Top 10 Communications Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a communications manager in the job market because they demonstrate the individual's professional qualifications, knowledge, and skills. Employers may look for certifications to ensure that potential employees have the necessary expertise and experience to handle the position. Certifications can also provide employers with an indication of the individual's commitment to their profession. Additionally, having certifications can make a candidate stand out from other applicants as they demonstrate a level of dedication to their career. Finally, many organizations require certifications as a prerequisite for certain positions or promotions, so having them can open up more opportunities.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Communications Managers and explain how they can help to further their careers.

What are Communications Manager Certifications?

Communications manager certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and skills in communications management. It is designed to help those working in the communications field develop their expertise, stay up-to-date on the latest trends, and become more competitive in the job market. The certification program provides an understanding of the principles, tools, and techniques used in effective communications management. It also helps professionals understand how to effectively manage a communications team and create successful campaigns.

The certification covers topics such as strategic communication planning, message development and delivery, media relations, crisis communication, digital marketing, public engagement strategies, event planning and management, social media strategy and analytics. Becoming certified can help professionals demonstrate their technical proficiency and enhance their credibility when looking for a job or promotion. Additionally, it can provide networking opportunities with other certified professionals in the field as well as access to continuing education resources that can be used to keep current on industry trends.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the different types of communications manager certifications available. Different certifications may require different levels of education, experience, or other criteria that must be met in order to qualify. Additionally, some certifications may come with additional benefits such as access to industry resources or discounts on professional development courses.

Related: What does a Communications Manager do?

Top 10 Communications Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Communications Manager (CCM)

Certified Communications Manager (CCM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of communications management. The CCM designation is awarded by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC).

The CCM program requires applicants to complete a series of online courses, exams, and assessments that cover topics such as communication strategy, media relations, writing for business, and other related areas. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and experience in the field.

It typically takes around six months to complete all the requirements for the CCM designation. However, applicants can take as long as they need to finish the coursework and assessments.

To get started with the CCM program, applicants must first join IABC and pay an application fee of $125 USD. After joining IABC, applicants will then be able to access the online course materials and assessments needed for certification.

The total cost for earning your CCM designation depends on how quickly you are able to complete the coursework and assessments. In addition to the application fee, there is also a one-time assessment fee of $395 USD.

2. Certified Professional in Public Relations (CPPR)

Certified Professional in Public Relations (CPPR) is a professional certification offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA). It is designed to recognize public relations professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skills and experience in the field. The CPPR certification is intended to provide assurance to employers, clients and other stakeholders that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in the profession.

The CPPR certification requires applicants to have at least five years of full-time public relations experience and pass an exam that covers topics such as strategic planning, media relations, crisis management, research and measurement, ethics and law. In addition, applicants must submit three professional references from current or former supervisors or colleagues.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the application process for the CPPR certification. Applicants must first submit their application materials online through PRSA’s website. Once approved, they can then register for the exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours and 30 minutes. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CPPR certificate within four weeks.

The cost for taking the CPPR exam varies depending on whether you are a PRSA member or non-member. For members it costs $395 while non-members pay $495. Additionally, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 for all certified professionals in order to maintain their certification status each year.

3. International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Professional Certified Marketer (PCM)

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Professional Certified Marketer (PCM) is a professional certification program that recognizes and rewards excellence in the field of business communications. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the areas of strategic planning, writing, digital media, public relations, and other key communication disciplines.

To become an IABC PCM, you must demonstrate your knowledge and experience through a combination of education, experience, and performance. You must also pass an exam administered by IABC. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices associated with business communications.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all the requirements for becoming an IABC PCM. To begin the process, you must first submit an application to IABC for review. Once accepted into the program, you will be required to take two exams: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam tests your knowledge in areas such as strategic planning, writing, digital media, public relations, and other key communication disciplines; while the practical exam tests your ability to apply what you have learned from the written exam in real-world scenarios.

The cost for taking the IABC PCM exams varies depending on where you live; however it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per exam. Additionally there are fees associated with submitting applications for review and becoming certified which range from $100-$250 USD depending on where you live.

Overall becoming an IABC PCM is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in business communications and establish yourself as an expert in this field.

4. Accredited Business Communicator (ABC)

Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC). It is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated excellence in their field of business communication. The program provides a comprehensive framework for assessing, developing, and recognizing business communication professionals.

To become an ABC, you must demonstrate mastery of the core competencies that are essential for success in the field. These include writing, editing, research and analysis, public speaking, media relations, strategic planning, project management, and digital communications. You must also demonstrate knowledge of the principles of effective communication and ethical business practices.

The process to become an ABC takes approximately six months from start to finish. You must first submit an application to IABC along with your resume and a letter of recommendation from a current or former employer or supervisor. Once accepted into the program, you will be required to complete a series of online courses that cover topics such as writing for different audiences; understanding how technology impacts communication; managing projects; creating effective messages; using social media; and more. After completing these courses you will be eligible to take the Accredited Business Communicator examination which is administered by IABC.

The cost for becoming an ABC varies depending on your membership status with IABC but typically ranges between $500-600 USD. This includes all course materials and access to online resources as well as the exam fee itself.

5. Certified Strategic Communications Management Professional (CSCMP)

Certified Strategic Communications Management Professional (CSCMP) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to manage strategic communications in a professional setting. The CSCMP certification is administered by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC), and it is designed to provide assurance that professionals have the skills needed to effectively develop, implement, and evaluate strategic communication plans.

The CSCMP certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as message development, media relations, crisis communication, public opinion research, marketing communication, digital communication, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CSCMP certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in strategic communications management or related fields. Additionally, applicants must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution or hold a professional certificate in strategic communications management from an approved organization.

The cost for taking the CSCMP exam varies depending on whether you are an IABC member or not. For non-members the fee is $495 USD while members pay $395 USD. The fee includes access to study materials and practice exams as well as the actual exam itself.

Once you successfully pass the exam you will receive your CSCMP certification within two weeks of completing it. The certification is valid for three years after which you will need to renew it by taking another exam or participating in continuing education activities approved by IABC.

6. Certified Internal Communications Practitioner (CICP)

Certified Internal Communications Practitioner (CICP) is a professional certification for internal communicators. The CICP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of internal communications. It is awarded by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC).

The CICP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise and experience in the field of internal communication. Applicants must submit a portfolio that includes a written essay, case studies, and other evidence of their work. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as ethics, best practices, and strategy.

It typically takes six to twelve months to complete the CICP certification process. During this time, applicants are expected to develop their portfolio and prepare for the exam. They may also need to take training courses or attend workshops related to internal communication.

The cost of obtaining the CICP certification varies depending on where you live and what type of training you need. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD for the application fee and exam fees combined.

7. Digital Communication Certification Program (DCCP)

The Digital Communication Certification Program (DCCP) is an online certification program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge needed to effectively communicate in a digital environment. The program consists of four courses that cover topics such as digital marketing, social media, web design, and content strategy. Each course takes approximately three months to complete.

The DCCP is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), which is an accredited provider of digital marketing education. To get certified, you will need to complete all four courses and pass the final exam. The cost for the entire program is $1,995 USD.

Once you have completed the program, you will receive a certificate from DMI that proves your mastery of digital communication strategies and tactics. You can also use this certification to demonstrate your expertise on job applications or when applying for promotions at work.

8. Social Media Marketing Certification Program (SMMC)

The Social Media Marketing Certification Program (SMMC) is an online program designed to help marketers gain a deep understanding of the key principles, tactics, and strategies of social media marketing. The program is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute and takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete.

The course covers topics such as: creating a social media strategy; understanding the different types of social media platforms; developing content for various channels; measuring and reporting on results; leveraging influencers and paid advertising; and more.

To get the SMMC certification, you need to complete all eight modules in the course. After completing each module, you will be required to take an online assessment. Once you pass all assessments with a minimum score of 70%, you will receive your certificate.

The cost of the SMMC certification program is €495 (approx. US$570).

9. American Advertising Federation’s National Advertising Certification Program

The American Advertising Federation’s (AAF) National Advertising Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest standards of excellence in advertising. The program is administered by the AAF and its local affiliates, and requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles of effective advertising.

The program consists of four courses: Principles of Advertising, Creative Strategies, Media Planning & Buying, and Digital & Social Media. Each course must be completed within six months in order to qualify for certification. After completing all four courses, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the program varies depending on whether or not an individual is an AAF member. Non-members pay $1,500 for all four courses while members pay $1,200. Additionally, members are eligible for discounts on additional courses and certifications offered through the AAF.

Overall, the National Advertising Certification Program provides individuals with an opportunity to gain recognition as a professional in the field of advertising while also providing employers with assurance that their employees have a strong understanding of effective advertising practices.

10. Google Ads Certification

Google Ads Certification is an official certification program offered by Google to demonstrate proficiency in using the Google Ads platform. It is designed to help individuals and businesses maximize their success with Google Ads campaigns.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and an online assessment. The written exam covers topics such as account setup, campaign optimization, targeting and bidding strategies, ad formats, and reporting. The online assessment tests your knowledge of the same topics as the written exam but also includes more advanced concepts such as conversion tracking, remarketing, and custom audiences.

It takes approximately four hours to complete both parts of the certification process. Once you have successfully passed both exams, you will receive a digital certificate that can be used to demonstrate your expertise in Google Ads to potential employers or clients.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take the exams. In most cases, it costs around $50-$100 USD for both parts of the exam.

Do You Really Need a Communications Manager Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not you need a Communications Manager Certificate, the answer is not so straightforward. There are many factors that come into play when considering this question, such as your current experience level, the type of job you want to pursue and the specific requirements for that position.

Ultimately, if you are looking to become a communications manager and have no prior experience in the field, then obtaining a certificate may be beneficial. It will give you an advantage over other applicants who may not have any formal training in communication management. It will also demonstrate to potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn about this profession through formal education.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in communications management or related fields and are looking for advancement or higher-level positions, then a certificate may not be necessary. Employers often look at your past performance and achievements rather than credentials when making decisions about hiring or promotion. If your resume already includes relevant experience and accomplishments, then a certificate may not be necessary to land the job.

In short, there is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to deciding whether or not you need a Communications Manager Certificate. The best way to decide is to assess your current skillset and determine what kind of job opportunities are available with those skills alone. If you find that additional qualifications would give you an edge over other candidates for certain positions, then pursuing a certificate could be a worthwhile investment in your future career success.

Related: Communications Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Communications Manager Certifications

1. What certifications are available for Communications Manager?

Answer: The Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) Voice and the Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) certifications are the two most popular certifications for Communications Manager.

2. How long does it take to become certified in Communications Manager?

Answer: It typically takes 12-18 months to complete the CCNP Voice certification, and 6-12 months to complete the CUCM certification.

3. What skills do I need to have to become certified in Communications Manager?

Answer: To become certified in Communications Manager, you must have an understanding of VoIP technologies, network protocols, and experience with CUCM administration.

4. How much does it cost to get a Communications Manager certification?

Answer: The cost of a CCNP Voice certification ranges from $300 - $400 USD, while the cost of a CUCM certification ranges from $200 - $300 USD.

5. Is there any way to renew my Communications Manager certification?

Answer: Yes, you can renew your certifications by taking additional courses or passing exams related to the technology you are certified in.