Top 11 Division Manager Certifications

Certifications can be an important asset for a division manager in the job market, as they provide proof of the individual’s knowledge and skills in specific areas. Certifications can demonstrate mastery of a particular subject or field, and employers may find this attractive when considering candidates for open positions. Additionally, certifications can help a division manager stand out amongst other applicants, as they show that the individual has pursued additional training to hone their abilities. Furthermore, certifications may also provide access to exclusive networks of professionals with similar credentials, which can be beneficial for networking opportunities. Finally, certifications may also give a division manager access to certain resources or discounts that are not available to non-certified individuals.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for Division Managers, and outlines how they can contribute to a successful career in the field.

What are Division Manager Certifications?

Division manager certification is a specialized program designed to train and develop current and aspiring division managers in the skills necessary for success. The program focuses on topics such as leadership, communication, problem-solving, financial management and operations management.

The certification provides a comprehensive overview of how to manage a successful division within an organization. It covers the basics of managing people and resources, setting goals, developing plans and budgets, implementing strategies, monitoring results and making decisions. The program also emphasizes the importance of cultivating relationships with stakeholders while staying abreast of industry trends.

By completing this certification program, participants gain knowledge that can help them lead their teams to greater success. They learn how to create an effective team environment that encourages cooperation and collaboration. Additionally, they receive training on strategies for managing difficult employees or situations. This certification gives division managers the tools they need to be successful in their roles by providing them with the knowledge and skills required for effective leadership.

Pro Tip: When considering a Division Manager certification, look for a program that provides an in-depth understanding of the relevant laws and regulations governing the division you are managing. This will help ensure that your decisions are legally sound and protect you from potential liability. Additionally, make sure to research any additional certifications or qualifications that may be required by your employer or other applicable organizations for optimal success in the role.

Related: What does a Division Manager do?

Top 11 Division Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Division Manager (CDM)

Certified Division Manager (CDM) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Division Managers (NADM). It is designed to provide professional development and recognition to division managers in the field of business. It is a comprehensive program that focuses on the skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to be an effective division manager.

The CDM program is divided into three parts: Core Knowledge, Professional Development, and Leadership. The core knowledge part covers topics such as organizational structure, strategic planning, budgeting, marketing strategies, human resources management, and operations management. The Professional Development part includes courses on communication skills, problem-solving techniques, conflict resolution strategies, and team building. Finally, the Leadership part covers topics such as leading change initiatives and developing high-performing teams.

It typically takes about 12 months to complete the CDM program. To get certified as a CDM you must first complete all three parts of the program and then pass an online exam administered by NADM. You must also meet certain eligibility requirements including having at least two years of managerial experience in a related field or having completed an approved college degree in business or related fields.

The cost for the CDM certification varies depending on which track you choose to pursue; however it generally ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD for all three parts combined.

2. Certified Professional Manager (CPM)

Certified Professional Manager (CPM) is an internationally recognized professional designation awarded by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, experience, and skills in managing organizations. The CPM credential is based on the ICPM's Model of Professional Management Competencies which includes five core competency areas: Leadership, Communication, Decision Making, Problem Solving and Planning & Organizing.

The CPM certification process typically takes about 6-12 months to complete. To be eligible for the CPM credential, applicants must have at least three years of management experience or a combination of education and relevant work experience. Additionally, applicants must pass a written examination that covers the five core competency areas listed above.

The cost of obtaining the CPM credential varies depending on the country in which you are applying for it. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $600-$1000 USD.

3. Certified Public Manager (CPM)

Certified Public Manager (CPM) is a professional designation that recognizes the knowledge and skills of public sector managers. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s commitment to excellence in public service and management. The CPM program is offered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium, which consists of universities, state governments, and other organizations that are dedicated to developing and promoting the highest standards of public service.

The CPM program typically takes about two years to complete, depending on the individual's schedule and availability. To obtain the CPM designation, individuals must complete a series of courses covering topics such as leadership, ethics, financial management, human resources management, strategic planning, and organizational development. Additionally, individuals must pass a comprehensive examination administered by the National Certified Public Manager Consortium.

The cost for obtaining the CPM designation varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for tuition and associated fees.

4. Certified Management Consultant (CMC)

Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is a professional designation awarded by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA). It is the highest certification for management consultants in the United States. The CMC designation demonstrates that a consultant has achieved a high level of knowledge, experience, and ethical standards in the field of management consulting.

To become a Certified Management Consultant, an individual must meet certain criteria set by IMC USA. These include having at least five years of full-time professional experience in management consulting or related fields, passing an examination administered by IMC USA, and completing an ethics course approved by IMC USA.

The process to become a CMC typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete. The first step is to submit an application to IMC USA with all required documentation. Once approved, applicants will be able to take the CMC exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as business strategy, financial analysis, marketing research, operations management, and organizational behavior. After passing the exam, applicants must complete an ethics course before they can receive their CMC certification from IMC USA.

The cost for becoming a Certified Management Consultant varies depending on the type of membership you choose with IMC USA. There are three different levels of membership: Professional Member ($395/year), Associate Member ($295/year), and Student Member ($95/year). In addition to these fees, there is also an application fee ($100) and exam fee ($250).

5. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a professional's experience, education, and competency in leading and directing project teams. It is the most widely accepted credential for project managers offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the PMP exam. The preparation time depends on your current knowledge of project management, how much time you can dedicate to studying, and how well you understand the material.

To get PMP certified, you must meet certain educational and professional requirements set by PMI. These include having a minimum of three years of project management experience with 4500 hours leading and directing projects, 35 contact hours of formal project management education, or a four-year degree from an accredited college or university. You must also pass an examination that tests your knowledge of the five process groups: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling and closing.

The cost to become PMP certified varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, it costs $405 for the application fee and $555 for the exam fee; for non-members it costs $555 for the application fee and $555 for the exam fee.

6. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a certification program designed to teach and assess an individual's understanding of the Scrum framework. It is offered by the Scrum Alliance, a non-profit organization that promotes and supports the use of Scrum in software development. The CSM certification is one of the most popular certifications for Agile project management.

The CSM certification requires individuals to attend a two-day course and pass an online exam. During the course, participants learn about the principles and practices of Scrum, including roles, activities, ceremonies, artifacts, and tools. After completing the course, participants must pass an online exam with at least 24 out of 35 questions correctly answered.

To get certified as a CSM, individuals must complete both the two-day course and pass the online exam within one year of enrolling in the course. The cost for taking the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $800 - $1,200 USD. In addition to taking the course and passing the exam, individuals must also agree to abide by the Scrum Alliance Code of Conduct to maintain their certification status.

7. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead Six Sigma projects. The program focuses on the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology of Six Sigma and provides a comprehensive understanding of process improvement tools and techniques.

The Green Belt Certification typically takes between four to six weeks to complete depending on whether you are taking an online or in-person course. During this time, participants will learn how to apply the DMAIC methodology as well as other key strategies for improving processes and quality. Course material includes topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis, and statistical tools.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete an accredited training course. There are many providers offering courses online or in person. After completing the coursework successfully, you must then pass an exam administered by your chosen provider.

The cost of a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on which provider you choose and if you take an online or in-person course. Generally speaking, courses range from $1,000-$2,500 USD for online programs and up to $5,000 USD for in-person programs.

8. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a certification program designed to help individuals become proficient in the use of Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques for process improvement. This certification is recognized by many organizations as a sign of expertise in the field of Lean Six Sigma.

The certification requires completion of an approved course, which typically takes between 4-6 weeks to complete. During this time, participants will learn about the principles and tools used in Lean Six Sigma, including DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve and Control) and other problem-solving techniques. Participants will also gain hands-on experience with projects that involve applying these tools to real-world business problems.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must take an approved training course from an accredited provider. There are many providers offering courses online or in person that can provide the necessary training. The cost of these courses varies depending on the provider and length of the course, but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.

Once an individual has completed their training course they must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as ASQ (American Society for Quality). The exam consists of multiple choice questions and focuses on topics such as project management, problem solving, data analysis and process improvement. Passing this exam is required to receive your certification.

9. International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certification

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of facility management. IFMA Certified Professionals are recognized as having the skills, experience, and commitment to excellence necessary to effectively manage today’s complex facilities.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the certification process. To become certified, candidates must complete an application process which includes passing an exam, completing a required number of continuing education hours, and providing references from employers or clients. The cost of certification varies depending on the type of certification desired and can range from $200-$1000 USD.

10. American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certification

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge in the field of supply chain and operations management. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s expertise in the areas of inventory control, production planning, materials management, and supply chain management.

It typically takes about one year to complete the APICS certification process. To get certified, individuals must first pass an exam that covers topics such as inventory control, production planning, materials management, and supply chain management. After passing the exam, individuals must then complete a series of courses that cover topics related to the certification.

The cost of getting certified depends on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it can range from $400 to $2,000 depending on which type of certification you are pursuing. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking courses or exams required for certain certifications.

Overall, obtaining an APICS Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in supply chain and operations management and can help you stand out from other job applicants or advance your career in this field.

11. Organizational Leadership Certificate Program

Organizational Leadership Certificate Program is a program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to become effective organizational leaders. The program provides an in-depth exploration of the principles and practices of leadership in organizations. It focuses on topics such as communication, problem solving, decision making, conflict resolution, team building, and change management.

The program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the institution offering it. To get the certificate, students must complete all required courses and assessments. Courses may include topics such as strategic planning, financial management, human resources management, project management, and ethics.

The cost of the Organizational Leadership Certificate Program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, tuition fees range from $500-$2,000 USD for online programs or $1,000-$3,000 USD for traditional classroom programs. Additional costs may include textbooks and course materials.

Do You Really Need a Division Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's situation and goals. For some, a Division Manager Certificate may be necessary in order to move up in their career and obtain higher-level positions. It may also provide the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage a division within an organization.

For others, a Division Manager Certificate may not be necessary because they already possess the skills and knowledge needed to successfully manage a division. In these cases, it could be beneficial to pursue additional certifications or higher levels of education that would give them an edge over other candidates for managerial positions.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a Division Manager Certificate will depend on their long-term career goals and the requirements of their desired position. It is important for individuals to evaluate their current skillset and determine if obtaining a certificate would help them achieve their goals faster.

Related: Division Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Division Manager Certifications

Q1: What is a Division Manager Certification?

A1: A Division Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in managing and leading a division within an organization. It demonstrates their ability to develop strategies, manage resources, and lead teams to reach organizational objectives.

Q2: What are the requirements for obtaining a Division Manager Certification?

A2: Generally speaking, applicants must have a minimum of five years of managerial experience in the same or similar role and must pass an exam administered by the certifying body.

Q3: How long does it take to complete the certification?

A3: Depending on the certifying body, completion times may vary. Some organizations offer online courses that can be completed in as little as six months while other programs may require a year or more of study.

Q4: What are the benefits of obtaining a Division Manager Certification?

A4: Benefits include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and better career prospects. Additionally, having this certification can help demonstrate your dedication to professional growth and development within your field.

Q5: Are there any continuing education requirements once I have obtained my Division Manager Certification?

A5: Yes, most certifying bodies require you to maintain your certification with continuing educational activities such as classes or seminars every few years. This ensures that you stay up-to-date on best practices and emerging trends in the field.