Top 10 Change Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a change manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to successfully manage projects. Certifications also provide proof of a candidate’s commitment to professional development and a willingness to stay current on trends and best practices in the field. Additionally, certifications can make an individual stand out from other candidates who do not have them. In today’s competitive job market, having certifications can give a change manager an edge over other applicants.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Change Managers and explains how they can help advance a Change Manager's career.

What are Change Manager Certifications?

Change Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage organizational change. The program focuses on developing the individual’s ability to lead, plan, and manage successful change initiatives. Change management certifications are offered at various levels depending on the individual's experience and needs. Individuals who have successfully completed a change management certification program will possess the skills necessary to create and implement effective strategies for managing change within their organization. This can include identifying areas of opportunity, assessing impacts of potential changes, developing plans to support successful implementation, tracking progress, measuring results, and communicating progress with stakeholders. This type of certification can provide an individual with a competitive edge in their career by demonstrating their expertise in managing complex organizational changes. Additionally, it allows them to demonstrate their commitment to staying up-to-date on current best practices in change management. Ultimately, this certification can help individuals become more effective and efficient leaders in driving successful organizational transformation initiatives.

Pro Tip: When considering a change manager certification, make sure to research the program's curriculum to ensure that it aligns with your career goals and professional development needs. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on learning opportunities and access to industry professionals who can provide valuable insights into the field.

Related: What does a Change Manager do?

Top 10 Change Manager Certifications

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

1. Prosci Change Management Certification

Prosci Change Management Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage change initiatives in their organizations. The certification is based on Prosci’s established ADKAR model, which stands for Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability and Reinforcement. This model helps individuals understand the human side of change and how to successfully manage it.

The certification consists of three levels: Practitioner, Advanced Practitioner and Master Practitioner. Each level requires different prerequisites and takes a different amount of time to complete.

The Practitioner level is designed for those who are new to change management or are looking to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals. It takes approximately 4-6 weeks to complete this level depending on the individual’s availability and dedication. To obtain this certification, participants must attend an in-person training course or an online learning course offered by Prosci. The cost for this level ranges from $1,495 - $2,495 USD depending on the type of course chosen.

The Advanced Practitioner level is designed for those who have completed the Practitioner level and have experience in leading change initiatives within their organization. It takes approximately 8-12 weeks to complete this level depending on the individual’s availability and dedication. To obtain this certification, participants must attend an in-person training course or an online learning course offered by Prosci as well as submit a project demonstrating their ability to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios. The cost for this level ranges from $2,995 - $3,995 USD depending on the type of course chosen.

The Master Practitioner level is designed for those who have completed both the Practitioner and Advanced Practitioner levels and have extensive experience leading complex change initiatives within their organization. It takes approximately 12-16 weeks to complete this level depending on the individual’s availability and dedication. To obtain this certification, participants must attend an in-person training course or an online learning course offered by Prosci as well as submit two projects demonstrating their ability to apply what they have learned in real-world scenarios at an advanced level. The cost for this level ranges from $4,495 - $5,495 USD depending on the type of course chosen.

2. AXELOS ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certificate

The AXELOS ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certificate is a globally-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s ability to apply and manage the ITIL 4 framework in their organization. The certification is designed to help organizations improve service delivery, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction.

It takes approximately 30 hours to complete the training required for the AXELOS ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certificate. This includes completing a series of online courses, reading the official ITIL 4 publications, and passing a series of exams.

To get the AXELOS ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certificate, you must first register for an accredited training provider who offers the course. You will then need to complete all of the necessary coursework and pass all of the exams required for certification. Once you have done this, you can submit your application for certification to AXELOS.

The cost of getting the AXELOS ITIL 4 Managing Professional Certificate varies depending on which accredited training provider you choose to use. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,500 USD to $4,000 USD or more depending on where you take your courses and how many exams you need to take.

3. Prosci Advanced Change Management Certification

Prosci Advanced Change Management Certification is a comprehensive program designed to equip change management professionals with the tools and techniques necessary to drive successful organizational change. It is an intensive three-day course that covers the Prosci Change Management Methodology, which includes assessing the current environment, developing a strategy for change, implementing the plan, and measuring results. The certification is valid for three years and requires participants to have completed the Prosci Change Management Certification prior to registering.

The Prosci Advanced Change Management Certification takes approximately three days of learning. During this time, participants will learn how to apply the Prosci Change Management Methodology in their organization and develop a framework for managing change initiatives. Participants will gain an understanding of how to assess stakeholder needs, develop an actionable strategy for change, implement it effectively, and measure results.

To get certified in Prosci Advanced Change Management, you must first complete the one-day Prosci Change Management Certification course. After completing this course you can then register for the three-day advanced certification program. The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $2,500-$3,500 USD.

4. APMG International Change Management Foundation Certificate

APMG International Change Management Foundation Certificate is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of change management principles. It is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage change in an organization. The certificate is awarded by APMG International, a leading international accreditation and examination institute.

The Change Management Foundation Certificate requires a minimum of 21 hours of study time, which includes completing the online course material, taking the online exam, and attending the associated webinars. The course material covers topics such as understanding change management, assessing organizational readiness for change, developing a change plan, implementing and monitoring changes, and evaluating the success of changes.

To get the Change Management Foundation Certificate, individuals must first complete the online course material and take the online exam. Once they have successfully completed both components, they will receive their certificate within 5-7 working days.

The cost of obtaining the Change Management Foundation Certificate varies depending on where you are studying from. Generally speaking it costs around £250-£300 (GBP) or $350-$400 (USD).

5. PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA)

PMI Professional in Business Analysis (PMI-PBA) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in business analysis and project management. PMI-PBA provides a comprehensive framework for understanding the principles of business analysis and how they can be applied to successful project outcomes.

The PMI-PBA certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in five key areas: business analysis planning and monitoring, requirements life cycle management, enterprise analysis, solution assessment and validation, and stakeholder engagement. The certification also requires applicants to pass an exam that includes multiple choice questions as well as case studies.

It takes approximately four months to complete the PMI-PBA certification process. This includes studying for the exam, taking the exam itself, obtaining professional references, submitting an application form, and completing a background check.

To get the PMI-PBA certification, you must first become a member of PMI. You will then need to register for the exam with Prometric or Pearson VUE. After registering for the exam, you will need to study for it using resources such as books or online courses. Once you are ready to take the exam, you will need to schedule an appointment with Prometric or Pearson VUE.

The cost of getting your PMI-PBA certification depends on several factors including your country of residence and whether or not you are already a member of PMI. In general, it costs around $400-$600 USD for nonmembers and $300-$400 USD for members of PMI.

6. Certified Change Manager (CCM) from the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP)

The Certified Change Manager (CCM) from the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP) is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of change management principles and best practices. The CCM is the only professional certification specifically designed for change management professionals. It is awarded to those who have demonstrated a mastery of core competencies related to leading successful organizational change initiatives.

To obtain the CCM, applicants must complete an online application, provide documentation of their education and experience in change management, pass an exam, and agree to adhere to the ACMP Code of Ethics. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and requires approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for the CCM program varies depending on when you register and whether you are an ACMP member or non-member. For non-members, the fee is $595 USD; for members, it’s $495 USD. There are also discounts available for groups and students.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements, you will receive your CCM certificate in about four weeks from the date your application was approved.

7. Certified ScrumMaster from the Scrum Alliance

The Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is a certification program offered by the Scrum Alliance, an international non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and educating on the principles of Scrum. The CSM program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead and manage projects using the Scrum framework.

The CSM certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and a two-day classroom course. The online assessment is taken prior to attending the classroom course, and it covers topics such as Agile values, principles, and practices; Scrum roles, artifacts, events, and rules; and how to apply Scrum in practice. Upon successful completion of the online assessment, participants can then attend a two-day classroom course which will cover more in-depth topics such as team dynamics, product backlogs, sprint planning meetings, daily scrums, sprint reviews/retrospectives, and release planning.

To become a Certified ScrumMaster one must complete both parts of the certification process. The cost for the online assessment is $150 USD while the cost for attending a two-day classroom course ranges from $800-$1,200 USD depending on location. It typically takes 4–6 weeks to complete both parts of the certification process.

8. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program that enables individuals to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to lead Lean Six Sigma projects. It is designed for professionals who want to become experts in the field of process improvement and efficiency.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the provider. During this time, participants will learn how to apply Lean Six Sigma principles, tools, and techniques in order to improve processes within their organization. The curriculum typically includes topics such as process mapping, data collection and analysis, problem solving techniques, project management, and change management.

To get a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification, individuals must first complete an approved training program. After completing the training program, they must then pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body such as ASQ or IASSC. Upon successful completion of the exam, they will receive their official certification document.

The cost of a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider and can range from $500-$3,000 USD.

9. Certified Agile Leadership (CAL I & II) from the Agile Leadership Network

Certified Agile Leadership (CAL) is an advanced certification program offered by the Agile Leadership Network. It is designed to help leaders better understand and apply agile principles, practices, and values to their organizations.

The CAL I & II program consists of two levels: CAL I and CAL II. Both levels are focused on developing leadership skills in areas such as organizational agility, team dynamics, and stakeholder management. The program also covers topics such as agile mindset and culture, value-driven delivery, customer collaboration, and continuous improvement.

CAL I takes approximately 16 hours to complete and is designed for individuals who are new to agile or have some experience with it but need additional training. The cost of the CAL I course is $695 USD.

CAL II takes approximately 24 hours to complete and is designed for experienced agile practitioners who want to further develop their skills in leading agile teams and organizations. The cost of the CAL II course is $995 USD.

Both courses include online learning modules, interactive activities, assessments, simulations, case studies, group discussions, one-on-one coaching sessions with a certified trainer/coach, access to an online community of like-minded professionals from around the world, and a certificate upon completion of the course.

10. Project Management Professional (PMP) from the Project Management Institute

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and respected certification in the field of project management. The PMP credential demonstrates that an individual has the experience, education and competency to successfully lead and direct projects.

To become certified as a PMP, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. Applicants must have either a four-year degree or equivalent work experience, plus at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects. They must also have 35 hours of formal project management education.

The process to become certified takes approximately six weeks from start to finish. First, applicants must complete an online application on the PMI website and pay a non-refundable application fee of $555 for members or $700 for non-members. Once approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule their exam appointment at a Prometric Testing Center. After passing the exam, applicants will need to submit proof of their professional experience and education for review by PMI’s Certification Department before they can be officially certified as a PMP.

The cost to become certified as a PMP varies depending on whether you are already a member of PMI or not. For members, there is an initial application fee of $555 plus any applicable taxes and then additional fees for taking the exam ($405) and submitting proof of your professional experience ($60). For non-members, there is an initial application fee of $700 plus any applicable taxes and then additional fees for taking the exam ($555) and submitting proof of your professional experience ($90).

Do You Really Need a Change Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on a variety of factors. Ultimately, it is up to the individual looking for a change manager certificate to decide if they need one. Before making a decision, it is important to consider what kind of job you are looking for and what type of experience you have.

If you are applying for jobs that require a change manager certification, then having the certificate may be beneficial in getting the job. Having the certificate shows employers that you have taken the time and effort to become certified as a change manager and have the knowledge needed to succeed in this role. Although having a certification does not guarantee success in any job, it can help demonstrate your commitment to learning and staying up-to-date with current trends and best practices in the field.

On the other hand, if you already have extensive experience working as a change manager or if you are pursuing an entry-level position in this field, then getting certified may not be necessary. Employers may choose candidates who already have hands-on experience over those with certifications. Additionally, having certifications does not necessarily mean that someone is more qualified than another candidate without them; employers often look at other qualifications such as education level and previous work experience when making hiring decisions.

To sum up, whether or not someone needs a change manager certificate depends entirely on their individual circumstances and goals. It is important to assess your own situation before making a decision about whether or not getting certified would be beneficial for your career path.

Related: Change Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Change Manager Certifications

1. What is a change manager certification?

Answer: A change manager certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and expertise in change management principles, processes, and techniques. The certification demonstrates to employers and peers that the certified individual has the skills needed to lead successful change initiatives.

2. What are the benefits of getting a change manager certification?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a change manager certification include having an edge in the job market, being more attractive to potential employers, and increasing your credibility as a consultant or internal leader. Additionally, certifications provide opportunities for networking with other professionals in the field, keeping up-to-date on best practices, and staying ahead of industry trends.

3. What qualifications do I need to get a change manager certification?

Answer: Each organization offering a change management certification will have its own specific requirements; however, most require applicants to have at least two years of experience working in a related field or role. Additionally, applicants typically must pass an exam demonstrating their understanding of key concepts and theories in order to be fully certified.

4. How long does it take to get a change manager certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to obtain a change management certification depends on the organization issuing the credential as well as each applicant’s unique situation. Generally speaking, most individuals can complete all requirements within 6 months if they are dedicated and focused throughout their preparation process.

5. How much does it cost to get a change manager certification?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a change management certification varies depending on which organization is providing the credential and which type of program you choose (e.g., online versus in-person). Generally speaking, most programs range between $500-$1500 USD depending on various factors such as duration of study, materials included (e.g., textbooks), etc.