Top 10 Strategic Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for a strategic consultant in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in a particular area. Certifications show that the consultant has gone through an intensive training program, and has acquired a specific set of skills and knowledge. This can be beneficial for potential employers as it shows that the consultant is qualified to provide strategic advice in their chosen field. Additionally, certifications can help consultants stand out from other applicants and can be used to demonstrate expertise in certain areas. Ultimately, certifications are important for strategic consultants to remain competitive in the job market and ensure they are seen as reliable professionals who can provide quality advice on complex matters.

This article reviews the top certifications for Strategic Consultants and explains how they can help a consultant advance their career.

What are Strategic Consultant Certifications?

Strategic Consultant Certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and experience to provide valuable advice and guidance on key business decisions. It is awarded to those who demonstrate expertise in strategic planning, project management, financial analysis, operations optimization, marketing, and other critical areas of business strategy. The certification can be obtained through an accredited institution or program.

Having a Strategic Consultant Certification can help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs or consulting opportunities. It demonstrates their proficiency in the field of business strategy and shows potential employers that they have the necessary skills to help them reach their goals. Additionally, having the certification can open doors to new opportunities and higher salaries as those with the certification are seen as more qualified than those without it. Furthermore, having a Strategic Consultant Certification allows individuals to gain access to exclusive resources such as networking events, industry-specific conferences, and research materials that can help them stay up-to-date with current trends in their field of expertise.

Pro Tip: When considering a strategic consultant certification, make sure to research the certifying organization and verify that it is accredited by an independent body. Additionally, look for certifications that are tailored to your specific industry or field of expertise, as this will ensure that you have access to up-to-date industry knowledge and best practices.

Related: What does a Strategic Consultant do?

Top 10 Strategic Consultant Certifications

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

1. Certified Management Consultant (CMC)

Certified Management Consultant (CMC) is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in management consulting. The CMC designation is granted by the Institute of Management Consultants USA (IMC USA), which is the only organization in the United States that grants this certification.

To qualify for the CMC designation, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and adhere to a code of ethics. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in any field, plus five years of full-time management consulting experience or equivalent part-time experience. They must also submit three letters of recommendation from clients or colleagues attesting to their professional ability and ethical conduct.

The CMC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as management principles, project management, business strategy, finance and accounting, marketing and sales, organizational behavior, operations management, information technology, legal issues, and ethics. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $395 USD.

Once all requirements are met and the exam is passed with a score of 70% or higher, applicants receive their CMC certification from IMC USA. This certification demonstrates that they possess the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective management consulting services.

2. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in business analysis. The CBAP certification is intended for experienced business analysis professionals who have at least seven years of experience in the field, with at least 900 hours spent on business analysis activities within the past four years.

In order to obtain the CBAP certification, applicants must pass an exam that covers six knowledge areas: Business Analysis Planning and Monitoring, Elicitation and Collaboration, Requirements Life Cycle Management, Strategy Analysis, Requirements Analysis and Design Definition, and Solution Evaluation. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours to complete.

The cost of obtaining the CBAP certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD to register for the exam. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam depending on your location.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be awarded with a certificate that recognizes your achievement as a Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP). This certificate will remain valid for three years from date of issue. After three years you must renew your certification by completing 60 hours of continuing professional development activities or retaking the CBAP examination.

3. Certified Strategic Planning Professional (CSPP)

Certified Strategic Planning Professional (CSPP) is an internationally recognized certification program that provides professionals with the skills, knowledge and experience necessary to effectively plan and execute strategic initiatives. The CSPP program is designed to equip individuals with the competencies needed to lead organizations through strategic planning processes.

The CSPP program consists of three levels: Certified Strategic Planning Professional (CSPP), Advanced Certified Strategic Planning Professional (ACSPP), and Master Certified Strategic Planning Professional (MCSPP). Each level requires a minimum amount of coursework and experience in order to qualify for certification.

In order to obtain the CSPP certification, applicants must have a minimum of two years of professional experience in strategic planning or related fields. They must also complete a total of eight courses, including four core courses, two elective courses, and two additional electives. Courses are offered online or in-person by accredited institutions such as universities or professional associations.

The cost for the CSPP certification program varies depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD for all three levels combined.

Overall, obtaining the CSPP certification can take anywhere from six months to one year depending on how quickly you complete your coursework and gain experience in strategic planning.

4. Certified Process Design Professional (CPDP)

Certified Process Design Professional (CPDP) is a certification program offered by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in process design and improvement. The CPDP certification is valid for three years and requires renewal every three years.

To become a Certified Process Design Professional, applicants must demonstrate knowledge of process design principles and practices, as well as experience in applying them. This includes having at least five years of professional experience in process design or improvement, completing a minimum of 30 hours of formal training related to process design or improvement, and passing an exam administered by ASQ.

The cost of the CPDP certification varies depending on the country where you are taking the exam. In the United States, it typically costs around $500-$600 USD.

5. Certified Project Manager (CPM)

Certified Project Manager (CPM) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have attained a high level of expertise in project management. The CPM certification is administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of project management.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass an exam, and agree to adhere to PMI’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct. The PMI requires applicants to have either a four-year degree or secondary diploma plus at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of the five process groups in project management (initiating, planning, executing, monitoring/controlling, and closing). It typically takes three to six months to prepare for the exam. Once you pass the exam you will receive your CPM certification.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on whether you are already a PMI member or not. For non-members it can range from $405-$555 depending on whether you choose the standard or expedited processing option; for members it ranges from $300-$450 depending on which option you choose.

6. Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMP)

Certified Change Management Practitioner (CCMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills and abilities required of change management practitioners in order to effectively manage organizational change. The CCMP credential is intended for experienced change management professionals who have a minimum of three years of experience in the field.

The CCMP program consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person workshop. The online assessment tests your knowledge, skills and abilities related to change management best practices, principles, processes and tools. This assessment must be completed before attending the in-person workshop. The workshop provides hands-on practice with real-world scenarios that test your ability to apply the concepts learned during the assessment.

It typically takes about 9 months to complete the CCMP program, including both the online assessment and in-person workshop. To get started, you must first register for the ACMP membership and then purchase a CCMP package from their website which includes access to both the online assessment and in-person workshop.

The cost of becoming a Certified Change Management Practitioner varies depending on whether you are an ACMP member or nonmember. For members, it costs $1,995 USD while nonmembers pay $2,495 USD.

7. Certified Business Performance Improvement Professional (CBPI)

Certified Business Performance Improvement Professional (CBPI) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in improving business performance. The CBPI certification is awarded by the National Association of Business Performance Improvement Professionals (NABPIP), an international professional organization dedicated to advancing the practice of business performance improvement.

The CBPI certification requires applicants to pass a two-part exam that covers topics such as process improvement, project management, financial analysis, and organizational development. The exam is administered online and takes approximately four hours to complete. It costs $350 for members of NABPIP and $450 for non-members.

To become certified, applicants must also demonstrate at least three years of experience in the field of business performance improvement or related fields. Applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience and knowledge in the field. Once an applicant has successfully completed all requirements, they will receive their CBPI certificate.

The CBPI certification is valid for three years after which time recertification is required. To recertify, applicants must demonstrate ongoing professional development activities in the field of business performance improvement and pass a recertification exam every three years.

8. Certified Public Accountant (CPA)

A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) is a professional designation granted by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). A CPA is qualified to perform a variety of accounting and financial services for individuals, businesses and organizations. CPAs are licensed by the state in which they practice and must meet certain educational, experience and examination requirements to obtain their license.

How long does it take to get it?

The amount of time it takes to become a CPA varies by state. Generally, you need to complete 150 semester hours of college education (typically a bachelor’s degree plus 30 additional credit hours), pass the Uniform CPA Examination, and meet any other requirements set forth by your state board of accountancy. This can typically take four or more years.

How to get it?

In order to become a CPA, you must first meet the educational requirements set forth by your state board of accountancy. This typically involves completing 150 semester hours of college coursework with an emphasis in accounting or business-related topics. After completing the educational requirements, you will then need to pass the Uniform CPA Examination administered by the AICPA. Once you have passed this exam, you can apply for licensure with your state board of accountancy.

How much does it cost?

The cost associated with becoming a CPA varies depending on your location and other factors such as whether or not you need to retake any parts of the exam or if you need additional training courses in order to meet your state's requirements. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $1,000-$2,500 just for taking the exam itself; however, additional costs may be incurred depending on what else is required in order for you to become licensed in your particular state.

9. Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) is a professional designation given by the CFA Institute, formerly known as the Association for Investment Management and Research (AIMR). It is an internationally recognized credential that measures a candidate’s knowledge and proficiency in the field of finance. The CFA program consists of three levels, each requiring a separate exam. In order to become a CFA charterholder, candidates must pass all three exams and meet certain professional experience requirements.

The CFA program typically takes four years to complete, though some may take longer or shorter depending on their individual circumstances. Candidates must pass all three exams within four years in order to become a charterholder.

In order to get started with the CFA program, candidates must first register for the Level I exam with the CFA Institute. Registration fees vary depending on when you register, but typically range from $700 - $1,000 USD per exam. Additionally, there are study materials available for purchase from the institute and other vendors which can cost anywhere from $500 - $2,000 USD depending on which materials you choose to purchase.

Overall, becoming a CFA charterholder can be quite expensive and time consuming; however it is considered one of the most prestigious credentials in finance and can open up many career opportunities in the industry.

10. Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is offered by several organizations, including ASQ (American Society for Quality), IASSC (International Association for Six Sigma Certification), and ISC2 (Information Systems Security Certification Consortium).

The certification program typically requires the completion of an extensive training program, followed by an examination. The training programs vary in length and cost depending on the organization offering the certification. Generally speaking, most programs take between three to six months to complete and can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $10,000 USD.

In order to become certified as a Six Sigma Black Belt, individuals must demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the Six Sigma methodology through a combination of classroom instruction and practical application. This includes topics such as process improvement techniques, project management principles, data collection methods, statistical analysis tools, problem-solving strategies, and quality control measures.

Upon successful completion of the training program and examination, individuals receive their official Six Sigma Black Belt Certification from their chosen organization. This certification is recognized by employers around the world as evidence that an individual has achieved a high level of expertise in the field of process improvement.

Do You Really Need a Strategic Consultant Certificate?

The short answer is no. A strategic consultant certificate is not a requirement to work as a consultant. However, having one may be beneficial in certain circumstances.

If you have a specific area of expertise or experience that requires certification, such as healthcare consulting or financial advising, then pursuing a strategic consultant certificate could help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your knowledge and skillset to prospective employers. It can also provide you with an additional credential that could open up new opportunities for career advancement and higher salaries.

On the other hand, if you are focused on developing your own business as a freelance consultant, then obtaining a strategic consultant certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it would be more important for you to focus on building relationships with potential clients and establishing yourself within your industry through networking and marketing efforts.

Ultimately, whether or not obtaining a strategic consultant certificate is right for you depends on your individual goals and needs. If you believe it will give you an advantage in securing employment or launching your own consulting business, then it may be worth pursuing. But if not, then there are other ways to build your credibility as a consultant without getting certified.

Related: Strategic Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Strategic Consultant Certifications

Q1: What is a strategic consultant certification?

A1: A strategic consultant certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of strategic consulting. This type of certification typically requires completing a course or series of courses, passing an examination, and/or having relevant work experience.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a strategic consultant?

A2: Becoming certified as a strategic consultant can open up career opportunities, increase earning potential, provide access to specialized training and resources, and demonstrate credibility to potential employers.

Q3: How do I become certified as a strategic consultant?

A3: The requirements for becoming certified as a strategic consultant vary depending on the specific certification program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs require completion of an educational program or coursework related to the field of strategic consulting and/or passing an examination.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a strategic consultant certification?

A4: Most programs have some basic prerequisites such as having at least two years of work experience in a related field or having completed certain educational courses related to the field. Be sure to check with the specific program you are looking into for more information on their prerequisites.

Q5: How long does it take to become certified as a strategic consultant?

A5: Again, this varies depending on the specific program you choose but it can take anywhere from several months to several years depending on how much time you are able to devote to studying and preparing for your exam.