Top 11 Business Management Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for business management consultants in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers seek. Certified business management consultants have demonstrated their understanding of best practices, industry standards, and applicable laws. They also have a greater chance of being hired over non-certified candidates due to their specialized skillset. Certification also helps to distinguish a consultant from others who may claim similar experience but lack the same level of professional development and qualifications. Certifications can also help open doors to new opportunities as employers recognize the value of these credentials.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for Business Management Consultants and explain how they can help enhance their career.

What are Business Management Consultant Certifications?

Business management consultant certification is a professional credential that recognizes the expertise of individuals who specialize in providing advice and guidance on business practices and strategies. This certification can be obtained through various organizations, such as the Institute of Management Consultants (IMC), which offers a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) designation.

The CMC credential demonstrates to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that an individual has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to provide effective business consulting services. It signifies commitment to ethical practice as well as mastery of relevant theoretical concepts and practical techniques in areas such as organizational development, change management, financial analysis, strategic planning, marketing strategy, and operations management.

For those looking to demonstrate their expertise in business consulting or simply advance their career opportunities in the field, obtaining a CMC designation can be invaluable. The certification provides recognition for their accomplishments and establishes credibility with potential employers or clients. Furthermore, it can help individuals stand out from their peers when applying for jobs or seeking new clients. Additionally, this credential may also lead to higher salaries or more lucrative consulting opportunities due to its validation of competence within the industry.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements and process for obtaining a business management consultant certification before beginning your application. It is important to understand the specific credentials, education, and experience necessary in order to be eligible for the certification. Additionally, it is helpful to review any professional associations or organizations that offer certifications so that you can learn more about the process and what you need to do in order to become certified.

Related: What does a Business Management Consultant do?

Top 11 Business Management Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Management Consultants today.

1. Certified Management Consultant (CMC)

Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is an international designation awarded to individuals who demonstrate a high level of professional knowledge and experience in the field of management consulting. The CMC designation is recognized by organizations worldwide as a mark of excellence.

It takes approximately one year to become a Certified Management Consultant (CMC). To qualify for the CMC, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in management consulting and/or related fields, such as strategy, operations, finance, human resources, or technology. They must also complete a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education in management consulting topics within the last three years.

In addition to these requirements, applicants must pass an exam administered by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA). This exam covers topics such as business strategy, problem-solving techniques, project management skills, and communication strategies.

The cost to become a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) varies depending on the country in which you are applying. In the United States, it typically costs around $1,000 USD to apply for the CMC designation. This fee includes application fees and exam fees.

2. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills and experience of business analysts. The CBAP certification recognizes individuals who have mastered the business analysis body of knowledge, which includes techniques for gathering and analyzing requirements, managing stakeholders, designing solutions, and validating results.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to have at least 7500 hours of hands-on business analysis experience over the past 10 years. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge through a written exam that covers six key areas of business analysis: enterprise analysis, requirements planning & management, requirements elicitation & collaboration, solution assessment & validation, underlying competencies and strategies for business analysis.

To get certified as a CBAP you must first apply for the certification through IIBA's website. Once your application has been accepted you will be required to take an online exam which consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $325 USD. After passing the exam you will receive your CBAP certificate within 6-8 weeks.

The cost to obtain a Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. Generally speaking it can range from $500-$1000 USD depending on what type of training or preparation materials you purchase in addition to the $325 USD exam fee.

3. Certified Project Manager (PMP)

Certified Project Manager (PMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and experience of project managers in the field of project management. The PMP credential is one of the most sought-after certifications in the world for project managers.

It typically takes about 6 months to prepare for and complete the PMP certification exam. The preparation process involves studying for and taking practice exams, understanding the PMP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, completing an application form, and attending a review course or workshop.

To get PMP certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These include having a minimum of four years of project management experience within the last eight years or a minimum of three years if you have a degree in project management-related fields. You must also have completed 35 hours of formal education in project management topics within five years prior to applying for certification.

The cost of getting PMP certified can vary depending on your location and other factors such as whether you take an online course or attend an in-person training session. Generally speaking, it costs around $400-$600 USD to register for the exam itself, plus additional fees for any courses or workshops that you may take to prepare for it.

4. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to provide professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to lead successful Six Sigma projects and teams.

The certification requires a minimum of two years of experience working with Six Sigma, as well as completion of a rigorous training program. The training program typically consists of classroom instruction, online learning, and project work. Depending on the provider, the course can take anywhere from four to six weeks to complete.

To get certified, 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 exam covers topics such as process improvement, statistical analysis, data collection and analysis, project management, and team dynamics. Candidates must also demonstrate proficiency in the DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) methodology.

The cost of a Six Sigma Black Belt Certification varies depending on the provider and can range from $3,000 to $5,000 USD.

5. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to teach and validate the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively lead agile projects. Certified ScrumMasters are expected to have a deep understanding of the Scrum framework, its roles, events, and artifacts. They are also expected to be able to apply this knowledge in practice by facilitating the successful implementation of Scrum within an organization.

It typically takes two days to complete the CSM training course and receive certification. The course is offered by organizations such as Scrum Alliance or Ken Schwaber's Scrum.org, and is typically led by an experienced Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). The cost of the course varies depending on the trainer and location, but generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,500 USD.

In order to become certified as a CSM, you must attend an official two-day CSM training course taught by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). After completing the course, you will need to pass an online assessment in order to receive your certification.

6. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

The Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in quality improvement. The CQIA credential is an internationally recognized certification that provides a comprehensive understanding of quality improvement principles and practices.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by ASQ. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as quality management systems, process improvement, problem solving, and statistical analysis. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the CQIA exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in a quality-related field or have completed a minimum of 24 hours of formal education in quality-related topics.

The cost for taking the CQIA exam is $399 USD for ASQ members and $499 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CQIA certificate and digital badge within two weeks.

7. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and understanding of the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help professionals improve their business processes, increase efficiency, reduce waste, and ultimately improve customer satisfaction.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete. This includes completing online coursework, attending in-person classes or workshops, and taking the final exam. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but can range from $500-$2,000 USD.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete a series of courses or workshops that cover topics such as process improvement, problem solving techniques, data analysis tools, project management strategies, and more. After completing these courses or workshops, you must then pass an exam to demonstrate your mastery of the material. Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, you will be able to demonstrate your skills in Lean Six Sigma methodology to employers and other stakeholders.

8. Chartered Institute of Management Consultants (CIMC)

The Chartered Institute of Management Consultants (CIMC) is a professional body for management consultants, providing accreditation and training to those working in the field. It is the only institute in the UK that awards Chartered status to management consultants.

To become a member of CIMC, you must have at least five years’ relevant experience in the field of management consulting, as well as having achieved an appropriate qualification. This could be either an accredited degree or a postgraduate diploma in management consultancy. You will also need to demonstrate your commitment to professional development and ethical practice.

Once you have met these requirements, you can apply for membership with CIMC online. The application process typically takes around four weeks, during which time your qualifications and experience will be assessed by CIMC’s Membership Committee. If successful, you will be invited to attend an induction day at CIMC’s London office where you will receive your certificate of membership and access to the institute’s resources and services.

The cost of joining CIMC varies depending on your level of experience and qualifications but typically ranges from £200-£400 per year including VAT. This fee covers your membership subscription as well as access to CIMC’s library and other resources such as webinars and conferences.

9. International Association of Facilitators (IAF)

The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) is a professional association for facilitators, coaches, and trainers who work in the fields of group dynamics, organizational development, and change management. The IAF was founded in 1994 with the mission to promote the highest standards of facilitation practice and to create a global network of facilitators.

IAF offers certification programs that are designed to provide practitioners with a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge that they need to be successful in their practice. The certification program consists of three levels: Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF), Master Certified Professional Facilitator (MCPF), and Fellow Certified Professional Facilitator (FCPF).

The process for becoming certified can take anywhere from six months to two years depending on the level you are pursuing. To become certified, you must complete an application form, provide references, submit a portfolio demonstrating your facilitation experience, pass an exam, and attend an interview with members of the IAF Certification Committee.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on the level you are pursuing. For CPF certification, it costs $400 USD for members or $600 USD for non-members. For MCPF certification, it costs $800 USD for members or $1,000 USD for non-members. Finally, FCPF certification costs $1,500 USD for members or $2,000 USD for non-members.

10. Change Management Practitioner Certification

Change Management Practitioner Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide practitioners with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage change in their organizations. It is offered by the Change Management Institute (CMI) and consists of three levels: Foundation, Advanced, and Professional.

The Foundation level provides an introduction to change management concepts and principles, while the Advanced level covers more complex topics such as stakeholder engagement, communication, resistance management, and leading change. The Professional level focuses on developing the skills needed to lead successful change initiatives.

The certification process takes approximately six months to complete. Candidates must first pass a multiple-choice exam for each level before they can move on to the next one. After passing all three exams, candidates will receive their Change Management Practitioner Certificate from CMI.

The cost of the certification varies depending on which country you are located in. In the United States, it typically costs around $1,000 for all three levels combined.

11. Organizational Leadership Certificate Program

Organizational Leadership Certificate Program is a professional development program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective organizational leaders. The program focuses on developing leadership competencies such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and team building. It also covers topics like strategic planning, organizational change management, and conflict resolution.

The length of the program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, it takes between six months to two years to complete the certificate program. The amount of time required depends on the number of courses taken and how quickly one can complete them.

To get an Organizational Leadership Certificate Program, one must first apply for admission at an accredited institution offering the program. Once accepted into the program, students will be required to take a series of classes related to organizational leadership topics such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, team building, strategic planning and more. After completing all course requirements successfully, students will receive their certificate in organizational leadership.

The cost of an Organizational Leadership Certificate Program varies from institution to institution; however, most programs cost around $5,000-$10,000 depending on the length of the program and number of courses taken.

Do You Really Need a Business Management Consultant Certificate?

When it comes to the question of whether or not you need a business management consultant certificate, the answer largely depends on your individual needs and goals. It’s important to consider what type of consulting services you are interested in offering, as well as what type of clients you want to attract. If you are looking to become a highly sought-after consultant with specialized knowledge, then obtaining a business management consultant certificate may be beneficial.

A business management consultant certificate can provide you with the skills and credentials necessary to gain credibility within the industry. This certification will help demonstrate that you have been trained and have obtained an understanding of specific areas in business management. Depending on which program is chosen, the curriculum could include topics such as financial analysis, organizational development, strategic planning, problem solving, marketing strategies and more. With this knowledge and background, potential clients can trust that you have the expertise needed to effectively advise them in their business endeavors.

Having a professional certification also provides assurance that your services are up-to-date with current trends in the industry. Additionally, certification programs often require continuing education credits or other methods for staying current on new developments in order for consultants to maintain their credentials. By participating in these activities and keeping your knowledge base fresh and relevant, potential clients will recognize that you are invested in providing quality service and advice.

In conclusion, obtaining a business management consultant certificate may be beneficial for those seeking to become highly qualified professionals who are trusted by their clients. It helps demonstrate expertise in certain areas while also providing assurance that consultants keep up with current industry trends through continuing education credits or other requirements set forth by certifying bodies. Ultimately though, it is up to each individual to decide if they need this certification based on their own unique needs and goals when it comes to offering consulting services.

Related: Business Management Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Management Consultant Certifications

1. What is a Business Management Consultant Certification?

Answer: A Business Management Consultant Certification is an accreditation that recognizes the professional knowledge and skills of a person in providing consulting services to businesses and organizations. It demonstrates expertise in areas such as strategy, operations, finance, marketing, and project management.

2. How do I become a Certified Business Management Consultant?

Answer: To become a Certified Business Management Consultant, you must meet certain educational requirements, such as completing a degree program in business or management-related fields. You may also need to pass an examination administered by the certifying body and have at least two years of relevant work experience.

3. What are the benefits of having a Business Management Consultant Certification?

Answer: Having a Business Management Consultant Certification can open up new career opportunities and help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. It can also give you more credibility with potential clients, as well as provide access to industry networks and resources.

4. Is it necessary to renew my certification?

Answer: Yes, many certifying bodies require that you renew your certification every few years to maintain its validity. This usually involves completing additional continuing education courses or passing another exam.

5. Are there any online options for obtaining a Business Management Consultant Certification?

Answer: Yes, some certifying bodies offer online courses or exams that you can take in order to obtain your certification without attending classes in person or traveling to take an exam.