Top 10 Business Operations Specialist Certifications

Certifications are an important way for a business operations specialist to showcase their knowledge and expertise in the job market. They demonstrate that the specialist has taken the time to gain a deeper understanding of their field, as well as the necessary skills and qualifications to excel in it. Certifications can also provide potential employers with a sense of confidence that the specialist is knowledgeable in their area of expertise and can be trusted to handle complex tasks. Finally, certifications can help set a business operations specialist apart from other applicants, making them more attractive to employers.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Business Operations Specialists and explain how they can help advance a career in business operations.

What are Business Operations Specialist Certifications?

Business operations specialist certification is a program designed to help professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective business operations specialist. This type of certification can be beneficial for those who want to work in a variety of industries, including finance, accounting, technology, healthcare, manufacturing, and more.

The primary goal of this type of certification is to provide individuals with an understanding of the various aspects of business operations and how they interact with each other. Through this certification program, individuals will learn how to analyze data and create strategies that improve operational efficiency. They will also develop their problem-solving skills as they identify and address issues related to business operations.

In addition to learning about the fundamentals of business operations, individuals who complete this certification program will also develop leadership skills that can help them manage teams and coordinate projects more effectively. With these skills, they can lead their teams more efficiently while helping the organization meet its goals in a timely manner.

Overall, business operations specialist certification gives individuals the tools they need to become successful business operations specialists. It provides them with the knowledge and experience needed to make informed decisions that improve operational efficiency and support organizational goals. As such, it can be a valuable asset for those looking for career growth in a wide range of industries.

Pro Tip: Obtaining a business operations specialist certification can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field. Research and review available certifications to find the one that best fits your experience, knowledge, and career goals. Make sure to take advantage of any online learning resources or courses offered by the certifying body in order to prepare for the exam.

Related: What does a Business Operations Specialist do?

Top 10 Business Operations Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Operations Specialists today.

1. Certified Business Operations Specialist (CBOS)

Certified Business Operations Specialist (CBOS) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the areas of business operations, process improvement, and organizational development. The CBOS certification is offered through the International Association of Business Process Professionals (IABPP).

The CBOS certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in business operations or related fields. Applicants must also pass a written exam that covers topics such as process improvement, project management, and organizational development. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get the CBOS certification, applicants must first register with the IABPP and pay a fee of $150 USD. After registering, applicants will be provided with access to study materials and practice exams to help them prepare for the written exam. Once they have completed their studies, applicants can schedule their exam date with the IABPP. Upon passing the written exam, applicants will receive their CBOS certification from the IABPP.

The cost for obtaining the CBOS certification is $150 USD for registration fees plus any additional costs associated with studying for and taking the written exam.

2. Certified Professional in Business Operations (CPBO)

Certified Professional in Business Operations (CPBO) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to help individuals become certified professionals in business operations. The CPBO certification is offered by the International Association of Business Operations Professionals (IABOP).

The CPBO certification program consists of three levels: Certified Professional in Business Operations (CPBO), Advanced Certified Professional in Business Operations (ACPBO), and Master Certified Professional in Business Operations (MCPBO). Each level requires a different set of qualifications and tests, as well as continuing education requirements.

To become a CPBO, applicants must have at least two years of experience working in business operations or a related field. They must also pass the IABOP’s written exam and demonstrate their knowledge and skills through an oral examination. The written exam covers topics such as operational management, customer service, financial management, and project management. The oral examination focuses on problem solving, decision making, communication skills, and other related topics.

The cost for the CPBO certification is $495 USD for IABOP members and $595 USD for non-members. It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all the requirements for the CPBO certification.

In order to maintain the CPBO certification, individuals must complete 30 hours of continuing education every three years. This includes attending conferences and workshops or taking online courses related to business operations or related fields.

3. Certified Business Process Professional (CBPP)

Certified Business Process Professional (CBPP) is a certification offered by the Association of Business Process Management Professionals (ABPMP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in business process management. The CBPP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as process design, process improvement, process optimization, and process governance.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CBPP certification program. To become certified, applicants must pass an online exam and submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in business process management. Applicants must also attend an ABPMP-approved training course or workshop prior to taking the exam.

The cost of obtaining the CBPP certification varies depending on the type of training that is chosen. The cost of the online exam is $495 USD and the cost of attending an ABPMP-approved training course or workshop ranges from $500-$2000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with submitting a portfolio for review.

4. Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB)

Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (CLSSBB) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt has a thorough understanding of all aspects of the Lean Six Sigma Method, including how to implement, perform, interpret and apply it to improve processes within an organization.

The CLSSBB certification typically requires three to four weeks of intensive training on the principles and tools of Lean Six Sigma. The training covers topics such as project management, process improvement techniques, data analysis, problem-solving methods, and team dynamics. After completing the training program, candidates must pass a written exam and complete a project demonstrating their ability to apply the principles of Lean Six Sigma in real-life situations.

The cost of obtaining a CLSSBB certification varies depending on the provider and type of program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 - $5,000 USD for online courses or up to $10,000 USD for in-person classes.

5. Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA)

Certified Quality Improvement Associate (CQIA) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of quality improvement principles, processes, and tools. The CQIA certification is intended to provide recognition for those who have achieved a level of competency in quality improvement.

The CQIA certification requires the completion of a three-day training course, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within four hours. To become certified, candidates must achieve a score of at least 70 percent on the exam.

The cost to take the CQIA certification course varies depending on location and provider; however, it typically costs between $1,000 and $2,000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam or purchasing study materials.

Once certified, CQIAs are required to complete continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

6. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). It is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chain activities. The CSCP program provides individuals with the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of end-to-end supply chain management concepts and best practices.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online self-study course, a 3-hour proctored exam, and a one-year membership in ASCM. The self-study course covers topics such as supply chain design, operations, sourcing, logistics, inventory management, customer service, risk management and technology. The exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of the material covered in the self-study course.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to complete the CSCP program depending on how quickly you work through the self-study course and when you are able to take the exam. To get started with your CSCP certification process you will need to register for an account on ASCM's website and purchase access to the study materials which cost $695 USD for members or $995 USD for nonmembers. After completing your studies you will then need to schedule your proctored exam which costs $495 USD for members or $695 USD for nonmembers. Upon successful completion of all three components of the program you will receive your CSCP certification from ASCM.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification for project managers, offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the world and demonstrates a project manager’s commitment to excellence in their profession. The PMP credential recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on your level of experience. To be eligible for the PMP certification, you must meet certain requirements such as having a minimum of 4,500 hours of project management experience within the last 8 years or 7,500 hours within the last 15 years. You must also have 35 contact hours of formal education in project management topics.

To get your PMP certification, you must first apply online through PMI’s website and pay an application fee. Once approved, you can register for the exam through Prometric or Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of registering for the exam is $405 USD for members of PMI and $555 USD for non-members. After taking and passing the exam, you will receive your official PMP certificate from PMI.

8. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is an internationally recognized certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed for experienced business analysts who have a minimum of 7500 hours of experience in the field. The CBAP designation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in the areas of business analysis, requirements management, project management, and process improvement.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for the CBAP exam. To become certified, you must pass a rigorous three-hour multiple choice exam that covers topics such as business analysis planning and monitoring, enterprise analysis, requirements management and communication, solution assessment and validation, and underlying competencies. You must also provide evidence of your work experience in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost to take the CBAP exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $325 USD to register for the exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with study materials or prep courses.

9. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage IT services. It is based on the ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) framework, which is a set of best practices for managing IT services. The certification covers the basics of service management, such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operation, and continual service improvement.

The ITIL Foundation Certification typically takes around 20-30 hours to complete depending on your experience level. To get certified, you must pass an exam that consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The exam can be taken either online or in person at an accredited training center.

The cost of the ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on where you take it and what type of study materials you use. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 for the exam fee and $100-$200 for study materials such as books or online courses.

Overall, obtaining an ITIL Foundation Certification is a great way to demonstrate your understanding of best practices in IT service management and can help you stand out from other job applicants or advance your career in the field of IT.

10. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to improve the quality of processes, products, and services within organizations. The certification is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ), the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC), and the International Quality Federation (IQF).

The certification process typically takes between four to six months to complete. During this time, candidates must pass an exam that covers topics such as DMAIC (Define-Measure-Analyze-Improve-Control) methodology, statistical analysis tools, problem solving techniques, project management principles, and more. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge through a project or case study.

In order to obtain a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, candidates must first meet certain prerequisites. These may include having prior experience in Lean or Six Sigma methods, completing a qualifying course or training program, or having work experience in a related field. Once these requirements are met, candidates can register for an exam with one of the certifying bodies listed above.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on which organization is providing it. Generally speaking, ASQ charges around $400 USD for its certification exams while IASSC charges around $500 USD and IQF charges around $600 USD.

Do You Really Need a Business Operations Specialist Certificate?

Whether or not you need a business operations specialist certificate depends on your individual goals and career aspirations. The certificate can be beneficial if you are looking to increase your knowledge in the area of business operations and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the skills necessary to fill such positions.

The certificate can help you stand out from other applicants by showing that you have taken the initiative to gain additional training and education in this field. Additionally, it can provide proof that you understand the concepts and principles behind business operations and are capable of applying them to real-world scenarios.

However, even if you don't plan on pursuing a career in business operations, the certificate may still be beneficial for some people. It could provide an opportunity to learn more about how businesses operate, which could prove useful regardless of what field you decide to work in. It could also give you an edge when it comes to job interviews or internships, as employers may appreciate your willingness to invest time into learning new skills and gaining valuable knowledge.

In conclusion, whether or not a business operations specialist certificate is right for you depends on your individual goals and aspirations. If this type of certification fits into your plans for the future, then it is certainly worth considering as it could open up many doors for you professionally.

Related: Business Operations Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Operations Specialist Certifications

1. What is a Business Operations Specialist Certification?

A Business Operations Specialist Certification is a recognition of an individual’s knowledge and skills related to the operations of businesses. It typically requires an individual to pass a series of exams to demonstrate their understanding of business processes, organizational structure, management principles, and more.

2. Who should consider getting a Business Operations Specialist Certification?

Business professionals who are interested in improving their knowledge and skills related to business operations should consider getting a certification. This includes people who work in areas such as project management, process improvement, analytics, strategic planning, and customer service.

3. What are the benefits of getting a Business Operations Specialist Certification?

Getting a certification can help you stand out from other job applicants and demonstrate your commitment to professional development. It also gives you the opportunity to gain recognition among industry peers and employers for your expertise in business operations-related topics. Additionally, it can open up opportunities for career advancement or even help you switch careers altogether.

4. How do I get certified as a Business Operations Specialist?

The first step is usually to identify an approved certification program that meets your needs and interests. You will then need to complete all requirements for the program such as passing exams or completing courses related to business operations topics. Once all requirements have been met, you will be eligible for the certification award.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a Business Operations Specialist?

The timeline depends on the specific certification program that you choose but generally speaking it could range from several months up to one year or more depending on how much time you are able to dedicate towards studying and completing all required coursework or exams associated with the program.