Top 11 Placement Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are essential for a placement coordinator in the job market, as they demonstrate a professional’s knowledge and skills to potential employers. Certifications provide proof of a person’s qualifications and experience, which can be used to make them more competitive in the job market. Additionally, certifications can help employers quickly assess the abilities of potential candidates, giving them an edge over other applicants who may lack such credentials. Furthermore, certifications can provide placement coordinators with access to resources and networks that allow them to stay up-to-date with industry trends and techniques. Finally, certifications can aid in career advancement opportunities by providing additional training and education needed for higher-level positions.

This article reviews the top certifications for Placement Coordinators, and explains how they can help build a successful career in the field.

What are Placement Coordinator Certifications?

Placement coordinator certification is a professional credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to coordinate recruitment and placement activities in the workplace. Certification is awarded by a number of organizations, including the Association of Placement Coordinators (APC). To become certified, applicants must meet certain requirements such as having at least two years of experience in recruitment or placement activities, completing an approved training program, and passing an exam.

Having a placement coordinator certification offers numerous benefits to employers and job seekers alike. For employers, it ensures they are hiring qualified individuals who have the expertise needed to effectively manage recruitment processes. Furthermore, those with certification can often provide more comprehensive services than non-certified recruiters and may be better able to identify qualified candidates for specific positions. For job seekers, certification demonstrates their proficiency in recruiting and can help them stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, certified professionals typically have access to exclusive resources such as industry contacts and specialized databases which can help them find opportunities faster than those without certification.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for placement coordinator certification before beginning the process. Each state or organization may have different requirements that must be met in order to become certified, such as completing a specific number of hours of training or passing an exam. Knowing what is required ahead of time can help you plan and prepare for the certification process.

Related: What does a Placement Coordinator do?

Top 11 Placement Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Placement Coordinator (CPC)

Certified Placement Coordinator (CPC) is a professional designation awarded by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and expertise in the field of college career services. CPCs are responsible for helping students find employment after graduation and providing them with the necessary resources to succeed in their job search.

The process for obtaining the CPC designation includes completing an online application, passing a comprehensive exam, and submitting two letters of recommendation from employers or colleagues. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics related to college career services such as job search strategies, resume writing, interviewing techniques, employer relations, and more. The exam must be completed within three hours and applicants must score at least 70% to pass.

The cost for obtaining the CPC designation is $400 USD. This fee covers the cost of the application fee, exam fee, and processing fees associated with becoming certified.

Overall, it typically takes between four to six weeks to complete all requirements for certification once an applicant has submitted their application materials.

2. Certified Professional Placement Coordinator (CPPC)

Certified Professional Placement Coordinator (CPPC) is a certification program designed to help professionals in the placement industry become more effective and successful. The CPPC program is offered by the National Association of Placement Professionals (NAPP). It provides professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage the placement process from start to finish.

The CPPC program consists of four courses, which can be completed online or through in-person workshops. The courses cover topics such as job search strategies, interviewing techniques, resume writing, networking, salary negotiation, and more. Each course takes approximately 8 hours to complete.

To get certified as a CPPC, you must pass all four courses with a minimum score of 70%. Once you have completed all four courses and passed the exam, you will receive your CPPC certificate.

The cost for the CPPC program varies depending on how you choose to take it. If you take it online, it will cost $499 USD; if you take it in person at an NAPP workshop, it will cost $699 USD.

3. Certified Staffing Professional (CSP)

Certified Staffing Professional (CSP) is a certification program designed to recognize and reward staffing professionals for their knowledge, skills, and accomplishments in the field of staffing. It is offered by the American Staffing Association (ASA).

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as staffing operations, recruitment and selection processes, legal compliance, customer service, and professional development. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get the CSP designation, applicants must be employed in the staffing industry for at least one year prior to taking the exam. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of continuing education related to the staffing industry within three years prior to taking the exam.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether or not you are an ASA member. For ASA members, it costs $295; for non-members it costs $395. Both fees include a one-year membership in ASA if you are not already a member.

4. Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP)

Certified Recruiting Professional (CRP) is a certification program offered by the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS). The program is designed to recognize recruiting professionals who demonstrate mastery of the core competencies associated with successful recruiting. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to excellence in the field of recruiting.

To become certified as a CRP, you must meet certain criteria and pass an exam. To be eligible for the CRP certification, you must have at least three years of full-time recruiting experience or five years of part-time recruiting experience within the past seven years. You also need to have completed 30 hours of continuing education credits related to recruitment topics within the past two years.

The CRP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of recruitment, including job analysis and design; sourcing strategies; interviewing techniques; selection processes; legal issues; compensation and benefits; onboarding and orientation; performance management; diversity and inclusion initiatives; technology solutions for recruitment; and more. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost to take the CRP exam is $395 USD for NAPS members or $495 USD for non-members. Upon passing the exam, you will receive your official Certified Recruiting Professional designation from NAPS.

5. Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP)

Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) is a professional certification program offered by the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals (NAWDP). The program is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively assist job seekers in their search for employment.

The CESP program consists of three core courses and two elective courses. The core courses cover topics such as job search techniques, career development, labor market trends, and customer service. The elective courses focus on specific areas such as resume writing, interviewing skills, and employer relations.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CESP program. During this time, students must complete all five courses and pass the associated exams. Upon successful completion of the program, students are awarded a Certified Employment Services Professional (CESP) certificate from NAWDP.

To get started with the CESP program, you must first become a member of NAWDP. Membership fees vary depending on your profession and experience level but typically range from $50-$100 per year. After becoming a member, you can then register for the CESP program online or through an approved training provider.

The cost of the CESP program varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 for all five courses. This fee includes access to online study materials, practice exams, and other resources needed to successfully complete the coursework and exams.

6. Certified Talent Acquisition Specialist (CTAS)

Certified Talent Acquisition Specialist (CTAS) is a professional certification program designed to help professionals in the talent acquisition industry develop their skills and knowledge in the areas of recruiting, hiring, and onboarding. The program is offered by the National Association of Professional Recruiters (NAPR).

The CTAS certification requires participants to complete a series of online courses, pass an examination, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their proficiency in talent acquisition. The program includes topics such as recruitment strategy, sourcing techniques, interviewing best practices, background checks, onboarding processes, and more.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CTAS program. To get started, applicants must first register for the program through NAPR’s website. After registering for the program, applicants are required to complete all coursework within six months and pass an exam with a score of at least 80%. Once applicants have completed all course requirements and passed the exam they must submit a portfolio demonstrating their proficiency in talent acquisition.

The cost of the CTAS certification varies depending on whether you are an existing NAPR member or not. For non-members it costs $399 USD for registration plus $99 USD for each course taken. For existing NAPR members it costs $299 USD for registration plus $79 USD for each course taken.

7. Certified Human Resources Manager (CHRM)

Certified Human Resources Manager (CHRM) is a professional certification program offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is designed to recognize HR professionals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in the field of human resources. The CHRM certification is an internationally recognized credential that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in areas such as employee relations, talent management, and organizational development.

The CHRM certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as human resource management, labor law, employment law, compensation and benefits, organizational behavior, and strategic planning. In order to be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in the field of human resources or a related field.

It typically takes between six months and one year to prepare for the CHRM exam. Preparation involves studying course materials such as textbooks and online resources provided by SHRM, attending review classes or seminars offered by SHRM-approved providers, and taking practice exams.

The cost of obtaining the CHRM certification varies depending on which review classes or seminars are taken. The cost of the actual exam ranges from $300-$400 USD depending on whether it is taken online or at a physical testing center. In addition to these fees, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or enrolling in review courses.

8. International Association of Placement Professionals Certification (IAPP-C)

The International Association of Placement Professionals Certification (IAPP-C) is a certification program designed to recognize the professional achievements of placement professionals in the staffing industry. The IAPP-C is awarded to those who demonstrate mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the staffing industry.

To qualify for the IAPP-C, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the staffing industry, including experience with recruiting, interviewing, placement services, and job search techniques. They must also have completed a minimum of 40 hours of continuing education related to the staffing industry within the last two years.

In order to receive the IAPP-C, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as recruiting strategies, interviewing techniques, job search tactics, legal compliance issues, and customer service principles. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

The cost for taking the IAPP-C exam is $250 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certificate from IAPP-C and will be eligible for membership in their organization. Membership benefits include access to exclusive networking events and discounts on conferences and other educational opportunities related to staffing and recruitment.

9. National Association of Personnel Services Certification (NAPS-C)

The National Association of Personnel Services Certification (NAPS-C) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise and knowledge of personnel services professionals. It is offered by the National Association of Personnel Services (NAPS), a professional organization that has been representing personnel services professionals since 1965.

The NAPS-C certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the areas of human resources, staffing, recruiting, and employment law. To earn this certification, individuals must pass an exam that covers topics such as job analysis, recruitment strategies, interviewing techniques, compensation plans, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the NAPS-C certification exam, applicants must have at least three years of experience in personnel services or related fields. They must also have completed at least 25 hours of approved continuing education courses within the last five years.

The cost for taking the NAPS-C certification exam is $395 for members of NAPS and $495 for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their official certificate from NAPS within four weeks.

Overall, earning the NAPS-C certification demonstrates a commitment to excellence in personnel services and can help individuals advance their career in this field.

10. American Staffing Association Certification (ASA-C)

The American Staffing Association Certification (ASA-C) is a professional credential offered by the American Staffing Association (ASA). It is designed to recognize staffing professionals who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their field. The ASA-C certification is awarded to individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skills, and abilities related to staffing operations.

It typically takes about six months to complete the ASA-C certification process, depending on the individual’s experience and background. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as legal compliance, job placement practices, recruiting strategies, and customer service. After passing the exam, applicants must complete an online course that focuses on staffing industry best practices and ethics. Finally, applicants must submit a portfolio of their work in the staffing industry for review by an independent panel of experts.

The cost of obtaining ASA-C certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level and other factors. Generally speaking, it costs between $300-$400 for the exam and course materials. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with submitting a portfolio or taking additional courses if needed.

11. Society for Human Resource Management Certification in Recruitment and Selection Strategies (SHRM-RSS).

The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Certification in Recruitment and Selection Strategies (SHRM-RSS) is a professional certification program designed to help HR professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively recruit, select, and retain top talent. The program is based on the SHRM Body of Competency & Knowledge (SHRM BoCK), which outlines the core competencies required for successful recruitment and selection practices.

To obtain the SHRM-RSS certification, you must complete an online course that consists of six modules covering topics such as understanding the recruitment process, designing effective job postings, developing interview questions, assessing candidates’ qualifications, making hiring decisions, and managing onboarding. Once you have completed the coursework, you must pass an exam to receive your certification. The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions related to recruitment and selection strategies.

In order to be eligible for the SHRM-RSS certification program, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in human resources or a related field. Additionally, applicants must meet certain educational requirements by having a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution.

The cost of obtaining the SHRM-RSS certification varies depending on whether you take the online course or attend a live workshop. The cost of taking the online course is $799 USD while attending a live workshop costs $1,099 USD.

Do You Really Need a Placement Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no. A Placement Coordinator Certificate is not required to work as a placement coordinator, though it may be beneficial. A placement coordinator is responsible for organizing and coordinating the placement of students in educational programs, vocational training programs, or other types of employment opportunities.

The skills necessary to be successful in this role are often learned on the job through experience in working with people and organizations. Having an understanding of how different organizations operate and what their needs are can help a placement coordinator better serve those organizations. In addition, having knowledge of the laws governing employment and education will also be helpful in this position.

A Placement Coordinator Certificate can provide additional information about best practices, resources available, and other relevant topics that can help someone in this position succeed. It may also provide validation of a person's ability to perform the duties associated with the role. Ultimately, however, a certificate alone does not guarantee success as a placement coordinator; rather it provides additional information that might be useful or beneficial to have when performing this job.

Related: Placement Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Placement Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Placement Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Placement Coordinator Certification is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities to coordinate the placement of students into post-secondary educational programs. The certification program focuses on developing the ability to assess student needs, develop placement plans, and coordinate successful placements for students.

2. How long does it take to complete the Placement Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Generally, it takes approximately 4-6 months to complete the certification program. However, this may vary depending on each individual’s experience level and study habits.

3. What are the requirements for becoming a Placement Coordinator?

Answer: To become a Placement Coordinator, you must have at least an associate degree in Education or related field and be proficient in using Microsoft Office applications such as Word and Excel. Additionally, you should possess strong communication and interpersonal skills as well as an understanding of state laws governing education programs.

4. Is there an exam required to receive my Placement Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to pass an exam prior to receiving their certification. The exam typically covers topics such as student assessment techniques, placement planning strategies, and legal/ethical issues related to placements.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements after I receive my Placement Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, most programs require individuals who have received their Placement Coordinator Certification to complete ongoing professional development activities in order to maintain their certification status. These activities may include attending seminars or conferences related to placement coordination or completing online courses related to best practices in placement coordination.