Top 10 Instructional Designer Certifications

Certifications are an important way for instructional designers to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. They can provide a competitive edge when applying for jobs and help employers quickly assess the qualifications of potential employees. Additionally, certifications are a valuable tool for instructional designers to stay current on industry trends and best practices, as well as hone their craft. With the ever-changing nature of technology and learning tools, certifications can help ensure that instructional designers stay ahead of the curve and remain relevant in the job market.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Instructional Designers and explain how they can help propel an instructional designer's career.

What are Instructional Designer Certifications?

Instructional designer certification is a professional credential that is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the principles of instructional design. Instructional designers are responsible for creating effective learning experiences, which involve the development of educational materials and activities that can be used in classrooms or online. Certification provides validation that a professional has achieved a certain level of competence in this area and may help to increase employment opportunities.

Instructional designer certification can help professionals to stand out from other job applicants when applying for positions in the field. It can also provide a competitive edge when working with clients as having certification demonstrates commitment to the profession, expertise, and experience. Additionally, it serves as proof of continuing education and staying up-to-date on current trends, technologies, and best practices in the field. Instructional designer certification can also open doors to new career opportunities such as consulting, training development for corporations, or becoming an educator at a university or college.

Pro Tip: When considering instructional designer certification, make sure to research the program you are interested in thoroughly. Look for reviews from previous students and find out what type of continuing education opportunities the program offers. Additionally, be sure to check if the certification is recognized by employers or other institutions.

Related: What does an Instructional Designer do?

Top 10 Instructional Designer Certifications

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

1. Certified Instructional Designer (CID)

Certified Instructional Designer (CID) is a certification program that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated a mastery of instructional design principles and techniques. The CID certification is awarded by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction (IBSTPI).

The CID certification requires applicants to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of instructional design theory, methods, and practices. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to apply these skills in the development of effective instruction. To be eligible for the CID certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in instructional design or related fields.

The process to obtain the CID certification involves taking an online assessment that consists of multiple-choice questions about instructional design principles and practices. After passing the assessment, applicants must submit evidence of their experience in instructional design or related fields. This can include work samples, portfolios, letters from employers or colleagues, etc.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their CID certificate within 6-8 weeks. The cost to obtain the CID certification is $295 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

2. Certified eLearning Instructional Designer (CEID)

Certified eLearning Instructional Designer (CEID) is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of instructional designers in the field of eLearning. The CEID certification is offered by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction (IBSTPI), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the quality of training, performance, and instruction.

The CEID program consists of two parts: an online exam and a portfolio review. The online exam tests your knowledge on topics related to eLearning design such as content development, instructional strategies, project management, and evaluation. The portfolio review assesses your skills in designing effective eLearning courses.

The entire process typically takes about six months to complete. To get started, you must first register for the CEID program with IBSTPI. There is a fee associated with registration which varies depending on your country of residence. After registering, you will receive access to the online exam and instructions on how to submit your portfolio for review. Once you have completed both components successfully, you will be awarded your CEID certification.

The cost of getting certified depends on where you live; however, it typically ranges from $500-$700 USD.

3. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD). The CPLP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skills in the field of learning and performance.

The CPLP certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the field, as well as passing an exam. The exam consists of four sections: Foundations of Learning & Performance, Designing Training & Performance Solutions, Developing Training & Performance Solutions, and Evaluating Training & Performance Solutions. The exam can be taken online or at a proctored testing site.

In order to become certified, applicants must submit proof of their experience in the field, such as resumes or job descriptions. They must also complete an application form that includes a list of references and other information about their background and experience. Once approved, applicants will receive an invitation to take the exam.

The cost for taking the CPLP exam varies depending on whether you take it online or at a proctored testing site. Online exams typically cost around $400 USD while proctored exams may cost up to $700 USD. Additionally, there are fees associated with submitting your application and renewing your certification every three years.

4. Instructional Design Certification from the Association for Talent Development (ATD)

The Instructional Design Certification from the Association for Talent Development (ATD) is a professional certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in instructional design. This certification demonstrates an individual's understanding of instructional design principles, processes, and practices.

The certification requires applicants to complete a two-part exam which consists of a written assessment and a practical application exercise. The written assessment covers topics such as learning objectives, audience analysis, instructional strategies, and evaluation techniques. The practical application exercise requires applicants to create an instructional design plan based on a given scenario.

The entire process typically takes between 6-8 months to complete, depending on the applicant’s schedule and availability. To get started with the process, applicants must first register for the exam online through ATD’s website. After registering for the exam, applicants will have access to study materials such as practice tests and other resources to help them prepare for the exam.

The cost of the Instructional Design Certification is $495 USD for ATD members and $595 USD for non-members.

5. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a certification program offered by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of professional excellence in training and development.

The CTDP program consists of five courses that cover topics such as instructional design, performance improvement, learning management systems, organizational development, and consulting. The courses are delivered online or through traditional classroom instruction. To become certified, individuals must complete all five courses within two years.

To get the CTDP certification, you must first apply for the program. You will need to submit an application form along with proof of your educational qualifications and work experience. Once your application is approved, you will be required to pay a fee of $300 USD. After payment has been made, you will receive access to the online course materials and can begin studying for the certification exam.

Once you have completed all five courses and passed the certification exam, you will receive your official CTDP certificate from IBSTPI. This certificate is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years in order to maintain your status as a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP).

6. Certified Online Instructor (COI)

A Certified Online Instructor (COI) is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s expertise in online instruction. It is designed to help instructors demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of online teaching, and it is also intended to help employers identify qualified candidates for positions involving online instruction.

The COI certification program requires applicants to complete a series of courses and assessments that cover topics such as instructional design, technology integration, assessment strategies, and communication techniques. The program typically takes between six months and one year to complete, depending on the individual’s prior experience with online instruction.

To get certified as an Online Instructor, applicants must first register for the COI certification program through the International Association for Online Learning (IAOL). Once registered, applicants will be given access to the course materials and assessments they need to complete in order to become certified.

The cost of the COI certification program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, however, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD.

7. Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+)

Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) is a certification program offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills of IT professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in teaching technical courses. The CTT+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates expertise in delivering technical training.

The CTT+ certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as instructional design, course development, delivery methods, assessment strategies, and technology tools. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. To receive the certification, applicants must score at least 700 out of 1000 points on the exam.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain prerequisites including having at least two years of experience in teaching or developing technical courses and having completed at least 40 hours of instructor-led training within the last three years. Applicants must also submit evidence of their work experience and training activities to CompTIA for review before taking the exam.

The cost for taking the CTT+ exam is $319 USD for members of CompTIA or $399 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, there are no additional costs associated with maintaining your certification status.

8. Master Instructional Designer Certificate from the University of California Irvine Extension

The Master Instructional Designer Certificate from the University of California Irvine Extension is a comprehensive program designed for professionals who want to become experts in instructional design. This certificate program covers all aspects of instructional design, from theory to practice, and provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to create effective learning experiences. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Instructional Design, Advanced Instructional Design, Evaluation and Assessment in Instructional Design, and Technology Integration in Instructional Design.

The program takes approximately 12 months to complete. Students must complete all four courses within two years of enrolling in the program. Each course is offered twice a year (in spring and fall) and can be taken either online or in-person.

To get the Master Instructional Designer Certificate, students must successfully complete all four courses with a minimum grade of B or better. In addition, students must submit a final project that demonstrates their mastery of instructional design principles.

The cost for the entire program is $2,400 (not including textbooks).

9. Instructional Systems Design Certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Stout

The Instructional Systems Design Certificate from the University of Wisconsin-Stout is a professional development program designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and evaluate effective instructional materials. The certificate requires 15 credits of coursework in educational technology, instructional design, and evaluation. Courses cover topics such as adult learning theory, multimedia design principles, and assessment strategies.

The certificate can be completed in one year or less if taken full-time. Students may also opt for part-time enrollment and complete the program at their own pace. To get the certificate, students must complete all required courses with a grade of C or better.

The cost of the Instructional Systems Design Certificate depends on whether you are an undergraduate or graduate student at UW-Stout. Undergraduate tuition is $435 per credit; graduate tuition is $535 per credit. In addition to tuition fees, there are other costs associated with completing the program including textbooks and technology fees.

10. Instructional Design Certificate from San Diego State University

The Instructional Design Certificate from San Diego State University is a program designed to help individuals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to design and develop effective instructional materials. The program consists of four courses that are completed over a period of two semesters. The courses cover topics such as instructional design principles, adult learning theory, multimedia design, and assessment strategies.

To get the certificate, students must complete all four courses with a grade of “C” or better. The courses can be taken in any order but must be completed within two semesters (fall and spring). Students may also take additional elective courses to fulfill the requirements for the certificate.

The cost of the Instructional Design Certificate from San Diego State University depends on how many courses you take each semester. Each course costs approximately $400 for California residents and $600 for non-residents. Additionally, students may need to purchase textbooks or other materials for their classes.

Overall, the Instructional Design Certificate from San Diego State University provides individuals with an opportunity to gain valuable skills in instructional design that can be applied in a variety of settings.

Do You Really Need a Instructional Designer Certificate?

When considering whether or not to pursue a certificate in instructional design, it is important to understand the value of such a credential. Instructional designers create learning materials and experiences that help people acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes. They are often tasked with developing innovative and engaging ways to teach complex topics. A certificate in instructional design can provide a well-rounded education in this field, as well as demonstrate a commitment to professional growth.

Having an instructional designer certificate can be beneficial in several ways. It may provide evidence of expertise when applying for jobs or seeking promotions. It can also give employers confidence that their employees have the necessary skills to complete projects successfully and efficiently. Additionally, having a certificate shows dedication to the profession and demonstrates that the individual has taken time to further their education and gain specific skills related to instructional design.

Certificates may also provide access to additional resources, such as industry-specific software or access to networks of professionals who can offer valuable advice or mentorship opportunities. Additionally, some certificates may include continuing education components that allow individuals to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques within their field.

While having an instructional designer certificate is beneficial for many reasons, it is important for individuals interested in this profession to assess their own needs before making this investment of time and money. Those who already have experience in the field may not need a formal certification if they possess the relevant skillset; however, those just starting out may find that having a certificate provides them with an edge when competing for jobs or advancement opportunities. Ultimately, each individual should evaluate their own circumstances carefully before deciding if pursuing an instructional designer certificate is right for them.

Related: Instructional Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Instructional Designer Certifications

1. What is an Instructional Designer Certification?

Answer: An Instructional Designer Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates competency in the field of instructional design, which involves creating effective and engaging educational experiences for learners. The certification typically requires the successful completion of coursework, assessments, and/or exams to demonstrate mastery of instructional design principles and techniques.

2. How long does it take to complete an Instructional Designer Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to complete an Instructional Designer Certification can vary depending on the type of program you are enrolled in. In general, certifications may take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete, depending on the level of study and commitment required by the program.

3. What is the cost associated with obtaining an Instructional Designer Certification?

Answer: The cost associated with obtaining an Instructional Designer Certification can vary depending on the type of program you are enrolled in. Generally, certifications range from $500 - $2,000 USD; however, some programs may offer discounts or scholarships that can reduce this cost significantly.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming an Instructional Designer?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to have at least a bachelor’s degree before they can enroll in their certification program; however, some programs may also require additional experience or qualifications such as prior teaching experience or knowledge in a specific subject area.

5. What kind of job opportunities are available for those who have earned an instructional designer certification?

Answer: Those who earn an instructional designer certification can pursue a variety of career paths including corporate training roles, curriculum development positions within educational institutions, online course development jobs, and more.