Top 11 Analytical Chemist Certifications

Certifications are important for analytical chemists in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of experience and expertise. Certifications can provide employers with assurance that an analytical chemist has the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully perform their duties. Additionally, certifications can show potential employers that an analytical chemist is committed to staying up-to-date on current trends and developments in the field. This can also help distinguish an analytical chemist from other candidates when applying for positions.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the various certifications available to analytical chemists and how they can help to advance their careers.

What are Analytical Chemist Certifications?

Analytical chemist certification is a way for chemists to demonstrate their expertise in the field of analytical chemistry. It is awarded by organizations such as the American Chemical Society (ACS) or the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). Analytical chemists are scientists who specialize in the analysis and characterization of chemicals, materials, and biological samples. By obtaining an analytical chemist certification, individuals are able to prove their knowledge and experience in this field.

Analytical chemists are employed in many different industries and fields, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, forensics, environmental science, food science, and many more. Having an analytical chemist certification provides assurance that a person has the necessary skills to analyze complex chemical mixtures or compounds accurately and efficiently. Furthermore, it can help employers identify qualified individuals for positions within their organization. Additionally, it may be beneficial for those interested in pursuing advanced degrees or higher-level positions within the field of analytical chemistry.

Pro Tip: Analytical chemist certification can be obtained by taking the American Chemical Society's Certified Chemist (CC) exam. This exam is designed to test a candidate's knowledge and experience in the field of analytical chemistry, and is offered through various universities, colleges, and professional organizations.

Related: What does an Analytical Chemist do?

Top 11 Analytical Chemist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Analytical Chemists today.

1. Certified Professional Chemist (CPC)

Certified Professional Chemist (CPC) is a professional certification for chemists in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is awarded by the American Institute of Chemists (AIC) and is recognized by employers as a mark of excellence in the field of chemistry.

The CPC designation requires successful completion of an examination that covers topics such as: general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, instrumentation and laboratory techniques. The exam also includes questions related to professional ethics and safety.

It typically takes approximately 6 months to prepare for the CPC exam. Preparation involves studying textbooks and other resources related to the topics covered on the exam. Additionally, some candidates choose to take review courses or practice exams to help them prepare for the exam.

To become certified as a CPC, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by AIC. These requirements include having at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field from an accredited college or university; having at least two years of full-time experience working as a chemist; and passing the CPC examination with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of taking the CPC exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

2. Certified Quality Analyst (CQA)

Certified Quality Analyst (CQA) is a professional certification program administered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in quality assurance, quality control, and quality management.

The CQA certification exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality principles, tools and techniques, process improvement, and customer satisfaction. The exam must be completed within four hours.

To become certified as a CQA, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Have at least three years of full-time work experience in a quality-related field
• Pass the CQA exam with a score of 75% or higher
• Submit an application to ASQ for review and approval
• Pay an application fee of $299 USD.

Once approved for the certification, you will need to maintain your certification status by completing continuing education activities every three years.

3. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of quality management principles and practices. CQM certification is based on the body of knowledge from the ASQ Certified Quality Manager Body of Knowledge, which includes topics such as quality management systems, customer satisfaction, process improvement, and organizational performance.

The CQM program requires applicants to have either five years of experience in a quality-related field or three years of experience in a quality-related field plus an approved degree or equivalent. Applicants must also pass an examination that covers topics such as quality management systems, customer satisfaction, process improvement, and organizational performance.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for obtaining the CQM certification. This includes completing any required coursework, preparing for and taking the exam, and submitting all necessary documentation.

The cost of obtaining the CQM certification varies depending on whether you are an ASQ member or non-member. For ASQ members, the cost is $399 USD; for non-members it is $599 USD.

4. American Chemical Society Certified Professional in Analytical Chemistry (ACS-CPAC)

The American Chemical Society Certified Professional in Analytical Chemistry (ACS-CPAC) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the field of analytical chemistry. The certification is offered by the American Chemical Society and is recognized as a standard of excellence in the field.

To obtain the ACS-CPAC certification, applicants must pass an exam which tests their knowledge and skills related to analytical chemistry. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as instrumental analysis, laboratory safety, data analysis, and quality assurance. Applicants must also demonstrate experience in the field through a portfolio review process.

The entire process typically takes between 6-9 months to complete. In order to apply for the ACS-CPAC certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in analytical chemistry or related fields.

The cost for the ACS-CPAC certification program varies depending on whether you are an ACS member or nonmember. For members, it costs $200 for the application fee and $300 for the exam fee; for nonmembers, it costs $400 for both fees combined.

5. Certified Laboratory Analyst (CLA)

A Certified Laboratory Analyst (CLA) is a professional certification that demonstrates a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of laboratory analysis. It is designed for individuals who work in laboratories and are responsible for performing tests, analyzing results, and interpreting data. The certification is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

In order to become certified as a CLA, an individual must pass an exam administered by the certifying organization. The exam typically consists of multiple-choice questions that test the individual's knowledge of laboratory analysis techniques and methods. Additionally, some organizations may require applicants to have prior experience working in a laboratory setting or to have completed certain courses related to laboratory analysis.

The amount of time it takes to get certified as a CLA varies depending on the certifying organization; however, most organizations require applicants to complete their exams within two years of submitting their application.

The cost of becoming certified as a CLA also varies depending on the certifying organization; however, most organizations charge between $100 and $250 for their certification exams. In addition to this fee, some organizations may also require applicants to pay additional fees for study materials or other administrative costs associated with taking the exam.

Overall, becoming certified as a CLA can be beneficial for individuals looking to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in laboratory analysis techniques and methods.

6. Certified Food Scientist (CFS)

A Certified Food Scientist (CFS) is a professional who has been certified by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT) to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in food science. The CFS credential is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of food science. To become a CFS, an individual must pass an examination that covers topics such as food safety, nutrition, product development, sensory evaluation, and more.

It typically takes about two years to complete the requirements for the CFS credential. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in food science or related field from an accredited college or university and at least three years of professional experience in the field. Additionally, applicants must complete a minimum number of continuing education credits each year and maintain professional membership with IFT.

To get the CFS credential, applicants must first submit an application to IFT along with all required documents and fees. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam which is administered twice per year at testing centers around the world. The cost for taking the exam is $575 USD and includes registration fees as well as study materials.

7. American Board of Clinical Chemistry Certification in Analytical Chemistry (ABCCC-AC)

The American Board of Clinical Chemistry Certification in Analytical Chemistry (ABCCC-AC) is a certification program offered by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry (AACC). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the practice of analytical chemistry. The ABCCC-AC certification is an important credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise and commitment to the field.

To obtain the ABCCC-AC certification, applicants must meet certain requirements, including having a minimum of two years of experience in laboratory testing or research and passing a written examination. The exam covers topics such as basic chemistry principles, instrumentation, quality control/assurance, and data analysis. The exam is administered twice per year at various locations throughout the United States.

In addition to meeting the eligibility requirements, applicants must also pay an application fee and submit documentation verifying their educational background and work experience. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ABCCC-AC certificate within 6-8 weeks of passing the exam.

The cost for obtaining the ABCCC-AC certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of AACC. For non-members, it costs $375 to apply for the certification plus $100 for each additional year of experience up to five years. For members, it costs $300 to apply plus $75 for each additional year up to five years.

8. International Association for Chemical Testing Certification in Analytical Chemistry (IACT-AC)

The International Association for Chemical Testing (IACT) Certification in Analytical Chemistry (IACT-AC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of analytical chemistry. The IACT-AC certification is awarded by the IACT after successful completion of a comprehensive exam, which covers topics such as instrumentation and techniques, data interpretation, and laboratory safety.

The IACT-AC certification process typically takes three to six months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must first submit an application form and fee to the IACT. Once accepted into the program, applicants must then register for and take an online exam that consists of multiple choice questions and essay questions. After passing the exam, applicants must then submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience in analytical chemistry.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will be awarded the IACT-AC certification. The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on the individual's country of residence. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to apply for and receive this certification.

9. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Analytical Chemist Certification Program (NICET-ACC)

The National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies Analytical Chemist Certification Program (NICET-ACC) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills and abilities of analytical chemists. This program provides a standardized way for employers to evaluate the qualifications of analytical chemists.

To obtain the NICET-ACC certification, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field and have at least two years of experience working as an analytical chemist. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as laboratory safety, instrumentation, quality control and assurance, sample preparation and analysis techniques. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of the NICET-ACC certification varies depending on location but typically ranges from $300 - $500 USD. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking the same exam again or completing continuing education credits.

10. Society for Applied Spectroscopy Certified Spectroscopist Program (SAS-CSP)

The Society for Applied Spectroscopy Certified Spectroscopist Program (SAS-CSP) is a certification program that recognizes the skills and knowledge of experienced spectroscopists. It is designed to provide a measure of professional recognition to those who have demonstrated mastery of the principles and techniques of spectroscopy.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria and pass an examination. The criteria include having at least three years of full-time experience in the field, or equivalent part-time experience, as well as having completed a minimum number of courses in spectroscopy. Applicants must also submit letters of recommendation from two qualified professionals in the field.

The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions covering topics such as instrumentation, data analysis, and applications. The exam is administered by SAS twice each year, typically in April and October. It takes about four hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the exam is $250 for members of SAS or $350 for non-members. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certificate and be recognized as a Certified Spectroscopist by SAS.

11. International Association for Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Certification in Analytical Chemistry (IAEAC-AC).

The International Association for Environmental and Analytical Chemistry Certification in Analytical Chemistry (IAEAC-AC) is an international certification program that recognizes the expertise of analytical chemists. It is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the skills and knowledge necessary to perform quality analytical chemistry work.

To obtain IAEAC-AC certification, applicants must meet certain educational and professional requirements. These include a minimum of a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field, at least two years of relevant experience in analytical chemistry, and successful completion of an IAEAC-approved training program. Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the IAEAC.

The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and a practical portion. The written portion covers topics such as laboratory safety, instrumentation, sampling techniques, data analysis, and quality assurance/quality control procedures. The practical portion includes hands-on activities such as sample preparation, instrument calibration, data collection and analysis, report writing, and troubleshooting.

The cost for the exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. The exam can take up to four hours to complete.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam they will receive their IAEAC-AC certification which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal requires proof of continuing education credits or successful completion of additional exams administered by the IAEAC.

Do You Really Need a Analytical Chemist Certificate?

No, you do not need an analytical chemist certificate to enter the field of analytical chemistry. While a certificate may help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the field, there are many other ways to prove your knowledge and experience. For example, you could demonstrate your knowledge through coursework or internships in analytical chemistry or related fields. Additionally, having industry experience in a laboratory setting can be just as valuable as having a certificate. Ultimately, employers will look for evidence that you have the technical skills and knowledge required for the job.

In conclusion, an analytical chemist certificate is not necessary for entering the field of analytical chemistry. However, if you possess such a certification it can be beneficial in showing employers that you are serious about pursuing a career in this field and have taken steps to demonstrate your expertise.

Related: Analytical Chemist Resume Examples

FAQs About Analytical Chemist Certifications

1. What types of analytical chemist certifications are available?

Answer: Commonly available analytical chemist certifications include Certified Professional Chemist (CPC), Certified Quality Auditor (CQA), Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) and Registered Quality Assurance Professional (RQAP).

2. What qualifications do I need to become an analytical chemist?

Answer: To become an analytical chemist, you typically need a bachelor's degree in chemistry or a related field, such as biochemistry or chemical engineering. You may also need to have experience working in a laboratory setting and knowledge of laboratory techniques and instrumentation.

3. How long does it take to get certified as an analytical chemist?

Answer: The time it takes to become certified as an analytical chemist depends on the specific certification program you choose. Many programs require taking courses and passing exams, which can take anywhere from several months to a year or more.

4. Are there any prerequisites for getting certified as an analytical chemist?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field, as well as some lab experience and knowledge of laboratory techniques and instrumentation.

5. Is there any continuing education required for maintaining my certification?

Answer: Yes, many certification programs require ongoing continuing education credits in order to maintain your certification status. This may involve taking additional courses or attending conferences and seminars related to the field of analytical chemistry.