Top 10 Marketing Communications Certifications

Certifications in marketing communications are important for job seekers as they demonstrate a level of knowledge and understanding of the specialty to potential employers. They also provide an opportunity for marketers to expand their skill set and stay up-to-date with industry trends. Certification programs help professionals gain specialized skills and knowledge, while providing proof of qualifications which can be used to apply for higher-level positions in the field. In addition, certifications give employers the assurance that their employees are knowledgeable and competent in the area they are working in. Certifications also serve as a way to differentiate yourself from other applicants, as they show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to advance your career.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Marketing Communications and explains how they can contribute to a marketing communications's career, helping them to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the field.

What are Marketing Communications Certifications?

Marketing communications certification is a credential offered by various organizations that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in the principles of marketing communications. This certification provides recognition of an individual's understanding of the strategies, tactics, and techniques used to effectively communicate with target audiences. By obtaining this certification, professionals can demonstrate their commitment to their profession and increase their credibility in the marketing communications field.

The certification also provides a way for employers to evaluate job applicants and current employees on their knowledge of marketing communications principles. The certification includes an assessment that tests each individual's knowledge in areas such as marketing strategy, brand positioning, creative development, media planning, public relations, and digital marketing. Those who pass the assessment are awarded the certification and can list it on resumes and other professional documents.

Having a marketing communications certification can also be beneficial for personal career growth as it demonstrates that an individual is knowledgeable about all aspects of marketing communication strategies which will help them stand out from other candidates when seeking new job opportunities or promotions within their current organization. Additionally, having this credential may open up new opportunities for networking with peers in the industry which could potentially lead to future job prospects.

Pro Tip: When considering a marketing communications certification, make sure to research the program thoroughly. Ask questions about the program's curriculum, faculty, and job placement services to ensure you are getting the best value for your investment.

Related: What does a Marketing Communications do?

Top 10 Marketing Communications Certifications

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

1. Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP)

Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP) is a professional certification program that provides recognition for individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the field of digital marketing. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in areas such as SEO, content marketing, social media, email marketing, analytics, and more.

The CDMP certification is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI), an international organization that offers training and certifications in digital marketing. The program consists of two levels: the Digital Marketer Level 1 (DM1) and the Digital Marketer Level 2 (DM2). Both levels require passing an exam to receive the certification.

The DM1 level requires a total of 30 hours of study time over 4 weeks. The course covers topics such as web design, search engine optimization (SEO), content strategy, social media management, email marketing, and analytics. After completing the coursework and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your DM1 certification.

The DM2 level requires 40 hours of study time over 5 weeks. This course covers advanced topics such as data-driven decision making, customer segmentation and targeting, online advertising strategies, mobile optimization techniques, and more. After completing the coursework and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher you will receive your DM2 certification.

In order to get certified as a CDMP you must pass both exams with a minimum score of 80%. Once you have passed both exams you will be awarded your Certified Digital Marketing Professional certificate from DMI.

The cost for each level is $450 USD which includes access to all materials needed for study as well as exam fees.

2. Certified Email Marketing Professional (CEMP)

Certified Email Marketing Professional (CEMP) is a certification program designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage email marketing campaigns. It is offered by the Direct Marketing Association (DMA), an organization that provides resources, education, and standards for direct marketers.

The CEMP program consists of four modules: Email Strategy & Planning, Email Creative & Design, Email Delivery & Compliance, and Email Analytics & Optimization. Each module includes study materials such as webinars, case studies, and quizzes. The program also includes a final exam that must be passed in order to receive certification.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CEMP program. However, it can take longer depending on how much time you have available to dedicate to studying.

To get certified as a CEMP professional, you must first register for the program through the DMA website. You will then be provided with access to all of the necessary study materials and exams. The cost of registration is $399 USD for members of DMA or $499 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS)

A Certified Social Media Strategist (CSMS) is a professional who has been certified by an accredited organization to demonstrate expertise in the field of social media strategy. This certification requires that the individual possess knowledge and skills related to developing, executing, and monitoring successful social media campaigns.

The CSMS certification is offered through the Social Media Marketing Institute (SMMi). To become certified, individuals must complete an online course and pass a comprehensive exam. The course covers topics such as content creation, digital marketing strategies, analytics, and more. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, individuals will receive their CSMS certification.

The cost of the CSMS certification program is $399 USD. It typically takes two to three weeks to complete the course and pass the exam.

4. Certified Content Marketing Specialist (CCMS)

A Certified Content Marketing Specialist (CCMS) is a professional who has earned a certification in content marketing. This certification is designed to equip professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective content marketing strategies and campaigns.

The CCMS program is offered by the Content Marketing Institute, an organization that provides education and resources for content marketers. The program consists of two courses: Content Marketing Fundamentals and Advanced Content Marketing Strategies. Each course takes approximately 10-15 hours to complete and includes lectures, quizzes, case studies, and hands-on activities.

To get certified as a CCMS, you must complete both courses within 12 months of each other and pass the final exam with a score of 80% or higher. After completing the program, you will receive a digital badge that can be added to your online profile or resume.

The cost for the CCMS program varies depending on whether you are an individual or part of an organization. For individuals, the cost is $499 USD for both courses; for organizations, it is $999 USD for up to five people taking the course together.

5. Certified Inbound Marketer (CIM)

Certified Inbound Marketer (CIM) is a certification program developed by HubSpot Academy, the educational arm of HubSpot. It is designed to help marketers learn the fundamentals of inbound marketing and become certified in the process. The CIM certification consists of four courses, each taking approximately three hours to complete. The courses cover topics such as content creation, social media marketing, search engine optimization, lead generation and analytics.

To get the CIM certification, you must first register for an account with HubSpot Academy. Once registered, you can access the four courses and complete them at your own pace. After completing all four courses and passing the associated exams, you will be awarded a CIM certificate.

The cost of getting Certified Inbound Marketer (CIM) certification depends on which plan you choose when registering with HubSpot Academy. There are two plans available: Basic and Pro. The Basic plan costs $299 USD per month while the Pro plan costs $999 USD per month.

6. Certified Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP)

Certified Public Relations Practitioner (CPRP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize experienced public relations practitioners who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge, skill and expertise in the field. This certification is offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

The CPRP requires applicants to have at least five years of professional experience in public relations and/or communication management, as well as a bachelor’s degree or higher. Applicants must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as communications strategy, media relations, crisis communications, research and measurement, legal and ethical issues, and more.

It takes approximately three months to complete the CPRP certification process. After submitting an application and passing the initial review process, applicants must register for the exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. Once applicants pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher, they will receive their CPRP certification.

The cost for the CPRP certification is $450 for PRSA members or $550 for non-members. This fee includes registration for the exam as well as access to study materials such as practice exams and sample questions.

7. Certified Advertising Professional (CAP)

Certified Advertising Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Association of Advertising Agencies (AAAA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of advertising. The CAP certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as media planning, creative strategy, digital marketing, research and analytics, budgeting and buying, and legal/regulatory issues.

It typically takes about two months to complete the CAP certification process. To get started, you must first register for the exam through AAAA's online portal. You will then be asked to complete an application form which includes questions about your work experience, education background, and other relevant information. Once your application is approved, you will receive instructions on how to access the exam materials.

The cost for taking the CAP exam is $495 for AAAA members or $595 for non-members. This fee covers all materials needed to take the exam including study guides and practice tests. Additionally, there are discounts available for groups of three or more people registering together.

Once you have passed the exam you will be awarded with a Certified Advertising Professional (CAP) designation from AAAA and can use it to demonstrate your expertise in the field of advertising.

8. Certified Online Advertising Professional (COAP)

Certified Online Advertising Professional (COAP) is a professional certification program designed to help digital marketing professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the online advertising industry. The program is offered by the Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB).

The COAP program consists of an online course, which takes approximately 8-12 hours to complete, and an exam. The course covers topics such as understanding online ad formats, targeting techniques, optimization strategies, and more. Once you complete the course, you will be able to take the exam and become certified.

To get the COAP certification, you must first register for the program through IAB’s website. After registering, you will be given access to the online course material and can begin studying. Once you have completed all of the course material, you can take the exam at any time. Upon passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will receive your COAP certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Online Advertising Professional is $299 USD for IAB members and $399 USD for non-members.

9. Certified Search Engine Optimization Specialist (CSES)

Certified Search Engine Optimization Specialist (CSES) is a certification program offered by the Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization (SEMPO). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively optimize websites for search engine results.

The CSES certification program consists of an online course, which takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete, and a final exam. The course covers topics such as keyword research, on-page optimization, link building strategies, content optimization, and other advanced SEO techniques. Upon successful completion of the course and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, participants will receive their CSES certification.

The cost of the CSES certification program varies depending on whether you are an individual or an organization. For individuals, it costs $299 USD; for organizations, it costs $599 USD.

In order to get your CSES certification, you must first register for the course and pay the applicable fee. After registering for the course and paying the fee, you will receive access to all of the materials needed to complete it. Once you have completed all of the required modules in the course and passed the final exam with a score of 80% or higher, you will be awarded your CSES certification.

10. Certified Mobile Marketing Professional (CMMP)

Certified Mobile Marketing Professional (CMMP) is a certification program designed to help marketing professionals develop their understanding of mobile marketing and its associated technologies. The program is offered by the Mobile Marketing Association (MMA).

The CMMP certification requires completion of a four-hour online course, which covers topics such as mobile device capabilities, mobile advertising, mobile analytics, and mobile security. Upon successful completion of the course, participants receive a certificate verifying their knowledge and skills in mobile marketing.

It typically takes about 4-6 hours to complete the CMMP course. To get certified, you need to register for the program on the MMA website and pay an enrollment fee of $299 USD. Once you have completed the course and passed the exam, you will be awarded your CMMP certificate.

The CMMP certification is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking an updated version of the course.

Do You Really Need a Marketing Communications Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not necessarily need a marketing communications certificate to succeed in the field. However, having one can be beneficial for many reasons.

First of all, it can help demonstrate your expertise and professional credentials in the field of marketing communications. Having this type of certification will show potential employers that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the role. It can also provide valuable networking opportunities with other professionals in the industry. This could lead to job opportunities or even new business opportunities that may otherwise not have been available without the certificate.

Furthermore, a marketing communications certificate can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions within an organization. Employers are always looking for individuals who have advanced knowledge and experience in their chosen field. Having a certificate can give you an edge over those without one and make you more attractive to potential employers.

Finally, having a marketing communications certificate can open up doors for further career advancement down the road as well. It allows you to grow professionally by learning more about different aspects of the industry and by understanding how different strategies work best in different scenarios. This type of knowledge and insight can be invaluable when it comes to advancing your career or finding new opportunities within an organization or industry.

In conclusion, while it is not absolutely necessary, having a marketing communications certificate can be very beneficial both personally and professionally. It provides evidence of your expertise, opens up new networking opportunities, makes you stand out from other applicants and opens up doors for further career advancement down the road. Therefore, if possible, obtaining a marketing communications certificate might be worth considering if you want to maximize your success in this field.

Related: Marketing Communications Resume Examples

FAQs About Marketing Communications Certifications

Q1. What is a Marketing Communications Certification?

A1. A Marketing Communications Certification is a professional certification program that provides an opportunity for individuals to gain knowledge and expertise in the field of communications and marketing. This certification offers a comprehensive understanding of the principles, strategies, and tactics used in modern marketing communications, from traditional media to digital platforms.

Q2. How long does it take to complete a Marketing Communications Certification?

A2. The time frame for completing a Marketing Communications Certification varies depending on which program you choose, but most programs can be completed in six months or less. It also depends on how many courses you take at once and how much time you dedicate to studying each week.

Q3. What are the benefits of getting a Marketing Communications Certification?

A3. There are many benefits of obtaining a Marketing Communications Certification including: gaining an understanding of current trends in marketing communications; developing strong communication skills; learning effective strategies for creating successful campaigns; demonstrating experience and knowledge in the field; improving your resume; and increasing your job opportunities with employers who value certifications.

Q4. Is there an exam required to obtain a Marketing Communications Certification?

A4. Yes, most certifications require applicants to pass an exam before they can become certified professionals in marketing communications. The exam typically covers topics such as general marketing principles, digital media strategy, copywriting techniques, and brand management strategies.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Marketing Communications Certification?

A5. Generally speaking, there are no prerequisites for obtaining a Marketing Communications Certification although some programs may require applicants to have some prior experience or education in the field before being accepted into the program.