Top 11 Circulation Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a circulation manager in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has attained a certain level of knowledge and skills relevant to the field. They provide proof that the individual is competent and qualified to perform their duties as a circulation manager. Certifications can also be used to differentiate applicants from other candidates who may have similar qualifications, allowing employers to make more informed hiring decisions. Additionally, certifications may help a circulation manager stand out when applying for promotions or higher-level positions. Lastly, certifications can enhance a circulation manager’s credibility with colleagues and customers, as they show that the individual is committed to staying up-to-date on industry standards and best practices.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Circulation Managers and explain how they can help to advance a Circulation Manager's career.

What are Circulation Manager Certifications?

Circulation manager certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in managing circulation departments. This certification is offered by the American Library Association (ALA) and is designed to recognize professional expertise in all facets of library circulation services. Earning this certification can help individuals demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the field, as well as provide employers with assurance of an individual’s capability to manage a department efficiently.

The certification requires individuals to complete an approved course or program in order to be eligible for the exam. The courses cover topics such as library information systems, customer service, circulation policies and procedures, collection development, and more. After passing the exam, individuals must also complete a certain number of continuing education credits each year in order to maintain the credential.

Overall, circulation manager certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in library circulation services by providing them with recognition of their expertise and commitment to staying current on best practices. It can also provide employers with assurance that they are hiring qualified individuals who have been trained in the latest technology and techniques used in library circulation management.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming a circulation manager, it is important to research and understand the requirements for certification. Many states have specific standards that must be met in order to become a licensed circulation manager. Additionally, some certifications may require additional education or experience beyond what is required for licensure. Taking the time to understand the requirements and gaining the appropriate training can help ensure that you are well-prepared for your career as a circulation manager.

Related: What does a Circulation Manager do?

Top 11 Circulation Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Circulation Manager (CCM)

Certified Circulation Manager (CCM) is a certification program offered by the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). It is designed to recognize circulation professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of circulation management. The program is open to all circulation professionals, regardless of their current position or experience level.

The CCM program consists of two parts: an online course and a comprehensive exam. The online course covers topics such as circulation planning, budgeting, pricing and promotion, customer service, and new media strategies. The exam tests knowledge of these topics and requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding through multiple-choice questions and case studies.

The application process takes approximately four weeks from start to finish. Applicants must complete an online application form, submit payment for the $250 fee, and provide proof of professional experience in the field of circulation management. Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to the online course material and instructions on how to take the exam.

The cost for the CCM program is $250 USD. This fee covers all materials associated with the course and exam, including access to the online course material and instructions on how to take the exam.

2. Certified Magazine Circulation Professional (CMCP)

Certified Magazine Circulation Professional (CMCP) is a certification program offered by the Alliance for Audited Media (AAM). It is designed to provide magazine circulation professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to ensure accurate and effective circulation management. The CMCP certification is earned after completing a series of courses, passing an exam, and meeting certain experience requirements.

The CMCP program consists of four courses: Introduction to Magazine Circulation Management, Magazine Auditing & Reporting, Magazine Circulation Planning & Analysis, and Magazine Circulation Fulfillment & Distribution. Each course can be completed in approximately 8-10 hours. After completing all four courses, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics from each of the courses.

To get CMCP certified, candidates must first pay the application fee ($150) and submit their application materials online. Once approved, they will receive access to the course materials and be able to take the exam when ready. The cost of the entire program is $495 which includes all four courses plus the exam fee.

Once certified, CMCPs are expected to abide by AAM’s Code of Ethics and continue their professional development through additional training or continuing education units (CEUs).

3. Certified Newspaper Circulation Professional (CNPP)

Certified Newspaper Circulation Professional (CNPP) is a professional certification program designed to provide newspaper circulation professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and grow their newspaper’s circulation. The CNPP program was developed by the National Newspaper Association (NNA) in partnership with the American Press Institute (API).

The CNPP program consists of three parts: an online course, an online exam, and a hands-on practicum. The online course covers topics such as circulation planning, marketing, distribution, customer service, and technology. The online exam tests knowledge of these topics. The hands-on practicum provides practical experience in circulation management.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the entire CNPP program. To get started, applicants must first register for the program through the NNA website. Registration fees vary depending on whether or not you are an NNA member; non-members pay $295 while members pay $195. Once registered, applicants can access the online course materials and begin studying for the exam. After passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, applicants can apply to take part in the hands-on practicum portion of the program.

The cost of taking part in the hands-on practicum varies depending on location and availability; however it typically costs between $500-$1000 USD per participant. Upon completion of all three parts of the CNPP program – online course, online exam and hands-on practicum – participants will receive their official Certified Newspaper Circulation Professional (CNPP) certification from NNA/API.

4. Certified Subscription Marketing Professional (CSMP)

Certified Subscription Marketing Professional (CSMP) is a professional certification offered by the Subscription Trade Association (SUBTA). The CSMP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in subscription marketing. It is intended to help individuals stand out in the field and gain recognition as an expert in their field.

It takes approximately 6 months to complete the CSMP program. In order to become certified, applicants must complete a comprehensive online course, pass an exam, and submit a portfolio of work demonstrating their expertise in subscription marketing. The online course provides an introduction to subscription marketing concepts and strategies, including customer segmentation, pricing models, retention tactics, and more.

The cost of the CSMP program varies depending on whether you are already a member of SUBTA or not. For non-members, it costs $1,495 for the full program which includes access to the online course materials and exam fee. For members of SUBTA, it costs $995 for the full program which also includes access to the online course materials and exam fee.

Once you have completed all requirements for certification, you will receive your official CSMP certificate from SUBTA recognizing your achievement.

5. Certified Digital Audience Development Manager (CDADM)

Certified Digital Audience Development Manager (CDADM) is a certification program designed to help digital marketing professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage a digital audience. The program is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), an international organization that provides training and certification in digital marketing.

The CDADM program consists of four modules, each focusing on different aspects of audience development: Content Strategy, Paid Media, Social Media, and Analytics & Reporting. Each module includes lectures, case studies, and practical activities. The entire program takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete depending on the student’s schedule.

To get certified as a CDADM, students must first complete all four modules and pass an online exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, students will receive their certificate from DMI.

The cost for the CDADM certification program varies depending on the package chosen by the student. The most popular package is the Online Learning Program which costs $1,495 USD. This package includes access to all four modules plus one year of access to DMI's online learning platform and resources.

6. Certified Subscription Fulfillment Manager (CSFM)

Certified Subscription Fulfillment Manager (CSFM) is a professional certification program for subscription-based businesses. It is designed to help subscription business owners and managers better understand the complexities of running a successful subscription business. The program provides an in-depth look at the different aspects of managing a subscription business, such as customer acquisition, billing, customer service, marketing, analytics and more.

The CSFM program consists of five modules: Introduction to Subscription Management; Business Model & Strategy; Customer Acquisition & Retention; Billing & Payments; and Analytics & Reporting. Each module is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the concepts and best practices associated with each topic.

The CSFM program takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. During this time, students will learn about the fundamentals of subscription management and gain insight into how to effectively manage their own subscription businesses. They will also have access to online resources such as webinars, case studies, and other materials that can help them further develop their knowledge base.

To get certified as a Certified Subscription Fulfillment Manager (CSFM), you must complete all five modules of the program and pass a final exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the CSFM certification program is $1,200 USD plus applicable taxes.

7. Certified Database Marketing Professional (CDMP)

Certified Database Marketing Professional (CDMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an understanding of the principles and practices of database marketing. It is administered by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), an international trade association representing direct and digital marketers.

The CDMP certification program is divided into four levels: Certified Database Marketing Professional (CDMP), Advanced Certified Database Marketing Professional (ACDMP), Master Certified Database Marketing Professional (MCDMP), and Senior Certified Database Marketing Professional (SCDMP). Each level requires successful completion of a series of exams that cover topics such as data analysis, customer segmentation, campaign management, and customer relationship management.

It typically takes about two years to complete all four levels of the CDMP certification program. The cost for the entire program is about $4,000 USD. To get started, interested individuals must register with DMA and pay the registration fee. Once registered, they can begin studying for the exams using study materials provided by DMA or other sources. After passing each exam, they will be awarded with a certificate indicating their achievement in that particular level of the program.

8. Certified Direct Response Marketing Manager (CDRMM)

Certified Direct Response Marketing Manager (CDRMM) is a professional certification program designed to provide marketing professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage direct response marketing campaigns. The program is offered by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA).

The Certified Direct Response Marketing Manager program consists of four courses, each of which must be completed within a two-year period. The courses cover topics such as planning and budgeting, research and analytics, creative development and execution, and measurement and optimization.

To get certified, you must first complete the four required courses. After completing all four courses, you must pass an exam administered by DMA to become certified. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions about direct response marketing concepts and best practices.

The cost for the CDRMM certification program varies depending on the number of courses taken at once. For example, if you take all four courses at once, it will cost $2,400 plus any applicable taxes. If you take one course at a time, it will cost $600 per course plus any applicable taxes.

9. Certified Online Advertising Manager (COAM)

Certified Online Advertising Manager (COAM) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to become successful online advertising managers. The certification is offered by the Online Advertising Education Foundation (OAEF).

The COAM program consists of three levels: Level 1, 2, and 3. Level 1 focuses on basic concepts such as understanding the fundamentals of digital advertising, creating effective campaigns, and measuring success. Level 2 covers more advanced topics such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, and analytics. Finally, Level 3 provides an in-depth look at advanced topics like programmatic buying, data-driven decision making, and customer journey optimization.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all three levels of the COAM program. To get certified, applicants must pass a series of exams that test their knowledge of digital advertising principles and practices.

The cost for the COAM program varies depending on which level you are applying for. Level 1 costs $495 USD; Level 2 costs $695 USD; and Level 3 costs $995 USD.

10. Certified Email Marketing Manager (CEMM)

Certified Email Marketing Manager (CEMM) is a certification program designed to help email marketers develop and maintain best practices in their email marketing campaigns. The CEMM certification is awarded by the Email Experience Council (EEC), an organization focused on helping email marketers improve their performance.

The CEMM certification requires that applicants have at least three years of experience in email marketing, as well as a working knowledge of HTML and CSS. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work demonstrating their experience and skills in email marketing.

The application process typically takes two to four weeks, depending on the number of applications received. Once approved, applicants will receive an official certificate from the EEC, which can be used to demonstrate proficiency in email marketing.

The cost for the CEMM certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the EEC. For non-members, the cost is $299 USD; for members, it’s $199 USD.

11. Certified Social Media Marketing Manager (CSMMM).

Certified Social Media Marketing Manager (CSMMM) is a professional certification program designed to train and certify social media marketing professionals. It covers topics such as content strategy, analytics, advertising, and customer engagement across multiple social networks. The program is offered by the Social Media Marketing Institute (SMMi), an independent organization dedicated to providing training and certification for social media professionals.

The CSMMM program consists of two parts: a self-paced online course and an in-person exam. The online course covers the fundamentals of social media marketing, including topics such as content strategy, analytics, advertising, and customer engagement across multiple social networks. The in-person exam is a comprehensive assessment covering all aspects of the course material.

The cost of the CSMMM program varies depending on whether you choose to take the self-paced online course or attend an in-person workshop. The self-paced online course costs $299 USD and takes approximately 8 weeks to complete. The in-person workshop costs $399 USD and takes approximately 4 days to complete.

Once you have completed either the self-paced online course or attended an in-person workshop, you will need to take the CSMMM Exam which costs $99 USD. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your official CSMMM certification which is valid for two years from date of issue.

Do You Really Need a Circulation Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and situation. If you are looking to move up in the ranks of circulation management, a certificate may be beneficial. It can demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field, as well as provide a way for employers to recognize your commitment to continuing professional development.

However, if you have already been working in circulation management for some time and have established yourself as a competent professional, then a certificate may not be necessary. Many employers recognize experience and tenure over credentials when it comes to hiring new staff or promoting from within. Additionally, many companies are more interested in the actual skills and abilities you possess rather than any certificates or certifications that you may have earned.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a circulation manager certificate will depend on your own particular circumstances. It is important to consider both the benefits and drawbacks of obtaining certification before making any decisions about pursuing it.

Related: Circulation Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Circulation Manager Certifications

1. What types of Circulation Manager Certifications are available?

Answer: There are several certifications available, including Certified Circulation Manager (CCM), Certified Periodicals Manager (CPM), and Certified Subscription Professional (CSP).

2. How long does it take to become certified as a Circulation Manager?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified depends on the certification program chosen. Generally, certification can be obtained within six months to a year of study and work experience.

3. What are the requirements for becoming certified as a Circulation Manager?

Answer: Requirements vary depending on the certification program chosen, but typically include having a minimum of two years of related work experience, passing an exam administered by the certifying organization, and meeting any additional requirements set by the organization.

4. How much does it cost to become certified as a Circulation Manager?

Answer: Fees vary depending on the certification program chosen, but generally range from $100-$500 for application fees and exam fees. Some programs may also require an annual membership fee or subscription fee in order to maintain certification status.

5. What benefits come with becoming certified as a Circulation Manager?

Answer: Benefits of becoming certified include increased credibility in your field, greater job opportunities, improved salary potential and career advancement opportunities, and access to exclusive resources and professional networks.