Top 11 Support Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a support coordinator in the job market as they demonstrate a commitment to professional development and provide evidence of their expertise and knowledge. By showing potential employers that they have earned certifications, support coordinators can demonstrate their dedication to learning and staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends. Additionally, certifications can help boost the confidence of employers by providing assurance that hiring the individual is a wise choice. Finally, having certifications helps to differentiate one candidate from others who may be competing for the same position.

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

What are Support Coordinator Certifications?

Support coordinator certification is a professional credential offered by the National Association of Support Coordinators (NASC). This certification provides individuals with an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices associated with the field of support coordination. The certification recognizes professionals who have acquired a comprehensive knowledge and skill set to effectively coordinate services for individuals with disabilities or other special needs.

The certification is aimed at providing support coordinators with the necessary skills to identify and assess individual needs, develop service plans, link individuals to resources and services, monitor outcomes, provide advocacy, and coordinate multi-agency collaborations. By becoming certified as a Support Coordinator, individuals demonstrate their commitment to their profession, gain credibility among colleagues and clients alike, and demonstrate their competence in the field.

In addition to providing a professional credential for support coordinators, this certification also serves to increase public awareness about the importance of effective service coordination in improving outcomes for those who receive services. By having more qualified professionals in this field, there can be an increased level of trust between providers and those receiving services. This can lead to better communication between providers and improved quality of care for people with disabilities or other special needs. With better communication comes increased access to resources that can help them live full lives.

Pro Tip: When considering a support coordinator certification, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications associated with the certification. Be sure to read through any available materials and talk to other professionals in the field who have obtained their certification. Additionally, consider taking courses or workshops related to your desired certification to gain the necessary knowledge and skills required for successful completion.

Related: What does a Support Coordinator do?

Top 11 Support Coordinator Certifications

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

1. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification that demonstrates knowledge and understanding of IT Service Management (ITSM) best practices. It is based on the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL), which is a set of books that provide guidance on how to manage IT services effectively. The certification covers the core concepts of service management, including service strategy, design, transition, operation, and continual improvement.

The certification exam typically takes 1-2 hours to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, you must score at least 65% (26 out of 40 questions). The exam can be taken online or in person at an accredited testing center.

The cost for the ITIL Foundation certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 USD for the exam fee alone. However, if you choose to take a training course prior to taking the exam, then the total cost will be higher as you will need to pay for both the training and the exam fees.

Overall, obtaining your ITIL Foundation Certification can help you gain recognition as an ITSM expert and demonstrate your commitment to best practices in service management.

2. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is a globally recognized certification for entry-level IT technicians, covering topics such as installation, configuration, networking, security, troubleshooting and more.

The CompTIA A+ certification requires two exams to be completed: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). The exams cover a variety of topics including hardware, software, networking, mobile devices and security. Each exam takes 90 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice questions.

To get CompTIA A+ certified you need to pass both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE or Certiport testing center. The cost of the exams varies depending on the country you are in but typically ranges from $200 to $300 per exam.

Once you have passed both exams you will receive your CompTIA A+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. After three years you will need to retake one or both of the exams in order to maintain your certification status.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills of IT professionals in using Microsoft products. It is an entry-level certification that demonstrates the ability to design and build technology solutions on the Microsoft platform. The MCSA certification covers a wide range of topics, including Windows Server, Office 365, Azure, SQL Server, and other related technologies.

It typically takes anywhere from one to two months to complete the requirements for an MCSA certification. In order to obtain this certification, individuals must pass one or more exams that cover topics such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting and maintenance of Microsoft systems.

The cost of obtaining an MCSA certification varies depending on the type of exam taken and the number of exams required for completion. Generally speaking, each exam runs between $125-$150 USD per exam. Additionally, some training courses may be required prior to taking the exams which can add additional costs.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in designing, deploying, and managing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT field and is highly respected by employers.

It typically takes between six months and two years to earn an MCSE certification, depending on your experience level and the type of certification you are pursuing. To get an MCSE certification, you must pass several exams that focus on different areas of Microsoft technology. The exams can be taken at any authorized testing center or through online proctored exams.

The cost of getting an MCSE certification varies depending on which exam you take and where you take it. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $150 USD, but some may be more expensive depending on your location and other factors. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams such as travel expenses or registration fees.

Overall, obtaining an MCSE certification can be a great way to advance your career in the IT field and show employers that you have the skills necessary to work with Microsoft technologies.

5. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a globally recognized certification for project managers. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), and it is designed to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of project managers in leading and directing projects.

The PMP Certification process consists of four steps:

1. Applying for the PMP Exam: The first step in obtaining your PMP certification is to apply for the exam. You will need to provide personal information such as your name, address, contact information, work experience, education background, and other relevant details.

2. Preparing for the Exam: Once you have applied for the exam, you must prepare for it by studying relevant materials and taking practice tests. This can take anywhere from three months to a year depending on how much time you dedicate to studying.

3. Taking the Exam: The PMP exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. You must score at least 70% in order to pass the exam.

4. Maintaining Your Certification: After passing the exam, you must maintain your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to remain certified as a PMP.

The cost of getting your PMP certification varies depending on whether or not you are a member of PMI and which type of membership you have chosen (Standard or Premium). Generally speaking, expect to pay around $400 - $700 USD for all associated costs including application fees, study materials, and exam fees.

6. Certified Technical Support Professional (CTSP)

Certified Technical Support Professional (CTSP) is a certification program designed to recognize and validate the technical skills and knowledge of IT professionals. It is offered by the International Association of Certified Technical Support Professionals (IACTS), which is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the quality of technical support services worldwide.

The CTSP certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as customer service, problem solving, troubleshooting, networking, hardware, software, security, and more. The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a CTSP, applicants must first register with IACTS and pay the associated fee. After registering with IACTS, applicants will be able to access study materials and practice exams in order to prepare for the actual exam. Once they have completed their preparation and are ready to take the exam, they can schedule an appointment at one of IACTS’ testing centers around the world.

The cost for certification varies depending on where you take the exam and whether or not you purchase additional study materials from IACTS. Generally speaking, it can range from $150-$250 USD for just the exam itself. Additional costs may apply if you choose to purchase additional study materials or if you opt for expedited processing of your results.

7. Certified Help Desk Professional (CHDP)

Certified Help Desk Professional (CHDP) is a certification program offered by HDI, the world’s largest membership organization for technical support and service management professionals. The CHDP certification validates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in providing customer service and technical support. It is designed to recognize those who have achieved excellence in their field.

To get the CHDP certification, you must pass a two-hour online exam that consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as customer service principles, problem solving techniques, troubleshooting methodology, communication skills, and technology fundamentals. You must also have at least one year of experience working in a help desk or technical support role.

The cost of the exam is $199 USD. It typically takes about two weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

8. Customer Service Representative (CSR) Certification

Customer Service Representative (CSR) Certification is a certification program designed to provide customer service professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively handle customer inquiries, complaints, and requests. It is offered by organizations such as the International Customer Service Association (ICSA), the National Retail Federation (NRF), and the American Society of Quality (ASQ).

The length of time it takes to get CSR Certification depends on the organization offering it. For example, ICSA offers an online certification course that can be completed in as little as two weeks. The NRF offers a more comprehensive certification program that takes approximately four months to complete. ASQ also offers a certification program that takes around six months to complete.

In order to get CSR Certification, you must first meet certain requirements set by the organization offering it. This includes having at least one year of customer service experience or equivalent education and training in customer service or related fields. You must also pass an exam administered by the organization in order to receive your certification.

The cost of CSR Certification varies depending on which organization you choose to pursue it through. Generally speaking, ICSA’s online course costs around $300 while NRF’s comprehensive program costs around $1,000 and ASQ’s program costs around $2,000.

9. Six Sigma Green Belt Certification

Six Sigma Green Belt Certification is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a level of mastery in the Six Sigma methodology. The certification is offered by several organizations, including the American Society for Quality (ASQ) and the International Association for Six Sigma Certification (IASSC).

The Six Sigma Green Belt Certification program typically requires a minimum of two years of experience in Six Sigma or related fields. It includes training in Lean principles, quality management, process improvement, and data analysis. The program also covers topics such as problem solving, project management, and team building.

To get certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt, you must pass an exam that tests your knowledge of the Six Sigma methodology. This exam is administered by either ASQ or IASSC. The cost of the exam varies depending on which organization you choose to take it through.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certification from either ASQ or IASSC. You will then be able to use this certification to demonstrate your expertise in Six Sigma and improve your career prospects.

The cost of getting certified as a Six Sigma Green Belt can vary significantly depending on which organization you choose to take the exam through and any additional training materials you may need to purchase. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$3000 USD.

10. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification

Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt. The certification is designed for those who want to lead and manage Lean Six Sigma projects in their organization.

The Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification program typically takes between four and six months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, individuals must attend an accredited training course, pass an examination, and demonstrate their ability to lead a successful project.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider, but typically ranges from $3,000-$5,000 USD. It is important to research providers before signing up for a course as some may offer additional benefits such as access to online resources or mentorship opportunities.

Once certified, individuals can use the designation “Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt” after their name and will have the skills needed to successfully lead Lean Six Sigma projects in their organization.

11. Network+ Certification

Network+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s ability to design, configure, manage and troubleshoot wired and wireless networks. It is administered by CompTIA, a non-profit trade association for the information technology (IT) industry.

The Network+ exam covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting. It consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed in 90 minutes or less. To pass the exam, you must score at least 720 out of 900 points.

You can prepare for the Network+ exam by taking an instructor-led course or self-study program. You can also find many online resources to help you study for the exam. The cost of the course will vary depending on where you take it.

Once you have completed your training and passed the exam, you will be awarded with Network+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certification status after three years, you must recertify by passing either the current version of the Network+ exam or any other CompTIA approved continuing education program.

The cost of the Network+ exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

Do You Really Need a Support Coordinator Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual’s goals and needs. For those who are looking to work as a support coordinator, a certificate may be necessary in order to gain employment. As support coordinators are responsible for providing assistance to individuals with disabilities, employers may require them to have a formal qualification in order to ensure that they have the knowledge and skills required for the position. A certificate also demonstrates an individual’s commitment and dedication to the field of disability support services, as well as their ability to meet certain standards.

On the other hand, some people may not need a formal qualification in order to carry out the duties of a support coordinator. While having a certificate can be beneficial, it is not always essential depending on the employer or situation. Additionally, some employers may prefer candidates who have experience working with individuals with disabilities rather than those who simply have a certificate. It is important for potential support coordinators to research their prospective employers’ requirements prior to applying for any positions so they can determine if they need certification or not.

In conclusion, whether or not someone needs a support coordinator certificate depends on their goals and needs as well as what their prospective employer requires from them. Having a formal qualification can certainly be beneficial but it is not always necessary in order for someone to successfully perform the role of a support coordinator.

Related: Support Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Support Coordinator Certifications

Q1: What is a support coordinator certification?

A1: A support coordinator certification is a professional credential that shows you have the necessary skills and knowledge to provide administrative, technical and/or clinical support services in a health care setting.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a support coordinator?

A2: Benefits of becoming certified include increased job opportunities, better job security, increased salary potential, enhanced professional credibility and recognition, and improved career advancement prospects.

Q3: How do I become certified as a support coordinator?

A3: To become certified as a support coordinator, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam. The requirements vary by state.

Q4: How long does it take to get certified as a support coordinator?

A4: Generally speaking, it takes about 6 months to complete the training and pass the exam. However, this may vary depending on your individual experience level and learning speed.

Q5: Is certification for support coordinators required?

A5: Certification is not always required by employers but it is highly recommended if you want to be competitive in the field of health care administration or clinical support services.