Top 11 Team Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a team manager in the job market because they provide a way to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to be successful in the role. They also serve as proof of continued education and training, which can help employers make informed hiring decisions. Additionally, certifications can help a team manager stand out from other candidates by demonstrating their commitment to professional development and mastery of certain topics. Finally, certifications may be required for certain positions or roles within an organization, making them essential for those seeking advancement opportunities.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for Team Managers and explains how they can help to enhance a team manager's career.

What are Team Manager Certifications?

Team Manager Certification is a specialized certification that equips managers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively lead and manage teams. This certification focuses on developing essential leadership capabilities, such as communication, collaboration, problem solving, conflict resolution, and decision-making. It also covers topics related to team dynamics and performance management. By completing this certification program, managers gain an understanding of how to motivate their teams and build a successful work environment. Additionally, they learn how to create effective strategies for managing change and driving innovation in their organizations. Team Manager Certification can help managers become more effective leaders by providing them with the tools necessary to develop their teams into high performing groups that are aligned with organizational goals. The certification also offers managers the opportunity to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in team management so they can better understand their team’s strengths and weaknesses and make informed decisions about how best to lead them.

Pro tip: When considering a team manager certification, look for programs that provide comprehensive training in areas such as communication, conflict resolution, and leadership. Additionally, ensure that the program is accredited or recognized by a professional organization to ensure the quality of the certification.

Related: What does a Team Manager do?

Top 11 Team Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become successful Scrum Masters. A Certified Scrum Master is an individual who has completed a two-day training course and passed an exam administered by the Scrum Alliance. The Certified Scrum Master certification is widely recognized as the gold standard for demonstrating mastery of Agile project management principles.

It typically takes two days to complete the CSM course, which includes lectures, activities, and discussions on Agile principles and practices. Participants must also pass an online assessment after completing the course in order to receive their certification.

To get certified as a CSM, you must first attend a two-day CSM training course offered by an approved provider. These courses are offered in person or online, and they typically cost between $1,000 - $2,000 USD depending on the provider. After completing the course, participants must then pass an online assessment in order to receive their certification from the Scrum Alliance.

The cost of becoming a Certified Scrum Master varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD for the two-day training course plus any additional fees associated with taking the online assessment.

2. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized and respected project management certification in the world.

The PMP certification demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and experience necessary to effectively manage projects. The PMP exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of project management principles, processes, and techniques. It also assesses their ability to apply these concepts in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on how much time you can dedicate to studying. You must have at least 35 hours of project management education before you can take the exam. You will also need to document 4500 hours of leading or directing projects over the past 8 years or 7500 hours if you do not have a degree in project management.

To get your PMP certification, you must pass the PMP exam with a score of at least 61%. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and is divided into two parts: Part A (knowledge) and Part B (application).

The cost of taking the PMP exam varies depending on your location, but it typically ranges from $405-$555 USD for members of PMI and $555-$705 USD for non-members. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining project management education or training materials.

3. Certified Agile Leadership (CAL I and II)

Certified Agile Leadership (CAL I and II) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals become better leaders in an Agile environment. It is offered by the Scrum Alliance, a global non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the use of Agile principles and practices.

The CAL I certification is intended for those who are just starting out in their Agile journey, while the CAL II certification is designed for experienced practitioners. Both certifications focus on developing leadership skills such as communication, collaboration, problem solving, decision making, and team building.

The CAL I course takes two days to complete and costs $1,495 USD. The CAL II course takes three days to complete and costs $2,295 USD. To get either certification, you must attend an official Scrum Alliance training course and pass the associated exam with a score of 80% or higher.

4. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is an internationally recognized certification program that recognizes professionals who demonstrate expertise in the field of learning and performance. The CPLP credential is issued by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), a professional organization dedicated to advancing workplace learning and performance.

The CPLP certification process involves a combination of coursework, experience, and testing. To be eligible for the CPLP certification, applicants must have at least three years of related work experience and must complete nine courses from ATD’s Certified Professional in Learning & Performance Body of Knowledge.

The courses cover topics such as designing effective learning experiences, measuring and evaluating learning outcomes, developing instructional materials, managing training projects, and more. Once all nine courses are completed, applicants must pass an exam to receive their CPLP certification.

The entire process takes approximately one year to complete. The cost of the program varies depending on the number of courses taken; however, it typically costs around $2,500 USD.

5. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of individuals who have demonstrated a basic understanding of project management principles, processes, and techniques. The certification is intended for those who are just starting out in the field of project management or those who want to demonstrate their commitment to the profession.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours to complete. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have either: 1) a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent); and at least 1,500 hours of project experience; or 2) 23 hours of project management education completed by the time you sit for the exam.

The cost for the exam varies depending on whether you are an individual member of PMI or not. For non-members, it is $300 USD while members pay $225 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual maintenance fee of $150 USD that must be paid every three years to maintain your certification status.

6. International Association of Facilitators Certification (IAF-CPF)

The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) Certification Program (IAF-CPF) is a professional certification program for facilitators. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills and abilities of experienced professionals in the field of facilitation. The IAF-CPF certification program is based on the IAF Professional Facilitator Competency Standard which defines the competencies that facilitators need to effectively facilitate meetings, workshops and other group processes.

It typically takes between 12 and 18 months to get certified by IAF-CPF. To become certified, you must have at least two years of experience as a professional facilitator and have completed at least 24 hours of formal facilitation training. You must also pass an online assessment and demonstrate your ability to apply the competencies outlined in the IAF Professional Facilitator Competency Standard.

The cost for getting certified by IAF-CPF depends on your membership status with IAF. If you are not a member, it will cost you $450 USD for the application fee plus $200 USD for each year’s renewal fee after that. For members, it will cost $250 USD for the application fee plus $100 USD for each year’s renewal fee after that.

7. Lean Six Sigma Green Belt

Lean Six Sigma Green Belt is a certification program designed to help individuals learn the skills and knowledge necessary to lead improvement projects in their organization. It is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to quality and process improvement.

The Lean Six Sigma Green Belt program typically takes between three to four months to complete, depending on the provider. The program consists of classroom training, online learning, and project work. During the training, participants will learn how to use Lean Six Sigma tools and techniques such as Process Mapping, Value Stream Mapping, Root Cause Analysis, and Statistical Process Control. They will also gain experience in leading improvement projects from start to finish.

To get your Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification, you must complete the required coursework and pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ). You may also need to provide proof of having completed a project or two that utilizes Lean Six Sigma methodology.

The cost of obtaining a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt certification varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD. Some providers offer discounts for group registrations or if you are already enrolled in another course with them.

8. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management

The ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management is a globally recognized qualification that provides individuals with an understanding of the key elements, concepts, and terminology used in the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL). It is designed to help individuals understand how to use the ITIL framework to improve their organization’s service delivery.

The course typically takes two days to complete and covers topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operations, continual service improvement, and more. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions which must be completed within 60 minutes.

To obtain the certificate you must pass the exam with a minimum score of 65%. You can take the exam at an accredited training provider or online through PeopleCert or AXELOS. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your chosen provider and can range from $200-$400 USD.

9. Change Management Certification

Change Management Certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of change management. It is designed to help organizations identify qualified professionals who can effectively lead and manage change initiatives. The certification is offered by the Association of Change Management Professionals (ACMP), which is a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the practice of change management.

The certification process typically takes about 6 months to complete and includes passing an exam, completing a portfolio project, and attending an ACMP-approved training course. To get certified, individuals must first become an ACMP member and then complete the application process. Once accepted, they must pass the exam, submit their portfolio project for review, and attend a training course.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on your membership level with ACMP. For individuals who are not members of ACMP, the cost ranges from $1,200 - $2,500 USD. This includes the exam fee ($450 USD), the portfolio project fee ($350 USD) and any applicable training fees (which vary). For current members of ACMP, there may be discounted rates available for some or all components of the certification process.

10. Organizational Development Certification

Organizational Development Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to become successful organizational development (OD) practitioners. It is designed to help professionals understand the principles of OD, develop effective strategies for organizational change, and apply them in their own organizations.

Organizational Development Certification typically takes about two years to complete, depending on the program chosen. Most programs include coursework on topics such as change management, leadership development, team building, communication, conflict resolution, and more. In addition to coursework, many programs also require students to complete an internship or practicum experience in order to gain practical experience in the field.

In order to get Organizational Development Certification, you must first complete a qualifying program from an accredited institution. Once you have completed your program requirements, you will need to pass a certification exam administered by a professional organization such as the International Association of Facilitators or the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). After passing the exam, you will receive your certification.

The cost of Organizational Development Certification can vary depending on which program you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, most programs range from $2,000-$10,000 USD for tuition and fees.

11. Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI)

The Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI) is a professional organization that provides certification for human resources professionals. HRCI certifications are recognized as the standard of excellence in the HR field and are highly sought after by employers.

There are three types of certifications offered by HRCI: Professional in Human Resources (PHR), Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR), and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR). Each certification requires different levels of experience, education, and knowledge to obtain.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for an HRCI certification exam. The preparation process includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, and attending review courses or seminars.

To get an HRCI certification, you must first register with HRCI online or by mail. After registering, you will need to complete the application form and submit it along with any required documentation. Once your application has been approved, you will be able to take the exam at a testing center near you.

The cost of obtaining an HRCI certification varies depending on which type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, the cost ranges from $300-$500 USD per exam.

Do You Really Need a Team Manager Certificate?

When considering whether or not you need a team manager certificate, the answer will depend on your current situation and future goals. If you are currently working in a managerial role and would like to advance your career, then obtaining a team manager certificate could be beneficial. Having this certification would demonstrate that you possess the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage teams of people, which can be an attractive quality for potential employers.

Additionally, having a team manager certificate may also give you access to higher-paying jobs that require such qualifications. With the right knowledge and experience gained from the team management course, you may also find yourself more capable of handling difficult situations in the workplace. The certificate could also provide recognition within your organization that you are serious about developing your managerial skills.

However, if you are already in a managerial role without any plans to move up in your company or industry, then obtaining a team manager certificate might not be necessary. It is important to assess your own needs and decide if investing time and money into getting certified is worth it for you personally and professionally.

Related: Team Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Team Manager Certifications

Q1. What is a Team Manager Certification?

A1. A Team Manager Certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage a team in a business setting. It typically includes topics such as communication, conflict resolution, performance management, leadership, and team dynamics.

Q2. How do I become certified as a Team Manager?

A2. To become certified as a Team Manager, you must complete an approved training program or course and pass an assessment exam. Some certifications also require prior work experience in team management or related fields.

Q3. How long does it take to get Team Manager Certification?

A3. The amount of time it takes to get certified as a Team Manager depends on the specific certification program you choose and your level of preparation for the assessment exam. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within one year or less if you are able to dedicate yourself to studying and preparing for the exam on a regular basis.

Q4. Is there an expiration date on my Team Manager Certification?

A4. Yes, most certifications have an expiration date that needs to be renewed periodically (usually every 3-5 years). This helps ensure that individuals maintain their knowledge and stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in team management.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for getting Certified as a Team Manager?

A5: Yes, some certifications require individuals to have prior work experience in team management or related fields before taking the assessment exam in order to qualify for certification status.