Top 11 Marketing Copywriter Certifications

Certifications are important for marketing copywriters in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the writer has a certain level of knowledge, skill, and expertise in their field. Having certifications can help marketing copywriters stand out from other job applicants and give them an edge when competing for positions. Additionally, certifications can be used to validate a copywriter’s skills and provide proof of their qualifications. As such, certification can be beneficial in helping marketing copywriters secure employment opportunities and increase their earning potential.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Marketing Copywriters and explains how they can help to further a marketing copywriter's career.

What are Marketing Copywriter Certifications?

Marketing copywriter certification is a type of professional recognition that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in writing persuasive marketing copy. It can help writers develop their craft, understand the latest trends in digital marketing, and gain the necessary skills to create effective content for any industry. With this certification, writers can demonstrate their expertise to potential employers and clients, increase their earning potential, and gain access to exclusive job opportunities.

The certification process typically involves completing a comprehensive course on marketing copywriting fundamentals such as researching target audiences, understanding SEO principles, crafting compelling headlines and calls-to-action, and more. Once certified, writers will have the confidence to create content that appeals to consumers while helping businesses achieve their goals. Furthermore, they will stay up-to-date with the latest trends in digital marketing so that they can continue providing valuable services to their clients.

Pro Tip: When considering a marketing copywriter certification, look for programs that provide hands-on learning opportunities and mentorship from experienced professionals. This will help you gain the skills and knowledge necessary to become an effective copywriter and ensure that you're well-prepared to tackle any writing project.

Related: What does a Marketing Copywriter do?

Top 11 Marketing Copywriter Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Copywriter (CPC)

Certified Professional Copywriter (CPC) is a certification offered by the National Association of Certified Professional Copywriters (NACPW). It is designed to help copywriters demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of professional copywriting.

To get certified, applicants must have at least two years of professional writing experience and pass an exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test knowledge on topics such as grammar, punctuation, style, research, writing techniques, and marketing principles. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work for review.

The NACPW offers two levels of certification: CPC Level 1 and CPC Level 2. Level 1 requires applicants to have at least two years of professional writing experience and pass the exam with a score of 80%. Level 2 requires applicants to have at least five years of professional writing experience and pass the exam with a score of 90%.

The cost for taking the exam is $150 for CPC Level 1 and $250 for CPC Level 2. The cost for submitting a portfolio is an additional $50.

Once certified, copywriters can use the CPC designation after their name to show potential employers that they are qualified professionals in the field of copywriting.

2. Certified Content Marketer (CCM)

Certified Content Marketer (CCM) is a professional certification program offered by the Content Marketing Institute (CMI). It is designed to recognize content marketing professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the core principles and best practices of content marketing.

The CCM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The course covers topics such as content strategy, planning and execution, measurement, optimization, and more. The exam tests your knowledge of the material covered in the course.

It takes approximately 10-12 hours to complete the online course and then another 2-3 hours to take the exam. You can take as much time as you need to complete the course and prepare for the exam.

The cost of becoming a Certified Content Marketer is $499 USD. This includes access to the online course and one attempt at taking the exam. If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may retake it for an additional fee of $99 USD.

3. Certified Digital Copywriter (CDC)

Certified Digital Copywriter (CDC) is a certification offered by the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI). It is designed to help copywriters create effective digital marketing campaigns. The program includes training in SEO, email marketing, and other digital marketing techniques. It also covers topics such as writing for the web, social media, and content strategy.

It takes approximately four months to complete the CDC program. The program consists of six modules that cover all aspects of digital copywriting. Each module consists of video lessons, reading material, quizzes, and assignments.

In order to get certified as a Certified Digital Copywriter (CDC), you must complete all six modules and pass an exam at the end of the program. The cost of the program is $1,995 USD and includes lifetime access to all course materials.

4. Certified SEO Copywriter (CSC)

A Certified SEO Copywriter (CSC) is a professional copywriter who has been certified by the Search Engine Optimization (SEO) industry’s leading organization, the Search Engine Marketing Professional Organization (SEMPO). The CSC certification is designed to equip copywriters with the knowledge and skills needed to create effective, search engine-friendly content.

The CSC certification process consists of an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, content optimization, and analytics. It takes about 8 hours to complete the course. After completing the course, copywriters must pass a 90-minute exam in order to receive their CSC certification.

To get Certified SEO Copywriter (CSC) certification, you will need to register for the online course and pay a fee of $299 USD. This fee covers access to the course materials and one attempt at taking the exam. If you fail the exam, you can retake it for an additional fee of $99 USD.

Once you have passed the exam and received your CSC certificate, you will be able to demonstrate your expertise in SEO copywriting and use it as evidence of your qualifications when applying for jobs or pitching potential clients.

5. Certified Social Media Copywriter (CSMC)

Certified Social Media Copywriter (CSMC) is a professional certification program designed to teach copywriters the skills and techniques needed to create effective social media content. The program is offered by the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI), and it consists of three courses: Social Media Copywriting, Advanced Social Media Copywriting, and Social Media Writing for Business.

It takes approximately two months to complete all three courses, but you can take them at your own pace. Each course costs $497, so the total cost of the program is $1491.

To get certified as a CSMC, you must complete all three courses and pass an online exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your official CSMC certificate from AWAI.

6. Certified Email Copywriter (CEC)

Certified Email Copywriter (CEC) is a certification program offered by the Email Experience Council (EEC). It is designed to recognize and reward email copywriters who demonstrate expertise in writing effective and engaging email copy. The CEC certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge of email marketing best practices, an understanding of how to craft compelling copy, and the ability to write emails that are optimized for both desktop and mobile devices.

The CEC program consists of three levels: Certified Email Copywriter Level 1, Certified Email Copywriter Level 2, and Certified Email Copywriter Level 3. To become certified at any level, applicants must pass an online exam consisting of multiple-choice questions.

It typically takes between two weeks and one month to complete the entire process from application to certification. Applicants must submit an application form with a fee of $150 USD for each level they wish to be certified in. Once their application has been approved, they will receive access to the online exam where they can take the test anytime within 30 days from the date of purchase.

Once applicants have successfully passed their exams, they will receive their official CEC certificate along with a digital badge that can be used on social media profiles or websites. Additionally, all CEC certified copywriters will be included in EEC’s directory of certified professionals which can help them gain more visibility and recognition in the industry.

7. Certified Advertising Copywriter (CAC)

Certified Advertising Copywriter (CAC) is a professional certification that recognizes the skills and knowledge of experienced copywriters. It is awarded by the American Writers & Artists Institute (AWAI), an organization dedicated to helping people become successful freelance writers.

To become a Certified Advertising Copywriter, you must complete AWAI’s Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting, which takes approximately six months to complete. This program includes online courses, assignments, and tests that cover topics such as writing techniques, market research, strategy development, and more. Upon completion of the program, you will be eligible to take the CAC exam.

The cost of the CAC exam is $295 USD. Once you have passed the exam and been officially certified as a CAC, you will receive a certificate from AWAI recognizing your achievement. You will also gain access to exclusive resources such as job postings and networking opportunities with other copywriters.

Overall, becoming a Certified Advertising Copywriter is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise in copywriting and set yourself apart from other professionals in the field.

8. Certified Direct Response Copywriter (CDRC)

Certified Direct Response Copywriter (CDRC) is a professional certification program offered by the American Writers and Artists Institute (AWAI). The program is designed to give copywriters the skills and knowledge needed to write effective and profitable direct response copy.

It takes approximately six months to complete the Certified Direct Response Copywriter program. During this time, you will learn how to craft persuasive copy that engages readers, drives sales, and increases profits. You will also learn how to use research-based techniques like A/B testing and segmentation to maximize your results.

To get certified as a CDRC, you must first complete the AWAI Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting. This program provides an in-depth introduction to direct response copywriting and teaches you how to write effective web copy, emails, video scripts, print ads, and more. After completing the Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting, you can then apply for the CDRC certification exam.

The cost of the Certified Direct Response Copywriter program varies depending on which version of the course you choose. The self-study version costs $2,497 while the live version costs $3,997. Both versions include access to all course materials as well as one year of membership in AWAI’s online community of writers and marketers.

9. Professional Writers Association of Canada Certification Program

The Professional Writers Association of Canada (PWAC) Certification Program is a voluntary program designed to recognize the professional writing skills and expertise of Canadian writers. The program is open to all PWAC members in good standing, regardless of their genre or specialty.

The PWAC Certification Program consists of two components: an online assessment and a portfolio review. The online assessment tests a writer's knowledge of the writing industry, including topics such as copyright law, contracts, marketing, and ethics. It takes approximately two hours to complete the assessment.

To receive certification, writers must also submit a portfolio for review by PWAC's Certification Committee. This portfolio should include samples of published work, along with any awards or recognition received for their writing. It should also include a brief biography outlining their experience as a professional writer.

The cost to apply for certification is $75 CAD plus applicable taxes (as of 2020). Once certified, members are eligible to use the designation “Certified Professional Writer” after their name and on business cards and websites. They will also receive access to exclusive resources and discounts on PWAC services and events.

10. International Association of Business Communicators' Accredited Business Communicator

The International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) Accredited Business Communicator (ABC) is an international certification program designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the core competencies of business communication. It is a professional development program that assesses and recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary for effective business communication.

The ABC program consists of a comprehensive assessment process that evaluates a professional's knowledge and application of the core competencies in business communication. The assessment includes an online exam, portfolio review, and oral presentation. Upon successful completion of the assessment process, individuals receive their ABC designation.

It typically takes six months to one year to complete the ABC program. During this time, individuals must complete all required assessments and submit their portfolio for review by IABC’s panel of experts.

To get started on the ABC program, individuals must first become members of IABC. Membership fees vary depending on individual circumstances but generally range from $130-$250 per year. Once membership is established, individuals can register for the ABC program which costs $1,200 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

11. American Writers & Artists Institute's Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting

The American Writers & Artists Institute’s Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting is a comprehensive, self-paced program designed to teach aspiring copywriters the skills they need to become successful in the field. The program covers topics such as how to write persuasive sales letters, create effective web copy, and craft compelling email campaigns. It also includes detailed instruction on how to research markets, find clients, and negotiate fees.

The program takes approximately six months to complete and requires a commitment of roughly 10 hours per week. It consists of 12 modules that cover all aspects of copywriting from fundamentals to advanced techniques. Each module contains video lessons, audio interviews with industry professionals, and written assignments that must be completed before progressing to the next module.

The cost of the Accelerated Program for Six-Figure Copywriting is $1,997 USD. This fee includes lifetime access to all course materials and resources as well as one year of free membership in AWAI’s Circle of Success community.

To enroll in the program, applicants must submit an application form along with a nonrefundable deposit of $497 USD. Once accepted into the program, students can begin their studies immediately and have up to one year from enrollment date to complete all 12 modules.

Do You Really Need a Marketing Copywriter Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your goals and the context of your career. A marketing copywriter certificate can be a valuable asset for some individuals, as it provides an opportunity to gain specialized training in the field of copywriting. However, there are many other ways to learn and practice copywriting that don’t require a certificate.

For those who are just starting out in the field, taking courses or reading books on copywriting can be an effective way to build knowledge and skills. It is also important to get experience writing for different types of audiences and formats, such as webpages, emails, social media posts, etc. Practicing with real-world projects can help refine writing skills and demonstrate proficiency in the craft.

For those who have more advanced writing skills and experience, earning a marketing copywriter certificate may be beneficial if they want to specialize or demonstrate their expertise in a certain area of copywriting. Certificates can also be helpful when applying for jobs or contracts because they show potential clients or employers that you have taken the time to invest in professional development in the field of copywriting.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a marketing copywriter certificate will depend on your own goals and preferences. If you are looking to develop deeper knowledge or specialize in a certain area of copywriting, then pursuing a certificate may be worthwhile. However, if you already have strong writing skills and experience, then you may want to focus on building up your portfolio with practical projects instead.

Related: Marketing Copywriter Resume Examples

FAQs About Marketing Copywriter Certifications

Q1: What is a marketing copywriter certification?

A1: A marketing copywriter certification is a credential that verifies an individual’s expertise in writing effective and engaging content for marketing purposes. It typically involves coursework, exams, and other assessments to prove that the writer understands the principles of effective marketing copywriting.

Q2: What are the benefits of getting a marketing copywriter certification?

A2: A marketing copywriter certification can help you stand out from other writers when applying for jobs or contracts. It also serves as an indicator of your knowledge and proficiency in the field, giving potential employers more confidence in your skills. Additionally, it can provide you with valuable connections to industry professionals who can offer advice and mentorship.

Q3: How do I obtain a marketing copywriter certification?

A3: Obtaining a marketing copywriter certification typically involves completing coursework and passing examinations or assessments related to the principles of effective marketing copywriting. Depending on the certifying body, this process may involve attending classes or seminars, taking online courses, or studying independently.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a marketing copywriter certification?

A4: Generally speaking, most certifying bodies do not have any hard-and-fast prerequisites for obtaining a certificate. However, it is recommended that you have some prior experience working as a writer in order to have a better understanding of concepts related to effective writing for marketing purposes.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified as a marketing copywriter?

A5: The length of time required to become certified will vary depending on the certifying body and your familiarity with the subject matter. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from one month to several months depending on how much time you dedicate to studying and preparing for examinations or assessments.