Top 11 Chemist Certifications

Certifications are important for a chemist in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and expertise that employers value. They also show that the individual has taken the initiative to gain additional knowledge and experience, which is often desired by employers. Certifications provide evidence that an individual has acquired skills necessary to perform certain tasks or duties, which can give them an edge over other applicants. Additionally, certifications often provide access to more resources, such as networking events or specialized courses, which can help chemists stay current on their knowledge and skills.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for Chemists and explain how they can help to advance a chemist's career.

What are Chemist Certifications?

Chemist certification is an accreditation program offered by the American Chemical Society (ACS) to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in a particular area of chemistry. It is designed to give employers assurance that those certified have met pre-determined standards for competence and expertise.

In order to become certified, individuals must pass an examination that covers the topics outlined in the relevant ACS Certification Program. This exam tests an individual’s knowledge of both theoretical and practical aspects of chemistry, as well as their ability to apply this knowledge in a professional setting. Once they have passed the exam, they are awarded either a Certified Professional Chemist (CPC) or Certified Research Chemist (CRC) designation, depending on which field they specialize in.

Having chemist certification can be beneficial for a number of reasons. It helps demonstrate an individual’s level of expertise to employers and clients, making them more attractive candidates for job openings or research projects. In addition, having this accreditation can help promote career advancement opportunities and higher salaries for those with the certification. Finally, it also provides recognition from peers and colleagues within the field, showing others that you are highly qualified and knowledgeable about chemistry-related topics.

Pro Tip: When seeking a chemist certification, make sure to check the accreditation of any institution offering certification. Accreditation ensures that the program meets industry standards and is recognized by employers as a valid qualification.

Related: What does a Chemist do?

Top 11 Chemist Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Chemist (CPC)

Certified Professional Chemist (CPC) is a professional certification given by the American Chemical Society (ACS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in chemical science. The CPC credential is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the fundamental concepts of chemistry, including analytical techniques, laboratory safety, instrumentation, and other related topics.

To become certified as a CPC, an individual must pass the ACS Certified Professional Chemist (CPC) examination. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as general chemistry, organic chemistry, physical chemistry, biochemistry, analytical chemistry, and laboratory safety. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and requires a passing score of 70%.

In order to sit for the CPC exam, applicants must have completed at least a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a closely related field from an accredited college or university. Applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in chemical science or related fields. Additionally, applicants must submit proof of their educational background and professional experience before they can be approved to take the exam.

The cost of taking the CPC exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 USD to take the exam.

2. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification issued by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. The CQE credential is an internationally recognized symbol of excellence in quality engineering.

The CQE exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as quality management, product design, process control, reliability engineering, and statistical analysis. In order to become certified, candidates must pass the CQE exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and can be taken at any ASQ-approved testing center. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the country in which it is taken, but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

3. American Chemical Society Certified Chemistry Professional (ACS-CP)

The American Chemical Society Certified Chemistry Professional (ACS-CP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Chemical Society (ACS). The ACS-CP certification is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate mastery of the knowledge and skills required to practice in the field of chemistry.

To become certified, an individual must meet certain eligibility requirements, including a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field from an accredited college or university; at least three years of professional experience in the field of chemistry; and successful completion of an ACS-administered examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as chemical principles, analytical techniques, laboratory safety, instrumentation, and data analysis.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the ACS-CP exam. Preparation materials can be found online through various sources such as books, websites, and study guides. Additionally, there are several review courses available that provide comprehensive instruction on the material covered on the exam.

The cost for taking the ACS-CP exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 to register for the exam plus additional fees if you choose to take it at a testing center rather than online.

Overall, obtaining your ACS-CP certification can help demonstrate your expertise in chemistry and give you an edge over other job applicants when looking for employment opportunities in this field.

4. Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE)

Board Certified Environmental Engineer (BCEE) is a professional certification awarded to engineers who demonstrate expertise in the field of environmental engineering. It is administered by the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and Scientists (AAEES).

In order to be eligible for the BCEE certification, applicants must have at least four years of relevant experience and must pass an exam. The exam consists of three parts: a written exam, an oral exam, and a project review. The written exam covers topics such as water resources engineering, air pollution control, hazardous waste management, and environmental law. The oral exam focuses on technical knowledge and communication skills. Finally, the project review requires applicants to submit a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on factors such as the type of membership chosen and whether or not you are already an AAEES member. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$600 USD to become certified.

It typically takes around six months to complete the process from start to finish. This includes studying for the exams, submitting your portfolio for review, and completing any other requirements necessary for certification.

5. Chartered Chemist (CChem)

Chartered Chemist (CChem) is a professional qualification awarded by the Royal Society of Chemistry to chemists who have demonstrated a high level of competence in their field. It is the highest level of professional recognition for chemists and is internationally recognised as a mark of excellence.

It usually takes around two to three years to become Chartered Chemist, depending on your qualifications and experience. To be eligible, you must have an accredited chemistry degree or equivalent and at least three years' relevant experience in a professional role. You will also need to demonstrate that you are continuing to develop your skills and knowledge through Continuing Professional Development (CPD).

To apply for CChem, you must first become a member of the Royal Society of Chemistry. Once you have done this, you can submit an application form along with supporting documents such as evidence of your qualifications and experience, references from employers or colleagues, and examples of CPD activities that you have undertaken.

The cost of becoming Chartered Chemist depends on your membership type with the Royal Society of Chemistry. For example, if you are a member under the ‘Professional’ category then it will cost £90 per year plus an additional fee for applying for Chartered status which is £150.

6. Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM)

A Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) is a professional certification that demonstrates knowledge and expertise in the management of hazardous materials. The CHMM certification is offered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM).

The CHMM certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in hazardous materials management, including at least three years in a supervisory role. Candidates must also demonstrate knowledge of applicable regulations, safety standards, and industry practices.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by IHMM. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. It covers topics such as hazardous material identification, storage and handling procedures, emergency response planning, environmental regulations, and waste disposal methods.

The cost to take the CHMM exam is $450 for members of IHMM and $550 for non-members. There may also be additional fees for study materials or other services associated with the test.

7. Registered Professional Chemist (RPC)

Registered Professional Chemist (RPC) is a certification granted by the Canadian Society for Chemistry (CSC). It is a voluntary designation that recognizes the professional qualifications of chemists who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field.

The process to become an RPC involves meeting certain educational, experience and professional practice requirements. Candidates must have at least five years of relevant work experience and must also pass a rigorous examination administered by the CSC. The exam consists of two parts: an oral component and a written component. The oral component covers topics such as laboratory safety, instrumentation, data analysis, and chemical calculations; while the written component tests knowledge in areas such as organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, physical chemistry, and biochemistry.

The entire process typically takes about one year to complete. The cost for taking the exam is approximately $500 CAD plus any applicable taxes. Once an individual has successfully passed the exam they will be awarded the designation of Registered Professional Chemist (RPC).

8. Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH)

A Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) is a professional who specializes in the prevention of occupational health hazards. They are trained to identify, evaluate, and control potential health risks from chemical, physical, ergonomic, and biological agents in the workplace. CIHs assess the risk of exposure to hazardous materials and recommend ways to reduce or eliminate these risks.

It typically takes three years of full-time study to become a CIH. Candidates must complete a Bachelor's degree in industrial hygiene or a related field such as environmental science, chemistry, biology, engineering, or public health. After completing their degree program they must pass an examination administered by the American Board of Industrial Hygiene (ABIH).

To become certified as a CIH you must first meet certain education and experience requirements. You must have at least four years of professional experience in industrial hygiene or a related field such as environmental science, chemistry, biology, engineering or public health. You must also have completed at least 30 semester hours of coursework in industrial hygiene topics such as toxicology, epidemiology, air sampling techniques and ventilation systems design.

The cost for certification varies depending on the organization administering the exam but it generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD.

9. Certified Forensic Scientist (CFS)

Certified Forensic Scientist (CFS) is a professional certification awarded by the American College of Forensic Examiners Institute (ACFEI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the field of forensic science.

The CFS certification requires applicants to demonstrate proficiency in various aspects of forensic science, including crime scene investigation, evidence collection and analysis, laboratory techniques, and legal issues related to forensic science. Applicants must also possess at least five years of experience in the field.

To become certified as a CFS, applicants must first complete an application process that includes submitting transcripts from accredited colleges or universities, providing references from professionals in the field, and passing a written examination. The written exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as criminalistics, pathology, toxicology, DNA analysis, and other relevant subjects. After passing the exam, applicants must also submit proof of their work experience in the form of job descriptions or letters from employers.

Once all requirements are met, applicants can apply for certification with ACFEI by paying an application fee. The cost varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or through a group/organization; however it typically ranges between $100-$400 USD.

Overall, it typically takes around six months to complete the entire process and become certified as a CFS.

10. American Board of Toxicology Diplomate (ABT-D)

The American Board of Toxicology Diplomate (ABT-D) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate mastery of the field of toxicology. It is offered by the American Board of Toxicology (ABT), which is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the practice of toxicology.

In order to become an ABT-D, applicants must have a doctoral degree in toxicology or related field and at least five years of experience in the field. They must also pass a comprehensive written examination that covers topics such as environmental toxicology, pharmacokinetics, risk assessment, and regulatory toxicology.

The process typically takes between one and two years to complete. The first step is to submit an application package to ABT for review. This includes letters of recommendation from two ABT-certified professionals, transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended, and a copy of your CV/resume. Once approved, you will be invited to take the written exam. After passing the exam, you will be awarded the title “Diplomate” by ABT and may use this designation on business cards and other documents.

The cost for becoming an ABT-D varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000-$5,000 USD. This includes fees for application materials, exam preparation materials, and the actual exam itself.

11. American Institute of Chemists Fellow (AICF).

The American Institute of Chemists Fellow (AICF) is a prestigious honor bestowed upon chemists who have achieved excellence in their field. The AICF recognizes outstanding contributions to chemistry and the chemical sciences, and is one of the highest honors that can be awarded to a chemist.

To become an AICF, you must first be nominated by another AICF or by a member of the AIC Board of Directors. The nomination process typically takes six months to complete, and includes a review of your professional accomplishments, publications, awards, and other evidence of excellence in the field. Once your nomination is approved, you will receive an official certificate from the AIC Board of Directors recognizing your achievement.

The cost for becoming an AICF varies depending on whether you are nominating yourself or being nominated by another individual. If you are self-nominating, there is no fee associated with the application process; however, if someone else is nominating you, they may be required to pay a nominal fee to cover processing costs.

Do You Really Need a Chemist Certificate?

When it comes to the question of whether or not you need a chemist certificate, the answer is that it can depend on your specific circumstances. If you are currently working in a science-related field and want to advance your career, having a formal certification may be beneficial. It can provide evidence to employers that you have achieved a certain level of competency in the field. In some cases, having a certification may even be required for certain positions.

On the other hand, if you are just starting out in the field and don't yet have any experience, then a chemist certificate may not be necessary. It's important to assess your own situation and decide what would best suit your needs. For example, if you are looking to gain experience and knowledge in chemistry but don't necessarily need an official certificate right away, then there are plenty of resources available online or at local colleges and universities that can provide you with the same level of education without requiring a formal certification.

At the end of the day, it's up to you to determine whether or not getting a chemist certificate is worth the time and effort involved. You should weigh up both sides of the argument carefully before making any final decisions about pursuing this type of certification.

Related: Chemist Resume Examples

FAQs About Chemist Certifications

1. What is a Chemist Certification?

Answer: A Chemist Certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual's specialized knowledge and skills in the field of chemistry. It demonstrates a commitment to excellence and a mastery of the principles of chemistry.

2. Who can get certified as a Chemist?

Answer: Any individual with formal education or experience in chemistry may become certified as a chemist. However, some certifications require more education or experience than others.

3. How do I become certified as a Chemist?

Answer: To become certified as a chemist, you must meet certain requirements such as passing an exam or completing an approved course of study. You may also need to submit proof of your educational background and/or work experience to be eligible for certification.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a Chemist?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of certification you are pursuing and the requirements needed for that particular certification program. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within one year or less depending on your level of dedication and time available for study and exam preparation.

5. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Chemist?

Answer: Becoming certified as a chemist can help demonstrate mastery of the field and increase credibility when applying for jobs or promotions, while also potentially increasing earning potential through higher salaries or bonuses from employers who recognize certifications from accredited organizations like The American Chemical Society (ACS). Additionally, having certification can open up new opportunities for career growth, including advanced positions in research or teaching at universities or corporations