Top 11 Education Coordinator Certifications
Updated 19 min read
Certifications are important for an education coordinator in the job market because they provide proof of knowledge and expertise in the field. Education coordinators must have a strong understanding of educational principles, policies, and regulations, as well as experience working with children, teachers, and administrators. Certifications demonstrate that an individual has the required qualifications to be successful in this role. Additionally, certifications can help an education coordinator stand out from other applicants and gain recognition from potential employers.
The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of some of the top certifications for Education Coordinators and explain how they can help advance an education coordinator's career.
What are Education Coordinator Certifications?
Education coordinator certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of educational coordination principles, practices, and strategies. It is designed to help educators become more effective in their roles as coordinators by providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to help coordinate successful educational programs.
Education coordinators are responsible for overseeing the planning and implementation of academic activities, such as curriculum development, student assessment, professional development activities, and other school- or district-level initiatives. The certification helps ensure that coordinators have the necessary skills to effectively manage these activities.
The certification process typically involves completing coursework in areas such as budgeting and finance, personnel management, program evaluation, instructional design and delivery, communication strategies, organizational leadership, and conflict resolution. In addition to coursework requirements, candidates must pass a comprehensive exam demonstrating their mastery of the material covered in their coursework.
By completing education coordinator certification training, individuals can gain essential skills that will enable them to better serve students and teachers throughout their school districts or organizations. With this specialized training under their belt, education coordinators can more confidently take on leadership roles when it comes to designing curriculum plans or managing school-wide initiatives. Ultimately, having a credential like this can help give education coordinators greater job security since they will be more qualified for higher-level positions within their organization or district.
Pro Tip: Make sure to research the different types of education coordinator certifications available, as some may require additional experience or training. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the certification you choose is accepted by the state in which you plan to work.
Related: What does an Education Coordinator do?
Top 11 Education Coordinator Certifications
Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Education Coordinators today.
1. Certified Education Coordinator (CEC)
Certified Education Coordinator (CEC) is a professional certification that recognizes the expertise of individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills in educational coordination. The CEC credential is offered by the National Board for Certified Coordinators (NBCC).
The CEC certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in educational coordination, as well as a master's degree, or equivalent, in education or related field. In addition to meeting these requirements, applicants must also pass an exam administered by NBCC.
The exam consists of two parts: a written test and an oral examination. The written test covers topics such as educational administration, curriculum development, program evaluation, and research methods. The oral examination focuses on the applicant's ability to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of educational coordination.
The entire process takes approximately four months to complete. Applicants must first submit an application to NBCC along with all required documentation. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam. After passing the exam, applicants will be issued their CEC credential within six weeks.
The cost for the CEC certification varies depending on the type of application submitted and whether or not additional fees are required for late applications or rescheduling exams. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.
2. Certified Professional Development Manager (CPDM)
Certified Professional Development Manager (CPDM) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Professional Development Managers (IAPDM). The CPDM program is designed to provide professional development managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage, coordinate, and implement successful professional development initiatives in their organizations.
The CPDM program consists of five core courses and three elective courses. The core courses cover topics such as strategic planning, project management, communication, change management, and evaluation. The elective courses focus on specific areas of professional development such as leadership development, coaching, team building, and facilitation.
The CPDM program takes approximately six months to complete. During this time participants will attend classes both online and in-person. They will also be required to complete assignments and exams in order to demonstrate their understanding of the material covered in the coursework.
In order to become certified as a CPDM, applicants must have at least two years of experience working in a professional development role or related field. Applicants must also successfully pass all five core courses as well as three elective courses with a grade of 70% or higher.
The cost for the entire CPDM certification program varies depending on which provider you choose but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 USD.
3. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)
Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of training and development. It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities related to training and development.
The CTDP certification is offered by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of training and development, complete an application form, pass an online exam, and pay a fee.
The online exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as training needs assessment, course design, evaluation methods, instructional strategies, learning theories, adult learning principles, technology tools for training delivery, performance improvement techniques, organizational change management strategies and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.
The cost of the CTDP certification varies depending on your membership status with ISPI. For non-members it is $450 USD; for members it is $350 USD; and for student members it is $250 USD.
4. Certified Learning and Performance Professional (CLPP)
Certified Learning and Performance Professional (CLPP) is a certification program offered by the International Board of Certified Trainers (IBCT). The CLPP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and skills to design, develop, and deliver effective learning and performance solutions.
The CLPP certification is designed for professionals who are responsible for designing, developing, delivering, or managing learning and performance solutions. It is also suitable for those who are looking to advance their career in the field of learning and performance.
To become certified as a CLPP, individuals must complete a series of exams covering topics such as instructional design, training delivery methods, evaluation techniques, performance improvement strategies, and more. The exams are administered online through IBCT’s website.
It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the requirements for the CLPP certification depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying for the exams.
In order to become certified as a CLPP, individuals must first register with IBCT and pay a registration fee of $395 USD. After completing all of the required exams successfully, individuals will receive their official CLPP certificate from IBCT.
5. Certified Instructional Designer (CID)
Certified Instructional Designer (CID) is a professional certification program for instructional designers. It is designed to help instructional designers demonstrate their knowledge and skills in designing, developing, and evaluating learning experiences.
The CID certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of experience in the field of instructional design or related field. Applicants must also submit evidence of their work, such as a portfolio or samples of their work. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as instructional design principles, adult learning theory, and evaluation methods.
To become certified, applicants must first register with the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction (IBSTPI). After registration is complete, applicants will be required to pay a fee and complete an application form. Once the application is approved by IBSTPI, applicants will be able to take the CID exam at a testing center near them. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes about two hours to complete.
The cost for the CID certification varies depending on where you live and how you choose to take the exam. In most cases, it costs around $500 USD to become certified.
6. Certified Distance Education Coordinator (CDEC)
Certified Distance Education Coordinator (CDEC) is a certification program offered by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage distance education programs. The CDEC certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence in distance education.
The CDEC certification requires individuals to complete a series of courses, exams, and other activities designed to evaluate their knowledge and skills in the areas of distance education administration, technology, policy development, and instructional design. Upon successful completion of all requirements, individuals will receive their CDEC certificate.
The program takes approximately 6 months to complete. To get started on the program, applicants must first submit an application form along with a fee of $150 USD. After submitting the application form, applicants must then complete all required coursework and exams as outlined by DEAC in order to receive their CDEC certification.
The cost of the program varies depending on which courses are taken and how many credits are earned. Most courses range from $100-$500 USD per credit hour. Additionally, there may be additional fees for textbooks or other materials needed for the coursework.
7. Project Management Professional (PMP)
Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized professional certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of project management.
The PMP certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of project management experience, with at least 4,500 hours spent leading and directing projects, as well as 35 hours of formal education in project management. Applicants must also pass an exam to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field.
It typically takes about three months to prepare for the PMP exam. Preparation for the exam can include taking courses, reading books, and studying practice tests.
To get certified as a PMP, you must first apply for the certification through PMI’s website. Once your application has been approved, you will need to register for and take the PMP exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI: it costs $405 for members and $555 for non-members.
8. Certified Facilitator (CF)
A Certified Facilitator (CF) is a professional who has been trained and certified to lead group meetings and workshops. CFs are responsible for creating an environment where participants can openly discuss topics, exchange ideas, and come to decisions. The CF works to ensure that all participants have the opportunity to contribute their thoughts, opinions, and experiences in a safe and respectful manner.
The certification process typically takes between six weeks and three months, depending on the organization offering the training. During this time, potential facilitators learn about facilitation techniques, communication skills, conflict resolution strategies, group dynamics, and other relevant topics.
In order to become a Certified Facilitator (CF), individuals must complete an approved training program offered by an accredited organization. These organizations offer both online and in-person courses that provide comprehensive instruction on facilitation techniques. Upon successful completion of the coursework and exams, individuals will receive their certification from the organization they trained with.
The cost of becoming a Certified Facilitator (CF) varies depending on the organization offering the training program. Costs can range from several hundred dollars for online courses to several thousand dollars for in-person programs.
9. National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development Certification in Education Coordination
The National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD) Certification in Education Coordination is a professional certification program that provides education coordinators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to effectively coordinate educational programs. This certification is designed to help education coordinators develop the competencies necessary to lead successful educational initiatives.
The NISOD Certification in Education Coordination consists of four courses: Introduction to Educational Coordination, Educational Program Design and Implementation, Evaluation of Educational Programs, and Professionalism in Education Coordination. Each course is offered online and can be completed at your own pace. The entire program takes approximately eight months to complete.
To get the NISOD Certification in Education Coordination you must first register for the program through the NISOD website. You will then need to complete all four courses within one year of registration. Upon completion of all four courses, you will receive a certificate from NISOD verifying your completion of the program.
The cost of the NISOD Certification in Education Coordination varies depending on where you live and if you are taking individual or group classes. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for individuals and $2,500 USD for groups.
10. American Society for Training & Development Certification in Education Coordination
The American Society for Training & Development (ASTD) Certification in Education Coordination is a professional certification program designed to recognize professionals who have the knowledge and skills needed to coordinate educational programs. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in the field of education coordination.
To obtain ASTD Certification in Education Coordination, individuals must complete a series of requirements, including passing an exam and completing a portfolio review. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as curriculum design, instructional technology, assessment strategies, and program evaluation. The portfolio review requires applicants to submit a completed portfolio demonstrating their experience and competency in coordinating educational programs.
It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the requirements for ASTD Certification in Education Coordination. However, this timeline can vary depending on the individual’s level of experience and the amount of time they are able to dedicate to studying for the exam and preparing their portfolio.
The cost of obtaining ASTD Certification in Education Coordination varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for all required materials and fees associated with taking the exam.
Overall, obtaining ASTD Certification in Education Coordination is an excellent way for professionals to demonstrate their expertise in education coordination and enhance their career opportunities.
11. International Association of Facilitators Certification in Education Coordination
The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) Certification in Education Coordination is a professional certification program for individuals who are interested in working as facilitators and coordinators in the education sector. The IAF Certification in Education Coordination is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to effectively facilitate educational activities, coordinate resources, and manage projects.
The IAF Certification in Education Coordination requires applicants to complete a series of online modules that cover topics such as project management, strategic planning, communication techniques, and conflict resolution. Applicants must also pass an exam that evaluates their understanding of the material covered in the modules. The entire process typically takes between three and six months to complete.
In order to apply for the IAF Certification in Education Coordination program, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee of $175 USD. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be provided with access to all of the necessary materials and resources needed to complete their coursework and prepare for their exam.
Upon successful completion of all requirements, applicants will receive their IAF Certification in Education Coordination certificate. This certificate can be used as evidence of expertise when applying for jobs or when seeking promotions within the education sector.
Do You Really Need a Education Coordinator Certificate?
Education is a vital part of the success of any organization, and it is important to ensure that those in charge of coordinating educational programs are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to do so effectively. An Education Coordinator Certificate can provide the necessary qualifications for individuals who want to pursue a career in this field.
The primary benefit of obtaining an Education Coordinator Certificate is that it provides recipients with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices associated with coordinating educational programs. This includes topics such as curriculum development, assessment methods, classroom management, and more. An individual who has obtained an Education Coordinator Certificate will have a strong knowledge base from which they can draw upon when developing new educational initiatives or overseeing existing ones.
In addition to providing recipients with the essential knowledge required to be successful in this field, an Education Coordinator Certificate also serves as evidence that the recipient has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their chosen profession. Prospective employers may view this certificate as evidence that the applicant is capable of taking on responsibilities related to coordinating education programs. This can help improve one’s chances of being hired for positions related to education coordination or management.
Therefore, if you are considering pursuing a career in education coordination or management, then obtaining an Education Coordinator Certificate may be beneficial for your professional development and advancement prospects.
Related: Education Coordinator Resume Examples
FAQs About Education Coordinator Certifications
1. What is an Education Coordinator Certification?
Answer: An Education Coordinator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the field of education coordination. It validates the individual’s ability to plan, manage, and coordinate educational programs.
2. What are the benefits of obtaining an Education Coordinator Certification?
Answer: Obtaining an Education Coordinator Certification can help individuals gain a competitive edge over other job candidates, demonstrate their commitment to their profession, increase their chances of being hired for more advanced positions, and qualify them for higher salaries.
3. How do I obtain an Education Coordinator Certification?
Answer: To obtain an Education Coordinator Certification, individuals must first meet certain criteria, such as having a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and at least two years of professional experience in the field. They must then complete an accredited certification program or take a comprehensive exam to earn their certification.
4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining an Education Coordinator Certification?
Answer: Yes, there are prerequisites for obtaining an Education Coordinator Certification including having a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field and at least two years of professional experience in the field. Additionally, individuals must complete an accredited certification program or take a comprehensive exam to earn their certification.
5. How long is an Education Coordinator Certification valid?
Answer: The validity period for most Education Coordinator Certifications is three years before recertification is required by completing continuing education courses or exams as specified by the certifying body.