Top 10 Development Director Certifications

Certifications are important for a development director in the job market because they demonstrate the individual’s knowledge, experience and commitment to their profession. Certifications can provide assurance to employers that an individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job well. They also show potential employers that a development director is up-to-date on industry trends and technologies, which can help them stand out from other candidates. Additionally, certifications can open up new opportunities for career advancement and networking within the development field.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Development Directors and explains how they can help to advance a development director's career.

What are Development Director Certifications?

Development director certification is a professional credential that is designed to recognize the achievement of individuals who have demonstrated expertise in various aspects of program and project development. This certification is offered by organizations such as the Association for Talent Development (ATD) and can help individuals become more marketable in their careers.

The certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge of program and project management concepts, tools, and practices. It also helps demonstrate their understanding of how to successfully manage the development process from conception through implementation. In addition, it can provide recognition for those who have achieved a high level of expertise in this area.

The certification can be beneficial to those looking to advance their career in the field of program or project development, as well as those who are looking for a competitive edge when applying for jobs. Having this certification demonstrates that an individual has the necessary skills and knowledge required for success in the field, which can give them an advantage over other applicants. Furthermore, having this certification may also lead to higher salaries or promotions within an organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a development director certification, look for certifications that involve hands-on experience and provide real-world problem solving skills. Look for courses or programs that are tailored to your specific job role and industry, and make sure the certification is from an accredited organization.

Related: What does a Development Director do?

Top 10 Development Director Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Development Directors today.

1. Certified Development Director (CDD)

Certified Development Director (CDD) is a certification program offered by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC). It is designed to help economic development professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively lead their organizations. The CDD program consists of three courses: Principles of Economic Development, Advanced Economic Development Strategies, and Professional Practices in Economic Development.

The program takes approximately 18 months to complete. During this time, participants must complete all three courses and pass an exam at the end of each course. Participants must also complete a final project that includes research on an economic development topic, as well as a presentation to the IEDC Board of Directors.

To get certified as a CDD, applicants must have at least five years of experience in economic development or related fields. They must also submit an application form and pay a fee of $350 USD for each course they take.

Once certified, CDDs are eligible for membership in the IEDC and can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise in economic development.

2. Certified Professional in Fundraising (CPF)

Certified Professional in Fundraising (CPF) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP). The CPF designation recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a commitment to the fundraising profession and have met the highest standards of ethical practice, knowledge, and skills.

The CPF program requires applicants to meet certain criteria, including: a minimum of three years of full-time fundraising experience; completion of an approved course in fundraising principles and practices; adherence to AFP’s Code of Ethical Principles and Standards; and passing a comprehensive written examination.

The entire process typically takes about 12 months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must complete an application form available on the AFP website. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an approved course in fundraising principles and practices within one year. After completing the course, applicants must pass a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as donor relations, budgeting and financial management, legal issues related to fundraising, marketing/communications strategies for raising funds, and more.

The cost of obtaining the CPF designation varies depending on whether you are an AFP member or non-member. For members, the total cost is $1,000 USD ($500 for application fee + $500 for exam fee). For non-members, it is $1,200 USD ($600 for application fee + $600 for exam fee).

3. Certified Nonprofit Executive (CNPE)

Certified Nonprofit Executive (CNPE) is a professional certification program offered by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of nonprofit professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in their field. The CNPE credential is earned through a combination of education, experience, and assessment.

In order to become certified as a CNPE, an individual must first meet certain requirements including: having at least three years of full-time nonprofit management experience; completing at least 60 hours of nonprofit management education; and passing an exam that tests knowledge in areas such as governance, fundraising, financial management, human resources, marketing/communications, and strategic planning.

The process typically takes 12-18 months to complete. Individuals can begin the process by registering for the CNPE program online or by contacting the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance directly. Once registered for the program, individuals will be given access to online courses and assessments that must be completed before taking the final exam.

The cost for becoming certified as a CNPE depends on whether or not an individual is already enrolled in a degree program with the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance. For those who are not enrolled in a degree program with them, the cost for registration is $500 plus any additional fees associated with assessments and exams. For those who are enrolled in a degree program with them, there may be discounted rates available.

4. Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE)

Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of experienced fundraising professionals. The CFRE credential is awarded by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), an international organization that sets standards for ethical and effective fundraising.

The CFRE credential requires a combination of education, experience and commitment to continuing education in order to maintain certification. To become certified, applicants must have five years of full-time paid professional experience in fundraising within the past 10 years, as well as a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited college or university. They must also pass a comprehensive exam covering all aspects of fundraising.

The process takes approximately six months from start to finish. First, applicants must complete an application form and submit it with their resume, transcripts and other supporting documents. Once their application has been approved, they can register for the exam which is offered twice a year in April and October. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CFRE designation within six weeks.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are an AFP member or non-member; members pay $350 while non-members pay $450. There is also an annual fee of $75 for maintaining your certification which must be paid each year in order to remain certified.

5. Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Certificate in Fundraising Management

The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Certificate in Fundraising Management is a comprehensive program designed to equip fundraising professionals with the knowledge, skills and tools needed to succeed in the field. The program consists of three courses: Principles of Fundraising, Advanced Fundraising Strategies, and Professional Practices in Philanthropy. Each course is offered online and takes approximately 8 weeks to complete.

To get the AFP Certificate in Fundraising Management, you must successfully complete all three courses and pass the final exam with a score of 70 percent or higher. Upon successful completion of the program, you will receive an official certificate from AFP recognizing your achievement.

The cost for the AFP Certificate in Fundraising Management varies depending on whether you are an AFP member or non-member. For members, it costs $495 for all three courses. For non-members, it costs $595 for all three courses.

6. Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIF) Diploma in Fundraising Management

The Chartered Institute of Fundraising (CIF) Diploma in Fundraising Management is an internationally recognised qualification that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge to become a professional fundraiser. The diploma is designed for those who want to develop their fundraising career, or are looking to enter the sector.

The diploma takes around two years to complete and consists of eight modules, which cover topics such as fundraising principles and practice, legal frameworks, donor relations and communications, financial management, evaluation and research. Each module is assessed through coursework assignments and a final exam.

To get the diploma you must be a member of CIF or join at the time of enrolment. You can apply online via the CIF website or contact them directly for more information.

The cost of the diploma varies depending on your country of residence but typically ranges from £1,000 - £2,000. This includes all course materials, assessments and exams fees.

7. Certified Grant Writer (CGW)

A Certified Grant Writer (CGW) is a professional who has been trained and certified to write grant proposals for non-profit organizations. The CGW credential is offered by the Grant Professionals Certification Institute (GPCI).

It typically takes about six months to one year to complete the requirements for certification. To become a CGW, you must have at least two years of experience in grant writing or related fields, such as fundraising or nonprofit management. You must also pass an exam that covers topics such as proposal writing, research methods, and budgeting.

To get certified, you must first register with GPCI and pay a fee of $250. After registering, you will receive access to study materials and practice exams. Once you have studied the material and passed the exam, you will be eligible to receive your CGW credential.

The cost of becoming a CGW varies depending on whether or not you need additional training in order to pass the exam. If you require additional training, it may cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on the type of training you need.

8. Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Certification in Nonprofit Management

The Nonprofit Leadership Alliance Certification in Nonprofit Management is a professional certification program for individuals who are committed to advancing their careers in the nonprofit sector. It is designed to provide professionals with the skills, knowledge and credentials necessary to succeed in the management of nonprofit organizations. The certification is offered through the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance, an organization dedicated to strengthening the leadership of the nonprofit sector through education, training, and credentialing.

The certification consists of three core courses and three electives that cover topics such as strategic planning, fundraising, financial management, board governance, volunteer management, marketing and communications. The courses must be completed within two years of enrollment in order to receive the certification.

To get certified, applicants must first complete all six courses with a grade of B or higher. After completing all six courses, applicants must then take a comprehensive exam that covers all course material. Upon successful completion of both coursework and the exam, applicants will receive their certification from the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance.

The cost for the program varies depending on whether or not you are enrolled in an accredited college or university at the time of enrollment into the program. For those who are enrolled in an accredited college or university at the time of enrollment into this program, there is no cost associated with taking part in it; however those who are not enrolled may be subject to tuition fees for each course taken.

9. American Association of Grant Professionals Certified Grants Management Specialist

The American Association of Grant Professionals Certified Grants Management Specialist (GMS) is a professional credential that provides recognition of an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of grants management. The GMS certification is designed to recognize those individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the areas of grant writing, proposal development, grant administration, and program evaluation.

In order to be eligible for the GMS certification, applicants must have at least three years of full-time professional experience in grants management or related fields. Applicants must also submit a completed application form, provide verification of their work experience, submit two letters of recommendation from professionals in the field, and pass an examination.

The GMS examination consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as grant writing and proposal development; grant administration; program evaluation; budgeting; financial management; compliance with regulations; ethics; and communication skills. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for the GMS certification is $450 USD for members of the American Association of Grant Professionals (AAGP), or $550 USD for non-members. This fee includes access to study materials, registration fees, and the cost of taking the exam. Once certified, AAGP members are required to pay a recertification fee every five years in order to maintain their credential.

10. International Association of Business Communicators Accredited Business Communicator

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the highest standards of excellence in business communication. It is the only global certification program that recognizes and rewards professionals who demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of business communication.

The ABC certification program requires applicants to pass a written exam that tests their knowledge of business communication principles and practices. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as writing, public speaking, media relations, marketing communications, and more. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field.

The ABC certification process typically takes between three to six months to complete. To begin the process, applicants must first submit an application form along with a fee of $295 USD. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take an online assessment which will determine their eligibility for the written exam. After passing the exam and submitting their portfolio, applicants will receive their ABC certificate within two weeks.

In addition to receiving recognition from IABC for achieving this prestigious certification, ABC certified individuals may also be eligible for discounts on IABC membership fees and access to exclusive job opportunities through IABC’s Career Center.

Do You Really Need a Development Director Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Development Director Certificate is not always required to become a successful Development Director, as there are many other skills and qualifications that can lead to success in this role. However, having a certificate may be beneficial in certain situations and can help demonstrate knowledge of the field.

In some cases, employers may require applicants to have a Development Director Certificate before they will consider them for the position. This is especially true in larger organizations where there may be more competition for the job. Additionally, having a certificate may make it easier to get promoted within an organization or to jump start your career if you are just beginning in the field.

The main benefit of having a Development Director Certificate is that it shows potential employers that you have taken the time to learn about the specific aspects of the role. It also demonstrates dedication and commitment to developing your skillset and staying up-to-date with best practices in development management. Having this certification can give you an edge over other applicants who don’t have one, as it shows that you are serious about wanting to succeed in this field.

Overall, whether or not you need a Development Director Certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you want to increase your chances of getting hired for a development director position or if you want to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment, then obtaining a certificate could be beneficial. However, if you already have extensive experience in development management or if you feel confident enough without one, then it may not be necessary for you.

Related: Development Director Resume Examples

FAQs About Development Director Certifications

1. What is a Development Director Certification?

Answer: A Development Director Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who demonstrate expertise in the field of development and fundraising. It is obtained by taking a series of courses and passing exams that cover topics such as donor relations, grant writing, and fundraising strategies.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Development Director Certification?

Answer: Obtaining a Development Director Certification can provide recognition of your professional accomplishments and demonstrate your commitment to the profession. It can also help open doors to new opportunities, increase your earning potential, and enhance your credibility with employers, colleagues, donors, and other stakeholders.

3. How do I become certified as a Development Director?

Answer: To become certified as a Development Director you must complete an approved program that includes courses covering topics such as donor relations, grant writing, and fundraising strategies. You must then pass an exam administered by an approved certifying body such as Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) or Giving Institute: Leading Consultants to Non-Profits (GILCNP).

4. How long does it take to obtain a Development Director Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain a Development Director Certification depends on the individual’s progress through the educational program and their ability to pass the certification exam. On average it takes approximately six months to one year to complete all requirements for certification.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a Development Director?

Answer: Yes, there are several prerequisites that must be met before applying for certification as a Development Director including having at least two years' experience working in development or fundraising roles; completing at least 20 hours of continuing education related to development or fundraising; and successfully completing an approved program that includes courses covering topics such as donor relations, grant writing, and fundraising strategies