Top 11 Museum Educator Certifications

Museum educators play a critical role in the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. Certifications represent a commitment to professional development and demonstrate the level of expertise an educator has achieved. As such, certifications are essential for museum educators looking to be competitive in the job market. Employers look for candidates who have taken the initiative to specialize their skills and expand their knowledge base. Certifications also indicate that a potential candidate is knowledgeable about current trends and practices in the field, which can be invaluable to any museum or educational organization. In addition, certifications can open doors for career advancement opportunities, as they provide evidence of a commitment to excellence and dedication to the profession.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Museum Educators and explains how they can help museum educators advance in their careers.

What are Museum Educator Certifications?

Museum educator certification is a professional development program designed to provide museum educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively design and implement educational programs for museums. The certification program focuses on developing a deep understanding of how to effectively create, implement, and evaluate educational programs in a museum setting. Through this certification, museum educators are able to gain an understanding of the unique challenges that come with creating meaningful educational experiences for visitors. They also learn how to develop engaging programs that stimulate learning while meeting the needs of the audience.

The certification program can help museum educators gain confidence in their ability to create effective educational experiences for visitors. It provides them with an opportunity to improve their knowledge base and stay up-to-date on best practices in the field. This can be especially helpful for those who are new to the field or those looking to transition into a museum education role from another area. Additionally, it gives museum educators access to resources that can help them better plan and execute their programs, as well as connect with other professionals in their field who may have valuable advice or insight into successful strategies for developing educational experiences for visitors.

Pro Tip: When looking into museum educator certification, make sure to research the requirements of the certifying organization and determine if they are compatible with your current job duties. Additionally, be sure to inquire about any continuing education requirements that may be associated with maintaining certification over time.

Related: What does a Museum Educator do?

Top 11 Museum Educator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Museum Educators today.

1. Museum Education Certification (MEC)

Museum Education Certification (MEC) is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of museum educators. It is offered through the American Alliance of Museums (AAM), which is the largest and most comprehensive professional organization for museums in North America.

The MEC program was developed to ensure that museum educators are knowledgeable about best practices in museum education, have a strong understanding of educational theory, and possess the skills necessary to effectively engage with visitors. The certification requires applicants to demonstrate their expertise in five core competencies: visitor engagement, learning theory, educational programming, evaluation and assessment, and professional development.

It typically takes six months to complete the certification process. To get started, applicants must first submit an application form along with a $50 fee. After submitting the application form, applicants will receive an email from AAM confirming their acceptance into the program.

Next, applicants must complete three online courses related to museum education and pass a final exam with a score of 80% or higher. Once they have completed all three courses and passed the final exam, they can submit their portfolio for review by AAM staff members. The portfolio should include evidence demonstrating mastery of each of the five core competencies as well as any additional materials requested by AAM staff members.

Once AAM has reviewed and approved an applicant’s portfolio, they will be awarded Museum Education Certification (MEC). The cost for completing the certification process is $50 plus any applicable course fees.

2. Certified Museum Educator (CME)

Certified Museum Educator (CME) is a professional certification program offered by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). It is designed to recognize and validate the expertise and skills of museum educators who are committed to excellence in their field.

The CME program requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge, skills, and abilities related to museum education through a combination of coursework, professional experience, and an exam. The program consists of three parts:

1. Coursework: Applicants must complete at least nine semester hours of graduate-level coursework in museum education or related fields. Courses must be taken at an accredited college or university.

2. Professional Experience: Applicants must have at least two years of full-time professional experience in museum education or related fields.

3. Exam: Applicants must pass a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as history and philosophy of museum education, programming strategies, evaluation techniques, best practices for teaching in museums, and more.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all requirements for the CME certification program. The cost for the program varies depending on the institution offering it; however, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD per credit hour plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

3. Museum Studies Certificate Program

Museum Studies Certificate Program is a professional development program designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the museum sector. The program typically takes one year to complete, although some institutions offer accelerated options. To get the certificate, students must complete a set of courses that cover topics such as museum management, exhibition design, collections care, conservation, and public programming. The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering it; however, most programs range from $1,500 to $3,000. Additionally, some institutions may require additional fees for materials or field trips.

4. American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Certified Museum Professional

The American Alliance of Museums (AAM) Certified Museum Professional (CMP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize museum professionals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, experience and commitment to the museum field. The CMP credential is the only national certification program that recognizes museum professionals who have achieved a high level of excellence in their profession.

It takes approximately 12-18 months to complete the CMP process, depending on the individual’s experience and background. To become certified, individuals must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least three years of professional experience in a museum setting and completing an approved course of study in museum studies or related fields. They must also pass an exam administered by AAM.

To get started on the path to becoming a CMP, individuals must first submit an application to AAM for review and approval. Once approved, they will be required to pay an application fee ($50 for AAM members; $100 for non-members) and begin working toward meeting all of the requirements for certification.

The cost of obtaining the CMP credential varies depending on whether or not you are an AAM member. For non-members, the total cost is $300 ($100 application fee + $200 exam fee). For members, it is $250 ($50 application fee + $200 exam fee).

5. National Association for Museum Exhibition (NAME) Certified Exhibition Developer

The National Association for Museum Exhibition (NAME) Certified Exhibition Developer (CED) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of exhibition development. The CED credential is awarded to individuals who have met the criteria set forth by NAME, which includes completing a minimum of five years of experience in museum exhibition development and successfully passing an examination.

It typically takes two to three years to become eligible for the CED exam. In order to be eligible, applicants must meet certain requirements including having a minimum of five years’ experience in museum exhibition development and/or curation, having completed at least two major exhibitions or projects, and having obtained letters of recommendation from current or former employers.

The CED exam consists of multiple-choice questions related to exhibition development topics such as project management, budgeting, design principles, audience engagement strategies, and evaluation methods. The exam is administered online and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost for taking the CED exam is $250 USD. After passing the exam, applicants must pay an additional $150 USD fee for certification. This fee covers the cost of processing the application and issuing the certificate.

Once certified, individuals can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise in museum exhibition development and gain recognition within the field.

6. International Council of Museums (ICOM) Certified Museum Educator

The International Council of Museums (ICOM) Certified Museum Educator is an international certification program that recognizes museum professionals who have met the highest standards in the field of museum education. The certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate exceptional knowledge and skills in the areas of museum education, learning theory, and teaching practices.

To receive the ICOM Certified Museum Educator certification, applicants must complete a rigorous application process that includes submitting a portfolio of work samples and passing a written exam. The application process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete.

Applicants must also pay an application fee of $250 USD, as well as any additional fees associated with taking the written exam. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their ICOM Certified Museum Educator certificate and be eligible for professional recognition from ICOM and other organizations in the museum field.

7. National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide

The National Association for Interpretation (NAI) Certified Interpretive Guide is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and skill in the field of interpretation. The certification provides recognition of an individual’s expertise in providing interpretive services to visitors in parks, nature centers, museums, zoos, aquariums, and other interpretive sites.

It typically takes between six months and two years to become certified. To qualify for the NAI Certified Interpretive Guide designation, applicants must have at least three years of experience working as an interpreter or educator in a formal interpretive setting and must pass a comprehensive written examination. Applicants must also demonstrate their ability to deliver effective interpretive programs by submitting video recordings of their interpretive programs.

The cost of obtaining the NAI Certified Interpretive Guide designation varies depending on the applicant’s qualifications and experience. There is an application fee that ranges from $75-$150 USD depending on the applicant’s experience level; there may also be additional fees for the written exam and video submission process. Once certified, there is an annual renewal fee of $50 USD.

8. Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) Professional Development Program

The Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC) Professional Development Program is a comprehensive program designed to provide professional development and resources for science center professionals. The program offers a wide range of online and in-person courses, workshops, conferences, and other activities that focus on the topics of science education, communication, leadership, management, and more.

The ASTC Professional Development Program is open to all ASTC members. It typically takes about 6 months to complete the program. To get started with the program, you must first become an ASTC member. Once you have done this, you can enroll in any of the available courses or workshops offered through the program.

The cost of the ASTC Professional Development Program varies depending on the type of course or workshop you choose to take. In general, most courses and workshops cost between $50-$500 USD per person.

9. American Association of State and Local History (AASLH) Leadership in History Award

The American Association of State and Local History (AASLH) Leadership in History Award is an annual award that recognizes excellence in the collection, preservation, and interpretation of state and local history. This award was established in 1945 to honor the best achievements in the field of state and local history. It is the highest national recognition for achievement in this field.

The AASLH Leadership in History Award takes approximately six months to receive after submission. To be eligible for this award, applicants must submit a completed application form along with supporting materials such as essays or videos that demonstrate their work’s impact on their community. The application fee is $50 per entry.

Winners of the AASLH Leadership in History Award receive a certificate of recognition and are recognized at the annual meeting of the AASLH. Winners also have their work featured on the AASLH website, as well as other promotional opportunities.

10. Institute of Outdoor Learning Level 3 Award in Outdoor Learning and Education in the Natural Environment

The Institute of Outdoor Learning Level 3 Award in Outdoor Learning and Education in the Natural Environment is a qualification designed to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices and techniques of outdoor learning and education in the natural environment. It is suitable for those who wish to pursue a career in outdoor learning and education, or for those who are already working in this field and wish to gain a formal qualification.

The Level 3 Award consists of two mandatory units:

Unit 1: Principles of Outdoor Learning and Education in the Natural Environment

This unit covers topics such as the history, theories, principles and philosophies of outdoor learning; understanding different types of outdoor activities; health and safety considerations; risk assessment; environmental awareness; teaching methods; group dynamics; leadership styles; communication skills; evaluation techniques; planning sessions.

Unit 2: Practical Delivery Skills for Outdoor Learning and Education in the Natural Environment

This unit focuses on developing practical skills related to delivering outdoor learning activities. Topics include developing an appropriate activity plan, delivering an activity session safely, demonstrating effective communication skills when instructing participants, adapting activities appropriately according to participant needs, assessing progress during an activity session, evaluating performance after an activity session.

The Level 3 Award takes approximately 80 hours to complete (including contact time). It can be achieved through either blended or distance learning. Blended learning involves attending face-to-face training sessions as well as completing online study modules. Distance learning involves completing all coursework online without attending any face-to-face sessions.

The cost of the Level 3 Award varies depending on which provider you choose to study with. Costs typically range from £500 - £1000 (including registration fees).

11. Association of Children’s Museums Professional Development Certificate

The Association of Children’s Museums Professional Development Certificate is a program designed to provide museum professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to create high-quality educational experiences for children. It is offered in two levels: Level I and Level II.

Level I is a self-paced, online course that takes approximately three months to complete. The curriculum covers topics such as museum education theory, best practices in exhibit design, visitor engagement strategies, and evaluation techniques. Participants receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.

Level II is an intensive four-day workshop that provides participants with hands-on experience in designing and delivering interactive programs for children. This workshop also includes an assessment component that must be completed before certification can be granted.

The cost for the Association of Children’s Museums Professional Development Certificate varies depending on the level chosen and whether or not the participant is an ACM member. For non-members, Level I costs $499 USD and Level II costs $1,199 USD; members pay discounted rates of $399 USD (Level I) and $999 USD (Level II).

Do You Really Need a Museum Educator Certificate?

The decision whether or not to pursue a museum educator certificate is an individual one, and it depends on the person's goals and aspirations in their career. For those considering working in a museum education setting, the certificate can provide valuable credentials that demonstrate a commitment to the field and knowledge of best practices.

For those who are already working as museum educators, the certificate can be useful for personal and professional growth. The courses available through the certificate program can help deepen understanding of museum education theory and practice, providing tools for staying current with trends in the field. Additionally, having this credential could open up opportunities for advancement within a position or lead to additional job opportunities within museums or related fields.

On the other hand, there are those who may feel that such a credential is unnecessary. It is certainly possible to become successful in a museum education setting without obtaining this type of certification; however, having it may give certain individuals an edge over their peers when applying for jobs or promotions.

Ultimately, pursuing a museum educator certificate should be based on your own individual goals and aspirations. It may provide you with extra qualifications that can help you stand out from other applicants or offer you access to courses and resources that will improve your practice as an educator. However, if you feel confident in your existing skillset and experience without obtaining the certification, then it may not be necessary.

Related: Museum Educator Resume Examples

FAQs About Museum Educator Certifications

1. What is a Museum Educator Certification?

A Museum Educator Certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual's knowledge and skills in designing and delivering educational programs at museums. It is typically awarded by a professional organization or institution and requires the completion of specific coursework, workshops, or other educational activities.

2. What are the benefits of obtaining a Museum Educator Certification?

The benefits of obtaining a Museum Educator Certification include increased job opportunities, increased credibility as an educator, access to professional development opportunities, recognition as an expert in the field, and more.

3. What qualifications do I need to obtain a Museum Educator Certification?

The qualifications needed vary depending on the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it is necessary to have experience working in museum education, complete relevant coursework or training programs related to museum education, demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in designing and delivering educational programs at museums, and pass any exams associated with the certification program.

4. How much does it cost to obtain a Museum Educator Certification?

The cost of obtaining a Museum Educator Certification varies depending on the type of certification you are seeking and what requirements must be met for completion. Generally speaking, costs can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars for tuition fees, exam fees, registration fees, etc.

5. Where can I find information about available Museum Educator Certifications?

Information about available Museum Educator Certifications can typically be found on websites for organizations or institutions offering certifications in museum education such as the American Association of Museums (AAM), the Association of Science-Technology Centers (ASTC), or other national or regional organizations related to museum education. Additionally, many local museums may provide information about their own certifications or those offered by partner organizations they work with.