Top 10 Scheduling Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a scheduling coordinator in the job market as they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers value. Certifications can also be used to prove that an individual has the necessary skills and qualifications to perform specific tasks. Furthermore, certifications can help differentiate one candidate from another, making it easier for employers to identify the best-suited person for a particular role. Finally, certifications provide proof that an individual is committed to their profession and is willing to pursue continuing education in order to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and developments within their field.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Scheduling Coordinators and explain how they can contribute to a scheduling coordinator's career by providing valuable skills and knowledge.

What are Scheduling Coordinator Certifications?

Scheduling Coordinator Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a certain level of expertise in the field of scheduling. The certification program is designed to provide training and assessment for those working in the scheduling industry, such as project managers, schedulers, and planners. Scheduling Coordinators are responsible for organizing and managing schedules for projects, events, or other tasks. They must understand how to create an effective schedule that meets the needs of all stakeholders involved.

The certification process involves passing an exam which tests knowledge of scheduling principles, techniques, and tools. It also requires demonstration of expertise through on-the-job experience. Having this certification can help professionals stand out among their peers by showing employers that they have a comprehensive understanding of scheduling principles and techniques. It also serves as a way to validate prior learning and experience in the field and may increase opportunities for career advancement or higher pay. Additionally, it can be used to demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development.

Pro Tip: When scheduling coordinator certification, be sure to allow plenty of time for the course. It is important to allow enough time for the coordinator to learn and practice the necessary skills before taking the exam. Additionally, make sure that the coordinator has access to all of the necessary materials and resources needed to pass their certification.

Related: What does a Scheduling Coordinator do?

Top 10 Scheduling Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Scheduling Coordinator (CSC)

Certified Scheduling Coordinator (CSC) is a certification program for project schedulers. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency and knowledge in the field of project scheduling. The certification is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI).

The CSC certification requires candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as scheduling principles, best practices, and tools. Candidates must also demonstrate their experience in the field of project scheduling. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

To become certified, candidates must first submit an application with the PMI and pay a fee of $200 USD. Once approved, they can then register for the exam and pay an additional fee of $400 USD. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their CSC certificate from PMI.

The CSC certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking a recertification exam or completing continuing education requirements.

2. Certified Professional Scheduler (CPS)

Certified Professional Scheduler (CPS) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The CPS credential is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated expertise in scheduling, planning, and controlling projects. To become a Certified Professional Scheduler, you must pass the PMI Scheduling Professional (SP) exam. The SP exam assesses your knowledge of project scheduling principles, practices, and tools.

The PMI Scheduling Professional exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 4 hours. It is recommended that applicants have at least three years of professional experience in project scheduling prior to taking the exam.

To register for the PMI Scheduling Professional Exam, you will need to create an account with PMI and pay an application fee of $405 USD. You will also need to provide proof of your professional experience in project scheduling when registering for the exam.

Once you have passed the PMI Scheduling Professional Exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will receive your Certified Professional Scheduler (CPS) credential from PMI.

3. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most sought after certifications in project management and is globally recognized. The PMP certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to plan, execute, monitor, and control projects.

To get the PMP certification, you must meet certain eligibility criteria such as having a bachelor’s degree or higher, at least 4500 hours of experience leading and directing projects, and 35 hours of project management education.

The process to get the PMP certification takes about 6-12 months depending on how quickly you can complete the application process and prepare for the exam. You must first submit an application to PMI which will be reviewed by their team. Once approved, you can then register for the exam.

The cost of getting the PMP certification varies depending on your membership status with PMI. If you are not a member, it costs $555 USD to take the exam; if you are a member it costs $405 USD. Additionally, there are other costs associated with studying for and taking the exam such as study materials and practice tests which can range from $100-$500 USD.

4. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification for individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to apply the tools and techniques of Six Sigma in order to improve processes and reduce costs.

The certification process generally takes between 8-12 weeks, depending on the individual's prior knowledge and experience with Six Sigma. The process involves completing a series of courses and exams, as well as demonstrating mastery of the material through projects or case studies.

To get certified, individuals must first complete an approved Six Sigma Green Belt training program. These programs are offered by accredited institutions, such as universities or technical schools, or through online providers. After completing the program, individuals must pass an exam administered by either ASQ (American Society for Quality) or IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification).

The cost of obtaining a Six Sigma Green Belt Certification varies depending on the provider and type of program chosen; however, it typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD.

5. Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM)

Certified Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). The CPIM program provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to effectively manage production and inventory activities within an organization. It is designed to help professionals understand how to properly plan, execute, control, and measure the performance of their production and inventory operations.

The CPIM program consists of five courses that cover topics such as demand management, master scheduling, material requirements planning, capacity requirements planning, order management, inventory management, warehouse management, quality control, and supply chain management. Each course includes a written exam that must be passed in order to receive certification. Once all five exams are successfully completed, individuals will receive their CPIM designation.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the entire CPIM program depending on how quickly an individual can study and pass each exam. Individuals can choose to take the courses online or through an instructor-led classroom setting. Online courses are self-paced while instructor-led classes offer more structure and guidance throughout the process.

The cost of obtaining the CPIM certification varies depending on which type of course format an individual chooses (online or instructor-led). The cost also varies based on whether or not you are a member of APICS as members receive discounted rates for courses and exams. In general, it costs approximately $2,000 - $3,000 USD for non-members to obtain their CPIM certification while members pay around $1,500 - $2,000 USD for the same program.

6. Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP)

Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM). The CSCP credential recognizes professionals who have achieved mastery of the essential knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage global supply chain activities. It is designed to help supply chain professionals demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the field, as well as their ability to effectively manage global supply chain activities.

The CSCP program consists of three parts: an online course, an exam, and a professional development program. The online course covers topics such as supply chain design, operations management, customer service, and more. The exam is a four-hour test that assesses the candidate’s knowledge of the material covered in the course. Finally, the professional development program includes workshops, seminars, and other activities that help candidates stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

It typically takes about six months to complete the CSCP program. Candidates must complete all three components within that timeframe in order to be eligible for certification.

The cost of obtaining the CSCP credential varies depending on whether you are an ASCM member or not. For non-members, it costs $995 for access to the online course and exam; for members, it costs $795. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with attending workshops or seminars as part of your professional development program.

7. Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD)

Certified Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Transportation and Logistics (AST&L). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge in the logistics, transportation, and distribution industry. The program is intended to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in the field and advance their careers.

The CLTD certification requires candidates to pass an exam that covers topics such as supply chain management, global logistics, inventory management, transportation operations, warehousing and distribution. Candidates must have four years of relevant work experience or two years of relevant work experience plus a bachelor's degree in order to be eligible for the certification.

It typically takes about four months to prepare for the CLTD exam. Preparation includes studying textbooks and taking practice exams. Candidates can also attend review courses offered by AST&L or other organizations.

To get certified, candidates must register with AST&L and pay an application fee. After registering, they will receive a study guide that outlines the topics covered on the exam and provides information about how to prepare for it. Once they are ready to take the exam, they must schedule an appointment with a proctoring center near them.

The cost of getting certified depends on several factors including whether you are taking a review course or self-studying as well as what type of registration you choose (early bird or regular registration). Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $600-$1000 USD for your CLTD certification depending on these factors.

8. American Production and Inventory Control Society Certification (APICS-CPIM)

The American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS) Certified in Production and Inventory Management (CPIM) certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the principles of supply chain management. This certification is designed to give individuals the knowledge and skills necessary to manage production and inventory operations effectively.

The CPIM program consists of two parts: Part 1, Basics of Supply Chain Management, and Part 2, Master Planning of Resources. The first part covers topics such as demand management, forecasting, inventory management, master scheduling, material requirements planning (MRP), capacity planning, supplier relationships, and quality control. The second part covers topics such as enterprise resource planning (ERP), project management, supply chain optimization, performance measurement systems, logistics strategies and global sourcing.

In order to receive the CPIM certification from APICS, individuals must pass both parts of the exam with a minimum score of 70%. It typically takes between six months to one year for individuals to study for the exams and prepare for them.

The cost of obtaining the CPIM certification varies depending on whether or not you are an APICS member. If you are an APICS member then it costs $495 for each part ($990 total). If you are not an APICS member then it costs $595 for each part ($1190 total).

Once you have passed both parts of the exam you will receive your official CPIM certificate from APICS which will be valid for five years before needing to be renewed.

9. International Association of Scheduling Professionals Certification (IASP-CSP)

The International Association of Scheduling Professionals (IASP) Certification for Scheduling Professionals (CSP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of competency in the field of scheduling. The CSP certification demonstrates to employers and peers that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the scheduling profession.

The IASP-CSP certification requires passing a written exam, which covers topics such as project scheduling, resource allocation, risk management, and cost estimation. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible to take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the scheduling field or one year plus completion of an IASP-approved course.

To obtain the IASP-CSP certification, applicants must submit an application along with all required documentation and fees. The application fee is $250 USD for members of IASP or $350 USD for non-members. Once approved, applicants will receive their CSP certificate within four weeks after successfully completing the exam.

Overall, obtaining the IASP-CSP certification is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in scheduling and can help you advance your career in this field.

10. Certified Master Scheduler (CMS)

Certified Master Scheduler (CMS) is a certification program offered by the American Production and Inventory Control Society (APICS). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of project scheduling. The certification requires passing a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as project management, scheduling principles, resource management, and risk management.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CMS certification process. This includes studying for the exam, registering for the exam, taking the exam, and receiving your results. To register for the exam you will need to create an account with APICS and pay an examination fee of $450 USD.

In order to be eligible for the CMS certification you must have at least two years of experience in project scheduling or related fields. You should also have a basic understanding of project management tools such as Microsoft Project or Primavera P6. Additionally, you must pass a background check before being able to take the CMS exam.

The cost of getting certified as a Certified Master Scheduler is approximately $500 USD which includes registration fees and any other associated costs such as study materials or review courses.

Do You Really Need a Scheduling Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to whether or not someone needs a Scheduling Coordinator Certificate depends on the individual’s goals and ambitions. For those who are seeking to advance their career in the field of scheduling, obtaining such a certification may be beneficial. It can demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in this specific area, and may even lead to better job opportunities. On the other hand, for those who are already employed as a scheduling coordinator and simply wish to maintain their current position, the certificate may not be necessary.

For those considering obtaining a Scheduling Coordinator Certificate, it is important to weigh the costs and benefits associated with doing so. The cost of taking classes or obtaining certification materials can be expensive, but may be worth it if it helps one advance their career or attain a better position. Additionally, having a certificate can help validate one’s competency in this field and give employers more confidence when hiring them for scheduling-related positions.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a Scheduling Coordinator Certificate is up to them and their individual situation. Those interested should research what options are available in order to determine if such certification is right for them.

Related: Scheduling Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Scheduling Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Scheduling Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Scheduling Coordinator Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates mastery of the principles and practices of scheduling coordination. It is designed to recognize those who have the knowledge and skills needed to effectively manage and coordinate schedules for large organizations.

2. What are the benefits of having a Scheduling Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Having a Scheduling Coordinator Certification demonstrates expertise in scheduling coordination, which can help open doors to new opportunities in the field. Additionally, it shows potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn and develop your skills, which can give you an edge when competing for jobs.

3. How do I get certified as a Scheduling Coordinator?

Answer: In order to become certified as a Scheduling Coordinator, you must complete an accredited certification program or course that covers topics such as project management, scheduling methods, resource allocation and budgeting. After completing the program or course, you will be required to pass an exam in order to receive your certification.

4. How much does a Scheduling Coordinator Certification cost?

Answer: The cost of obtaining a Scheduling Coordinator Certification varies depending on the program or course you choose to take in order to become certified. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition fees and associated costs (e.g., books).

5. Is there an expiration date for my Scheduling Coordinator Certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications have an expiration date that must be renewed every three years in order for it to remain valid. To renew your certification, you must demonstrate continued learning by earning continuing education credits or taking additional courses related to scheduling coordination within three years prior to renewal date