Top 10 Facilitator Certifications

Certifications are important for facilitators in the job market because they provide evidence of a certain level of expertise and knowledge. They also demonstrate that the facilitator has taken the time to obtain specific skills and training related to their field, which can be attractive to potential employers. Certifications also show that the facilitator is committed to their profession and is willing to invest in themselves and their career growth. Having certifications also makes a facilitator more marketable, as they are able to show potential employers that they have relevant experience, qualifications, and knowledge to do the job.

This article reviews the top certifications for Facilitators and explains how they can help further a facilitator's career.

What are Facilitator Certifications?

Facilitator certification is a process of training and assessment to ensure facilitators have the skills and knowledge to effectively lead group processes. This certification is designed to help facilitators develop their skills in areas such as group dynamics, facilitation techniques, conflict resolution, and leadership.

The primary purpose of facilitator certification is to equip facilitators with the tools they need to successfully lead and manage group activities. With this knowledge, facilitators are able to create an environment where everyone can feel comfortable contributing their ideas and opinions, while also helping the group reach its goals. A certified facilitator has the ability to maintain focus on the task at hand while still creating a safe space for open dialogue. Additionally, they are able to help groups make decisions in an efficient manner by using structured processes that keep participants engaged and on track.

Facilitator certification helps create consistency within a team or organization by ensuring all facilitators have a common set of skills and knowledge when leading activities. This can be especially beneficial for larger organizations with multiple teams who need to work together on projects or initiatives. In addition, it helps provide assurance that facilitators have been trained in best practices when leading groups so that outcomes are more successful.

Pro Tip: When considering facilitator certification, make sure to research the organization offering the certification and ensure they are recognized in your field. Additionally, consider attending a workshop or seminar to get more experience in facilitating before attempting to get certified.

Related: What does a Facilitator do?

Top 10 Facilitator Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF)

Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF) is a certification program offered by the International Association of Facilitators (IAF). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in facilitation. The CPF designation is the highest level of recognition for facilitators, and it indicates that an individual has achieved a certain level of competency and expertise in the field.

The CPF certification process consists of three parts: 1) a written application; 2) an online assessment; and 3) an in-person assessment. To become certified, applicants must demonstrate their knowledge of facilitation theory, practice, and techniques. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply those skills in a variety of contexts.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete. The cost for the CPF certification varies depending on the country or region where you are located. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$800 USD to become certified.

2. Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)

Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to teach the fundamentals of Scrum, an agile project management framework. It is offered by the Scrum Alliance, an organization dedicated to promoting and advancing the use of Scrum in software development.

The Certified ScrumMaster course typically takes two days to complete and covers topics such as the roles and responsibilities of a ScrumMaster, how to facilitate meetings and events, and how to work with stakeholders. Upon completion of the course, participants are eligible to take the CSM exam, which consists of 50 multiple-choice questions. Participants must pass this exam with at least a 75% score in order to become certified.

In order to become a Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), individuals must first register for a CSM training course through an approved provider. The cost of these courses vary depending on the provider but can range from $1,000 - $2,000 USD. Once registered for a course, individuals will receive access to online materials that they can use to prepare for the exam.

Once certified as a CSM, individuals will have access to ongoing support from their trainer or coach as well as resources from the Scrum Alliance website such as webinars and discussion forums. They will also be able to join local user groups and attend conferences related to agile project management.

3. International Association of Facilitators (IAF) Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF)

The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of expertise in the field of facilitation. The CPF credential is designed to identify and recognize those facilitators who have demonstrated a mastery of the core competencies, knowledge, and skills necessary for effective facilitation.

In order to obtain the CPF designation, applicants must demonstrate their proficiency in eight core competencies: Active Listening, Group Dynamics, Process Design & Management, Conflict Resolution & Negotiation, Interpersonal Skills, Communication Skills, Creative Problem Solving & Decision Making, and Facilitation Evaluation. Applicants must also complete an application form and provide evidence of their experience as a facilitator.

The process to become an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator typically takes between 3-6 months. To begin the process applicants need to register with IAF and pay an application fee. This fee covers the cost of processing your application and includes access to online resources such as webinars and practice exams. After registering with IAF you will be required to submit evidence of your experience as a facilitator as well as complete a written exam which tests your knowledge of the core competencies mentioned above. Once you have successfully completed these steps you will receive your CPF designation from IAF.

The cost for becoming an IAF Certified Professional Facilitator varies depending on where you are located but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This cost covers registration fees for IAF membership as well as access to online resources such as webinars and practice exams.

4. Project Management Institute (PMI) Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP)

Project Management Institute (PMI) Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) is a certification program designed to recognize practitioners who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills to successfully work in an agile environment. The PMI ACP certification is based on the Agile Manifesto, which outlines the values and principles of agile project management. This certification is intended for experienced professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in agile practices.

The PMI ACP certification requires 21 contact hours of training, 8 hours of which must be dedicated to agile tools and techniques. After completing the training, applicants must pass a 3-hour exam with a minimum passing score of 80%. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as agile principles, frameworks, processes, techniques, and tools.

In order to apply for the PMI ACP certification, applicants must have 2,000 hours of general project experience within the last five years or 1,500 hours of direct experience with agile methods within the last three years. Additionally, applicants must hold either a high school diploma or equivalent or an active PMI credential such as PMP® or PgMP®.

The cost of the PMI ACP certification varies depending on whether you are already a PMI member or not. For non-members, it costs $435 USD while members pay $375 USD. The cost includes both the application fee and the exam fee.

Once certified, practitioners can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise in working with agile methods and gain recognition from employers for their commitment to professional development.

5. International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC)

The International Coaching Federation (ICF) Professional Certified Coach (PCC) credential is the highest level of professional coaching certification available. It is a globally recognized designation that demonstrates a coach’s commitment to excellence and mastery of the core competencies of professional coaching.

It typically takes between six months and two years to become an ICF PCC, depending on the individual’s prior experience and qualifications. To become an ICF PCC, coaches must meet certain prerequisites, including:

• Completion of at least 125 hours of coach-specific training from an ICF-accredited program;
• A minimum of 500 hours of paid coaching experience with at least 25 clients;
• 10 hours of mentor coaching;
• Submission of a written application and payment of a fee;
• Passing the ICF's online assessment.

The cost for becoming an ICF PCC varies depending on the number of credentials purchased, but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

6. American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who demonstrate expertise in the field of learning and performance. This certification is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities to develop, manage, and evaluate learning and performance initiatives.

In order to become certified as a CPLP, individuals must meet certain criteria including having at least three years of experience in the field of learning and performance, completing a minimum of 60 hours of approved training courses or activities related to the field, passing an exam consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions, and agreeing to abide by ASTD's Code of Ethics.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the CPLP certification. The cost for the CPLP certification varies depending on whether you are an ASTD member or non-member. For ASTD members, the cost is $695 USD; for non-members it is $895 USD.

7. The Change Management Institute’s Change Management Practitioner Certification

The Change Management Institute’s Change Management Practitioner Certification (CMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a practitioner’s knowledge and expertise in the field of change management. The CMP recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of competence in the principles, processes, tools, and techniques of change management.

The CMP certification is designed to be completed within six months. It consists of three parts:

1. An online self-assessment designed to evaluate the candidate’s current level of knowledge and understanding of change management concepts;

2. A comprehensive online course covering all aspects of change management;

3. An online exam that tests the candidate’s understanding and application of the material covered in the course.

In order to obtain the CMP certification, candidates must successfully complete all three components and pay an associated fee. The fee for the CMP certification is currently $995 USD for members and $1,295 USD for non-members.

8. International Consortium for Agile’s Agile Facilitator Certification

The International Consortium for Agile (ICA) offers an Agile Facilitator Certification program. This certification is designed to help professionals become more effective facilitators of agile projects and initiatives. The certification is based on the ICA's Agile Facilitation Framework which provides a comprehensive set of skills, techniques, and best practices for facilitating successful agile projects.

The certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a practical exam. The online course covers topics such as agile principles, team dynamics, facilitation techniques, and project management tools. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the course. After completing the course, participants must pass a practical exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the certification program is $1,495 USD. This includes access to the online course materials, access to practice exams and simulations, and the cost of taking the practical exam.

To get certified as an ICA Agile Facilitator, individuals must first register for the program on the ICA website. Once registered, they will be able to access all of the necessary materials needed to complete the certification process. Participants must also attend an in-person training session prior to taking the practical exam in order to ensure that they understand all of the concepts covered in the online course material.

9. The Institute of Cultural Affairs’ Technology of Participation Facilitation Certificate

The Institute of Cultural Affairs’ Technology of Participation Facilitation Certificate is a professional training program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective facilitators. The program is based on the Technology of Participation (ToP) methodology, which is a set of tools and techniques for group decision-making and problem-solving. It focuses on developing facilitation skills such as active listening, managing group dynamics, creating an environment that encourages participation, and helping groups reach consensus.

The program consists of three courses: Introduction to ToP Facilitation Methods, Advanced ToP Facilitation Methods, and Applied ToP Facilitation Skills. Each course takes approximately two days to complete and can be taken in-person or online. Upon successful completion of all three courses, participants will receive the Technology of Participation Facilitation Certificate from the Institute of Cultural Affairs.

The cost for the entire program is $1,500 USD plus any applicable taxes.

10. The Organization Development Network’s Organization Development Practitioner Certificate

The Organization Development Network’s (ODN) Organization Development Practitioner Certificate is a professional credential designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in organization development. The certificate is awarded after successful completion of an intensive program that includes classroom instruction, field experience, and an assessment.

The ODN Organization Development Practitioner Certificate program takes approximately one year to complete. It consists of three parts: classroom instruction, field experience, and assessment. During the classroom instruction portion, students learn the fundamentals of organization development theory and practice. This includes topics such as organizational change management, team building, conflict resolution, and communication. During the field experience portion, students apply their learning in real-world settings by working with organizations on projects related to organization development initiatives. Finally, during the assessment portion, students demonstrate their mastery of the material by completing a comprehensive exam.

The cost for the ODN Organization Development Practitioner Certificate program varies depending on whether you choose to take it online or in person. Online courses typically cost between $1,500-$2,500 while in-person courses can range from $3,000-$5,000.

Overall, obtaining an ODN Organization Development Practitioner Certificate is an excellent way for professionals to demonstrate their expertise in organization development and gain recognition within their industry or organization.

Do You Really Need a Facilitator Certificate?

The short answer is no. A facilitator certificate is not a requirement for facilitating meetings, workshops or other group events. However, having a facilitator certificate can set you apart from other facilitators and can demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

Facilitator certificates are offered by organizations such as the International Association of Facilitators (IAF) and provide training in essential skills and knowledge for effective facilitation. These courses typically include topics such as communication and conflict resolution, meeting design principles, understanding group dynamics, and using technology for online meetings. They also provide guidance on how to manage difficult situations and how to effectively lead meetings that involve diverse perspectives.

Having a facilitator certificate can give potential employers assurance that you have the necessary skills to perform the job successfully. It also demonstrates that you are up-to-date with current trends in facilitation techniques and tools, which may be important when working with clients who have specific requirements or expectations. Additionally, many employers recognize certification programs like those offered by IAF when hiring new staff members or granting promotions within their organization.

In conclusion, while having a facilitator certificate is not strictly required for success as a professional facilitator, it can be beneficial in terms of giving you an edge over other applicants in the job market and increasing your credibility with clients and employers alike.

Related: Facilitator Resume Examples

FAQs About Facilitator Certifications

1. What is a Facilitator Certification?

A Facilitator Certification is a formal recognition of an individual's expertise in facilitating group activities, decision-making processes, and problem-solving sessions. It generally involves completion of a course or program that provides specialized training in effective facilitation techniques.

2. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Facilitator?

Certified Facilitators have the skills to lead successful meetings and workshops, create alignment within teams, build consensus among stakeholders, and manage difficult conversations. They can also help organizations save time and money by streamlining communication and ensuring efficient decision-making processes.

3. How do I become a Certified Facilitator?

In order to become certified as a facilitator, you must complete an accredited program or course that covers the principles and techniques of effective facilitation. You may also need to pass an exam or demonstrate your competence through other means such as submitting case studies or completing practical assessments.

4. What is the cost of becoming a Certified Facilitator?

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which program or course you choose to take. Generally speaking, the cost will include tuition fees for the program itself as well as any additional materials such as textbooks or workbooks that you may need to purchase.

5. How long does it take to become a Certified Facilitator?

The amount of time it takes to become certified depends on which program you choose and how much time you are able to devote to studying for it. Generally speaking, most programs require around 40 hours of instruction time plus additional study time for practice exams and assignments before you can be certified as a facilitator.