Top 10 Knowledge Manager Certifications

Certifications for knowledge managers are important because they demonstrate a commitment to staying up to date on the current trends and best practices in the field. They also provide evidence of a commitment to professional development and highlight an individual’s ability to think critically about the role of knowledge management in an organization. Additionally, certifications may be required by some employers as a prerequisite for certain positions. Ultimately, certifications can help knowledge managers stand out from the competition in a highly competitive job market.

This article reviews the top certifications for Knowledge Managers and explains how they can help further a knowledge manager's career.

What are Knowledge Manager Certifications?

Knowledge Manager certification is a program designed to help professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and organize information and data within an organization. Knowledge Managers are responsible for ensuring that all information and data are organized, categorized, stored, and easily retrievable when needed. They also monitor the quality of the information collected, ensure accuracy and integrity of the data, and provide guidance on best practices for managing organizational knowledge.

The certification program focuses on topics such as developing strategies for knowledge management, understanding the importance of effective communication in knowledge management, applying technology solutions to support knowledge management efforts, designing processes to capture organizational knowledge, creating policies and procedures to ensure effective use of organizational knowledge assets, measuring progress against established goals, and developing plans for ongoing improvement.

By obtaining Knowledge Manager certification, individuals demonstrate their expertise in these areas. This can help them stand out from other candidates in their field when looking for a job or seeking promotion within their current organization. Companies value employees who have obtained this certification because it demonstrates that they have the skills necessary to manage an organization's treasure trove of valuable information efficiently and effectively. Furthermore, having a certified Knowledge Manager on staff can help organizations save money by reducing costs associated with inefficient storage or retrieval processes.

Pro Tip: When considering a knowledge manager certification, make sure to research the organization offering the certification and ask for references from past participants. This will ensure you are receiving a comprehensive program that is recognized in your field.

Related: What does a Knowledge Manager do?

Top 10 Knowledge Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Knowledge Manager (CKM)

Certified Knowledge Manager (CKM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have a comprehensive understanding of knowledge management principles and practices. It is administered by the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the field of knowledge management.

The CKM certification is available in two levels: CKM Foundation and CKM Professional. To become certified at either level, you must pass an online exam that tests your knowledge of knowledge management principles and practices. The Foundation exam requires 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete; the Professional exam requires 80 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 120 minutes to complete.

To get started with the CKM certification process, you will need to register for an account on KMI's website. Once registered, you can purchase the appropriate exam package for either the Foundation or Professional level. Exam packages cost $295 USD for the Foundation level and $395 USD for the Professional level, which includes access to study materials, practice exams, and one attempt at each exam. If you do not pass either exam on your first attempt, you can retake it after waiting at least 30 days from your initial attempt date.

Once you have passed both exams, you will be eligible to receive your official CKM certification credentials from KMI. You will also gain access to exclusive resources such as networking opportunities with other certified professionals, discounts on KMI courses and events, and more.

2. Certified Knowledge Management Professional (CKMP)

Certified Knowledge Management Professional (CKMP) is a professional certification program that provides knowledge management professionals with an opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of knowledge management including strategy, process, technology, and organizational change.

The CKMP certification consists of two parts: the Knowledge Management Foundation Course and the Knowledge Management Professional Exam. The foundation course provides an introduction to the fundamentals of knowledge management and covers topics such as understanding the value of knowledge, creating effective strategies for managing it, and leveraging technology to support it. The professional exam tests your ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about six months to complete both parts of the CKMP certification program. To get started, you must first register for the foundation course with a recognized provider or institution. Once you have completed this course, you can then take the professional exam at any Prometric testing center.

The cost of taking the CKMP certification program varies depending on where you take it and which provider or institution you choose. Generally speaking, however, it will cost around $1,500-$2,000 USD for both parts of the program.

3. Certified Knowledge Management Specialist (CKMS)

Certified Knowledge Management Specialist (CKMS) is a professional certification offered by the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated an advanced level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of knowledge management.

The CKMS certification requires candidates to successfully complete a two-day training program, followed by an online examination. The training program covers topics such as: understanding knowledge management principles and practices; identifying and managing organizational knowledge assets; developing effective strategies for knowledge sharing; using technology to support knowledge management initiatives; and applying knowledge management techniques in organizations.

The cost of the CKMS certification program varies depending on location, but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD. The duration of the program is usually two days, with an additional one-hour exam at the end.

In order to become a Certified Knowledge Management Specialist (CKMS), you must first complete the KMI’s training program and pass the online examination. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, you will receive your official CKMS certification.

4. Certified Information and Knowledge Manager (CIKM)

Certified Information and Knowledge Manager (CIKM) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Information and Knowledge Management (IAIKM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing information and knowledge resources within an organization. The CIKM credential is intended for professionals who are responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining information and knowledge management systems.

The CIKM certification requires passing a written exam that covers topics such as information architecture, data governance, content management, search engine optimization, analytics, collaboration tools, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To become certified as a CIKM professional you must meet certain requirements including having at least three years of experience in the field of information or knowledge management. You must also complete an approved training program from an accredited institution or organization. Once these requirements are met you can apply to take the CIKM exam.

The cost for taking the CIKM exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

5. Certified Knowledge Management Analyst (CKMA)

Certified Knowledge Management Analyst (CKMA) is a designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of the principles, processes, and best practices associated with knowledge management. This certification is offered by the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI), an organization dedicated to advancing the field of knowledge management.

The CKMA certification requires applicants to pass an online exam that tests their understanding of the core concepts and principles of knowledge management. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within two hours. The exam covers topics such as data analysis, information architecture, content management, collaboration tools, and more.

In order to take the CKMA exam, applicants must first register for it through KMI's website. Registration costs $250 USD and includes access to study materials as well as a practice test. After successfully passing the exam, applicants will receive their CKMA certification and will be listed in KMI's directory of certified professionals.

Overall, obtaining the CKMA certification can take anywhere from several weeks to several months depending on how quickly you are able to prepare for the exam.

6. Certified Knowledge Management Strategist (CKMS)

Certified Knowledge Management Strategist (CKMS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of knowledge management. It is offered by the Knowledge Management Institute (KMI).

The CKMS certification requires applicants to pass a three-hour exam that tests their knowledge of the principles and practices of knowledge management. The exam covers topics such as understanding organizational goals, developing strategies for managing knowledge, and implementing knowledge management systems.

To become certified, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in the field of knowledge management or related fields. They must also complete an online application form and submit it along with a $300 fee.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam, they will receive their CKMS certification within two weeks. The certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam.

The cost to become certified as a CKMS is $300 for the initial application fee, plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam or attending refresher courses.

7. Certified Enterprise Knowledge Manager (CEKM)

Certified Enterprise Knowledge Manager (CEKM) is a certification that recognizes the expertise of professionals in knowledge management. It is designed to help organizations leverage their knowledge assets and create an environment where knowledge can be effectively shared, accessed, and applied.

The CEKM certification is offered by the International Association for Knowledge Management (IAKM). To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as data management, information architecture, business process improvement, and organizational learning. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in knowledge management or related fields. They must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their skills and expertise in knowledge management. The portfolio should include examples of projects they have completed or participated in related to knowledge management.

The cost of the CEKM certification varies depending on the applicant’s country or region. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$500 USD to take the exam and receive the certification.

8. Master of Science in Knowledge Management (MSKM)

Master of Science in Knowledge Management (MSKM) is a specialized degree program that focuses on the application of knowledge management principles to organizations. The program provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop, implement, and maintain effective knowledge management systems.

The MSKM typically takes two years to complete, depending on the institution offering the program. It may also be possible to complete it in less than two years if you attend school full-time or take advantage of accelerated programs.

To get an MSKM, you must first have a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as computer science, information technology, business administration, or organizational psychology. You will then need to apply to an accredited university offering the degree program and complete all required courses.

The cost of an MSKM varies by institution but generally ranges from $15,000-$30,000 for tuition and fees. Additional costs may include books and other materials needed for coursework as well as living expenses while attending school.

9. Professional Certificate in Knowledge Management (PCKM)

The Professional Certificate in Knowledge Management (PCKM) is an online program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage knowledge within their organization. The program consists of five courses and takes approximately six months to complete.

The courses cover topics such as knowledge management principles, organizational learning, information systems, data analysis, and project management. Each course is self-paced and requires approximately 10 hours of study time per week. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a certificate from the University of California, Irvine Extension.

To get the PCKM certificate, you must first apply for admission to UC Irvine Extension's Professional Certificate in Knowledge Management program. Once accepted into the program, you must complete all five required courses with a grade of "C" or higher. You may also need to pass an exam at the end of each course in order to receive credit for it.

The cost of the Professional Certificate in Knowledge Management program varies depending on where you live and whether or not you are eligible for discounts or scholarships. Generally speaking, however, it costs around $2,500 to enroll in the full program (including tuition fees).

10. Professional Diploma in Knowledge Management (PDKM).

The Professional Diploma in Knowledge Management (PDKM) is a comprehensive, internationally recognized qualification designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively implement knowledge management strategies. It is a professional-level certification that provides an understanding of the principles and practices of knowledge management, and how to apply them in business.

The PDKM program typically takes around 12 months to complete. It consists of three modules: Introduction to Knowledge Management, Strategic Knowledge Management, and Advanced Knowledge Management. Each module includes topics such as data analysis, information architecture, organizational learning, and collaboration. The program also includes practical activities such as case studies, simulations, and group projects.

To get the PDKM certification you must complete all three modules successfully. You can take the course online or through a traditional classroom setting. You will need to demonstrate your understanding of the material by completing assignments and passing exams at the end of each module.

The cost of the PDKM program varies depending on where you take it. Online courses may range from $1,500 - $2,000 while classroom courses may cost up to $3,000 or more. There may also be additional costs associated with travel and accommodation if you choose to take a classroom course.

Do You Really Need a Knowledge Manager Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not you need a knowledge manager certificate, the answer depends on many factors.

First, consider the type of job you are applying for and the level of experience required for those positions. If you are looking to work in an organization that requires a high level of knowledge management expertise, then having a certificate in knowledge management could be beneficial. Knowledge managers are responsible for managing and organizing information within an organization, and having a certificate can demonstrate your understanding of the field and your potential to succeed in this role.

On the other hand, if you are looking to take on more entry-level roles or positions that don't require extensive knowledge management experience, then having a certificate may not be as important. In these cases, employers may be more interested in your overall qualifications and skills than any specific certification.

Ultimately, the decision about whether or not to pursue a knowledge manager certificate should come down to your individual goals and career aspirations. If you feel that having such a certificate would help further your career objectives, then it is worth considering obtaining one. However, if you feel that your current qualifications are sufficient for the roles you're pursuing or if you don't want to invest in gaining additional certifications, then it may not be necessary.

Related: Knowledge Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Knowledge Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Knowledge Manager Certification?

A1. A Knowledge Manager Certification is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s expertise in knowledge management principles and practices. It provides individuals with the skills and credentials needed to effectively manage, organize, and utilize organizational knowledge for optimal performance.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Knowledge Manager Certification?

A2. Benefits of obtaining a Knowledge Manager Certification include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, improved decision-making abilities, enhanced problem-solving capabilities, better communication skills, and greater credibility within the industry.

Q3. How long does it take to get a Knowledge Manager Certification?

A3. The amount of time it takes to obtain a Knowledge Manager Certification depends on the program you choose to pursue and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams and completing coursework. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed in 9-12 months depending on your schedule and commitment level.

Q4. Which organizations offer Knowledge Manager Certifications?

A4. There are several organizations that offer Knowledge Manager Certifications including the International Association of Information Management (IAIM), Project Management Institute (PMI), American Society for Quality (ASQ), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), and International Institute for Business Analysis (IIBA).

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Knowledge Manager Certification?

A5: Yes, many programs have prerequisites such as having a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in related fields such as information technology or business management. Additionally, some certifications may require applicants to pass certain exams before they can qualify for certification status