Top 11 Outreach Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are an important way for outreach coordinators to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the job market. They provide evidence of a commitment to professional development, which can give employers confidence in an applicant's ability to do the job. Certifications also show that an outreach coordinator has taken the time to learn about best practices and understand industry standards. Having certifications on one’s resume can help set them apart from other applicants and make them more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certifications can help outreach coordinators stay up-to-date on new trends and technologies, which can be invaluable for success in this field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Outreach Coordinators and explains how they can help to further an outreach coordinator's career.

What are Outreach Coordinator Certifications?

Outreach coordinator certification is a professional credential designed to help individuals develop the skills and knowledge needed to effectively coordinate outreach programs. The certification program provides an in-depth understanding of the various elements involved in developing, implementing, and managing successful outreach initiatives.

The certification program covers topics such as strategic planning, community assessment, project management, budgeting, evaluation techniques, communication strategies, ethical considerations, and data analysis. It also focuses on developing the necessary soft skills to be successful in an outreach role such as public speaking and networking. These areas are essential for ensuring that outreach efforts are effective and meet their desired goals.

Having a certification in outreach coordination can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career or break into this field. It demonstrates that the individual has the required knowledge and skills to work in this role. Additionally, it can open doors for new job opportunities as many employers prefer candidates with formal training related to outreach coordination.

Pro Tip: When considering taking an outreach coordinator certification course, make sure to check that the credentials are up-to-date and recognized in your industry. Having a valid certification will give you the skills and confidence needed to effectively engage with members of your target audience.

Related: What does an Outreach Coordinator do?

Top 11 Outreach Coordinator Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Outreach Coordinators today.

1. Certified Outreach Coordinator (COC)

A Certified Outreach Coordinator (COC) is a professional who has been trained to help organizations and individuals with their outreach efforts. COCs are responsible for developing and implementing outreach plans, as well as providing support to organizations in order to ensure that their goals and objectives are met.

To become a COC, individuals must complete a training program that is accredited by the National Association of Outreach Coordinators (NAOC). The training program typically takes between three and six months to complete, depending on the individual's prior experience. Individuals must also pass an exam administered by NAOC in order to receive certification.

The cost of becoming a COC varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Generally, courses range from $1,000-$2,500. In addition to course fees, individuals may need to pay for textbooks and other materials related to the coursework.

2. Certified Professional Outreach Coordinator (CPOC)

A Certified Professional Outreach Coordinator (CPOC) is a specialized certification program designed to help individuals become proficient in the field of outreach and engagement. This certification is offered by the National Association of Professional Outreach Coordinators (NAPOC). The CPOC credential is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in the areas of community outreach, public relations, marketing, and event planning.

To become a CPOC, you must meet certain educational and experience requirements. These include having a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field such as communications, public relations, marketing, or event planning; three years of full-time professional experience in the field; and successful completion of an approved NAPOC training program.

The NAPOC training program consists of four modules that cover topics such as strategic planning for outreach efforts, developing effective communication strategies, utilizing digital tools for outreach efforts, and understanding cultural competency when engaging with diverse audiences. The cost for the training program is $1,200.

Once you have met all of the requirements and completed the training program successfully, you will be eligible to take the CPOC exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge on topics related to community outreach and engagement. It takes approximately two hours to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the CPOC exam is $250. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your official CPOC certification from NAPOC which is valid for three years from date of issue.

3. Certified Outreach and Engagement Specialist (COES)

A Certified Outreach and Engagement Specialist (COES) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective outreach and engagement specialists. This certification is offered through the National Association of Outreach and Engagement Professionals (NAOEP). The COES certification is designed to help professionals in the field of outreach and engagement better understand their roles, responsibilities, and strategies for achieving successful outcomes.

The COES certification requires applicants to complete a series of courses, including an introductory course, four core courses, and two elective courses. The courses cover topics such as communication strategies, project management, data analysis, evaluation methods, and writing for outreach. Applicants must also successfully complete a final examination in order to obtain the certification. The entire process can take up to six months or more depending on how quickly the applicant completes all required coursework.

The cost for obtaining the COES certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and whether or not any additional materials are purchased. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1,000 USD for the entire program.

In order to apply for the COES certification program applicants must have at least two years of experience in outreach or engagement related fields such as education, public health, community development or social services. Applicants must also submit a resume detailing their relevant experience along with three letters of recommendation from professional references who can speak to their qualifications.

4. Certified Community Outreach Coordinator (CCOC)

A Certified Community Outreach Coordinator (CCOC) is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in community outreach and engagement. The CCOC certification is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively engage their communities in meaningful dialogue, build relationships, and create positive outcomes.

The CCOC certification process takes approximately four months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete an online application, submit official transcripts from accredited institutions, pass an exam, and complete a practicum project. The cost of the certification program varies depending on the provider but usually ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

To become certified as a CCOC, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of best practices for community outreach and engagement. This includes understanding how to plan effective outreach strategies; develop relationships with stakeholders; use data-driven decision-making; understand cultural competence; and apply principles of public health promotion. Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in communication skills such as writing reports and creating presentations.

5. Certified Nonprofit Outreach Coordinator (CNOC)

Certified Nonprofit Outreach Coordinator (CNOC) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage and coordinate outreach activities for nonprofit organizations. The CNOC program is offered by the Nonprofit Leadership Alliance (NLA), an organization that provides training and resources for professionals in the nonprofit sector.

The CNOC program consists of two parts: a self-paced online course and an in-person workshop. The online course covers topics such as understanding the nonprofit sector, developing effective outreach strategies, and managing volunteers. The in-person workshop focuses on practical application of the concepts learned in the online course.

It takes approximately 8 weeks to complete the CNOC program, including both the online course and in-person workshop. The cost of the program varies depending on whether you are taking it through a college or university or through NLA directly. Through NLA, it costs $450 for members and $550 for non-members.

To get certified as a CNOC, you must successfully complete both components of the program: the online course and in-person workshop. After completing both components, you will receive your certification from NLA which will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

6. Certified Public Relations Outreach Coordinator (CPROC)

Certified Public Relations Outreach Coordinator (CPROC) is a professional certification program designed to help public relations professionals gain the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage outreach campaigns. The CPROC certification is offered by the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).

The CPROC program consists of four courses: Introduction to Public Relations, Media Relations, Social Media Strategies, and Crisis Communications. Each course is 8 weeks long and must be completed in order to receive the certification. The cost for each course is $395.

In order to become certified, applicants must pass an exam after completing all four courses. The exam covers topics such as public relations principles, media relations strategies, social media tools and techniques, crisis management plans, and more. The cost of the exam is $150 per attempt.

Once an individual has successfully passed the exam they will receive their CPROC certification from PRSA. This certificate will show employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage outreach campaigns for their organization or company.

7. Certified Social Media Outreach Coordinator (CSMOC)

A Certified Social Media Outreach Coordinator (CSMOC) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to become an effective social media outreach coordinator. This certification is designed to help professionals develop the skills needed to create, manage, and evaluate successful social media campaigns.

The CSMOC program consists of two parts: a self-paced online course and a final exam. The online course covers topics such as social media strategy, content creation, analytics and reporting, and community management. It also includes hands-on exercises to help participants practice their newly acquired skills. Once the course is completed, participants must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CSMOC program varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. The length of the program can vary from four weeks up to six months depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to it.

To get certified as a CSMOC, you will need to register for the program with an approved provider and complete all of its requirements. You will then be required to pass a final exam in order to receive your certification.

8. Certified Digital Marketing Outreach Coordinator (CDMOC)

A Certified Digital Marketing Outreach Coordinator (CDMOC) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of digital marketing outreach. The certification is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute, which is an international organization dedicated to providing quality education and training in digital marketing.

The CDMOC certification requires applicants to complete a two-part program: a self-paced online course and an exam. The online course consists of five modules covering topics such as content marketing, search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, social media marketing, and analytics. The exam tests candidates’ technical knowledge in these areas.

To get certified as a CDMOC, you must first register for the program on the Digital Marketing Institute website. The cost of registration is $399 USD. Once registered, you will have access to the online course materials and can begin studying for the exam. It typically takes about six months to complete the entire program, including taking the exam.

Once you have successfully completed all requirements for the CDMOC certification, you will receive your certificate from the Digital Marketing Institute and be recognized as a Certified Digital Marketing Outreach Coordinator.

9. Certified Event Planning and Management Outreach Coordinator (CEPMOC)

Certified Event Planning and Management Outreach Coordinator (CEPMOC) is a certification offered by the International Live Events Association (ILEA). It is designed to recognize event professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in the planning and management of events. The certification requires that applicants demonstrate their knowledge of event planning, management, and outreach through a series of exams and an online portfolio.

The CEPMOC certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To get started, applicants must first complete an application form and pay the associated fees. After submitting the application, they will be required to take two exams: a written exam covering topics such as event planning, budgeting, marketing, logistics, risk management, customer service; and a practical exam which assesses their ability to plan and manage events. Once both exams are passed successfully, applicants must submit an online portfolio demonstrating their skills in event planning and management outreach.

The cost for the CEPMOC certification varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In most cases it costs around $500 USD for all application fees and exams combined.

10. Certified Fundraising and Development Outreach Coordinator (CFDOC)

Certified Fundraising and Development Outreach Coordinator (CFDOC) is a professional certification program for individuals who are interested in working in the fundraising and development field. The CFDOC credential is offered by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

The CFDOC certification program is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of fundraising, donor relations, and development outreach. It provides an opportunity to demonstrate expertise in these areas and to gain recognition as a qualified professional. The program consists of three courses: Fundraising Principles & Practices, Donor Relations & Stewardship, and Development Outreach.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CFDOC program. To get started, you must first become an AFP member. Then you can register for the three courses that make up the CFDOC program. Once all three courses have been completed, you will be eligible to take the CFDOC exam. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your official CFDOC certification from AFP.

The cost of becoming a CFDOC depends on your AFP membership status; however, it typically ranges from $400-$500 USD for members, and $600-$700 USD for non-members.

11. Certified Grassroots Organizing and Advocacy Outreach Coordinator (CGACOEC).

Certified Grassroots Organizing and Advocacy Outreach Coordinator (CGACOEC) is a certification program offered by the National Grassroots Organizing Institute (NGOI). The program is designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively organize and advocate for social change. It provides training in grassroots organizing, advocacy, communications, fundraising, and other related areas.

The CGACOEC program consists of an online course that takes approximately 5-7 hours to complete. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification. The cost of the certification is $99 USD.

In order to become certified as a CGACOEC, individuals must first register for the online course on the NGOI website. Once registered, they will be provided with access to all of the materials needed for successful completion of the course. After completing the course and passing the final exam, individuals will be awarded their CGACOEC certification.

Do You Really Need a Outreach Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals and situation. If you are looking to get into the field of outreach coordination, then a certificate may be beneficial in helping you stand out from other applicants. It can demonstrate that you have taken the initiative to learn the skills and knowledge necessary for success in this profession. Additionally, many employers look favorably upon those with certifications, as it shows commitment and dedication to the profession.

However, if you already have experience and knowledge in this field, then a certificate may not be necessary. Instead, you could focus on expanding your network and building your professional portfolio by taking on additional projects or internships. Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether an outreach coordinator certificate will help you reach your goals or not.

Related: Outreach Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Outreach Coordinator Certifications

Q1. What is an outreach coordinator certification?

A1. An outreach coordinator certification is a credential that recognizes professionals who have achieved mastery in the field of public relations, communication and marketing. It demonstrates expertise in areas such as developing and executing successful outreach campaigns, creating effective messaging strategies, managing media relationships, and understanding the legal and ethical implications of outreach efforts.

Q2. What are the requirements for becoming an outreach coordinator?

A2. Generally speaking, to become an outreach coordinator, you must possess a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field with experience in public relations, communication or marketing. Additionally, some certifications may require additional experience or continuing education credits to maintain certification status.

Q3. What types of organizations offer outreach coordinator certifications?

A3. Organizations that offer outreach coordinator certifications include professional associations such as the Public Relations Society of America (PRSA), International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) and Professional Certification Board (PCB).

Q4. How long does it take to get certified as an outreach coordinator?

A4. The time required for certification varies depending on the organization offering the certification program and the individual's level of experience and education in public relations, communication or marketing-related fields. Generally speaking, it takes at least one year to obtain a certificate from most organizations offering these certifications.

Q5. Are there any costs associated with becoming an outreach coordinator?

A5. Yes, there are costs associated with obtaining an outreach coordinator certification including application fees, exam fees and annual renewal fees which vary by organization offering the certification program.