Top 11 Market Research Assistant Certifications

Certifications are important for a market research assistant in the job market because they demonstrate a mastery of fundamental research concepts and provide assurance to employers that the individual is qualified to perform the required tasks. Certifications also provide evidence that the individual has invested in their professional development, which can be attractive to employers. Additionally, certifications can open up opportunities for advancement within an organization as well as help individuals stand out from other job applicants. Finally, certifications may lead to higher salaries due to the increased level of expertise and knowledge that is demonstrated through certification programs.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Market Research Assistants and explains how they can help to advance their career.

What are Market Research Assistant Certifications?

Market research assistant certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of market research. This certification shows potential employers that the individual has the necessary skills to conduct market research effectively and accurately.

The certification covers topics such as understanding market trends, gathering data from surveys and focus groups, analyzing customer feedback, creating reports, and making recommendations for marketing strategies. It also provides an opportunity to learn more about the industry by teaching best practices and current trends.

Having market research assistant certification can be beneficial to individuals who are looking to pursue careers in this field. It can help them stand out in the job search process by demonstrating their commitment to the profession and their knowledge of key concepts. Additionally, having this certification may open up new opportunities for career growth or advancement within the field. Lastly, becoming certified may also provide access to exclusive resources designed specifically for market researchers, such as specialized software programs or industry-specific knowledge databases.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the market research assistant certification program thoroughly before enrolling. Check for accreditation, course curriculum, and the instructor's qualifications to ensure you are getting the best quality education possible.

Related: What does a Market Research Assistant do?

Top 11 Market Research Assistant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Market Research Assistants today.

1. Certified Market Research Professional (CMRS)

Certified Market Research Professional (CMRS) is a professional certification program offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in market research and analysis. The CMRS certification demonstrates mastery of the principles, processes, and techniques used in market research and analysis.

The CMRS certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the field of market research and analysis. To obtain the certification, applicants must pass an exam administered by the AMA. The exam covers topics such as marketing strategy, data collection methods, survey design, sampling techniques, data analysis methods, research ethics, and presentation skills.

The cost for taking the CMRS exam is $395 for AMA members or $495 for non-members. The fee includes access to online study materials and practice tests. Additionally, there are other costs associated with obtaining the certification such as travel expenses to attend an exam session or any necessary coursework required to meet eligibility requirements.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your official CMRS certificate from the AMA. This certificate will be valid for three years after which time you will need to renew it by retaking the exam or completing continuing education credits.

2. Certified Business Research Analyst (CBRA)

Certified Business Research Analyst (CBRA) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute of Certified Business Research Analysts (ICBRA). It is designed to recognize professionals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively analyze business data and interpret research findings. The CBRA certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to their profession, as well as their ability to apply best practices in business research.

The CBRA certification requires applicants to complete a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as market research, data analysis, survey design, report writing, and more. The program consists of four courses: Introduction to Business Research Analysis, Advanced Business Research Analysis, Survey Design & Implementation, and Report Writing & Presentation. Upon successful completion of these courses and passing the final exam, applicants receive their CBRA certification.

The cost for the CBRA certification program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,500 - $2,500 USD for all four courses.

In order to get certified as a CBRA, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having a minimum of two years of experience in business research or related field and completing at least 60 hours of approved training in business research-related topics within the past five years. After meeting these requirements, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documents such as transcripts or proof of work experience. Once accepted into the program, applicants will have up to six months to complete all four courses and pass the final exam in order to receive their CBRA certification.

3. Qualitative Research Certification (QRC)

Qualitative Research Certification (QRC) is a professional certification program offered by the Qualitative Research Association (QRA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in qualitative research. The certification program includes an online assessment, which covers topics such as research design, data analysis, and report writing.

The QRC program is open to anyone with at least two years of experience conducting qualitative research. To become certified, applicants must pass the online assessment with a score of 80% or higher. The assessment takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions.

The cost of the QRC program varies depending on the applicant’s country of residence and whether they are applying as an individual or as part of an organization. For individuals in the United States, the cost is $495 USD. For organizations in the United States, the cost is $795 USD.

Once applicants have successfully completed their assessment and paid their fee, they will be issued a certificate that recognizes their achievement and serves as proof of their proficiency in qualitative research.

4. Certified Online Market Research Professional (COMRP)

Certified Online Market Research Professional (COMRP) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of professionals in the field of online market research. The program is offered by the Market Research Association of North America (MRANA).

The COMRP certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in online market research or a related field, as well as an understanding of the principles and techniques used in this area. Applicants must also demonstrate their technical proficiency by passing an exam that covers topics such as survey design, data analysis, sampling methods, and reporting.

It typically takes around four weeks to complete the COMRP certification process. To get certified, applicants must first submit an application form along with proof of experience and payment of the applicable fee. Once approved, they will be required to take an online exam which consists of multiple-choice questions. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate within two weeks.

The cost for obtaining a COMRP certification varies depending on whether you are applying as an individual or as part of a group. For individuals, it costs $350 USD for the application fee plus $150 USD for each additional person in your group.

5. Certified Survey Methodologist (CSM)

Certified Survey Methodologist (CSM) is a professional certification offered by the American Association of Public Opinion Research (AAPOR). It is designed to recognize survey professionals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in survey methodology and practice. The CSM certification is awarded to individuals who have achieved a certain level of knowledge and experience in the field of survey research, including sampling, questionnaire design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and reporting results.

To become certified as a CSM, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and submit an application to AAPOR. Applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in survey research or related fields; hold a master’s degree or higher in survey methodology or related fields; pass an exam covering topics such as sampling theory, questionnaire design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and reporting results; and complete continuing education courses every two years.

The process typically takes three to six months from the time the application is submitted until the applicant receives their certification. The cost for the certification varies depending on whether you are an AAPOR member or not. For non-members, it costs $500 for the application fee plus $250 for each year that you are certified. For members it costs $200 for the application fee plus $100 for each year that you are certified.

6. Certified Digital Marketing Analyst (CDMA)

Certified Digital Marketing Analyst (CDMA) is a certification program that provides comprehensive training and assessment of digital marketing skills. It is designed to help professionals develop the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage digital marketing campaigns. The CDMA program covers topics such as search engine optimization, content marketing, email marketing, social media marketing, web analytics, and more.

The CDMA certification program takes approximately 4-6 months to complete depending on the individual's pace. To get certified as a CDMA, you must successfully complete all required coursework and pass an online exam. The cost of the certification program varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

7. Advanced Market Research Certification (AMRC)

Advanced Market Research Certification (AMRC) is a professional certification program designed to help marketing professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to effectively conduct market research. The program is offered by the American Marketing Association (AMA).

The AMRC program consists of four core modules: Foundations of Market Research, Qualitative Research Methods, Quantitative Research Methods, and Data Analysis & Interpretation. Each module includes a series of lectures, readings, and activities that cover topics such as research design, survey construction, data collection methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis. Upon successful completion of the program, participants receive an AMA Advanced Market Research Certificate.

The AMRC program typically takes about three months to complete. Participants can either attend in-person classes or access online courses from their own computer or device. The cost for the program varies depending on the type of course chosen; however, it typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 USD.

To get certified in AMRC individuals must first complete all four modules within the specified time frame and pass the final exam with a score of 70% or higher. Upon successful completion of all requirements participants will receive their certificate via email within two weeks after passing the exam.

8. Certified Customer Insights Professional (CCIP)

Certified Customer Insights Professional (CCIP) is a certification program that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills to use customer insights to create value for their organizations. The CCIP certification is offered by the Institute for Professional Excellence in Customer Management (IPECM). It is designed to help professionals understand how to leverage customer insights to drive business decisions, improve customer experience, and increase profitability.

The CCIP certification program consists of three levels: Foundation, Advanced, and Master. Each level requires completion of four modules: Customer Insights Foundations, Analyzing & Interpreting Data, Applying Insights & Strategies, and Implementing & Sustaining Change. The total duration of the program is approximately 18 months.

In order to obtain the CCIP certification, applicants must successfully complete all four modules and pass a final exam. Applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in customer insights or a related field.

The cost of the CCIP certification varies depending on the level chosen. The Foundation level costs $1,495 USD while the Advanced and Master levels cost $2,495 USD each.

9. Qualified Market Researcher (QMR)

Qualified Market Researcher (QMR) is a professional designation awarded by the Market Research Society (MRS). It is the highest level of accreditation available in market research and recognises individuals who have achieved an advanced level of knowledge and experience in the field.

To become a QMR, applicants must have at least five years’ experience in market research, be able to demonstrate their expertise through a portfolio of work, and pass a two-hour written exam. The exam covers topics such as research design, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, report writing and presentation skills.

The process can take up to six months to complete, depending on how quickly you can submit your portfolio of work and prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming a QMR varies depending on the country you are based in. In the UK it costs £375 to apply for accreditation plus £200 for the exam fee.

10. Advanced Analytics Certification Program (AACP)

The Advanced Analytics Certification Program (AACP) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals develop their skills and expertise in advanced analytics. The program is offered by the International Institute for Analytics (IIA), a leading provider of analytics education and training.

The AACP consists of four courses that cover topics such as data mining, predictive modeling, machine learning, and big data analytics. Each course is divided into two parts: an online self-study portion and an instructor-led classroom portion. The online self-study portion includes video lectures, readings, quizzes, and other activities to help participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic. The instructor-led classroom portion consists of hands-on exercises and group discussions with experienced instructors.

The AACP can be completed in as little as six months or up to one year depending on the individual's learning pace. To get certified, participants must complete all four courses and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the AACP varies depending on which course bundle you purchase. The basic package costs $1,995 USD while the premium package costs $2,495 USD. Both packages include access to all four courses plus additional resources such as practice exams and study guides.

11. International Association of Business Analysts' Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP).

The Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Business Analysts (IIBA). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in business analysis.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, experience and skills in the field of business analysis. In order to be eligible for the CBAP, applicants must have at least seven years of professional experience in business analysis and must have completed at least 900 hours of project work within the last four years.

In order to obtain the CBAP, applicants must first pass an exam administered by IIBA. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. The cost of the exam is $325 USD for IIBA members and $450 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants must submit an application form with supporting documentation demonstrating their experience in business analysis. The application fee is $100 USD for IIBA members and $125 USD for non-members.

Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their CBAP certification from IIBA. The entire process typically takes between two and four months from start to finish.

Do You Really Need a Market Research Assistant Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's goals. For some, a market research assistant certificate may be beneficial in helping them gain the skills and knowledge necessary to work in the field of market research. For others, it may not be necessary if they already have the skills and experience needed to perform well as a market research assistant.

For those who are looking to get into the field of market research and need to build their credentials, a certificate can be a great way to demonstrate their knowledge and commitment to learning more about this specialized field. A certificate program can provide individuals with an opportunity to learn more about how market research works and the tools used for conducting surveys and studies. Additionally, it can provide students with hands-on experience working with clients on projects related to market research.

For those who are already working in the field, a certificate may not be necessary as most employers will likely recognize their existing qualifications and experience when considering them for positions. However, having a certificate could be beneficial if they want to take on additional responsibilities or move up within an organization. It might also give them an edge over other candidates when applying for jobs in different organizations or industries.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a Market Research Assistant Certificate is something that should be determined based on their individual goals and objectives. If they feel that it would help them reach their career goals, then they should consider pursuing one.

Related: Market Research Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Market Research Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Market Research Assistant Certification?

Answer: A Market Research Assistant Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills to collect, analyze, and interpret market research data. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates an individual's competence in the area of market research.

2. How do I become certified as a Market Research Assistant?

Answer: To become certified as a Market Research Assistant, you must complete an accredited market research training program and pass the corresponding certification exam.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Market Research Assistant?

Answer: Benefits of becoming a Certified Market Research Assistant include having access to more job opportunities, higher salaries, and increased respect from employers and peers. Additionally, it can be used to demonstrate expertise in the field of market research which can lead to career advancement and recognition for your skillset.

4. How much does it cost to get certified as a Market Research Assistant?

Answer: The cost to get certified as a Market Research Assistant can vary depending on the program or institution offering the certification. Generally speaking, however, expect to pay between $500 - $2,000 USD for course materials as well as any fees associated with taking the certification exam.

5. How often do I need to renew my certification as a Market Research Assistant?

Answer: Generally speaking, certifications need to be renewed every two years in order to maintain their validity. Renewal requirements may vary depending on the program or institution that issued the certification so it’s best to check with them directly for more information about specific renewal requirements.