important to research the specific qualifications required by employers for different types of roles within the field.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an administrative office manager certificate will depend on your individual career goals and the requirements set forth by potential employers. It is important to weigh all factors before making a decision as to whether pursuing such certification would be beneficial for your particular situation.

Related: Administrative Office Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Administrative Office Manager Certifications

1. What qualifications are required for administrative office manager certifications?

Answer: Generally, administrative office managers need to have a bachelor’s degree in business management or a related field, as well as several years of experience managing an office.

2. How long does it take to earn an administrative office manager certification?

Answer: The length of time needed to earn an administrative office manager certification varies depending on the specific program and requirements. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary coursework and exams.

3. What is the cost of obtaining an administrative office manager certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining an administrative office manager certification depends on the program chosen and can range from a few hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining an administrative office manager certification?

Answer: Yes, many programs require that certified administrators keep their certifications active by completing periodic continuing education courses or exams.

5. What are some common areas of study for achieving an administrative office manager certification?

Answer: Common areas of study include accounting principles, financial analysis, personnel management, customer service principles, project management, computer applications, and business law.