Top 11 Training Assistant Certifications

Certifications are a way for potential employers to verify the skill set and knowledge of job applicants. A training assistant certification demonstrates to employers that the individual has the necessary qualifications and experience to work in the field. Additionally, certifications can help an individual land higher-paying jobs, as employers may be willing to pay more for someone with a certified background in training assistance. This is especially true for specialized certifications, such as those related to specific software programs or other industry-specific topics. Finally, certifications can also help individuals stand out from other applicants and demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Training Assistants and explain how they can benefit a training assistant's career.

What are Training Assistant Certifications?

Training assistant certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the skills, knowledge, and qualifications necessary to become successful in a training assistant role. The program focuses on teaching individuals how to effectively help others learn and develop new skills. It covers topics such as learning theory, instructional design, curriculum development, delivery methods, assessment techniques, and classroom management.

By obtaining training assistant certification, individuals can gain the skills required to work as a professional trainer or instructor. This will enable them to teach and support learners in the development of their skills and knowledge. A certification also provides employers with assurance that an individual is qualified for the job and has received formal education in the field of training assistance.

In addition to providing individuals with valuable qualifications which can help them advance their career prospects, training assistant certification can also improve their confidence when delivering training sessions. By taking part in this program, they will gain experience in creating effective learning environments as well as developing appropriate strategies for teaching different types of learners. Furthermore, having a recognized qualification may make it easier for trainers to get jobs or be promoted into senior roles within their organization.

Pro Tip: It is important to research the various certification programs available for training assistants before selecting one. Take the time to read through each program’s requirements and ensure that it meets your professional goals. Additionally, look into any continuing education or refresher courses that may be necessary to maintain your certification in the future.

Related: What does a Training Assistant do?

Top 11 Training Assistant Certifications

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

1. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a certification offered by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and skill in training and development. The CTDP certification is designed to validate an individual’s expertise in the field of training and development.

The CTDP certification requires that the individual demonstrate their knowledge and experience in several areas including: training needs assessment, instructional design, training delivery, evaluation of learning outcomes, program management, and organizational development. In order to be eligible for the CTDP certification, individuals must have at least five years of professional experience in the field of training and development as well as a minimum of 120 hours of formal education or equivalent experience.

The process to obtain the CTDP certification includes taking an online examination that covers all areas mentioned above. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions with a passing score of 70%. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof of their professional experience and formal education/training hours. Once all requirements are met, applicants will receive their official certificate from IBSTPI.

The cost for obtaining the CTDP certification depends on whether you choose to take the online exam or attend an in-person workshop. The online exam costs $395 USD while attending an in-person workshop costs $695 USD. Both options include access to study materials such as practice exams and other resources that can help prepare you for taking the actual exam.

2. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a certification offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD). It is designed to recognize professionals who are knowledgeable and experienced in the field of learning and performance. The CPLP credential is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in the field.

The CPLP program requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience through an assessment process. Applicants must pass two exams, one on learning and performance fundamentals, and one on application of those fundamentals. They must also complete a project demonstrating their ability to apply what they have learned.

The entire process takes approximately 12-18 months to complete, depending on how much time each applicant has available to dedicate to studying for the exams and completing the project.

To get started with the CPLP program, applicants should first become members of ATD by visiting www.td.org/membership. After becoming members, they can then register for the CPLP program at www.td.org/cplpregistration .

The cost of registering for the CPLP program is $1,495 USD for ATD members or $2,095 USD for non-members (as of July 2020). This fee covers both exams and access to study materials as well as other resources needed throughout the process.

3. Certified Training Manager (CTM)

Certified Training Manager (CTM) is a professional certification offered by the International Board of Certified Trainers (IBCT). It is designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of training and development. The CTM certification is based on the IBCT’s core competencies for training professionals, which include: designing, delivering, and evaluating effective learning experiences; managing organizational learning initiatives; and leading change initiatives.

The CTM certification requires applicants to complete a series of courses, assessments, and exams, as well as demonstrate their understanding of the IBCT’s core competencies through a portfolio review. The entire process typically takes about 12-18 months to complete.

To get certified as a CTM, applicants must first submit an application form along with payment of the registration fee ($395). Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete all required courses and assessments within 18 months. Upon successful completion of these requirements, applicants will be eligible to sit for the CTM exam. The exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and has an allotted time limit of 2 hours.

The total cost for obtaining the CTM certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other associated fees. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000-$2,000 USD.

4. Certified Instructional Designer (CID)

Certified Instructional Designer (CID) is a professional certification for instructional designers and trainers who want to demonstrate their expertise in designing, developing, and delivering effective learning experiences. This certification is awarded by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance and Instruction (IBSTPI).

To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in instructional design or training development. They must also pass an examination that covers topics such as instructional design theory and practice, adult learning principles, performance improvement strategies, technology-based instruction, and assessment techniques. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

The cost of the CID certification varies depending on the country in which it is taken. In the United States, it costs $595 USD to take the exam. Other countries may charge different fees.

Once certified, CIDs are required to renew their certification every five years by completing continuing education activities or passing a recertification exam.

5. Certified eLearning Specialist (CeLS)

Certified eLearning Specialist (CeLS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in designing, developing and delivering eLearning solutions. The CeLS certification is offered by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

The CeLS certification requires applicants to have a minimum of three years of experience in the field of eLearning design, development, or delivery. In addition, applicants must complete a comprehensive online application that includes submitting a portfolio of their work and passing an online exam.

The online exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as instructional design principles, technology integration strategies, assessment methods, project management techniques, and more. The exam typically takes around two hours to complete.

The cost for the CeLS certification varies depending on whether you are an IACET member or not. For non-members, the cost is $495 USD while members pay $395 USD.

6. Certified Technical Trainer (CTT)

Certified Technical Trainer (CTT) is a certification offered by the CompTIA organization. It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of experienced IT professionals who are responsible for training others in technical topics. The CTT credential demonstrates that an individual has the ability to develop and deliver effective technical training courses.

The CTT certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in IT or a related field, as well as a minimum of 500 hours of teaching experience. Candidates must also pass an exam consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as instructional design, delivery methods, assessment techniques, and evaluation processes.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the CTT exam on the CompTIA website. After registering, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. Once they have completed the exam, they will receive their results within five business days.

The cost of taking the CTT exam is $300 USD.

7. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification is a globally recognized credential that validates an individual’s expertise in using Microsoft Office products and services. With MOS certification, individuals demonstrate their knowledge of the features and functions of Microsoft Office applications, such as Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote.

The length of time required to obtain MOS certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and the amount of preparation time needed. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from two to four weeks to complete all the exams required for MOS certification.

To get certified as a Microsoft Office Specialist, you must pass one or more exams that cover the features and functions of one or more Microsoft Office applications. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge in areas such as document creation and formatting; data analysis; collaboration tools; integration with other programs; security settings; and more.

The cost for taking a MOS exam varies by country but generally ranges from $100 to $150 USD per exam.

8. CompTIA CTT+ Instructor

CompTIA CTT+ is an instructor certification program from CompTIA, the Computing Technology Industry Association. It is designed to certify instructors in the delivery of technology-based training. The CTT+ certification validates an instructor's ability to effectively use instructional design principles, create and deliver engaging instruction, and assess student learning.

The CompTIA CTT+ certification requires a minimum of three years of experience in teaching or training technology-related topics. Candidates must also pass two exams: the Core Level exam and one elective exam. The Core Level exam covers instructional design principles, classroom management techniques, assessment strategies, and more. Elective exams cover specific technologies such as Windows 10 or Office 365.

To get the CompTIA CTT+ certification, candidates must first register for the exams on the CompTIA website. Once registered, they can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center. The cost for each exam is $250 USD, so the total cost for both exams is $500 USD. The exams are computer-based and typically take about 90 minutes to complete.

Once candidates have passed both exams, they will receive their CompTIA CTT+ certification which is valid for three years from the date of passing both exams.

9. Adobe Certified Associate

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using Adobe digital media software. It is designed to validate entry-level skills in digital communication, creation, and development using Adobe products. The ACA certification covers a wide range of Adobe products including Photoshop, InDesign, Animate, Dreamweaver, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Illustrator, and Acrobat Pro.

The ACA certification exam typically takes about two hours to complete. You can take the exam online or at an approved testing center. To get certified you must pass the corresponding exam for the product you are interested in becoming certified for.

The cost of the ACA certification varies depending on which product you are getting certified for. Generally speaking it costs around $180 USD for each individual exam. Additionally some training courses may be required prior to taking the exam which could add additional costs depending on where you take them from.

10. Human Resource Development Certificate

Human Resource Development Certificate (HRDC) is a professional certification offered by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) to demonstrate competency in the field of human resource management. The certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the areas of HR planning, recruitment, selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, labor relations, and organizational development.

The HRDC requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as organizational behavior, legal issues in HRM, employee motivation and performance management. The exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within three hours. The exam fee is $300 USD.

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including holding a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university; having at least two years of professional-level experience in human resources; and completing at least 60 hours of continuing education related to HR topics within the past three years.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by earning 60 credits every three years through SHRM approved activities such as attending seminars or conferences, reading books or articles related to HR topics, writing articles on HR topics or teaching courses related to HR.

Overall, obtaining the Human Resource Development Certificate can take several months depending on how quickly you can complete all the necessary requirements. It costs $300 USD for the exam fee plus any additional fees associated with continuing education activities you may choose to pursue.

11. Project Management Professional Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is a globally recognized professional credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency and knowledge in the field of project management.

The PMP certification requires applicants to have a certain amount of experience, education and training in order to be eligible for the exam. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have either a secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree or global equivalent) with at least five years of project management experience with 7,500 hours leading and directing projects, or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) and at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects.

The PMP Certification Exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions that must be completed within four hours. The exam covers five process groups: Initiating, Planning, Executing, Monitoring & Controlling and Closing; as well as nine knowledge areas: Integration Management, Scope Management, Time Management, Cost Management, Quality Management, Human Resource Management, Communications Management, Risk Management and Procurement Management.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all requirements for the PMP certification. This includes studying for the exam itself as well as completing any required coursework or training.

In order to get certified as a PMP you must first apply through PMI's website. You will need to provide proof of your educational background and work experience in order to be approved for the exam. Once you are approved you can then register for the exam on the PMI website and pay the associated fee which is currently $555 USD for members of PMI ($405 USD if renewing your certification) or $700 USD for non-members ($555 USD if renewing).

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official certificate from PMI which is valid for three years. After three years you will need to renew your certification by earning 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain your active status as a PMP certified professional.

Do You Really Need a Training Assistant Certificate?

The answer to this question will depend on the individual's specific career goals and objectives. For some, a Training Assistant Certificate may be an important step in their professional development, while for others it may not be as necessary.

If you are looking to become a training assistant or work in a related field, then having a certificate could be beneficial. It can demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter and help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs. Additionally, employers often look for candidates with certifications when hiring for certain positions. A certificate can also serve as proof that you have taken the time to acquire additional skills and knowledge related to your desired job role.

On the other hand, if you already have experience working as a training assistant or possess sufficient knowledge of the subject matter without formal certification, then obtaining one may not be necessary. Instead, it could be more beneficial to focus on gaining experience or furthering your education in order to make yourself more attractive to potential employers.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Training Assistant Certificate will depend on both your current skillset and future career goals. It is important to weigh all of your options before making any decisions so that you can make sure that whatever path you choose is best suited for your needs.

Related: Training Assistant Resume Examples

FAQs About Training Assistant Certifications

1. What is a Training Assistant Certification?

Answer: A Training Assistant Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates proficiency in the principles and practices of training, including instructional design, adult learning theory, and evaluation. It is designed to help individuals develop the skills necessary to become successful training assistants or trainers.

2. How do I become certified as a Training Assistant?

Answer: To become certified as a Training Assistant, you must successfully complete an approved certification program or examination. Depending on the program or exam you choose, you may be required to demonstrate knowledge of certain topics related to training, such as instructional design and adult learning theory. You may also need to complete continuing education requirements in order to maintain your certification status.

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Training Assistant?

Answer: Becoming a certified Training Assistant can provide many benefits for your career. These include increased job opportunities, higher pay rates, expanded career options, and greater recognition from employers and colleagues. Additionally, having a certification can demonstrate your commitment to professionalism and dedication to the field of training.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a Training Assistant Certification?

Answer: With a Training Assistant Certification, you may qualify for various positions such as corporate trainer, online instructor/tutor, human resources trainer/facilitator, or professional development consultant. You may also be able to work in educational settings as an academic advisor or curriculum designer/trainer.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a Training Assistant?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Training Assistant depends on which certification program or exam you choose and how quickly you are able to complete its requirements. Generally speaking, most programs require between 6 months and 2 years of study before taking the final exam or completing all required coursework for certification eligibility.