Top 11 Assistant Merchandiser Certifications

Certifications are important for assistant merchandisers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for. They also help to differentiate candidates from their competition, as many employers use certifications to narrow down their search when selecting potential hires. Certifications provide proof of professional experience and skills that can be used as evidence when applying for jobs or negotiating salary. Furthermore, certifications provide assistant merchandisers with the opportunity to stay up-to-date on industry trends, techniques, and technology. This knowledge can be invaluable when dealing with ever-changing customer demands and staying ahead of the competition.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Assistant Merchandisers and explain how they can help enhance an assistant merchandiser's career.

What are Assistant Merchandiser Certifications?

Assistant Merchandiser Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in a merchandising career. The certification focuses on developing core competencies in areas such as product knowledge, pricing strategy, forecasting and budgeting, visual merchandising, customer service and sales promotion. Through this program, individuals can gain an understanding of the principles of retail merchandising while also learning how to effectively manage different aspects of the business. By obtaining this certification, individuals can demonstrate their commitment to the profession and increase their chances of being hired for positions within the industry. Additionally, it can provide them with the opportunity to advance their career by taking on more responsibility or transitioning into management roles.

Pro Tip: When pursuing assistant merchandiser certification, make sure to choose a program that is accredited by a recognized institution. This will ensure that the skills and knowledge you learn are up-to-date and applicable to the modern retail environment. Additionally, look for programs with a focus on practical experience as well, so you can apply your newfound skills in real-world situations.

Related: What does an Assistant Merchandiser do?

Top 11 Assistant Merchandiser Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Assistant Merchandisers today.

1. Certified Merchandise Manager (CMM)

Certified Merchandise Manager (CMM) is a professional certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to help retail professionals develop and demonstrate their expertise in merchandise management. CMM certification validates an individual’s knowledge of merchandising principles, strategies, and practices.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of full-time retail experience in merchandise management or related fields. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as product assortment planning, pricing strategies, inventory control, and store layout. The exam is offered twice a year in April and October.

The cost for the CMM program varies depending on the type of application you submit. The standard fee for the exam is $395 USD; however, discounts are available for NRF members and students. Additionally, those who wish to retake the exam may do so at a reduced rate of $195 USD.

Once certified, individuals can use the CMM designation to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in retail merchandise management and gain recognition among employers and peers alike.

2. Certified Professional in Merchandising Management (CPMM)

Certified Professional in Merchandising Management (CPMM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and competency in the field of retail merchandising. The certification program is administered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), a trade association representing the retail industry.

The CPMM certification requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in retail merchandising and/or related fields. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as marketing principles, financial analysis, product development, pricing strategies, inventory management, and customer service.

The CPMM exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The cost for the exam is $400 and includes access to study materials and an online practice test. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CPMM certification from NRF.

The CPMM certification is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking an additional exam or completing continuing education credits. Renewal fees are $200 for members of NRF or $400 for non-members.

3. Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM)

A Certified Retail Merchandiser (CRM) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of retail merchandising. The CRM certification is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF), the world’s largest retail trade association, and provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of successful retail merchandising.

The CRM exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical skills assessment. The written exam covers topics such as retail merchandise management, pricing strategies, customer service, visual merchandising, inventory control, store operations, and marketing. The practical skills assessment tests your ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CRM exam. You can find study materials online or through the NRF’s website. You will also need to complete at least one year of professional experience in retail merchandising before you are eligible to take the exam.

The cost to take the CRM exam is $295 for NRF members and $395 for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials as well as an application fee and other administrative costs associated with taking the test.

4. Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM)

Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM) is a professional certification program designed to provide visual merchandisers with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to excel in the field. The program is offered by the International Visual Merchandising Association (IVMA) and provides an industry-recognized credential for visual merchandisers.

The CVM program consists of four courses: Visual Merchandising Fundamentals, Store Design & Layout, Retail Promotions & Events, and Visual Strategies & Execution. Each course is approximately 10 hours in length and can be completed online or through an instructor-led workshop. Upon completion of all four courses, participants will receive a CVM Certificate from IVMA.

The cost of the CVM program varies depending on the format chosen. Online courses range from $250-$400 per course while instructor-led workshops range from $500-$1,000 per course.

In order to become certified as a Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM), individuals must complete all four courses within two years of beginning the program. After completing all four courses, individuals must pass a final exam in order to receive their certificate.

5. Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSCM)

Certified Professional in Supply Chain Management (CPSCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Supply Management (ISM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage global supply chain operations.

The CPSCM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as supply chain fundamentals, logistics, inventory management, procurement and supplier management, customer service, and risk management. The course takes approximately 40 hours to complete.

To get certified, you must pass the CPSCM exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover all areas of the CPSCM curriculum. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any approved ISM testing center.

The cost of the CPSCM program depends on whether you are a member or non-member of ISM. For members, the cost is $395; for non-members, it is $495.

6. Certified Retail Buyer and Planner (CRBP)

A Certified Retail Buyer and Planner (CRBP) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of retail buyers and planners. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in retail buying, planning, and merchandising. The CRBP certification is offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF).

The CRBP certification requires completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as financial analysis, product assortment planning, inventory management, trend analysis, customer service, and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions.

To be eligible for the CRBP certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in retail buying or planning. They must also have completed at least one year of college-level coursework in business or a related field.

The cost for the CRBP certification program varies depending on whether you are an NRF member or non-member. For NRF members, it costs $495; for non-members it costs $695. This fee covers the cost of the exam as well as access to study materials such as practice tests and webinars.

Once you have successfully passed the exam and paid the fee, you will receive your official Certified Retail Buyer & Planner certificate from NRF. You will also be listed in their online directory so employers can easily find you when searching for qualified professionals with this certification.

7. Certified Inventory Manager (CIM)

Certified Inventory Manager (CIM) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to provide inventory professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage inventory in a variety of business settings. The CIM certification program is administered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS).

The CIM certification requires successful completion of a two-day, 16-hour course as well as passing an exam. The course covers topics such as inventory management principles, inventory control systems, forecasting techniques, and supply chain management.

To get Certified Inventory Manager (CIM) certification, you must first register for the CIM course through APICS. The cost of the course varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,000 USD. After completing the course and passing the exam, you will receive your CIM certificate within 6-8 weeks.

8. Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP)

Certified Global Supply Chain Professional (CGSCP) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of supply chain professionals. The certification is administered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), which is an international, not-for-profit professional organization dedicated to advancing supply chain excellence.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of five years of experience in the field of supply chain management and must pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as global supply chain strategy, logistics and transportation, procurement and sourcing, inventory management, customer service, and technology applications in supply chain management.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any one of ASCM's testing centers located around the world. The cost for taking the exam is $495 USD for members of ASCM or $595 USD for non-members.

9. Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing

An Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing is a two-year degree program designed to teach students the skills and knowledge needed to become fashion merchandisers and marketers. This program focuses on the business aspects of the fashion industry, such as product development, pricing strategies, and marketing techniques. Students learn about consumer behavior, trends, and how to design effective displays. They also gain an understanding of retail operations and management.

The associate degree typically takes two years to complete if taken full-time. It can take longer if studying part-time or taking additional classes outside of the core curriculum. Most programs require 60 credit hours for completion.

To get an Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing, you must first apply to an accredited college or university offering this program. You will need to submit transcripts from high school or any other college courses you may have taken previously, as well as a letter of recommendation from a teacher or employer. Once accepted into the program, students must complete all required courses with a passing grade before graduating with their degree.

The cost of an Associate of Applied Science in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing depends on the institution you choose and whether you are attending full-time or part-time. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $4,000 - $10,000 per year depending on the school and state residency status. Additional fees such as books and supplies may also be required for enrollment in some programs.

10. Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management is an undergraduate degree program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage retail operations. This degree focuses on the principles and practices of business administration, such as financial management, marketing, operations, and human resources. Additionally, it provides students with an understanding of the unique challenges associated with managing a retail business.

The typical program length for a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management is four years. During this time, students will take courses related to accounting, finance, economics, statistics, marketing, management information systems (MIS), organizational behavior and communication. Additionally, they will learn about topics such as retail strategy and planning; merchandising; store operations; customer service; inventory control; and supply chain management.

To get this degree you must first complete high school or equivalent education. Then you need to apply for admission at the college or university that offers this degree program. After being accepted into the program you will need to fulfill all academic requirements including coursework and internships if applicable.

The cost of getting a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking tuition costs range from $10k-$30k per year depending on whether you are attending an online or traditional brick-and-mortar institution. Additional fees may also be required such as lab fees or technology fees which can add up quickly so it's important to research these ahead of time before enrolling in any program.

11. Master of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management

Master of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management is a specialized degree program that focuses on the business aspects of retail management. This type of degree provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful retail managers.

The length of the program varies depending on the school, but most programs take two years to complete. Students must complete coursework in areas such as marketing, finance, economics, accounting, operations management, and human resources management. In addition to coursework, students may also participate in internships or field experiences to gain hands-on experience in retail management.

To get this degree, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and must meet any other requirements set by the school they are applying to. Applicants should also have strong analytical and problem solving skills as well as excellent communication skills.

The cost of this degree varies depending on the school and whether or not it is an online program. Generally speaking, tuition for a Master of Science in Business Administration with a Concentration in Retail Management ranges from $20,000-$50,000 depending on the school and program duration.

Do You Really Need a Assistant Merchandiser Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual person and their career aspirations. Some people may find that having an assistant merchandiser certificate will give them a competitive edge in the job market, while others may not need it for their particular career goals.

If someone is looking to work in retail or fashion as a merchandiser, then having an assistant merchandiser certificate could be beneficial. This type of certification demonstrates that the individual has knowledge in the field and can help employers ensure they are hiring someone who is well-prepared and capable of performing the job duties. It also shows that the individual has taken the initiative to further their education and gain additional skills. Additionally, some employers may require applicants to have a certain level of certification before they are considered for hire.

On the other hand, if someone is looking to pursue a different role in retail or fashion, such as marketing or design, then an assistant merchandiser certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, employers are likely more interested in seeing relevant experience and education related to those roles.

Ultimately, it is up to each individual person to decide whether or not obtaining an assistant merchandiser certificate would be beneficial for them based on their own career goals and current industry demands.

Related: Assistant Merchandiser Resume Examples

FAQs About Assistant Merchandiser Certifications

1. What is an Assistant Merchandiser Certification?

An Assistant Merchandiser Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the field of merchandising. It focuses on the fundamentals of merchandising, such as pricing, product selection, inventory management, and customer service.

2. How long does it take to get certified as an Assistant Merchandiser?

The duration of the certification program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally, most programs can be completed within 6 months to 1 year.

3. What qualifications do I need to become an Assistant Merchandiser?

In order to become an Assistant Merchandiser, you must have a high school diploma or equivalent qualification such as GED/TASC/HiSET. Additionally, some institutions may require applicants to have completed specific courses in marketing or retailing prior to enrollment in their certification program.

4. Is there any cost associated with becoming an Assistant Merchandiser?

Yes, there is typically a fee associated with enrolling in the certification program and taking the exam at the end of it. The exact cost will vary by institution and should be discussed before signing up for the coursework.

5. What are some job opportunities available after getting certified as an Assistant Merchandiser?

Once you receive your certification as an Assistant Merchandiser, you will be qualified for entry-level positions in retail stores and online stores such as buying assistant, visual merchandising specialist, sales associate, etc. Additionally, many merchandisers eventually move into higher-level positions such as store manager or buyer after gaining experience in the field.