Top 10 Associate Producer Certifications

Certifications for associate producers are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of professional knowledge and expertise that employers value. Certifications can also provide an edge over other applicants who may not have taken the time to obtain such credentials. Certification programs allow producers to gain specialized skills and knowledge, as well as provide evidence of their dedication to their craft and commitment to excellence. Additionally, certifications can help producers stand out in a crowded field of applicants by demonstrating a higher level of expertise and proficiency in their chosen field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Associate Producers and explains how they can help to advance an associate producer's career.

What are Associate Producer Certifications?

Associate Producer Certification is a program offered by the Producers Guild of America (PGA) that provides aspiring producers with the knowledge and skills needed to work in film and television production. This certification helps producers gain recognition, advance their careers, and become more competitive in the industry. The certification program consists of four online courses that cover topics such as budgeting, scheduling, marketing, legal issues in production, and more. Upon successful completion of all four courses, students are eligible to receive an Associate Producer Certificate from the PGA.

The certification can help producers gain credibility in the industry by demonstrating their commitment to professional development and understanding of important production principles. It also provides access to exclusive job postings and fellowship opportunities with the PGA, which can help them secure positions within the industry. Additionally, by completing this certification program, producers can demonstrate their ability to work efficiently on a project from start to finish while adhering to industry standards.

Pro Tip: Before signing up for an associate producer certification program, research the institution offering it to ensure that the program is accredited and the instructors are well-qualified. Additionally, make sure to read through the program's course materials to understand what topics will be covered in detail and what skills you will need to be successful in the certification process.

Related: What does an Associate Producer do?

Top 10 Associate Producer Certifications

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

1. Certified Associate Producer (CAP)

Certified Associate Producer (CAP) is a certification program offered by the Producers Guild of America (PGA). It is designed to provide an entry-level credential for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a producer or production manager in the entertainment industry. The program is open to all professionals, regardless of experience level, and provides a comprehensive introduction to the craft and business of producing.

The CAP program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as budgeting, scheduling, contracts, union regulations, copyright law, and marketing. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course. After successful completion of the course, participants must pass an exam with a minimum score of 80%.

The cost for the CAP program is $395 USD. This fee includes access to the online course material and one attempt at taking the exam. If you fail the exam on your first attempt, you can retake it for an additional fee of $50 USD.

To get Certified Associate Producer (CAP) certification, you must first register for the program on PGA’s website. Once registered, you will receive access to the online course materials which you must complete within six months from registration date. After completing the online course successfully, you will be eligible to take the exam which must be taken within three months from completion date.

2. Certified Production Manager (CPM)

Certified Production Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize those who have achieved a level of expertise in the management of production operations. It is administered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS).

The CPM certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, quality control, project management, and cost analysis. The exam consists of two parts: the first part is a multiple-choice test and the second part is an essay-style test. The total time allotted for both parts is three hours.

To be eligible to take the CPM exam, applicants must have at least five years of experience in production management or related fields. Applicants must also complete a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education courses related to production management prior to taking the exam.

The cost for taking the CPM exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $450-$600 USD. Additionally, there are several study materials available online at various prices that can help you prepare for the exam.

3. Certified Broadcast Producer (CBP)

Certified Broadcast Producer (CBP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in the field of broadcast production. The CBP certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in areas such as budgeting, scripting, editing, directing, and post-production.

The CBP program consists of two parts: an online study course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as budgeting, scripting, editing, directing, and post-production. It also includes hands-on exercises to help reinforce the material learned from the course. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that test an individual’s knowledge on various aspects of broadcast production.

In order to obtain the CBP certification, individuals must complete both the online course and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. The entire process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete depending on how quickly an individual can study and take the exam.

The cost for obtaining the CBP certification varies depending on which package you purchase from NAB. The most basic package costs $399 USD and includes access to the online course materials and one attempt at taking the exam. There are other packages available that include additional attempts at taking the exam or access to additional resources such as webinars or live workshops for a higher fee.

4. Certified Professional Video Producer (CPVP)

Certified Professional Video Producer (CPVP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Video Production Professionals (NAVPP). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills, knowledge, and experience of video production professionals. This certification provides a way for employers to quickly identify qualified individuals who have achieved a level of excellence in their field.

The CPVP certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as pre-production, production, post-production, video editing, and video marketing. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their work experience in video production.

In order to become certified, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in video production or related fields. Applicants must also have completed at least one full-length project within the last two years prior to applying for the certification.

The cost for the CPVP certification is $299 USD. The fee includes access to all study materials, the online exam, and a certificate upon successful completion of the program.

5. Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT)

Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who specialize in audio visual technology. This certification is offered by the International Communications Industries Association (ICIA) and is one of the most widely recognized certifications for audio visual professionals.

To become a Certified Audio Visual Technician, individuals must pass an exam administered by ICIA. The exam covers topics such as audio systems, video systems, signal transmission and distribution, system design, installation and maintenance. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to take the CAVT exam, individuals must first register with ICIA and pay an application fee. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD. Once registered, applicants can schedule their exam at any Prometric testing center worldwide.

Once applicants have successfully passed the CAVT exam they will be awarded a certificate of completion that is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years, applicants must retake the CAVT exam in order to maintain their certification status.

6. Certified Digital Media Producer (CDMP)

Certified Digital Media Producer (CDMP) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to create, produce, and manage digital media content. It is designed to help individuals develop a comprehensive understanding of the tools, techniques, and processes necessary for successful digital media production.

The CDMP program consists of three courses: Introduction to Digital Media Production; Advanced Digital Media Production; and Professional Digital Media Production. Each course includes lectures, hands-on activities, and assessments. The entire program takes approximately 12 weeks to complete.

To become a Certified Digital Media Producer (CDMP), individuals must successfully complete all three courses in the program. Upon completion of the program, individuals will receive a certificate from the International Association of Professional Digital Producers (IAPDP).

The cost for the CDMP program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,500-$2,000 USD for all three courses combined.

7. Certified Motion Picture and Television Producer (CMTP)

Certified Motion Picture and Television Producer (CMTP) is a professional certification program offered by the Producers Guild of America (PGA). The CMTP program is designed to recognize experienced motion picture and television producers who have demonstrated a high level of professional achievement in their field.

The CMTP program is open to any producer who has at least five years of experience producing motion pictures or television programs, including feature films, scripted series, documentaries, reality shows, and other types of programming. To qualify for the CMTP certification, producers must demonstrate knowledge in areas such as budgeting, scheduling, legal issues, marketing and distribution.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the process of obtaining a CMTP certification. The first step is to submit an application form along with supporting documents such as resumes and proof of production credits. Once the application is approved by the PGA’s Certification Committee, applicants must then pass an online exam that covers topics such as film financing, production management and legal issues. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their official CMTP certificate.

The cost for obtaining a CMTP certification varies depending on whether you are already a member of the Producers Guild or not. For non-members it costs $495 for the application fee plus $195 for the exam fee; for members it costs $295 for the application fee plus $195 for the exam fee.

8. Certified Live Event Producer (CLEP)

Certified Live Event Producer (CLEP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of experienced live event producers. It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to plan, design, and execute successful live events.

The CLEP program consists of three parts: an online course, a written exam, and a practical assessment. The online course covers topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing, production management, and more. The written exam tests your understanding of the material presented in the course. Finally, the practical assessment requires you to demonstrate your ability to apply the concepts learned in the course by producing a live event.

The entire process typically takes about 6 months to complete. To get started on your path to becoming certified as a Live Event Producer (CLEP), you must first register for the program through the Certified Live Event Producers website. Once registered, you will have access to all of the necessary materials needed for completion including the online course and exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a Live Event Producer (CLEP) varies depending on where you are located but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD for registration fees plus any additional costs associated with taking the exam or attending any required workshops or seminars.

9. Certified Creative Director (CCD)

A Certified Creative Director (CCD) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in creative direction and leadership. The certification is designed to demonstrate the individual’s knowledge of the creative process, as well as their ability to lead and manage creative teams.

The CCD certification is offered through the International Association of Creative Directors (IACD). To become certified, applicants must have at least 5 years of experience in a creative role and pass an online exam. The exam covers topics such as creative strategy, team management, project management, and client relations.

The cost for the CCD certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. In the United States, it costs $295 USD to apply for the certification. This fee includes access to study materials and practice tests, as well as the final exam.

Once an applicant has passed the exam and been approved by IACD, they will receive their CCD certificate within 6-8 weeks.

10. Certified Post Production Supervisor (CPPS)

Certified Post Production Supervisor (CPPS) is a certification program designed to recognize post production professionals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and experience in the field. It is offered by the Professional Video Producers Association (PVPA).

The CPPS program consists of three levels: Certified Post Production Supervisor, Certified Post Production Manager, and Advanced Certified Post Production Supervisor. Each level requires successful completion of a written exam and an oral assessment. The exams are based on industry-standard practices and techniques for post production supervision.

The program typically takes around two years to complete, depending on how quickly you are able to study and pass the exams. To get started, you must first join PVPA as a member and then register for the certification program. Once registered, you will receive access to study materials, practice tests, and other resources that will help prepare you for the exams.

The cost of the CPPS program varies depending on your membership status with PVPA. For non-members, it costs $1,500 USD; for members of PVPA it costs $750 USD; and for advanced members it costs $400 USD.

Do You Really Need a Associate Producer Certificate?

No, an associate producer certificate is not necessary to become an associate producer. It is possible to get a job as an associate producer without the certificate, and many employers prefer experience over any type of certification. However, having a certificate could be beneficial for certain jobs or situations.

For instance, if you’re applying for a job with a production company that requires its employees to have some kind of certification in order to be considered for the position, then having an associate producer certificate could help you stand out from other applicants. Additionally, if you are already working in the film industry but want to increase your knowledge and credentials in order to move up in the field, getting a certificate may make it easier for you to do so.

In summary, while having an associate producer certificate isn’t necessary to become an associate producer, it can provide certain advantages and is something potential employers may look for when considering applicants. Ultimately though, your experience and skill set are likely more important than any kind of certification.

Related: Associate Producer Resume Examples

FAQs About Associate Producer Certifications

1. What is an associate producer certification?

An associate producer certification is a credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and experience in the production of video and audio content.

2. How do I become certified as an associate producer?

In order to become certified, you must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as production planning, budgeting, directing, editing, post-production, and media distribution.

3. What are the benefits of having an associate producer certification?

Having an associate producer certification demonstrates your understanding of the fundamentals of television and film production, which can help you stand out in the job market. It also gives you access to resources and networking opportunities within the industry.

4. Is there a cost associated with obtaining an associate producer certification?

Yes, most certifications require some form of payment for tuition or examination fees. However, some organizations offer discounted rates or scholarships for those who qualify.

5. How long does it take to become certified as an associate producer?

The amount of time required to become certified varies depending on the organization offering the certification and how much prior experience you have in television or film production. Generally speaking, it will take between 6 months to a year to complete all requirements for certification.