Top 11 Laboratory Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a laboratory manager in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge, skills, and experience in the field. They provide employers with an assurance that potential managers have been trained and tested in specific areas of expertise. Additionally, certifications may be required to work in certain organizations or settings, such as government agencies or health care facilities. Certifications also serve as a way for laboratory managers to stay up to date on industry trends, technologies, and best practices. Finally, certifications can help potential employers differentiate between candidates when making hiring decisions.

The purpose of this article is to review the most beneficial certifications for laboratory managers and discuss how they can enhance a laboratory manager's career.

What are Laboratory Manager Certifications?

Laboratory manager certification is a program designed to provide laboratory managers with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage a laboratory. This certification can help ensure that laboratories are managed in a manner that meets regulatory requirements, promotes safety and quality, and maximizes operational efficiency. Certification provides assurance that laboratory managers have the knowledge and experience needed to run a successful lab.

The certification program focuses on topics such as personnel management, safety protocols, financial management, project management, data analysis and interpretation, laboratory operations, and more. Through this program, laboratory managers gain the skills needed to develop effective policies and procedures for their laboratories. They also learn how to create budgets for their labs and how to monitor the performance of their staff. Additionally, they gain an understanding of how to comply with applicable laws and regulations governing laboratory operations.

Overall, obtaining laboratory manager certification helps ensure that laboratories are managed in a way that meets all applicable standards while promoting quality results. With this certification in hand, laboratory managers can confidently oversee the day-to-day operations of their labs with greater assurance that they are doing so in compliance with best practices.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a laboratory manager certification, it's important to research the requirements and qualifications related to the specific certification you are considering. Many certifications require applicants to have a certain amount of laboratory experience or educational credentials; be sure to understand what is required before investing time and money in the process.

Related: What does a Laboratory Manager do?

Top 11 Laboratory Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Laboratory Manager (CLM)

Certified Laboratory Manager (CLM) is a professional certification program that provides laboratory managers with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage laboratory operations. It is designed to provide laboratory professionals with the tools they need to ensure quality, safety, and compliance in their laboratories.

The CLM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as laboratory safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and financial management. The exam tests the student's knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes about four months to complete the CLM program, depending on how quickly you can complete the online course and study for the exam. To get started, you must first purchase a CLM package from a certified provider. The cost of this package varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $400-$800 USD. After purchasing your package, you will be able to access the online course materials and start studying for your exam. Once you have completed all of your studies and passed your exam, you will receive your CLM certification.

2. Certified Quality Manager (CQM)

Certified Quality Manager (CQM) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in quality management. It is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing quality practices and principles. CQM certification requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge of quality management systems, processes, and standards.

The process of obtaining CQM certification typically takes between three and six months. The first step is to pass the ASQ Certified Quality Manager exam, which covers topics such as quality planning, control, assurance, and improvement. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application for certification with supporting documentation such as proof of education and work experience in the field of quality management. Once approved, applicants will receive their CQM certificate from ASQ.

The cost of obtaining CQM certification varies depending on the applicant’s membership status with ASQ. For non-members, the cost is $595 USD for the exam plus $50 USD for each year of certification maintenance fees; for members, it is $395 USD for the exam plus $30 USD per year for maintenance fees.

3. Certified Quality Auditor (CQA)

Certified Quality Auditor (CQA) is a professional certification offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQA certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in quality auditing and assurance. It is intended for those who are responsible for conducting internal or external audits of quality management systems.

The CQA exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and takes four hours to complete. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least eight years of work experience in one or more areas of the quality profession, including three years of quality auditing experience.

To get certified, you will need to pass the CQA exam. The cost of taking the exam is $415 for ASQ members and $515 for non-members. Additionally, there are study materials available from ASQ that can help prepare you for the exam, which may cost extra money depending on which materials you choose.

4. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated mastery of the tools and processes of Six Sigma. It is designed to develop and recognize highly skilled problem-solvers who can lead successful process improvement projects.

The certification process typically takes three to four months, depending on the individual's prior experience with Six Sigma. To become certified, candidates must pass an exam administered by a third-party organization such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The exam covers topics such as project management, data analysis, and design of experiments. Candidates must also demonstrate their ability to apply the principles of Six Sigma in real-world situations through case studies or simulations.

The cost of certification varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally, it ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 USD. Some organizations may offer discounts for groups or individuals taking multiple exams at once.

In order to maintain certification status, individuals must complete continuing education credits each year and/or take additional exams every three years.

5. American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence

American Society for Quality (ASQ) Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to lead and manage quality initiatives within an organization. The certification is designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage quality improvement efforts in their organization.

The certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in managing quality improvement projects or programs, including at least three years of direct responsibility for quality management. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as process management, customer satisfaction, organizational excellence, and project management.

It typically takes six months to one year to prepare for the exam and complete the application process. Preparation may include studying course materials, attending seminars or workshops, or taking practice tests.

To get ASQ Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence, candidates must submit an application and fee to ASQ and then take the exam at a designated testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on the country but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

6. International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 Lead Auditor

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001:2015 Lead Auditor is a certification program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to audit and certify quality management systems. The ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's ability to audit a quality management system based on the ISO 9001:2015 standard.

How long does it take to get it?

The time required to obtain the ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification depends on the individual’s experience and background. Generally, individuals should expect to spend up to 40 hours of study time in order to prepare for the exam.

How to get it?

In order to become certified as an ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor, individuals must complete a training course approved by the International Register of Certificated Auditors (IRCA). After completing the training course, individuals must pass an examination administered by IRCA in order to receive their certification.

How much does it cost?

The cost of obtaining the ISO 9001:2015 Lead Auditor certification can vary depending on the provider offering the training course and exam. Generally, individuals can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 - $3,000 USD for both the training course and exam.

7. American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification in Medical Laboratory Science

The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Board of Certification in Medical Laboratory Science is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have met the educational and professional requirements to practice as medical laboratory scientists. The program is designed to ensure that medical laboratory scientists are qualified to perform their duties with accuracy, precision, and safety.

In order to be eligible for the ASCP Board of Certification, applicants must have completed an approved medical laboratory science program and have passed either the ASCP or AMT certification exams. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for the certification by submitting an application form and paying the applicable fee.

The fee for the ASCP Board of Certification is $185 USD. The application process typically takes up to four weeks after submission. After this period, applicants will receive notification of their status via email or mail.

Once certified, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every three years in order to maintain their certification status. This ensures that medical laboratory scientists stay current on best practices and remain competent in their field.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought-after certifications in project management and is highly valued by employers. The PMP certification recognizes an individual’s ability to manage projects effectively, from initiation to closure.

To get the PMP certification, you must have a minimum of three years of project management experience and 35 hours of formal project management education. You must also pass the PMP exam, which consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing a project. The exam takes four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the PMP exam varies based on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, the cost is $405; for non-members it is $555. In addition to this fee, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for the exam such as purchasing study materials or taking a course.

It typically takes between two and six months to prepare for the PMP exam depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying each week. Once you have passed the exam, your name will be added to the official list of certified Project Management Professionals (PMPs).

9. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the Lean Six Sigma methodology. It is designed to help professionals improve their process improvement capabilities and become more effective in their roles.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt Certification typically takes 8-10 weeks to complete, depending on the program chosen. The program consists of online or classroom instruction followed by an exam. The course covers the fundamentals of Lean Six Sigma, including problem solving, data analysis, process mapping, project management, and other related topics.

To get certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, you must first complete a training program from an accredited provider. After completing the training program, you will need to take and pass the certification exam administered by either ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The cost of getting certified as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt varies depending on the provider and type of program chosen. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500 to $2,000 USD.

10. American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certified Laboratory Manager

The American Association of Bioanalysts (AAB) Certified Laboratory Manager (CLM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in laboratory management. The CLM is the only nationally recognized certification program for laboratory managers.

The AAB CLM program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in laboratory management by passing a comprehensive exam. The exam covers topics such as laboratory operations, personnel management, quality assurance/quality control, safety, regulatory compliance, budgeting and finance, and information technology.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the requirements for the AAB CLM certification. To become certified, applicants must first submit an application with supporting documentation demonstrating their qualifications and experience in the field. Once approved, applicants must then register for and pass the AAB CLM examination.

The cost of the AAB CLM certification varies depending on the applicant's membership status with AAB. For non-members, the cost of the application fee is $150 plus a $200 examination fee. For members of AAB, there is no application fee but there is still a $200 examination fee.

11. National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Professional in Environmental Health and Safety

The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) Certified Professional in Environmental Health and Safety (CPEH) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of environmental health and safety. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's commitment to the profession, as well as their knowledge and skills in the areas of environmental health, safety, and risk management.

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of three years of full-time experience in the field of environmental health and safety, or equivalent part-time experience. They must also pass an exam administered by NEHA. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as environmental science, occupational health and safety, hazardous materials management, emergency response planning, risk assessment and management, legal compliance issues related to environmental health and safety, and more.

The cost for the CPEH certification varies depending on whether you are an NEHA member or non-member. For members it costs $450 while non-members pay $550. Additionally there is a $50 application fee that applies to both members and non-members.

Once you have successfully passed the exam you will receive your CPEH certificate within 4 weeks. You will also be listed on NEHA’s website as a certified professional in environmental health and safety for two years from your date of certification. After two years you will need to renew your certification by taking an additional exam or by completing continuing education credits every two years.

Do You Really Need a Laboratory Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of laboratory manager position you are considering. If you are looking for a position in a research or academic lab, then the answer is likely yes. A Laboratory Manager Certificate is an important credential that demonstrates your knowledge, experience, and ability to manage a laboratory. It also shows potential employers that you understand the importance of safety and quality control in a laboratory setting. In addition, having a Laboratory Manager Certificate can give you an edge over other applicants who do not have this certification.

However, if you are applying for a managerial role in an industrial or commercial laboratory, then it is not necessary to have the certificate. In these types of labs, the emphasis is usually more on production and efficiency rather than safety and quality control. Therefore, having the certificate may not be as important as it would be for research or academic laboratories.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Laboratory Manager Certificate depends on the type of lab you are applying to manage and the requirements set by that lab's employer. If it is required or recommended by your prospective employer, then obtaining the certificate may be beneficial to your career prospects.

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FAQs About Laboratory Manager Certifications

1. What is a Laboratory Manager Certification?

Answer: A Laboratory Manager Certification is a professional certification that shows that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to manage a laboratory. It demonstrates proficiency in areas such as laboratory safety, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and management principles.

2. What are the requirements to become certified as a Laboratory Manager?

Answer: Requirements vary depending on the certifying body, but generally include demonstrating knowledge of laboratory operations, passing an exam, and having several years of related work experience or education in the field.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a Laboratory Manager?

Answer: The time frame varies depending on the certifying body and how much time you can devote to studying for the exam. Generally, it takes anywhere from six months to two years to become certified as a Laboratory Manager.

4. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Laboratory Manager?

Answer: The primary benefit of becoming certified is that it demonstrates your expertise and dedication to your profession. Additionally, employers may be more likely to hire you if you have this certification because it shows that you meet certain standards for managing laboratories.

5. What organizations offer Laboratory Manager Certifications?

Answer: Several organizations offer certifications for laboratory managers including the American Society for Quality (ASQ), International Council for Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (ICAHO), and National Institute for Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS).