Top 11 Entertainment & Gaming Certifications

Certifications for entertainment and gaming in the job market are important because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge, skill, and experience to employers. They provide evidence that an individual has the necessary qualifications and credentials to work in the industry. Certifications can also help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for career advancement and development, as well as provide access to exclusive job networks. Having certifications may also be required by employers in order to be considered for certain positions or roles within the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Entertainment & Gaming, and explains how they can help an individual gain the skills necessary to pursue a successful career in this field.

What are Entertainment & Gaming Certifications?

Entertainment & gaming certification is a process that provides individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the entertainment and gaming industry. This type of certification is usually offered by various organizations such as universities, colleges, and private organizations.

The certification program will generally include a series of courses that cover topics related to the entertainment and gaming industry, such as game design, game development, marketing strategies, legal issues, business management, and more. Upon completion of the courses, students are typically required to pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

Having a certification in this field can help individuals gain an advantage when it comes to finding employment or advancing in their current jobs. It can also help them stand out from other applicants when applying for new positions or promotions within their current organization. Companies often look for candidates with specialized knowledge about the entertainment and gaming industry in order to give them the edge over other applicants. Having a certificate in this field can be beneficial for those looking to enter or advance within the industry.

Pro Tip: When looking to get certified in entertainment & gaming, make sure to research the different certifications available and select the one that best fits your career goals. Additionally, look for accredited programs with a strong track record of success and industry-recognized credentials.

Related: What does an Entertainment & Gaming do?

Top 11 Entertainment & Gaming Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Entertainment & Gamings today.

1. Certified Video Game Tester (CVGT)

Certified Video Game Tester (CVGT) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in testing video games. The certification program is administered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the careers and enhancing the lives of game developers worldwide.

The CVGT program consists of two parts: an online exam and an in-person interview. The online exam covers topics such as game design, usability testing, bug tracking, and debugging techniques. The in-person interview focuses on your experience in video game testing, your understanding of the principles of game development, and your ability to work with a team.

To become certified, you must first complete the online exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you have passed the exam, you can then apply for an in-person interview with an IGDA representative. During the interview, you will be asked questions about your experience in video game testing and your understanding of game development principles.

The cost for taking the CVGT certification exam is $99 USD plus applicable taxes. After passing both parts of the certification process, you will receive a certificate from IGDA recognizing your achievement as a Certified Video Game Tester (CVGT).

2. Certified Professional Gamer (CPG)

Certified Professional Gamer (CPG) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward the highest level of competitive gaming. It is offered by the Esports Certification Authority, an organization dedicated to establishing standards and providing recognition for professional gamers.

To become certified, gamers must demonstrate their skills in a variety of areas, including strategy, teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. They must also show that they have the necessary knowledge and experience to compete at a professional level.

The process of becoming certified typically takes about two months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must submit an application form and provide proof of their gaming experience. Once approved, they will be required to take an online assessment that tests their knowledge and skills in various gaming-related topics.

Finally, applicants must pass a live tournament or competition that is hosted by the Esports Certification Authority. Upon successful completion of this tournament or competition, applicants will receive their official CPG certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of tournament or competition that is chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, tournaments can range anywhere from $50-$500 USD per person.

3. Certified eSports Analyst (CEA)

Certified eSports Analyst (CEA) is a certification program designed to provide professionals and enthusiasts with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze and evaluate the performance of professional eSports teams. The CEA program is administered by the International Esports Federation (IEF), an international organization dedicated to the promotion of competitive gaming.

The CEA program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on basic analysis techniques such as game mechanics, team composition, scouting, and data analysis. Level 2 delves deeper into advanced topics such as player psychology, strategy, and tactics.

The CEA program takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, participants must complete a series of online courses, participate in webinars, and pass an exam at the end of each level.

To get certified as a CEA, individuals must first apply for admission to the IEF's certification program. Applicants are required to have at least one year of experience in eSports or related fields. Once admitted, applicants must complete all coursework within six months and pass both Level 1 and Level 2 exams with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for the CEA program varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or group but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD per person.

4. Certified Video Game Designer (CVGD)

Certified Video Game Designer (CVGD) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward the professional achievements of video game designers. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates a designer’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of game design.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam administered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as game mechanics, storytelling, level design, user experience, and production management. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to create a playable prototype game.

The CVGD certification process typically takes about six months to complete. During this time, applicants must submit a portfolio of their work for review by the IGDA Certification Board. Upon successful completion of the exam and portfolio review, applicants will receive their CVGD certificate and be listed in the IGDA's Certified Video Game Designers directory.

The cost for the CVGD certification program varies depending on membership status with the IGDA. Non-members pay $250 USD while members pay $200 USD. Additionally, there are discounts available for students and veterans.

5. Certified Video Game Producer (CVGP)

Certified Video Game Producer (CVGP) is a certification program offered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA). This certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in video game production. It is designed to provide an objective measure of the skills, abilities, and competencies required to be successful in the field of video game production.

The CVGP exam consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical project. The written exam covers topics such as project management, development process, game design principles, and team dynamics. The practical project requires applicants to create a playable game prototype within a set amount of time.

The cost for the CVGP certification program varies depending on the country in which you are taking it; however, it typically costs between $200-400 USD.

In order to become certified as a CVGP, applicants must first meet certain requirements including having at least three years of professional experience in video game production or related fields. They must also pass both the written and practical exams with a minimum score of 80%. Once these requirements have been met, applicants can submit their application for review by IGDA’s Certification Board. If approved, they will receive their official CVGP certificate within 4-6 weeks.

6. Certified Mobile Games Developer (CMGD)

Certified Mobile Games Developer (CMGD) is a certification program offered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills of mobile game developers. The certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the mobile game development process, including design, programming, testing, marketing, and monetization.

The CMGD certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as game design principles, game engine architecture, cross-platform development techniques, and monetization strategies. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work that demonstrates their technical proficiency in developing mobile games.

The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $200 USD. To get certified, applicants must first register with IGDA and then purchase the exam voucher from their website. Once the voucher has been purchased, applicants can schedule their exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide. After successfully passing the exam and submitting the required portfolio materials, applicants will be awarded the CMGD certification.

7. Entertainment Software Rating Board Certification (ESRB)

The Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) is a non-profit, self-regulatory body that assigns age and content ratings to video games and apps so parents can make informed decisions about the age-appropriateness of the software their children are playing. The ESRB also enforces industry-adopted advertising guidelines and helps ensure responsible online privacy practices among companies participating in its Privacy Certified program.

It typically takes four to six weeks for a game or app to receive an ESRB rating. This time frame includes the submission of a completed questionnaire, review of the game or app's content by an independent panel of raters, and final approval from the ESRB.

To get an ESRB rating, developers must submit an application form as well as a copy of the game or app they wish to be rated. Developers must also provide information about the game’s content, including graphics, audio files, videos, text descriptions, and other interactive elements. The cost for obtaining an ESRB rating varies depending on the type of product being rated and whether it is being submitted for console or mobile platforms.

8. Online Entertainment Industry Certification (OEIC)

Online Entertainment Industry Certification (OEIC) is a certification program designed to provide entertainment professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to work in the online entertainment industry. This certification is offered by the Online Entertainment Industry Council (OEIC), which is an organization dedicated to promoting and protecting the interests of online entertainment professionals.

The OEIC certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires a certain number of hours of instruction, as well as passing an examination at the end. The Basic level requires 30 hours of instruction, while the Intermediate and Advanced levels require 60 hours each. All courses are offered online, so you can complete them from anywhere in the world.

In order to get certified, you must first register for an OEIC account and then select a course package that fits your needs. After this, you will receive access to all course materials and begin your studies. Once you have completed all required coursework, you will be able to take the final exam for each level. You must pass all exams in order to receive your certification.

The cost for OEIC certification varies depending on which courses you choose and how many levels you decide to pursue. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 per level for all three levels combined.

Overall, obtaining an OEIC certification can take anywhere from 6 months up to 1 year depending on how quickly you complete each course and pass each exam.

9. Digital Media and Gaming Professional Certification Program (DMGPCP)

The Digital Media and Gaming Professional Certification Program (DMGPCP) is a comprehensive program designed to provide professionals with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to become successful in the digital media and gaming industry. The program is offered by the International Game Developers Association (IGDA), an organization that works to advance the careers of game developers and other digital media professionals.

The DMGPCP consists of three courses: Digital Media Fundamentals, Digital Media Production, and Digital Media Management. Each course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the digital media industry and its related topics. The courses are taught online or in-person by experienced professionals in the field.

The program typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on how quickly you can learn the material. To get certified, you must pass all three courses with a minimum score of 70%. You will also need to submit a portfolio demonstrating your skills in order to receive your certification.

The cost for the DMGPCP varies depending on which format you choose; online courses cost $500 per course while in-person classes cost $1,000 per course.

10. International Game Developers Association Certification Program (IGDA-CP)

The International Game Developers Association Certification Program (IGDA-CP) is a professional development program that provides game developers with the necessary skills and knowledge to create, develop, and market successful video games. The program is designed to help game developers stay current with industry trends and best practices while also providing them with the tools they need to succeed in their chosen profession.

The IGDA-CP consists of three levels of certification: Professional, Advanced, and Master. Each level requires a different set of courses and exams to be completed before certification can be awarded. The Professional level requires the completion of four courses, two exams, and two projects; the Advanced level requires six courses, four exams, and three projects; and the Master level requires eight courses, six exams, and four projects.

In order to get certified at any level, an individual must first become a member of the IGDA. This can be done by completing an online application form on their website. Once membership is approved, individuals can then begin taking the required courses for their desired certification level. Most courses are offered online as well as in person at various locations around the world. After completing all required coursework and passing all necessary exams, individuals will receive their official IGDA-CP certification documents from the organization.

The cost for becoming certified through IGDA-CP varies depending on which level you choose to pursue. The Professional Level costs $250 USD; the Advanced Level costs $500 USD; and the Master Level costs $750 USD. Additionally there may be additional fees associated with taking specific courses or exams depending on where they are taken or administered.

Overall it typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete all requirements for each certification level depending on how quickly you progress through your coursework and exams.

11. Motion Picture Association of America Film Ratings System Certification (MPAA-FRSC).

The Motion Picture Association of America Film Ratings System Certification (MPAA-FRSC) is a voluntary program that provides an age-based rating system for films released in the United States. The MPAA-FRSC was established in 1968 and is administered by the Classification and Rating Administration (CARA). The purpose of the system is to provide parents with advance information about the content of films so they can decide whether or not a particular film is suitable for their children.

To receive an MPAA-FRSC rating, filmmakers must submit their film to CARA for review. The review process typically takes between two and four weeks, depending on the complexity of the film. During this time, CARA will evaluate the content of the film and assign it an appropriate rating based on its content. Ratings are assigned using a combination of factors such as language, violence, drug use, and sexual content.

The cost to submit a film for review varies depending on the length of the film, but generally ranges from $150-$500 USD. Once a film has been rated by CARA, it will be listed in their database along with its assigned rating. This information can then be used by movie theaters, television networks, streaming services, and other outlets when deciding whether or not to show or distribute a particular movie.

Overall, the MPAA-FRSC provides filmmakers with an important tool for informing parents about potentially objectionable content in movies so they can make informed decisions about what their children watch.

Do You Really Need a Entertainment & Gaming Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an entertainment and gaming certificate to work in the entertainment and gaming industry. However, depending on your job title or the specific requirements of your position, it might be beneficial for you to obtain one.

A certificate in entertainment and gaming can provide a number of benefits to those who hold it. It can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills needed to perform well in the industry, as well as having a thorough understanding of the regulations and laws that govern it. In addition, employers may view certification as evidence that you are committed to staying up-to-date on new developments in the field.

If you are looking for a job in this field, having a certificate could give you an edge over other candidates who do not have one. Additionally, some employers may require applicants to possess an entertainment and gaming certification before they will consider them for employment.

In general, obtaining an entertainment and gaming certificate is not necessary unless it is specifically required by your employer or desired by potential employers. However, having one could provide you with additional knowledge and skills that could help advance your career in this field.

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FAQs About Entertainment & Gaming Certifications

1. What types of entertainment and gaming certifications are available?

Answer: Types of entertainment and gaming certifications include game design, animation, sound engineering, 3D modeling and programming.

2. What qualifications do I need to get an entertainment and gaming certification?

Answer: Qualifications vary depending on the type of certification you are seeking, but typically require a combination of education, experience and/or specialized training in the field.

3. How can an entertainment and gaming certification help my career?

Answer: Having a recognized certification can demonstrate your knowledge, skills and proficiency in the field to employers. It can also give you access to higher-level positions or open up new job opportunities.

4. Where can I find information about entertainment and gaming certifications?

Answer: Information about specific certifications can be found through professional organizations such as the Entertainment Software Association (ESA) or from universities that offer relevant programs.

5. How much does it cost to get an entertainment and gaming certification?

Answer: The cost of a certification varies greatly depending on the type of program you are taking and where you take it from. Generally speaking, most programs will range between $500-$2000 USD per course or certificate program.