Top 10 Conference Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a conference coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has formal training and knowledge in the field. Certifications show employers that the candidate is qualified to handle various tasks related to event planning and management, such as budgeting, vendor negotiations, and logistical coordination. They also serve as an assurance of quality to potential employers, demonstrating that the candidate is reliable and dedicated to their work. Certifications can also open up opportunities for higher-level positions and more specialized roles within an organization.

This article reviews the top certifications for Conference Coordinators and explains how they can help to advance a Conference Coordinator's career.

What are Conference Coordinator Certifications?

Conference coordinator certification is a professional development program designed to help individuals become proficient in the areas of event planning, management, and coordination. It provides participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to plan, manage, and execute successful conferences, conventions, and other large-scale events. The certification helps coordinators to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in order to maximize their effectiveness in coordinating events.

The program covers topics such as budgeting for events; creating effective marketing plans; selecting venues; designing the event layout; working with vendors; developing contracts; managing volunteers; resolving conflicts between vendors or attendees; handling customer service issues; ensuring compliance with regulations and laws related to event planning; and coordinating post-event activities. Participants gain an understanding of the principles of event planning and management, as well as how to apply them in real-world situations. They also learn how to create effective communication strategies between all parties involved in an event.

By completing conference coordinator certification, individuals can demonstrate their proficiency in this field and gain a competitive edge when seeking employment opportunities or promotions. The certification provides assurance that coordinators have the skills required for successful event management. Additionally, it can give them access to a network of industry contacts who can provide valuable advice on planning future events.

Pro Tip: Research and understand the different types of conference coordinator certifications available to ensure that you select the best certification program for your professional needs. Knowing the differences between certifications can help you make an informed decision on which one is right for you.

Related: What does a Conference Coordinator do?

Top 10 Conference Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Meeting Professional (CMP)

Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) is an internationally recognized certification for meeting and event professionals. It is a credential that demonstrates a high level of knowledge, experience, and professionalism in the meetings, conventions, and events industry. The CMP program was developed by the Convention Industry Council (CIC), a consortium of leading industry organizations.

The CMP program consists of two parts: an online application process and an examination. The online application process requires applicants to provide evidence of their professional experience in the meetings and events industry as well as evidence of their education or training. Applicants must also complete a code of ethics agreement. Once approved, applicants can then take the exam which covers topics such as meeting planning, event management, budgeting, marketing, risk management, and customer service.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CMP program depending on how quickly you are able to submit your application materials and take the exam.

To get certified as a CMP you must first meet the eligibility requirements for the program which include having at least three years of full-time work experience in the meetings and events industry within 10 years prior to applying for certification. You must also have completed at least 25 hours of continuing education related to meeting or event planning within five years prior to applying for certification.

The cost to become certified as a CMP varies depending on where you live but usually ranges from $400-$600 USD including fees for both the application process and examination.

2. Certified Event Manager (CEM)

Certified Event Manager (CEM) is a professional certification program administered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage successful events.

The CEM program consists of three components: an online exam, a portfolio review, and an in-person interview. The online exam covers topics such as event planning and management, budgeting, risk management, marketing, legal issues, and more. The portfolio review requires applicants to submit samples of their work related to event planning and management. Finally, the in-person interview provides an opportunity for applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in event management.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CEM program. To get started, you must first become a member of ILEA. This can be done through their website or by attending one of their conferences or workshops. Once you are a member, you can apply for the CEM program on the ILEA website or contact them directly for more information.

The cost of the CEM program varies depending on your membership status with ILEA. For non-members it typically costs $1,000 USD; however this fee may be reduced if you are already a member of ILEA or if you attend one of their conferences or workshops prior to applying for the CEM program.

3. Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP)

Certified Special Events Professional (CSEP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). The CSEP program is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of special event professionals. It is the only globally recognized certification for special event professionals.

The CSEP certification process consists of three components: an online application, an exam, and a portfolio review. The online application requires applicants to provide basic information about their experience in the field of special events. Once the application is approved, applicants can take the CSEP Exam which is administered online by ILEA. The exam covers topics such as event planning, marketing and promotion, budgeting and finance, risk management, legal issues, and more.

Once applicants have passed the exam they must submit a portfolio of their work in order to be certified. This includes creating a detailed portfolio that showcases their experience in special events planning and management. The portfolio should include examples of successful projects they have completed as well as any awards or recognition they have received for their work.

The cost of becoming CSEP certified depends on whether you are an ILEA member or non-member. For ILEA members, it costs $395 USD to apply for certification; for non-members it costs $495 USD. It typically takes between 6-12 months to become certified once you have submitted your application and portfolio materials.

4. Certified Association Executive (CAE)

Certified Association Executive (CAE) is a professional certification offered by the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE). The CAE credential is designed to recognize association professionals who have demonstrated the knowledge, skills, and commitment necessary to manage an association effectively. It is awarded to those who pass an exam that covers areas such as management principles, finance, marketing, membership development, governance and legal compliance.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the CAE exam. The process includes studying independently or taking an ASAE-approved preparation course. Candidates must also submit a CAE application with supporting documentation such as letters of recommendation and proof of education.

The cost of obtaining a CAE credential varies depending on the type of preparation chosen. The exam fee is $575 for ASAE members and $775 for non-members. Preparation courses may range from $500-$2,000 depending on the provider.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must meet other requirements such as having at least three years of full-time experience in association management or related fields; completing at least 60 hours of continuing education within five years; and agreeing to abide by ASAE’s code of ethics.

5. Certified Conference Planner (CCP)

Certified Conference Planner (CCP) is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of experienced conference planners. It is offered by the International Association of Conference Planners (IACP).

The CCP designation is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in planning and executing successful conferences. The certification requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of full-time experience in the conference planning profession. Candidates must also complete a series of courses and exams covering topics such as budgeting, marketing, event design, risk management, and more.

It typically takes around three months to complete the certification process. To begin, interested individuals must submit an application form and provide proof of their conference planning experience. Once approved, they can then register for the required courses and exams. After completing all requirements successfully, applicants will be awarded their Certified Conference Planner credential.

The cost for the certification program varies depending on which courses are taken and whether or not any additional materials are purchased. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 to become a Certified Conference Planner.

6. International Association of Conference Centers Certification Program (IACCP)

The International Association of Conference Centers Certification Program (IACCP) is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize excellence in the conference center industry. The IACCP is the only certification program that focuses on the unique needs of conference centers, and it has been developed by the International Association of Conference Centers (IACC).

The IACCP certification process begins with an online application and an on-site assessment. This assessment includes a review of the facility’s standards, services, and amenities. Once the facility has met all of the criteria for certification, they will receive their official IACCP certificate. The entire process typically takes between 6-9 months to complete.

In order to get certified through IACCP, facilities must demonstrate that they meet or exceed certain criteria related to customer service, technology, food and beverage quality, safety and security measures, environmental sustainability practices, and more. Facilities must also be members of IACC in order to apply for certification.

The cost of becoming certified through IACCP varies depending on the size of the facility and its location. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$4,000 for a facility to become certified through IACCP.

7. Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP)

Certified Government Meeting Professional (CGMP) is a professional certification program developed by the National Coalition of Certification Centers (NC3) and the Society of Government Meeting Professionals (SGMP). The CGMP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and competency in the planning, management, and execution of government meetings.

To become certified as a CGMP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an exam administered by NC3. Applicants must have at least three years of experience in the government meeting profession or related field, be employed in the field for at least one year prior to applying for certification, and demonstrate knowledge of meeting planning principles.

The CGMP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as budgeting, contracting, risk management, event technology, customer service, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost to take the CGMP exam is $395 for SGMP members or $495 for non-members. Additionally, there is a $50 application fee that must be paid when submitting an application for certification.

8. Association Management Company Certification Program (AMC-CP)

The Association Management Company Certification Program (AMC-CP) is a voluntary program designed to help association management companies (AMCs) demonstrate their commitment to excellence and professionalism. The program is administered by the AMC Institute, an international organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the AMC industry.

To become certified, AMCs must go through a rigorous process that includes completing an application, providing references from current clients, submitting financial statements, and undergoing an on-site review by a qualified team of evaluators. The evaluation includes assessing the company’s organizational structure, policies and procedures, client services, financial management practices, staff development programs, and other areas related to association management.

The entire process typically takes between 4-6 months to complete. To begin the certification process, AMCs must submit an application along with a non-refundable fee of $2,500 USD. Once accepted into the program, AMCs must pay additional fees for the on-site review ($3,000 USD), as well as any additional costs associated with travel expenses for the review team.

Upon successful completion of the evaluation process and all applicable fees being paid in full, AMCs will receive their official AMC Institute Certification Seal which can be used in marketing materials and on their website. This seal serves as proof that they have met or exceeded industry standards for quality service delivery and best practices in association management.

9. Convention Industry Council Accredited Meeting Planner (CIC-AMP)

The Convention Industry Council Accredited Meeting Planner (CIC-AMP) is a professional designation that recognizes meeting and event professionals who have achieved a level of expertise in the field. The CIC-AMP certification program is administered by the Convention Industry Council, an organization dedicated to promoting professionalism in the meetings, conventions, and exhibitions industry.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CIC-AMP program. During this time, applicants must complete two online courses and pass an exam with a score of 80% or higher. The cost of the program is $495 USD for members of the Convention Industry Council and $595 USD for non-members.

To apply for the CIC-AMP certification, applicants must meet certain criteria including having at least three years of experience in the meetings and events industry as well as being able to demonstrate knowledge and skills related to planning meetings and events. Applicants must also submit two letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with their work in the industry.

Once certified, CIC-AMPs are required to participate in continuing education activities every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

10. Society of Government Meeting Professionals Certification Program (SGMP-CP).

The Society of Government Meeting Professionals Certification Program (SGMP-CP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and reward government meeting professionals who demonstrate the highest level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field. The SGMP-CP is an internationally recognized certification that sets you apart from other meeting professionals in the industry.

To become certified, you must complete a comprehensive training program that covers all aspects of government meetings management. This includes topics such as budgeting, planning, event execution, risk management, and more. The training program typically takes between four and six months to complete. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive your SGMP-CP certification.

In order to get your SGMP-CP certification, you must first apply for it through the Society of Government Meeting Professionals website. Once your application is approved by the board of directors, you can begin your training program. During this time, you will be required to take courses on various topics related to government meetings management and pass an exam at the end of each course. After completing all courses and passing the exams with a score of 80% or higher, you will be eligible for certification.

The cost for obtaining your SGMP-CP certification varies depending on how many courses you need to take and whether or not you are a member of SGMP. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD to obtain your certification depending on these factors.

Do You Really Need a Conference Coordinator Certificate?

A Conference Coordinator Certificate can be a great asset for those looking to pursue a career in the event planning industry. It is an important credential that proves proficiency in the field and can help differentiate yourself from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. However, it is important to consider whether having such a certificate is necessary for you to succeed in your profession.

There are several factors you should consider when deciding if a Conference Coordinator Certificate is right for you. First, what type of experience do you have in the field? If you have many years of experience organizing conferences and events, then having a certificate may not be as important. On the other hand, if you are just starting out or have limited experience in the field, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial as it would demonstrate your knowledge and skillset.

Second, what type of job are you looking to obtain? Different types of organizations require different levels of qualifications and certifications when hiring employees. For example, some companies may prefer that their conference coordinators possess certification from an accredited institution such as Meeting Professionals International (MPI). In this case, obtaining the appropriate certification would likely be necessary for securing the position.

Finally, what kind of budget do you have available? Obtaining a Conference Coordinator Certificate can be expensive depending on which program or institution you select. You should factor this cost into your decision making process before committing to any program or purchasing any materials related to obtaining certification.

Overall, whether or not pursuing a Conference Coordinator Certificate is right for you depends on various factors including your experience level and budget constraints. Ultimately though, having such certification can prove beneficial by demonstrating expertise in the field and helping secure better job opportunities with higher pay.

Related: Conference Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Conference Coordinator Certifications

1. What do I need to do to become a Certified Conference Coordinator?

Answer: To become a Certified Conference Coordinator, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam.

2. How long does the certification last?

Answer: The certification is valid for three years, after which you will need to recertify in order to maintain your credential.

3. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a Certified Conference Coordinator?

Answer: Yes, you must have at least two years of experience in conference planning or participating in conferences in some capacity.

4. What types of courses are included in the training program?

Answer: The training program includes courses on event management, budgeting, communication skills, and marketing strategies for conferences.

5. What kind of job opportunities are available for Certified Conference Coordinators?

Answer: Certified Conference Coordinators are employed by organizations ranging from corporations to nonprofits and government agencies and can find employment as event planners, project managers, or operations coordinators.