Top 11 Change Analyst Certifications

Certifications for a change analyst are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for when hiring. Certifications provide proof of an individual's competency in their area of expertise, and can help set them apart from other applicants. Additionally, certifications can provide assurance to employers that the individual has the appropriate skillset and qualifications necessary to successfully complete the position. Finally, certifications can also help validate an individual's credibility and serve as an additional resource during interviews.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Change Analysts and explains how they can help to advance a Change Analyst's career.

What are Change Analyst Certifications?

Change analyst certification is a professional designation that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the field of change management. Change analysts are responsible for helping organizations understand and respond to the impact of change on their operations, processes, and employees. The certification provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify, analyze, plan, and implement organizational changes effectively.

Change analysts help organizations ensure that the implementation of new initiatives or strategies goes as smoothly as possible by helping to reduce resistance to change and minimize disruption to operations. They do this by assessing the impact of proposed changes on existing systems and processes, developing plans for implementing them successfully, and monitoring progress throughout the change process. Additionally, they provide guidance on how best to communicate changes to stakeholders such as employees and customers.

By obtaining a change analyst certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to staying up-to-date with current best practices in the field of change management. This can help organizations trust that those certified have the necessary experience and expertise needed for successful organizational transformation projects. Additionally, having certified professionals on staff can help increase an organization’s ability to anticipate potential challenges related to any given initiative or strategy before they arise, allowing them to proactively address any issues that may arise during implementation.

Pro Tip: When pursuing change analyst certification, it is important to familiarize yourself with the relevant frameworks and best practices associated with change management. Additionally, gaining hands-on experience in a change management role can help you better understand the concepts and techniques needed to become certified.

Related: What does a Change Analyst do?

Top 11 Change Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Change Analysts today.

1. Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)

Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in change management.

The CCMP certification is based on the ACMP Standard for Change Management, which outlines the knowledge, skills and abilities required to be successful in change management. It requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of change management principles, processes and tools through an exam and practical application.

The CCMP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The exam covers topics such as change management principles, process design, stakeholder engagement, communication strategies and implementation planning.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in change management or related fields. They must also complete an approved training program or pass an examination administered by the ACMP.

The cost of the CCMP certification depends on the training program chosen. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000 and $3,000 USD for the training program plus additional fees for registration and examination costs.

2. Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMPP)

Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMPP) is an industry-recognized professional certification that demonstrates a practitioner’s knowledge and skills in the field of change management. It is designed to help practitioners apply best practices in their change management initiatives. The CCMPP certification is awarded by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP).

The CCMPP certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the field of change management, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and covers topics such as change theory, stakeholder analysis, communication strategies, project planning, and evaluation methods.

In order to get the CCMPP certification, applicants must first complete an online application form and pay the applicable fee. Once approved, they will be sent instructions on how to access the exam. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from ACMP.

The cost for taking the CCMPP exam is $495 USD for members of ACMP or $595 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials and practice tests prior to taking the actual exam.

3. Certified Change Analyst (CCA)

A Certified Change Analyst (CCA) is a professional who has been certified by the International Association of Change Management Professionals (IACMP). The CCA certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of change management. It is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s ability to lead successful change initiatives.

To become a CCA, you must first complete the IACMP’s Change Management Professional Certification Program, which consists of two courses: Fundamentals of Change Management and Advanced Change Management. This program is offered online or in-person and typically takes between 12-20 hours to complete. Once you have completed the program, you will need to pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive your certification.

The cost for the IACMP’s Change Management Professional Certification Program varies depending on whether you take it online or in-person, but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. After successfully completing the program and passing the exam, there is an additional fee of $150 USD for your CCA certification.

4. Certified Change Manager (CCM)

Certified Change Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who are involved in managing change initiatives within an organization.

The CCM certification process consists of three steps:

1. Completing the ACMP's online learning course. This course covers topics such as change management principles, strategies, and techniques; organizational change processes; and leading successful change initiatives. The course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete.

2. Passing a 90-minute exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the online learning course.

3. Participating in an ACMP-approved mentorship program for at least six months prior to taking the exam. This program provides hands-on experience with real-world change management challenges and helps you develop your skills as a successful change manager.

The cost of obtaining the CCM certification varies depending on which components you choose to pursue. The online learning course costs $395 USD, while the exam fee is $495 USD and the mentorship program fee is $595 USD (all fees are subject to taxes). In total, obtaining the CCM certification can cost up to $1,485 USD (plus taxes).

5. Prosci Change Management Certification

Prosci Change Management Certification is a comprehensive program designed to help individuals and organizations develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage change. The certification is based on Prosci’s ADKAR model, which stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement. This model provides a framework for understanding how people experience change and how to effectively manage it.

The certification consists of three levels: Foundation (Level 1), Practitioner (Level 2), and Master (Level 3). Each level requires completion of an online assessment as well as an in-person workshop. The Foundation level takes approximately 8 hours to complete while the Practitioner level takes 16 hours and the Master level takes 24 hours.

In order to get certified, you must first register for the appropriate course at Prosci's website. Once registered, you will receive access to the online assessment that must be completed before attending the in-person workshop. After completing both components of each level, you will receive your certification from Prosci.

The cost of Prosci Change Management Certification varies depending on the level of certification desired. The Foundation Level costs $1,495 USD; the Practitioner Level costs $2,595 USD; and the Master Level costs $3,995 USD.

6. ITIL® Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management

The ITIL® Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s understanding of the key concepts, processes, and terminology used in the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). It is designed to provide knowledge and skills to those who are looking to improve the quality and efficiency of their organization’s IT services.

The Foundation Certificate takes approximately 16 hours to complete, depending on the provider. To get the certificate, individuals must pass an exam administered by an accredited training provider. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 60 minutes.

The cost of the Foundation Certificate varies depending on the training provider; however, it typically costs around $400 USD.

7. APMG International Change Management Foundation

APMG International Change Management Foundation is a certification program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage change within an organization. The certification provides recognition of an individual’s ability to understand and apply the principles of change management in a professional environment.

The APMG International Change Management Foundation certification requires candidates to pass an online examination. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes. To prepare for the exam, candidates should review the APMG International Change Management syllabus, which covers topics such as change management processes, models, techniques, and tools.

Candidates can register for the exam through the APMG website or through a local accredited training provider. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but generally ranges from $250-$350 USD.

Once a candidate has successfully passed the examination they will receive their official certificate from APMG International and will be recognized as an APMG Certified Change Manager (ACCM). This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or passing further examinations.

8. PROSCI ADKAR Model for Individual and Organizational Change

The PROSCI ADKAR Model is a change management model developed by Prosci, Inc. It is used to help individuals and organizations successfully manage change. The model stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement.

Awareness: This is the first step in the model. It involves understanding why the change is necessary and what it will mean for individuals and organizations. It also involves understanding how the change will impact stakeholders and how they can be involved in making it successful.

Desire: This step involves creating a desire to make the change happen. This includes motivating people to take action and inspiring them to embrace the new direction of the organization or project.

Knowledge: This step involves providing information about how to implement the change effectively. It includes teaching people what they need to do differently, how to use new tools or processes, and any other knowledge that is needed for successful implementation of the change.

Ability: This step focuses on providing resources and support so that people are able to apply their knowledge in practice. It includes training on new skills or processes as well as providing access to tools or technology that will enable people to make the transition successfully.

Reinforcement: This step focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors associated with the change by recognizing success and rewarding progress toward desired outcomes. It also involves addressing any issues that may arise during implementation of the change so that it can be managed effectively over time.

The PROSCI ADKAR Model can be implemented within an organization in a variety of ways depending on its size, complexity, timeline, budget, etc., but typically takes between 3-6 months from start to finish if done properly. The cost of implementing this model varies depending on factors such as scope of work required (e.g., consulting fees), training costs (e.g., materials), technology costs (e

9. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to lead Lean Six Sigma projects. It is designed to help organizations improve their processes, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification program typically takes four weeks to complete. During this time, participants learn how to identify process improvement opportunities, design and implement experiments, analyze data, and communicate results. They also learn how to use Lean Six Sigma tools such as value stream mapping, 5S methodology, and Kaizen events.

To get the Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, individuals must attend an accredited training course and pass a written exam. The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD for the full program.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills of project managers in leading and directing projects.

The PMP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours spent leading and directing projects, as well as 35 hours of project management education. Those without the required experience may still be eligible if they have a four-year degree or higher and at least three years of project management experience, with 4,500 hours spent leading and directing projects.

To get the PMP certification, applicants must first create an account on the PMI website. Once registered, they can then apply for the exam online. After submitting their application and providing proof of their experience and education requirements, they will receive an eligibility letter from PMI that will allow them to schedule their exam date.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, it costs $405 USD; for non-members it costs $555 USD. The exam itself takes four hours to complete and consists of 200 multiple choice questions covering five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling, Closing.

Once applicants pass the exam they will be officially certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP). This certification is valid for three years before needing to be renewed through continuing education credits or retaking the exam.

11. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a certification program offered by the Scrum Alliance, an organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of Scrum in organizations around the world. The CSM certification is designed to provide professionals with an understanding of the principles and practices of Scrum, as well as how to apply them in real-world situations.

The CSM program consists of two parts: a two-day classroom course and an online assessment. The classroom course provides participants with an introduction to the fundamentals of Scrum, including its roles, artifacts, and events. It also covers topics such as team dynamics, product ownership, sprint planning, and more. After completing the course, participants must pass an online assessment before they can be certified as a Certified Scrum Master.

The cost for taking the CSM course varies depending on where you take it and who is offering it. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $500-$2000 USD for the two-day course. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking the assessment or other materials needed for certification.

Overall, obtaining your Certified Scrum Master certification can take anywhere from one week to several months depending on when you are able to attend a course and complete your assessment.

Do You Really Need a Change Analyst Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a change analyst certificate. However, having a certificate in change analysis can be beneficial if you are looking to pursue a career or advance your current job in the field of change management. Change analysts help organizations identify and execute changes that will create positive outcomes for their business. Having a certificate in this field shows employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to implement successful change initiatives.

In addition to showing employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge, having a change analyst certificate can also provide credibility to your resume. It demonstrates that you have taken the time and effort to become proficient in this field, which can help you stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs. Many employers prefer to hire those with certifications as it shows they have taken the initiative to further their education and increase their knowledge base.

Finally, obtaining a change analyst certificate can open up new career opportunities in the field. Having this certification may qualify you for positions such as project managers or senior-level consultants who specialize in helping businesses manage large-scale changes. This type of certification also makes it easier for individuals to transition into other areas of change management such as organizational development and leadership roles.

Overall, while having a change analyst certificate is not required by all employers, it can be beneficial if you are looking to pursue a career or advance your current job in the field of change management. It demonstrates that you have taken the time and effort to become proficient in this field and can open up new career opportunities for those with the right qualifications.

Related: Change Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Change Analyst Certifications

Q1: What is a Change Analyst Certification?

A1: A Change Analyst Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your expertise in change management. It validates your knowledge and skills in the areas of organizational change, stakeholder engagement, and change implementation.

Q2: How do I become certified as a Change Analyst?

A2: To become certified as a Change Analyst, you must complete an accredited training program and pass the associated exam. Additionally, some certifying bodies may require further education or experience depending on the level of certification you are seeking.

Q3: What are the benefits of having a Change Analyst Certification?

A3: Having a Change Analyst Certification provides employers with assurance that you have the necessary skills to effectively manage organizational changes. This credential can help you stand out from other applicants and make you more attractive to potential employers. It can also lead to increased job opportunities and higher salaries.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified as a Change Analyst?

A4: The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Change Analyst will depend on which certifying body you choose and what level of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all the requirements for certification.

Q5: How much does it cost to become certified as a Change Analyst?

A5: The cost of becoming certified as a Change Analyst will vary depending on which certifying body you choose and what level of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, costs can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.