Top 11 City Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a city manager in the job market as they can demonstrate that the individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to effectively manage a city. They also show prospective employers that the individual is committed to professional development and has taken steps to stay up-to-date on best practices and current trends in local government management. Certifications can also help candidates stand out from other applicants, as they can provide evidence of the candidate’s expertise and experience. Finally, certifications can be used to negotiate higher salaries for city managers, as employers may be willing to pay more for someone with specialized knowledge and experience.

The article reviews top certifications for City Managers and explains how they can help advance a city manager's career.

What are City Manager Certifications?

City manager certification is a formal recognition of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be an effective city manager. It is offered by professional organizations such as the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and the National League of Cities (NLC). The certification process helps city managers develop and demonstrate their competencies in areas such as budgeting, personnel management, economic development, urban planning, community relations, public safety, and environmental protection.

The certification process also helps ensure that city managers have a strong understanding of local government laws and regulations. By earning a city manager certification, individuals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in municipal government service. It provides them with an opportunity to enhance their professional qualifications and gain recognition from their peers. Certification may also help city managers secure better job opportunities or promotions within their current organization. Furthermore, it can serve as a signal of competence for potential employers when seeking a new position.

Pro Tip: When considering city manager certification, be sure to research the requirements of the program you are interested in thoroughly. This will ensure that you understand all of the necessary qualifications and that you have taken the necessary steps to become certified. Additionally, make sure to take advantage of any networking opportunities associated with the certification program as this can help open doors for future career advancement.

Related: What does a City Manager do?

Top 11 City Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified City Manager (CCM)

Certified City Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA). The CCM designation is an internationally recognized mark of excellence for local government managers and administrators. It is designed to recognize those individuals who have achieved a high level of professional development and experience in their field.

The CCM program requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities in areas such as public policy, administration, finance, personnel management, community development, economic development, and intergovernmental relations. Applicants must also demonstrate a commitment to ethical conduct and professional service.

To become certified as a CCM, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including: having at least three years of professional local government management experience; holding a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; passing the ICMA Certification Examination; and completing the ICMA Professional Development Program (PDP).

The ICMA Certification Examination consists of two parts: Part I covers general management topics such as public policy analysis and implementation, budgeting and financial management, personnel management, intergovernmental relations, ethics in public service, risk management/liability avoidance strategies; Part II covers specific topics related to the applicant’s field of expertise.

The PDP consists of five courses that cover topics such as leadership development; strategic planning; human resource management; community engagement; and organizational change. The PDP must be completed within three years of taking the certification examination.

The cost for applying for CCM certification is $450 for ICMA members ($550 for non-members).

2. Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC)

Certified Municipal Clerk (CMC) is a professional certification program offered by the International Institute of Municipal Clerks (IIMC). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in local government management. The CMC credential is the highest level of professional recognition for municipal clerks and other local government professionals.

The CMC program requires applicants to have five years of experience in a local government setting, or three years with an associate’s degree or higher. Applicants must also pass a written examination that covers topics such as ethics, public records management, planning and zoning, budgeting, personnel administration, and financial operations.

The CMC program takes approximately two to three months to complete from start to finish. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and supporting documents such as transcripts or certificates of completion for any relevant courses taken. Once the application has been approved, applicants will be required to pay a fee of $400 USD plus applicable taxes in order to take the written exam.

Once an applicant has passed the written exam, they will be eligible to receive their CMC certificate from IIMC. The cost for this certification is $200 USD plus applicable taxes. Upon successful completion of the program, certified municipal clerks can use the CMC designation after their name and are eligible for membership in IIMC at discounted rates.

3. Certified Public Manager (CPM)

Certified Public Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize excellence in public management and leadership. It is offered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, which consists of universities and state governments across the United States. The CPM program is designed to provide public sector managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and lead in today’s complex environment.

The CPM program requires completion of an intensive two-year curriculum, including coursework in public administration, organizational behavior, budgeting, personnel management, ethics, policy analysis, communication and other areas pertinent to public sector management. Upon successful completion of this program, participants are awarded a Certified Public Manager designation from their respective state government or university.

In order to become certified as a CPM, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by their respective state government or university. These requirements typically include having at least five years of professional experience in public service and/or holding a master’s degree in public administration or related field. Once these requirements have been met, individuals can apply for admission into the CPM program through their respective state government or university.

The cost of obtaining CPM certification varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition costs range from $3,000-$7,000 for the two-year program. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with obtaining the certification such as application fees and examination fees.

4. International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager

The International City/County Management Association (ICMA) Credentialed Manager is a professional certification program for local government managers. It recognizes the highest standards of professional practice and provides a framework for continued professional development.

To become an ICMA Credentialed Manager, applicants must demonstrate their commitment to the profession by completing three requirements: education, experience, and exam.

Education: Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in public administration or a related field from an accredited college or university.

Experience: Applicants must have at least five years of full-time management-level experience in local government or a related field.

Exam: Applicants must pass the ICMA Credentialing Exam, which assesses knowledge of public administration principles and practices. The exam consists of two parts: the Core Knowledge Exam (CKE) and the Professional Practices Exam (PPE). The CKE covers topics such as finance, personnel management, ethics, and community planning; while the PPE focuses on topics such as budgeting, strategic planning, economic development, and intergovernmental relations.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete all three requirements for ICMA Credentialed Manager status.

The cost to become an ICMA Credentialed Manager varies depending on whether you are already an ICMA member or not. For non-members, it costs $200 to take the exam plus an additional $50 application fee; for members it costs $150 plus the $50 application fee.

5. National Certified Public Manager Program (NCPMP)

The National Certified Public Manager Program (NCPMP) is a professional development program designed to recognize public sector managers who have achieved the highest standards of performance in their field. It is administered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, which consists of representatives from state and local governments, universities, and other organizations. The program provides certification for individuals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies required for effective management in the public sector.

The NCPMP requires participants to complete an intensive 12-week course that focuses on topics such as organizational behavior, leadership skills, budgeting, personnel management, and communication. Participants must also complete a comprehensive assessment that includes both written and oral components. Upon successful completion of the program, participants are awarded a certificate of completion and become eligible for certification as a National Certified Public Manager (NCPM).

In order to obtain certification as an NCPM, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least five years of public sector managerial experience or equivalent education; passing the NCPMP assessment; and completing all required coursework. Once certified, NCPMs are eligible to receive continuing education credits through approved courses offered by the NCPM Consortium.

The cost of participation in the NCPMP varies depending on where you take it and whether you are taking it online or in person. Generally speaking, most programs range from $2,000-$3,000 for tuition and fees. Additional costs may include books and materials needed for the coursework or assessment exam preparation materials.

6. Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design Accredited Professional (LEED AP)

Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Accredited Professional (LEED AP) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge of the LEED Rating System and green building principles. The LEED AP credential is granted by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting sustainability in the built environment.

The LEED AP credential is designed for professionals who are involved in the design, construction, and operations of green buildings. It is a voluntary certification that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to sustainable design and construction practices. Professionals with this credential can provide valuable insight into how to best integrate green building strategies into projects.

It typically takes between 4-6 months to complete the requirements for obtaining the LEED AP credential, depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework and exams. In order to become a LEED AP, you must first pass an exam that covers topics related to green building principles, such as energy efficiency, water conservation, indoor environmental quality, materials selection, and more. After passing this exam, you must then complete an additional 20 hours of specialized training related to green building strategies and practices. Finally, you must submit a portfolio of your work that demonstrates your experience with green building projects or initiatives.

The cost of obtaining the LEED AP credential varies depending on where you take your courses and exams; however, it typically costs between $1,000-$2,000 USD for all of the necessary materials and fees associated with becoming certified.

7. American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)

The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) is a professional institute that certifies urban and regional planners in the United States. It is the only certification program for planners recognized by the American Planning Association (APA). The AICP was established in 1934 to promote professionalism in planning and set standards for ethical conduct among its members.

To become an AICP-certified planner, you must have a degree from an accredited planning program, three years of professional experience, and pass a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as zoning, land use planning, environmental planning, economic development, transportation, and public policy. You must also complete 36 hours of continuing education credits every two years to maintain your certification.

The cost of becoming an AICP-certified planner varies depending on the state or region you live in. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$600 to take the exam and another $100-$200 for continuing education credits every two years.

In summary, becoming an AICP-certified planner requires a degree from an accredited planning program, three years of professional experience, passing a comprehensive exam, and completing 36 hours of continuing education credits every two years at a cost of around $500-$600 to take the exam plus $100-$200 for continuing education credits every two years.

8. Financial Management for Local Government Certificate Program

The Financial Management for Local Government Certificate Program is a professional development program designed to provide local government employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage public funds. This program is offered by the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) and consists of three courses: Fundamentals of Local Government Finance, Budgeting and Financial Planning, and Advanced Topics in Local Government Finance. The program can be completed in as little as six months, although the exact length may vary depending on the individual's learning style and availability.

To get started, interested individuals must first register for the program online or through their local ICMA Chapter. After registration is complete, participants will receive an email with access to the course materials, which include readings, lectures, activities, and other resources. Participants will also be assigned an instructor who will provide guidance throughout the program.

The cost of the Financial Management for Local Government Certificate Program varies depending on whether you are a member of ICMA or not. For non-members, it costs $995 per course; for members it costs $495 per course. In addition to tuition fees, there may also be additional fees associated with textbooks or other materials that are required for completion of the program.

Upon successful completion of all three courses within a given time frame (usually six months), participants will receive their certificate from ICMA recognizing their achievement in financial management for local government.

9. Project Management Professional Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification requires a combination of education and experience, and successful completion of an exam.

The PMP certification process takes approximately 3-6 months to complete, depending on the individual’s level of preparation. To obtain the certification, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements and submit an application to PMI. Once accepted, applicants must pass a four-hour examination that tests their knowledge of project management principles and practices.

To be eligible for the PMP Certification, applicants must have either:

• A secondary degree (high school diploma or equivalent) plus at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects; OR
• A four-year degree plus at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The cost for the PMP Certification varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of PMI. For members, the cost is $405 for the exam fee only; for nonmembers it is $555. In addition to this fee there may be other costs associated with preparing for the exam such as training courses or study materials which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on how much preparation is needed.

10. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. This certification is designed to help professionals understand the principles and tools of Lean Six Sigma, and to apply them to improve processes within their organization.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically takes around four weeks to complete. It consists of classroom instruction, online learning, and hands-on practice with real-world projects. During this program, participants learn how to use Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques to identify process improvement opportunities, create solutions for those opportunities, and measure the impact of their improvements.

In order to get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete the training program. After completing the training program, you will be required to take an exam that tests your knowledge of the material covered in the course. Upon passing this exam, you will receive your official Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification from an accredited institution or organization.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the institution or organization offering it. Generally speaking, most courses range from $1,500 - $2,500 USD depending on the length and depth of instruction provided.

11. Advanced Public Sector Human Resources Certification

Advanced Public Sector Human Resources Certification (APSHRC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of public sector human resources professionals. The program is administered by the National Association of State Personnel Executives (NASPE) in partnership with the International Public Management Association for Human Resources (IPMA-HR).

The APSHRC program consists of three levels: Certified Professional, Senior Professional, and Executive Professional. Each level requires successful completion of an exam and demonstration of experience in the field. To earn certification at any level, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in public sector human resources management.

To become certified at the Certified Professional level, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as recruitment and selection, classification and compensation, labor relations, performance management, employee relations, training and development, organizational development and change management. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become certified at the Senior Professional level, applicants must pass an additional exam that covers topics such as budgeting and financial management; legal aspects of personnel management; strategic planning; collective bargaining; labor relations; workforce planning; diversity initiatives; technology applications for HR; ethics in HR; and HR metrics. This exam takes approximately six hours to complete.

To become certified at the Executive Professional level, applicants must pass a third exam that covers topics such as organizational design and development; leadership development strategies; talent acquisition strategies; total rewards strategies; succession planning strategies; employee engagement strategies; global HR trends and practices; analytics for decision making in HRM systems’ implementation/evaluation/improvement processes. This exam takes approximately eight hours to complete.

The cost for each level varies depending on whether you are a NASPE or IPMA-HR member or non-member. For example, NASPE members pay $175 for each level while non-members pay $225 per level. IPMA-HR members pay $195 per level while non-members pay $245 per level.

Do You Really Need a City Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question is ultimately up to the individual. A City Manager Certificate is a credential that demonstrates an individual has met certain educational and professional requirements and is qualified to manage a city or town.

If you are considering a career in city management, it could be beneficial to obtain a City Manager Certificate. It can help demonstrate your knowledge of the profession and provide proof of your qualifications when applying for jobs. While having a certificate may not be required, it could give you an edge over other applicants who do not have one.

If you already have experience in city management, then you may not need to obtain the certificate. As long as you can show potential employers that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge for the job, then they may be willing to hire you without one. However, if this is your first foray into city management, obtaining the certificate could prove useful in helping you land your first job.

Ultimately, whether or not you should get a City Manager Certificate depends on your own personal situation and goals. If having a certificate will help advance your career and make it easier for potential employers to recognize your qualifications, then it might be worth pursuing one. Otherwise, if you have enough experience and knowledge of the profession without having one, then there may be no need for it at all.

Related: City Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About City Manager Certifications

1. What is a city manager certification?

Answer: City manager certifications are credentials that demonstrate an individual's knowledge and experience in managing the daily operations of a local government. They are typically obtained through professional organizations and are recognized by employers as evidence of expertise in the field.

2. How do I become certified as a city manager?

Answer: To become certified as a city manager, you will need to meet certain criteria set forth by the certifying organization, such as having a certain amount of experience and/or education in public administration or management, passing an exam, and completing continuing education credits or other requirements.

3. What is the difference between a city manager certification and a master’s degree in public administration?

Answer: A city manager certification demonstrates specialized knowledge and experience within the field of local government management, while a master’s degree in public administration provides more comprehensive training on topics such as budgeting, policy analysis, research methods, and leadership skills.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a city manager?

Answer: The cost of obtaining certification varies depending on the certifying organization and may include fees for application processing, exams, materials, and continuing education credits. It is important to research your options thoroughly before deciding which route to pursue.

5. What are some of the benefits of becoming certified?

Answer: Becoming certified can provide numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, better job security, greater credibility with employers and colleagues, access to specialized resources or networks within your profession, and more recognition from peers within your field.