Top 11 Department Assistant Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for a department assistant in the job market. They demonstrate a high level of expertise and knowledge in their chosen field, as well as a commitment to professional development. Having certifications can open up more job opportunities and increase the potential for career advancement. Certifications also provide assurance to employers that the applicant is qualified to perform the duties of the position. Additionally, certifications can help to differentiate department assistants from other applicants by providing evidence of specific skills and experience that may be beneficial to an organization.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Department Assistants and explain how they can help to advance a department assistant's career.

What are Department Assistant Certifications?

Department assistant certification is a form of professional certification that is designed to help individuals who work in administrative roles in various departments within an organization. It is intended to provide the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage the responsibilities associated with their role. This type of certification provides recognition for those individuals who have mastered the necessary competencies and demonstrates a commitment to professional development.

The certification provides an opportunity for department assistants to demonstrate their expertise and gain recognition for their accomplishments. It can also help them advance their careers by showing employers that they are knowledgeable about the specific duties associated with their role. The certification also allows them to stay current on new technology, trends, and best practices in the field. This can be especially beneficial when applying for promotions or taking on additional responsibilities within the organization. Additionally, it gives them an edge over non-certified candidates when seeking employment opportunities outside of their current employer.

Pro Tip: Department assistant certification can help you stand out in a competitive job market. Consider taking courses in administrative support, organizational skills, and communication to gain the necessary skills and knowledge needed to become certified. Additionally, look for certifications that are specific to your field or industry to show employers that you are knowledgeable in your area of expertise.

Related: What does a Department Assistant do?

Top 11 Department Assistant Certifications

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

1. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of administrative professionals. The CAP credential is highly respected in the administrative profession and demonstrates that an individual has achieved a level of excellence in their field.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the CAP program. To become certified, individuals must first meet certain eligibility requirements, which include having at least three years of full-time experience in an administrative role. They must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as office management, communications, customer service, technology, and project management.

The cost for the CAP program varies depending on the country or region you are located in. Generally speaking, it costs around $300 USD for IAAP members and $400 USD for non-members. This includes access to study materials and practice tests as well as the exam fee itself.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also maintain their membership with IAAP and complete continuing education courses every two years in order to keep their certification active.

2. Certified Professional Secretary (CPS)

Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of administrative support.

The program consists of three levels: Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), Advanced Certified Administrative Professional (ACAP), and Master Certified Administrative Professional (MCAP). Each level requires passing an exam, which covers topics such as office management, communication, customer service, and technology.

In order to become certified, candidates must first complete an application and submit it to IAAP. After submitting the application, candidates must pass an exam for each level they wish to pursue. The exams are offered twice a year and can be taken at any authorized testing center.

The cost for taking the CPS exams varies depending on the level being pursued. For example, the cost for taking the CAP exam is $195 USD; the cost for taking the ACAP exam is $295 USD; and the cost for taking the MCAP exam is $395 USD.

Overall, it typically takes about six months to complete all three levels of certification. However, this timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances.

3. Certified Executive Assistant (CEA)

Certified Executive Assistant (CEA) is a professional designation for administrative professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of executive support. The CEA credential is awarded by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP).

The CEA program consists of three courses: Executive Support Fundamentals, Professional Development Strategies, and Business Communications. To become certified as a CEA, applicants must pass all three courses with a score of 80% or higher. It typically takes around six months to complete the program.

To get started on the CEA program, applicants must first join IAAP and pay an annual membership fee of $99. After joining IAAP, applicants can purchase the course materials online through their website for $299 each. Once they have completed all three courses and passed the exams with a score of 80% or higher, they will receive their official CEA certificate from IAAP.

In total, it costs around $597 to become certified as a CEA through IAAP. This cost includes the membership fee and course materials for all three courses.

4. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is a certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively use Microsoft Office applications. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote.

The MOS certification process consists of two parts: taking an exam and completing a project-based assessment. The exam is a multiple-choice test that covers topics such as formatting documents, creating spreadsheets, working with databases, using formulas and functions in Excel, creating presentations in PowerPoint, managing email accounts in Outlook, and more. The project-based assessment requires the candidate to complete a series of tasks related to the Microsoft Office applications they are being tested on.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's experience and familiarity with the Microsoft Office applications. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to prepare for the exams and assessments.

To get certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist you must register for an exam through Certiport’s website or through an authorized testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $65 - $150 USD per exam.

5. Certified Legal Secretary (CLS)

A Certified Legal Secretary (CLS) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of legal secretaries. The certification is offered by the National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS) and requires passing an exam that covers topics such as legal terminology, court systems, document preparation, ethics, and office management.

It typically takes between six months to a year to prepare for the CLS exam. Preparation usually involves taking classes or studying independently with books or online courses. NALS offers a variety of study materials that can be purchased separately or as part of a study package.

To become certified, applicants must submit an application to NALS along with the appropriate fee. After the application has been approved, applicants will receive an authorization to test letter which allows them to register for the exam at an approved testing center. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours.

The cost for becoming certified varies depending on whether you purchase study materials from NALS or use other resources. The cost for the CLS exam itself is $125 for members of NALS and $175 for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or taking classes in preparation for the exam.

6. Certified Professional Manager (CPM)

Certified Professional Manager (CPM) is a professional certification offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). CPM certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of the core competencies of management. The CPM program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as leadership, communication, problem solving, decision making, financial management, human resource management, and organizational development.

The certification process typically takes six to eight months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online assessment that evaluates their knowledge and skills related to the core competencies of management. After passing the assessment, applicants must then complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as project management, strategic planning, team building, and change management. Once these courses are completed successfully, applicants can apply for the CPM certification exam.

The cost of obtaining the CPM certification varies depending on the type of program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs range from $2,000-$4,000 USD. This cost includes all course materials and exams required for certification.

In addition to completing the coursework and exams required for certification, applicants must also meet certain experience requirements before they can be eligible for the CPM exam. Typically this includes having three or more years of professional managerial experience in a related field or five or more years in any managerial role.

Once certified as a Certified Professional Manager (CPM), individuals are able to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in management practice and gain recognition from employers and peers alike.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and highly respected project management certification in the world. The PMP credential indicates that an individual has the knowledge, experience, and skills to successfully manage projects of any size or complexity.

The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements as outlined by PMI. Applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience and 7,500 hours leading and directing projects OR a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience and 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

To get the PMP certification, applicants must first apply for it through the PMI website. Once approved, applicants can register for the exam through Prometric Testing Centers or Pearson VUE Testing Centers. The cost for taking the exam is $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official PMP Certification from PMI.

In total, it can take up to several months to complete all of these steps in order to become certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP).

8. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)

Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) is a certification program offered by the National Healthcareer Association (NHA). It is designed to provide individuals with specialized skills and knowledge in medical administrative support. The certification demonstrates a mastery of the necessary skills to perform administrative tasks in a healthcare setting.

The CMAA certification requires you to complete an approved training program, pass an exam, and maintain continuing education requirements. Depending on the training program chosen, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the certification process.

To get certified, you must first enroll in a NHA-approved training program. These programs are available through community colleges, universities, vocational schools, and online providers. Once enrolled in a program, you will need to complete all coursework and pass the CMAA exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of obtaining your CMAA certification will vary depending on the type of training program chosen. Online courses typically range from $500-$2,000 while traditional classroom courses may cost up to $4,000 or more. Additionally, there is an application fee for taking the exam which ranges from $125-$190 depending on whether or not you have completed an approved training program.

9. Certified Public Manager (CPM)

Certified Public Manager (CPM) is a professional certification program for public sector managers. It is designed to recognize and reward excellence in the management of public organizations. The CPM program was created by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, a group of universities and government agencies that work together to promote best practices in public management.

The CPM program requires successful completion of a series of courses and exams, which cover topics such as budgeting, personnel management, organizational dynamics, and ethics. The program typically takes about two years to complete.

To get the CPM certification, you must first complete an approved training program at an accredited university or college. After completing the training program, you must then pass a comprehensive exam administered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium. Finally, you will be required to submit evidence of your work experience in the field of public management.

The cost of obtaining the CPM certification varies depending on the institution offering it and other factors such as travel expenses and course fees. Generally speaking, however, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

10. Six Sigma Green Belt

Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful Six Sigma practitioners. It is an internationally recognized certification program that is based on the principles of Lean Six Sigma, which is a methodology used to improve business processes.

The Six Sigma Green Belt certification typically takes about three months to complete, depending on the individual's learning style and pace. The program consists of online training modules, self-study materials, and an exam. The online training modules cover topics such as process improvement, problem solving, data analysis, project management, and customer service.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ or IASSC. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of Lean Six Sigma principles and practices. You can take the exam at any time after completing the coursework; however, most people choose to take it within six months of completing their training in order to ensure they retain what they have learned.

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on where you take your coursework and how much self-study material you purchase. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD for the entire program including all course materials and exams.

11. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that verifies the skills of entry-level IT professionals. It is designed to demonstrate competency in areas such as installation, preventative maintenance, networking, security, and troubleshooting of computer systems.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CompTIA A+ certification program. This includes studying for the two exams (220-1001 & 220-1002) that are required for certification. The exams cover a range of topics including hardware components, operating systems, mobile devices, virtualization and cloud computing, network infrastructure, and security.

To get CompTIA A+ certified you must first pass both exams with a score of at least 700 out of 900 points on each exam. After passing both exams you will be awarded the CompTIA A+ certification.

The cost for taking the CompTIA A+ certification exam varies depending on where you take it but usually ranges from $200-$300 per exam.

Do You Really Need a Department Assistant Certificate?

Yes, you really need a Department Assistant Certificate if you are looking to enter a career in the field of departmental assistance. This certificate is one of the most important credentials that can help you stand out and be taken seriously when applying for jobs in this field. A Department Assistant Certificate demonstrates that you have received formal training in the specific tasks associated with being an effective department assistant.

Having a Department Assistant Certificate validates your qualifications and knowledge for the position and shows prospective employers that you are capable of performing all necessary duties. It also gives employers confidence that you understand how to properly handle confidential information, as well as how to interact professionally with colleagues, supervisors, and customers. Additionally, having a certificate indicates that you have taken the initiative to pursue additional education or training in order to increase your value as an employee.

Overall, obtaining a Department Assistant Certificate is essential if you want to be considered for any job related to this field. It not only proves your knowledge and abilities but it also shows potential employers that you are dedicated to developing yourself professionally and growing within the field.

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FAQs About Department Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Department Assistant Certification?

Answer: A Department Assistant Certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates proficiency in the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the duties of a department assistant. It is typically awarded after completion of an accredited program or course.

2. How long does it take to get a Department Assistant Certification?

Answer: The amount of time required to obtain a Department Assistant Certification can vary depending on the program or course chosen and the individual's learning style. Generally, most programs can be completed within 6-12 months.

3. Is there an exam required for Department Assistant Certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require students to pass an exam in order to receive their certification. The types of questions asked and the length of the exam will depend on the specific program chosen.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Department Assistant?

Answer: Generally, no prior experience or education is necessary in order to become certified as a department assistant; however, some programs may require applicants to have at least one year of relevant work experience or related education prior to enrolling in the program.

5. What are the benefits of obtaining a Department Assistant Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Department Assistant Certification can help demonstrate your knowledge and skillset to employers, making you more competitive in today's job market. Additionally, having this certification may also lead to better job opportunities, higher salaries, and increased career mobility within your organization or industry.