Top 10 Associate Creative Director Certifications

Certifications for an associate creative director are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise, knowledge, and skill in their field. They show employers that the individual has taken the initiative to learn more and stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. Additionally, certifications can add credibility to a portfolio, making it easier to stand out from other candidates who may lack certifications. Finally, many employers look favorably upon certified candidates as they can be sure that the individual is well-versed in the area of focus.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Associate Creative Directors and explain how they can help further their career.

What are Associate Creative Director Certifications?

Associate Creative Director (ACD) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's ability to lead creative teams and develop effective creative strategies. This certification is offered by the Association of Professional Designers (APD), and it is open to professionals who have at least 5 years of experience in creative direction, design strategy, or project management.

The ACD certification requires individuals to complete a series of courses and exams that test their knowledge on topics such as managing multiple projects, creating effective designs, delivering results through collaboration with clients, and developing successful marketing campaigns. Upon completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate that can be used to demonstrate their expertise in the field. Additionally, certified members may also gain access to exclusive resources such as industry-specific job postings and networking opportunities.

Having an ACD certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the creative field. It shows potential employers that they are serious about their career and have taken steps to further their knowledge and skillset in order to be more successful in their chosen profession. In addition, having this certification can also demonstrate a commitment to professional development which may open up new opportunities for advancement within the company.

Pro Tip: When considering certification for an Associate Creative Director, research the most reputable and up-to-date certifications available. Some certifications may not be as comprehensive or comprehensive enough to demonstrate competency in the current field. Be sure to also consider any relevant continuing education courses or workshops that might help you further your knowledge and skillset.

Related: What does an Associate Creative Director do?

Top 10 Associate Creative Director Certifications

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

1. Certified Associate Creative Director (CACD)

A Certified Associate Creative Director (CACD) is an individual who has been recognized by the Association of Creative Directors (ACD) as having achieved a high level of professional competence in the field of creative direction. The CACD certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in their craft and are committed to furthering their knowledge and skills in the creative direction field.

It typically takes one to two years to complete the requirements for the CACD certification. To become certified, applicants must first complete an ACD-approved training program or equivalent experience, then pass a written exam that covers topics such as branding, advertising, marketing, and design principles. Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education courses every two years.

The cost for the CACD certification varies depending on the training program chosen and any additional fees associated with taking the written exam. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD.

2. Certified Professional Creative Director (CPCD)

Certified Professional Creative Director (CPCD) is a certification offered by the Association of Professional Creative Directors (APCD). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the creative director role. The CPCD certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to professional development and mastery of the creative director role.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria including: having a minimum of five years of experience as a creative director; completing at least 40 hours of continuing education related to the creative director role; and passing an exam.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as leadership, management, communication, budgeting, marketing, project management, and client relations. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $200 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will be awarded the Certified Professional Creative Director designation. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed. Renewal requires completion of 16 hours of continuing education credits every two years.

3. Certified Digital Creative Director (CDCD)

A Certified Digital Creative Director (CDCD) is a professional certification program designed to equip creative professionals with the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to lead digital creative projects for clients. The CDCD program was created by the American Advertising Federation (AAF) in partnership with Adobe and other industry partners.

The CDCD program consists of three courses: Digital Creative Strategy, Digital Creative Execution, and Digital Creative Leadership. Each course is approximately eight weeks long and requires approximately 10-15 hours of work per week. Participants will learn how to develop effective digital strategies, create engaging content, manage creative teams, and measure success in the digital space.

To get certified as a CDCD, you must complete all three courses within one year of enrollment in the program. You must also pass an online exam at the end of each course. The cost of the program varies depending on which courses you take; however, it typically ranges from $2,000-$3,500 USD.

4. Certified Advertising Creative Director (CACD)

Certified Advertising Creative Director (CACD) is a professional certification program for advertising creative directors. It is administered by the International Advertising Association (IAA). The CACD program is designed to recognize and promote excellence in the field of advertising creative direction.

The CACD certification process consists of three parts: an online application, a written exam, and an interview. The online application requires applicants to provide information about their professional background, experience, and achievements. After submitting the application, applicants are invited to take the written exam which covers topics such as strategic planning, creative problem solving, communication skills, and leadership. Finally, applicants must attend an interview with IAA representatives to discuss their qualifications and demonstrate their knowledge of the industry.

The CACD certification process typically takes between 4-6 months to complete. Applicants should expect to spend time preparing for the written exam and interview in order to ensure they are fully prepared for each stage of the process.

The cost of obtaining a CACD certification varies depending on the country you live in and whether or not you are already an IAA member. In most cases, however, it costs around $500 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

5. Certified Copywriting Creative Director (CCCD)

Certified Copywriting Creative Director (CCCD) is a professional certification program designed to help copywriters and creative directors develop the skills necessary to excel in their field. This certification is awarded by the International Association of Professional Copywriters and Editors (IAPCE).

The CCCD program requires applicants to complete a series of courses, including topics such as copywriting theory, creative strategy, persuasive writing, storytelling, and digital media. It also includes an online portfolio review and a final exam. The program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete.

In order to apply for the CCCD program, applicants must have at least two years of experience in copywriting or creative direction. They must also submit a resume and portfolio that demonstrates their experience in the field.

The cost of the CCCD program varies depending on the provider; however, it typically costs between $500-$1000 USD for all course materials and exams.

6. Certified Marketing Creative Director (CMCD)

Certified Marketing Creative Director (CMCD) is a certification program designed to recognize creative professionals who demonstrate the highest level of marketing knowledge and expertise. The certification is offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA).

The CMCD program consists of three courses: Creative Direction, Digital Strategy & Tactics, and Branding & Identity. Each course takes approximately 10 hours to complete, and all three must be completed within 12 months in order to receive the certification.

In order to get the CMCD certification, you must meet certain criteria. You must have at least five years of professional experience in marketing or related fields; have a bachelor’s degree or higher; and pass an exam that covers topics such as creative direction, digital strategy & tactics, branding & identity, and more.

The cost for the CMCD certification depends on which package you choose. The basic package costs $995 USD and includes access to all three courses plus an exam voucher. The premium package costs $1,495 USD and includes additional resources such as one-on-one coaching sessions with an AMA expert.

7. Certified Design Creative Director (CDCED)

Certified Design Creative Director (CDCED) is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of experienced design professionals. The program is offered by the International Council of Design (ico-D), a global network of design organizations.

The CDCED program provides an opportunity for experienced design professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in creative direction, strategy, and management. It also offers a way for employers to recognize the value of their employees’ experience and expertise.

The CDCED program consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person interview. The online assessment covers topics such as creative direction, strategy, project management, communication, and leadership. The in-person interview focuses on the candidate’s experience and knowledge of design principles and practices.

To get certified as a CDCED, you must first complete the online assessment with a score of 80% or higher. After passing the assessment, you will be invited to attend an in-person interview at one of ico-D’s regional offices. Upon successful completion of both components, you will receive your certificate from ico-D.

The cost for the CDCED program varies depending on your region; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

8. Certified Branding Creative Director (CBCD)

Certified Branding Creative Director (CBCD) is a professional certification program designed to help creative professionals develop their skills and knowledge in the field of branding. It is offered by the International Association of Creative Directors (IACD). The program focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of brand strategy, design, and implementation, as well as the ability to effectively lead creative teams.

The CBCD certification requires applicants to complete an online application and submit a portfolio of work that demonstrates their experience and expertise in branding. Applicants must also pass an exam that tests their knowledge and skills in the area of branding. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as brand strategy, design principles, communication strategies, marketing tactics, customer segmentation, and more.

The CBCD certification process typically takes about three months from start to finish. During this time, applicants will need to complete the online application form and submit their portfolio for review by IACD reviewers. Once approved, applicants will be required to take the exam which typically takes two hours to complete.

The cost for the CBCD certification is $395 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam.

9. Certified Production Creative Director (CPCD)

Certified Production Creative Director (CPCD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills of experienced production professionals. It is awarded by the Professional Video Production Association (PVPA).

The CPCD certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and expertise in all aspects of video production. This includes pre-production planning, budgeting, scheduling, directing, shooting, editing, post-production workflows, and more. To qualify for the CPCD certification program applicants must have at least five years of professional video production experience or equivalent education.

The CPCD certification process consists of a written exam and an interview with PVPA representatives. The written exam covers topics such as project management, creative problem solving, technical proficiency in video production tools and techniques, legal issues related to video production, and other related topics. The interview portion focuses on the applicant’s experience in video production as well as their ability to lead a team effectively.

The cost of the CPCD certification program varies depending on the applicant's geographic location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. The entire process can take anywhere from one month to six months depending on when the application is submitted and how quickly it is processed.

10. Certified Interactive Creative Director (CICD)

A Certified Interactive Creative Director (CICD) is a professional who has earned a certification that recognizes their expertise in the field of interactive design. This certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of creative direction, user experience, visual design, and technology development. It requires a combination of both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

The CICD certification is offered by the International Interactive Digital Media Association (IIDMA). To obtain this certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in interactive design and complete an online application form. Once approved, they must take an exam that covers topics such as multimedia production, web development, user interface design, and project management. The exam costs $295 USD and takes approximately four hours to complete.

Once certified, individuals are eligible to use the CICD designation after their name on resumes and business cards. They also gain access to exclusive job opportunities, networking events, and mentorship programs.

Do You Really Need a Associate Creative Director Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their goals. An Associate Creative Director Certificate can be a great way for someone to demonstrate their knowledge of the creative industry, but it is not necessary for everyone. Some people may decide that they would benefit from obtaining a certificate as part of their professional development and career advancement, while others may find that investing in other types of education or experience will be more beneficial for them.

Those looking to become an Associate Creative Director should consider what type of experience and background they have and whether or not a certificate would give them an advantage over others who are applying for the same position. If they already have a portfolio that showcases their creative skills, they may not need to obtain the certification. However, if they don’t yet have enough experience or feel like they need additional training in order to stand out from other applicants, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial.

For those who do decide to pursue an Associate Creative Director Certificate, it is important to research the different programs available and make sure that the program is reputable and will provide them with the skills needed to succeed in this field. Additionally, it is important to keep in mind that obtaining a certificate does not guarantee success—it simply serves as proof that you have taken the time and effort to learn about this profession and are serious about pursuing it.

Related: Associate Creative Director Resume Examples

FAQs About Associate Creative Director Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become an Associate Creative Director?

Answer: To become an Associate Creative Director, you typically need a degree in graphic design, fine art, advertising or a related field. You should also have several years of experience in creative leadership roles and demonstrate a strong understanding of brand strategy and creative execution.

2. How long does it take to become an Associate Creative Director?

Answer: Becoming an Associate Creative Director typically takes 5-7 years of professional experience in the creative industry. However, this time frame may vary depending on the individual's level of experience and expertise.

3. What is the average salary for an Associate Creative Director?

Answer: The average salary for an Associate Creative Director is $86,000 per year, according to Glassdoor. This number can vary widely depending on location and other factors such as industry experience and education level.

4. Are there any certifications that can help me become an Associate Creative Director?

Answer: Yes, there are several certifications available that can help you become an Associate Creative Director including Certified Professional Designer (CPD), Certified Graphic Design Professional (CGDP) and Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP). These certifications can give you the skills needed to excel in the creative field and make your resume stand out from other applicants.

5. What are some job responsibilities of an Associate Creative Director?

Answer: As an Associate Creative Director, your job responsibilities include leading a team of creatives to develop innovative concepts; creating compelling visuals; overseeing production processes; staying up-to-date with industry trends; managing budgets; and collaborating with clients on projects.