Top 10 Secretary Certifications

Certifications for secretaries are important because they demonstrate to employers that the individual is knowledgeable and competent in their field. Certifications also provide proof that a secretary has taken the time to learn and practice the skills necessary to be successful in their job. This can help them stand out among other candidates when applying for jobs, as employers know they have invested in their professional development. Additionally, certifications can give secretaries the confidence they need to take on more complex tasks and handle difficult situations. They also show that a secretary is committed to staying up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. In short, certifications are an invaluable asset for secretaries looking to advance their career.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for secretaries and explains how they can help advance a secretary's career.

What are Secretary Certifications?

Secretary certification is a type of professional credential that certifies individuals as having the skills and knowledge necessary to perform the duties of a secretary. It is typically offered by organizations such as the American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP) or similar groups. By earning this certification, secretaries are able to demonstrate their expertise in areas such as office management, communication, customer service, and other administrative duties. This can help them stand out from other applicants when seeking positions and promotions, as employers may be more likely to hire someone who has demonstrated their commitment to their profession through obtaining a certification. Additionally, those with secretary certification may have access to additional resources or discounts that can help them stay current on industry trends and advancements.

Pro Tip: If you're looking to become a certified secretary, it's important to take the time to research and understand the various certifications offered. Different certifications offer different levels of knowledge and skills, so make sure you find one that fits your career goals. Additionally, look into what is required for each certification and if there are any prerequisites you need to meet before taking the exam.

Related: What does a Secretary do?

Top 10 Secretary Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Secretary (CPS)

Certified Professional Secretary (CPS) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of administrative professionals. The CPS certification program is based on the IAAP's Core Competencies for Administrative Professionals, which are divided into five categories: Communications, Technology, Leadership & Management, Problem Solving & Critical Thinking, and Global & Cultural Awareness.

It typically takes about three months to complete the CPS certification process. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online assessment that covers the five core competencies. After passing the assessment, applicants must then complete a two-day workshop in order to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Professional Secretary varies depending on where you take the workshop and other associated fees. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 to become certified.

2. Certified Administrative Professional (CAP)

Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). This certification is designed to recognize and reward those who demonstrate excellence in administrative skills, knowledge, and abilities.

The CAP program consists of three levels: Certified Administrative Professional (CAP); Senior Certified Administrative Professional (SCAP); and Master Certified Administrative Professional (MCAP). Each level requires the completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as office management, communication, technology, customer service, project management, and more.

The CAP certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To get started, you must first join IAAP and then register for the CAP exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on your membership status with IAAP; however, it typically ranges from $250 to $400 USD. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive your CAP certification.

3. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is a certification program designed to help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. It is the most recognized and respected certification for Microsoft Office users, with over 1 million MOS certifications awarded since its inception in 1997.

The MOS certification requires that individuals pass one or more exams in order to demonstrate their knowledge of specific Microsoft Office applications. The exams are offered through Certiport, an authorized testing center, and cover topics such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access and OneNote. The exams are available for both the Windows and Mac versions of each application.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's experience level with the application being tested. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from several hours to several days of studying before taking the exam.

To get certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS), you must first purchase a voucher from Certiport that allows you to take the exam at an authorized testing center. The cost of the voucher varies depending on which exam you are taking and whether you are purchasing it as an individual or as part of a group/organization package. Generally speaking, vouchers range from $50 - $150 USD per exam.

Once you have purchased your voucher and scheduled your appointment at a testing center, you will need to arrive at least 15 minutes early with two forms of valid identification (one must be government-issued). You will then be given access to a computer where you can take your exam using the provided software. After completing your exam, your results will be available immediately upon completion and your official certificate will be mailed within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam.

4. Certified Legal Secretary (CLS)

A Certified Legal Secretary (CLS) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual’s mastery of the legal secretarial field. It is awarded by the National Association of Legal Secretaries (NALS), which is an international organization dedicated to promoting excellence in the legal profession. The CLS certification demonstrates a high level of knowledge and proficiency in areas such as legal terminology, court rules, document preparation, office procedures, and ethics.

It typically takes between one to two years to complete the requirements for the CLS certification. Candidates must have at least two years of experience working as a legal secretary or paralegal, and must pass both a written and practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as legal terminology, court rules, document preparation, office procedures, and ethics. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to prepare documents using word processing software and other office equipment.

To get certified as a CLS, individuals must first become members of NALS and then register for the certification program. The cost for membership and registration varies depending on the type of membership chosen but typically ranges from $50 - $100 USD per year. After registering for the program, applicants will need to take both exams within six months in order to receive their certification.

Once certified as a CLS, individuals can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise in the field of legal secretarial work and may be eligible for higher pay or better job opportunities.

5. Certified Medical Secretary (CMS)

A Certified Medical Secretary (CMS) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in medical office administration. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, medical coding, patient scheduling, insurance billing, transcription services, and other administrative duties.

It typically takes about 4-6 months to complete the requirements for CMS certification. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $500-$1,000. To get certified as a CMS, you must first complete a course or program that covers all of the topics listed above. You will then need to pass an exam administered by either the National Healthcareer Association (NHA) or American Medical Technologists (AMT).

Once you have passed the exam and become certified as a CMS, you must maintain your certification by completing continuing education credits every two years. This can be done through attending conferences or taking online courses related to medical office administration.

6. Certified Executive Secretary (CES)

Certified Executive Secretary (CES) is a professional certification offered by the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP). The CES certification recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in administrative and executive support roles. It is designed to validate an individual's knowledge, skills, and abilities in the areas of office management, communication, project management, technology use, and customer service.

The CES certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam is divided into four sections: Office Management & Technology; Communications & Interpersonal Skills; Project Management & Business Writing; and Customer Service & Professionalism. Each section includes questions that measure the candidate's knowledge of various topics related to administrative support roles.

The practical assessment requires candidates to complete tasks related to their job duties in a simulated workplace environment. This assessment measures the candidate's ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year for an individual to complete the requirements for the CES certification. The cost of the program varies depending on whether or not you are a member of IAAP, but it can range from $250-$600 USD.

7. Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA)

A Certified Professional Virtual Assistant (CPVA) is a professional who provides administrative, creative, and technical services to their clients remotely. CPVAs are typically self-employed and work from home or other remote locations. They use the internet, email, phone, and other communication technologies to provide services to their clients.

It usually takes about two months to get certified as a CPVA. To become certified, you must first complete an online training program that covers topics such as virtual assistant best practices, client management, project management, time management, communication skills, and more. After completing the training program you must then pass a certification exam administered by the International Association of Virtual Assistants (IAVA). Once you have passed the exam you will be awarded your CPVA certification.

The cost of becoming a CPVA varies depending on which training program you choose to take and whether or not you opt for additional certifications. Generally speaking though it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD to become certified as a CPVA.

In addition to the cost of becoming certified there may also be additional costs associated with running your business such as software subscriptions and marketing materials.

8. Certified Professional Organizer (CPO)

A Certified Professional Organizer (CPO) is a professional who specializes in helping individuals and businesses organize their physical and digital environments. CPOs help clients to declutter, create efficient systems, and maximize the use of space. They work with clients to develop customized strategies for organizing their homes, offices, and other spaces.

It typically takes around two years of education and experience to become a Certified Professional Organizer. To qualify for certification, applicants must have completed at least 80 hours of coursework related to organizing principles, techniques, products, and services; have at least 500 hours of paid organizing experience; pass an exam administered by the Board of Certification for Professional Organizers (BCPO); and adhere to the BCPO Code of Ethics.

To get certified as a CPO, applicants must first complete all the requirements listed above. Once these requirements are met, applicants can apply for certification through the BCPO website. The application process includes submitting proof of education and experience; passing an online exam; paying a $300 application fee; and providing references from three current or former clients or employers.

The cost for becoming a Certified Professional Organizer varies depending on the amount of education required and any additional fees associated with taking the exam or applying for certification. Generally speaking, it may cost anywhere from $500-$1500 to become certified as a CPO.

9. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to manage records effectively. The CRM program was created by ARMA International, the leading professional association for records management professionals.

It takes approximately two years to complete the CRM program. To become certified, applicants must first pass an exam that covers topics such as legal requirements, information governance, records management systems and processes, and security and privacy. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of their work experience in records management.

The cost of the CRM program varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, it costs $1,350 for members of ARMA International or $2,000 for non-members.

In addition to passing the exam and submitting a portfolio of work experience, applicants must also agree to abide by ARMA's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct and participate in continuing education activities every three years to maintain their certification status.

10. Notary Public Certification

A Notary Public is an individual appointed by the state government to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. The primary purpose of a notary public is to deter fraud by verifying the identity of individuals who sign documents and ensuring that they understand the contents of said documents.

The process for becoming a notary public varies from state to state, but typically involves taking an exam, submitting a notary application, and paying a fee. In most states, it takes between two and four weeks to become a notary public after submitting all required paperwork.

To become a notary public in any given state, you must first meet certain qualifications such as being at least 18 years old, having no criminal record, and being able to read and write English. After meeting these requirements, you will need to take an exam on your state’s laws regarding notarization. Once you pass this exam, you can submit an application with your local county clerk’s office or Secretary of State's office along with the appropriate fee.

The cost for becoming a notary public varies from state to state but typically ranges from $20-$100 depending on the fees associated with taking the exam and submitting your application. Additionally, some states may require you to purchase additional supplies such as stamps or seals in order to perform your duties as a notary public.

Do You Really Need a Secretary Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's specific situation and goals. In some cases, a secretary certificate may be beneficial or even necessary for a person's career. For those who are looking to further their administrative skills and increase their job prospects, obtaining a certificate can help them stand out in the competitive job market.

For instance, a secretary certificate can provide an individual with the knowledge and skills needed to perform various office tasks such as filing paperwork, scheduling appointments, and managing calendars. A certificate may also give someone the opportunity to work in different types of organizations, including government agencies and private businesses. Additionally, having a certificate can demonstrate that one is competent in administrative duties and can be trusted with important tasks.

On the other hand, if someone already has experience with administrative duties or is looking for entry-level positions where these skills are not required, then a secretary certificate may not be necessary. Having one could still be beneficial if it would make them stand out from other applicants; however, it might not be worth investing in if it would not significantly improve job prospects or add any extra value to their resume.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a secretary certificate should depend on their individual circumstances and career ambitions. If they believe that obtaining one will help them reach their goals then it is likely worth pursuing; however, if they do not think it will make much of an impact on their job prospects then they should consider other options instead.

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FAQs About Secretary Certifications

1. What is a Secretary Certification?

Answer: A Secretary Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in the areas of office administration, organization, communication, and technology. It is designed to help secretaries advance their careers and increase their earning potential.

2. Who can get a Secretary Certification?

Answer: Anyone with basic secretarial skills can pursue a Secretary Certification. Most certifications require at least one year of experience as a secretary or related field.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time for certification will vary depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and your level of experience. Generally, it takes between six months to one year to complete the necessary coursework and exams for most certifications.

4. What are the benefits of getting certified?

Answer: Benefits of obtaining a Secretary Certification include increased job security, higher wages, greater career mobility, increased job satisfaction, and recognition from employers as an expert in the field.

5. Where can I find more information about becoming certified?

Answer: You can find more information about becoming certified by visiting websites such as International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) or Professional Secretaries International (PSI). You can also contact local universities or community colleges that offer courses related to secretarial studies for more information about certification requirements and programs available in your area.