Top 11 Digital Content Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for digital content managers because they demonstrate that a person has the necessary skills and knowledge to manage digital content. They provide evidence of a person's understanding of the best practices and techniques for managing digital content, as well as their ability to use the latest technologies. They also help employers to evaluate potential candidates, ensuring that they have the right qualifications and expertise. Having certifications can give job seekers an advantage over other applicants in the job market, as it shows that they have taken the time to invest in their professional development.

This article reviews the top certifications for Digital Content Managers and explains how they can benefit a digital content manager's career.

What are Digital Content Manager Certifications?

Digital content manager certification is a formal training program designed to help professionals learn the skills and techniques necessary to manage digital content. It provides an in-depth understanding of how to create, curate, optimize, measure, and distribute digital content across multiple channels.

The certification program covers topics such as content strategy and planning, content marketing and SEO best practices, social media management, web design basics, analytics and reporting, copywriting and editing techniques, user experience (UX) principles, video production fundamentals, email marketing tactics, and more. With this comprehensive knowledge base in hand, digital content managers can effectively manage their organization’s online presence while also staying ahead of the curve on emerging trends.

By earning digital content manager certification from a reputable provider or institution like the Content Marketing Institute or Social Media Examiner Academy for example), professionals are able to demonstrate their competency in the field of digital content management. This demonstrates to potential employers that they have mastered important skillsets needed for success in the industry. Additionally, certified digital content managers have access to exclusive job opportunities and other professional development resources that can further advance their career.

Pro Tip: When considering a digital content manager certification, make sure to review the program's curriculum and ask for references from past students. It is important to ensure that the program provides hands-on training and covers all of the necessary topics related to digital content management. Additionally, make sure that the certification is recognized by industry leaders and respected organizations in your field.

Related: What does a Digital Content Manager do?

Top 11 Digital Content Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Digital Content Manager (CDCM)

Certified Digital Content Manager (CDCM) is a professional certification offered by the Content Marketing Institute (CMI), a leading content marketing education and training organization. The CDCM certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in creating, managing, and optimizing digital content.

The CDCM certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as content strategy, content creation, content optimization, content distribution, analytics, and more. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

To be eligible for the CDCM certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in digital content management or related fields. They must also have a minimum of five pieces of published work in the field of digital content management that they can use as evidence of their experience.

The cost for the CDCM certification is $399 USD. This fee includes access to the online exam as well as a one-year membership with CMI which provides discounts on additional courses and resources.

2. Certified Digital Content Strategist (CDCS)

A Certified Digital Content Strategist (CDCS) is a professional who specializes in the planning and execution of digital content strategies. They are responsible for developing and implementing plans to maximize the effectiveness of content on digital platforms, such as websites, blogs, social media, and mobile applications. The CDCS designation is awarded by the Digital Content Strategy Association (DCSA), a non-profit organization that provides education and certification programs for professionals in the field.

The CDCS program consists of an online course that covers topics such as content marketing strategy, user experience design, search engine optimization (SEO), analytics and reporting, and more. It takes approximately 8 weeks to complete the coursework and pass the final exam to earn the CDCS designation.

The cost of the program varies depending on your membership status with DCSA. For non-members, it costs $1,200 USD; for members it costs $900 USD; and for students it costs $600 USD.

In addition to completing the coursework and passing the final exam, applicants must also submit two case studies demonstrating their knowledge in digital content strategy before they can be awarded their CDCS certification.

3. Certified Digital Content Marketing Professional (CDCMP)

Certified Digital Content Marketing Professional (CDCMP) is a professional certification program developed by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI). It is designed to help digital marketers understand the fundamentals of content marketing and how to create, manage, and measure successful content marketing campaigns. The CDCMP certification program consists of four modules: Content Strategy & Planning, Content Creation & Optimization, Content Promotion & Distribution, and Content Measurement & Analysis. The program takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete and includes a two-hour online exam.

The cost of the CDCMP certification program is $499 USD. This fee covers all materials required for the course as well as access to an online learning platform with resources such as videos, case studies, and practice exams. To become certified, individuals must pass the two-hour online exam with a score of 70% or higher.

4. Certified Digital Media Manager (CDMM)

Certified Digital Media Manager (CDMM) is a professional certification program designed to provide digital media professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage digital media projects. This certification is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute, which is an international body that provides training and certifications in digital marketing.

The CDMM program consists of four courses: Digital Strategy & Planning, Content Creation & Management, Social Media & Advertising, and Analytics & Insights. Each course includes a series of modules covering topics such as search engine optimization, content strategy, analytics, social media management, and more. The program also includes a final exam that must be passed in order to receive the certification.

The entire CDMM program typically takes between three to six months to complete depending on how quickly you work through the material. To get started with the program you will need to register for the course online and pay the associated fee. The cost of the entire program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $1,500 - $2,000 USD.

Once you have completed all four courses and passed the final exam you will receive your official CDMM certification which can be used to demonstrate your expertise in digital media management.

5. Certified Social Media Manager (CSMM)

A Certified Social Media Manager (CSMM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in managing social media accounts for businesses. This certification is offered by the Social Media Marketing Institute and requires individuals to pass an exam, complete a course, and submit a portfolio of their work. The CSMM certification is designed to provide employers with assurance that the individual they are hiring has the skills necessary to effectively manage social media accounts.

The process of obtaining the CSMM certification typically takes between three and six months, depending on how quickly you complete the coursework and exam. To get certified, you must first purchase the CSMM course from the Social Media Marketing Institute. The cost of this course varies depending on which package you choose but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. After purchasing the course, you will have access to all of its materials which include video lectures, practice exams, and other resources. Once you have completed all of these materials, you will be eligible to take the final exam which consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. If you pass this exam with a score of 70% or higher, then you will receive your CSMM certification.

Overall, obtaining your CSMM certification can be quite beneficial for those looking to pursue a career in social media management as it provides employers with assurance that you possess the necessary skills for this role.

6. Certified Online Community Manager (COCM)

A Certified Online Community Manager (COCM) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing online communities. The COCM designation is awarded by the Professional Association of Online Community Professionals (PAOCP), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the field of online community management.

The COCM certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as community building, engagement, moderation, analytics, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also complete a minimum of 15 hours of continuing education in order to maintain their certification.

In order to apply for the COCM certification, applicants must submit an application form along with proof of at least three years of experience working in online community management or related fields. Once approved, applicants will receive access to the COCM exam and can begin studying for it immediately.

The cost for the COCM certification is $495 USD plus applicable taxes and fees. This fee includes access to the exam, study materials, and one year of membership in PAOCP.

7. Certified Web Content Management Professional (CWCM)

Certified Web Content Management Professional (CWCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Content Management Professionals Association (CMPA). The program is designed to recognize and validate the expertise of web content professionals in the areas of web content management, including strategy, architecture, design, development, implementation and maintenance.

To become a Certified Web Content Management Professional (CWCM), you must pass an online exam administered by CMPA. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as web content management principles, best practices, strategies and technologies. It takes approximately two hours to complete the exam.

In order to take the exam, you must first register with CMPA and pay a fee of $395 USD. Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access it. After completing the exam, your results will be available within 48 hours. If you pass the exam, you will be awarded your CWCM certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Web Content Management Professional (CWCM) includes registration fees for both the initial and renewal exams ($395 USD each), as well as any applicable taxes or other fees associated with taking the exam. Additionally, some employers may also require that their employees maintain their CWCM certification through continuing education courses or other activities approved by CMPA.

8. Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ)

Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ) is a certification program provided by Google to demonstrate proficiency in the use of the Google Analytics platform. It is designed to help individuals become certified in using the Google Analytics platform, which can be used to track website traffic and user behavior.

The GAIQ exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as data collection and configuration, implementation and data analysis, as well as reporting and insights. To pass the exam, you must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly.

The cost for taking the GAIQ exam is $50 USD. You can purchase it through your Google Ads account or directly from Google’s website.

It typically takes about 30 minutes to complete the GAIQ exam, although some people may take longer depending on their familiarity with the material. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an email confirming your qualification and a digital certificate that you can share with employers or clients.

9. Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Content Management Solutions (ACE-DCMS)

Adobe Certified Expert in Digital Content Management Solutions (ACE-DCMS) is an industry-recognized certification program designed to validate a user’s expertise in managing digital content using Adobe Experience Manager (AEM). The ACE-DCMS certification is designed to recognize professionals who have the skills and knowledge needed to design, develop, and deploy AEM solutions.

It typically takes around four months to complete the ACE-DCMS certification process. To get certified, you must first pass the Adobe Certified Expert exam for AEM. This exam covers topics such as site architecture, content management, asset management, workflow development, and more. After passing the exam, you must then complete two hands-on projects that demonstrate your ability to use AEM for digital content management solutions.

The cost of the ACE-DCMS certification varies depending on your location and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD.

10. Microsoft Office Specialist – SharePoint Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist – SharePoint Certification is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in using Microsoft SharePoint. It demonstrates that the individual has the ability to use SharePoint for collaboration, content management, and business intelligence applications.

The certification exam typically takes about two hours to complete, and covers topics such as creating and managing sites, working with lists and libraries, customizing pages, and working with search. The exam is offered by Certiport, which is an official testing center for Microsoft certifications.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam and pay the associated fee. After registering for the exam, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for it. You should then study the material provided by Certiport or other resources related to SharePoint before taking the exam. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate from Certiport.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $125 USD per attempt at a Certiport testing center.

11. Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g: Content Management Implementation Specialist

Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g: Content Management Implementation Specialist is a certification program offered by Oracle. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in the implementation, configuration and administration of Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g.

The certification program consists of two exams: 1Z0-543 (Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g Essentials) and 1Z0-544 (Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g Advanced). The exams are available in both English and Japanese languages.

It typically takes around 6 to 8 weeks to complete the certification program, depending on your level of experience with Oracle WebCenter Sites. To get certified, you need to pass both the exams with a score of at least 75%.

The cost for taking the two exams is $245 each. So, it will cost you around $490 in total to get certified as an Oracle WebCenter Sites 11g: Content Management Implementation Specialist.

Do You Really Need a Digital Content Manager Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a digital content manager certificate to be successful as a digital content manager. However, if you are looking to gain an edge in the competitive digital content management industry, obtaining a certificate can help you stand out from the crowd and give potential employers confidence in your skills and abilities.

Digital content managers are responsible for planning, creating, managing and evaluating digital content across multiple platforms. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, strategic thinking and creativity. A certificate in digital content management can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in this role by providing a proof of mastery of core concepts related to the field.

Having a certification also shows that you are committed to staying up-to-date on current trends in the industry and that you take your career seriously. It can also provide access to exclusive opportunities such as workshops or networking events hosted by organizations offering certification programs.

In addition, having a certificate may open doors for promotions or new job opportunities within your current organization or with other companies that value certification credentials when recruiting new employees.

Ultimately, deciding whether or not to pursue a digital content manager certificate is highly personal and should depend on your individual goals and aspirations within the field. While it is not necessary for success as a digital content manager, it can certainly be beneficial depending on your circumstances.

Related: Digital Content Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Digital Content Manager Certifications

1. What is a Digital Content Manager Certification?

A Digital Content Manager Certification is a credential that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of the principles and techniques of digital content management. It shows employers you have the skills to create, organize, maintain, and optimize digital content for websites, mobile applications, and other digital platforms.

2. Who offers Digital Content Manager Certifications?

The Digital Content Management Professional (DCMP) certification is offered by the International Association of Online Professionals (IAOP). The IAOP also offers an Advanced Digital Content Management Professional (ADCMP) certification for more experienced professionals.

3. How long does it take to get a Digital Content Manager Certification?

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete the DCMP certification program. The ADCMP certification program can take up to 2 years to complete depending on your experience level.

4. What are the requirements for getting a Digital Content Manager Certification?

To obtain a DCMP certification, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as content strategy, web design best practices, search engine optimization (SEO), analytics, project management principles, and more. You must also have at least 1 year of professional experience in digital content management or related fields in order to qualify for ADCMP certification.

5. How much does a Digital Content Manager Certification cost?

The cost of the DCMP certification program varies depending on your location and whether or not you require additional study materials or services such as one-on-one coaching or online workshops. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $500-$2000 USD for the entire program including exam fees and any additional services you may need along the way. The ADCMP certification program is more expensive due to its longer duration; however exact costs will depend on your individual circumstances as well as any additional services required during the course of the program.