Top 11 Training Manager Certifications

Certifications are important for a training manager in the job market because they demonstrate that the individual has specific knowledge and skills related to the role. This can provide employers with an assurance that the training manager is qualified and capable of performing the job duties. Certifications also show that a training manager is up-to-date on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in the field, which can be beneficial for organizations looking for experienced professionals who can make an immediate impact. Additionally, certifications can help set a training manager apart from other applicants and increase their chances of getting hired.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Training Managers, and explains how they can help to advance a training manager's career.

What are Training Manager Certifications?

Training Manager Certification is a professional certification for individuals who specialize in the management of training and development in organizations. This certification demonstrates that the individual has achieved a certain level of expertise in the field and understands the principles, theories, and practices related to successful training and development.

The certification can help professionals become more marketable in their field by showing employers that they have received formal recognition of their skills and knowledge. It also helps them stay current with trends in the industry, as well as providing networking opportunities with other professionals who hold similar certifications. By obtaining this certification, an individual will be able to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in training and development management. Additionally, it provides credibility to those who have been certified when applying for jobs or seeking promotions within their current positions.

Overall, Training Manager Certification can help individuals stand out from other applicants by demonstrating their dedication to understanding best practices for training and development management. It also serves as a valuable asset for employers looking for qualified professionals for positions involving training and development management.

Pro Tip: When considering a training manager certification, look for programs that provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities. This will help you gain the skills and resources needed to become a successful training manager.

Related: What does a Training Manager do?

Top 11 Training Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a professional certification program designed for those who want to demonstrate their expertise in the field of learning and performance improvement. It is administered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly known as the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD).

The CPLP certification requires applicants to have a combination of experience, education, and knowledge in the field of learning and performance improvement. To become certified, an applicant must pass two exams: Knowledge Exam and Application Exam. The Knowledge Exam tests an individual’s understanding of learning principles, instructional design models, evaluation strategies, and other topics related to learning and performance improvement. The Application Exam tests an individual’s ability to apply these concepts to real-world situations.

It typically takes about 12-18 months to complete the CPLP certification process. Applicants must first register with ATD, then complete all required coursework before taking the two exams. After passing both exams, applicants must also complete a portfolio project that demonstrates their mastery of the CPLP competencies.

The cost of obtaining the CPLP certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ATD. For members, it costs $1,395; for non-members it costs $1,595. This fee covers registration fees for both exams as well as access to online study materials.

2. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of training and development. The certification is offered by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI).

The CTDP certification program consists of two parts: an online exam and a portfolio review. The online exam is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge of training and development concepts, practices, and principles. The portfolio review evaluates an individual’s experience in the field as well as their ability to apply the knowledge they have acquired through their studies.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CTDP certification process. During this time, individuals must complete the online exam and submit their portfolio for review. Once both components are completed successfully, individuals will receive their official CTDP certificate from IBSTPI.

The cost of obtaining a CTDP certification varies depending on the country where you are applying from. In general, it costs around $500 USD to take the online exam and another $200 USD for the portfolio review fee.

3. Certified Training Manager (CTM)

Certified Training Manager (CTM) is a certification program designed for individuals who are responsible for managing and leading training programs. The CTM certification is offered by the International Board of Certified Trainers (IBCT). It is an internationally recognized credential that provides recognition of expertise in training management and leadership.

The CTM program consists of two parts: a comprehensive online course and an examination. The online course covers topics such as planning, designing, delivering, evaluating, and managing training programs. The examination tests knowledge in these areas.

The entire CTM program can be completed within six months to one year depending on the individual’s availability and commitment. To get certified, applicants must successfully complete the online course and pass the examination with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of the CTM certification varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD to become certified.

4. ASTD Certification Institute’s Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM)

ASTD Certification Institute’s Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and competencies of training professionals. It is an industry-recognized certification that validates the expertise of individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the design, delivery, and evaluation of training programs.

The CPTM credential requires successful completion of three components: a comprehensive exam, professional development activities, and a portfolio review. The comprehensive exam covers topics such as training needs assessment, instructional design and delivery, evaluation techniques, and project management. The professional development activities are tailored to each individual's experience level; they may include attending workshops or seminars related to training management or completing online courses. Finally, the portfolio review requires applicants to submit evidence of their work in the field of training management for review by ASTD Certification Institute assessors.

It typically takes 6-9 months to complete all requirements for the CPTM credential. To get started on this process you must first register with ASTD Certification Institute and pay the required fees ($495 for members/$595 for non-members). Once registered you will be given access to study materials and resources as well as information about upcoming workshops or seminars related to training management that can help you prepare for your exam. After successfully completing all three components you will receive your CPTM credential from ASTD Certification Institute.

5. International Society for Performance Improvement's Certified Performance Technologist (CPT)

The Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) is a professional certification program offered by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of performance improvement skills and principles. The CPT is an internationally recognized credential that provides evidence of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of performance improvement.

To become certified as a CPT, applicants must meet certain qualifications and pass a comprehensive exam. Applicants must have at least three years of experience in the performance improvement field and hold either a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university.

The CPT exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as human performance technology, needs assessment, intervention design and implementation, evaluation, organizational development, change management, and instructional design. The exam takes about four hours to complete.

In order to apply for the CPT certification exam, applicants must submit an application along with proof of their educational background and work experience. Once approved for the exam, applicants can register online through ISPI’s website or by mail. The cost of the exam is $395 for ISPI members or $495 for non-members.

Once applicants pass the CPT exam they will receive their official certification documents from ISPI verifying their status as a Certified Performance Technologist. This certification is valid for five years before it must be renewed through additional continuing education credits or retaking the CPT exam.

6. Association for Talent Development’s Master Trainer Certificate Program

The Association for Talent Development’s (ATD) Master Trainer Certificate Program is a comprehensive certification program designed to recognize the expertise of experienced trainers. The program includes a series of courses, assessments, and activities that help participants develop their skills as trainers.

The program takes approximately nine months to complete and consists of seven modules: Facilitation Skills, Training Design, Instructional Delivery, Performance Improvement Strategies, Evaluation Techniques, Technology-Based Training Solutions, and Professionalism in Training. Each module requires participants to complete a number of activities such as reading assignments, online discussions, case studies, and quizzes.

To get the ATD Master Trainer Certificate Program certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in training or related fields. They must also pass an assessment at the end of each module with a score of 80% or higher. Once all seven modules are completed successfully, applicants will receive their certificate from ATD.

The cost for the ATD Master Trainer Certificate Program is $2195 USD for members and $2495 USD for non-members. This fee covers all seven modules as well as access to additional resources such as webinars and discussion forums.

7. Project Management Institute's Project Management Professional (PMP)

The Project Management Institute's Project Management Professional (PMP) is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of project management. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and experience in managing projects, as well as their ability to apply the principles of project management to real-world situations.

In order to qualify for the PMP certification, applicants must meet certain educational and professional experience requirements. 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 and 35 hours of project management education; or a four-year degree (bachelor’s degree or global equivalent) with at least three years of project management experience with 4,500 hours leading and directing projects and 35 hours of project management education.

Once you have met the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the PMP exam online through the PMI website. The exam consists of 200 multiple choice questions which must be completed within four hours. The cost for the exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI, but typically ranges from $405-$555 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official PMP certification which is valid for three years. After three years, you must complete 60 professional development units (PDUs) every three years in order to maintain your certification status.

8. American Society for Quality's Quality Assurance Manager Certification

The American Society for Quality's Quality Assurance Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of quality assurance. This certification is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of quality assurance, as well as the ability to effectively manage a quality assurance program.

The certification requires applicants to have at least three years of experience in the field of quality assurance, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers topics such as project management, process improvement, customer satisfaction, risk management, statistical analysis, and problem solving. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first register for the exam through ASQ’s website. After registering, they will receive an email with instructions on how to access their online testing account. The cost of registration is $400 USD. Once registered, applicants can schedule their exam at any one of ASQ’s authorized testing centers around the world.

Once all requirements are met and the exam is successfully completed, applicants will be awarded their Quality Assurance Manager Certification from ASQ. This certification is valid for three years before it needs to be renewed by taking a recertification exam every three years or completing continuing education credits each year.

9. International Association of Facilitators' Certified Professional Facilitator

The International Association of Facilitators (IAF) Certified Professional Facilitator (CPF) is a professional certification program that recognizes facilitators who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to be an effective, competent facilitator. It is designed to provide a standard of excellence for facilitators and to promote the profession of facilitation.

To become an IAF CPF, applicants must complete a three-step process:

1. Prerequisites: Applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in facilitation or related fields, such as training, consulting, coaching, or project management. They must also have completed at least 40 hours of approved facilitation training and be able to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in facilitation through a portfolio review.

2. Exam: After meeting the prerequisites, applicants can take the IAF CPF exam which consists of multiple-choice questions about facilitation theory and practice. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and costs $495 USD.

3. Certification: Once applicants pass the exam they will receive their IAF CPF certification from the International Association of Facilitators. This certification is valid for three years before it must be renewed by completing continuing education requirements and submitting a renewal fee of $150 USD.

The cost for becoming an IAF CPF includes both the exam fee ($495 USD) and the renewal fee ($150 USD).

10. International Coaching Federation's Professional Certified Coach

The International Coaching Federation’s Professional Certified Coach (PCC) is the highest level of credential that the ICF offers. It is a globally recognized certification that demonstrates a coach’s commitment to excellence in coaching and their ability to meet the ICF’s high standards.

In order to become an ICF Professional Certified Coach, you must have completed at least 125 hours of coach-specific training from an ICF-accredited program, plus 10 hours of mentor coaching with an ICF-credentialed coach. You must also pass the ICF’s assessment process, which includes a written exam and a live coaching demonstration with an assessor.

It typically takes between three and five years to complete all of the requirements for the PCC. The cost of becoming certified can vary depending on where you take your training courses and how long it takes you to complete them. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$10,000 USD to become certified as an ICF Professional Certified Coach.

11. Scrum Alliance’s Scrum Master Certification

Scrum Alliance’s Scrum Master Certification is a professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their understanding of the Scrum framework, and their ability to apply it in real-world situations. The certification is based on the Scrum Guide, which was created by Ken Schwaber and Jeff Sutherland.

The certification process typically takes between two and four weeks to complete, depending on your prior knowledge and experience with Scrum. To get certified, you must first take an online assessment that tests your knowledge of Scrum principles and practices. Once you pass the assessment, you will be invited to attend a two-day classroom training course. During this course, you will learn more about the various aspects of the Scrum framework and how to apply them in practice. After completing the course, you will take a final exam which will assess your understanding of the material covered during the training. Upon successful completion of both assessments, you will receive your official certification from the Scrum Alliance.

The cost for taking the assessment and attending the two-day classroom training course varies depending on where you live; however, it generally ranges from $1,000 - $2,000 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the final exam or renewing your certification every two years.

Do You Really Need a Training Manager Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual goals. If you are considering a career in training and development, then a professional certificate can be beneficial. A certificate will give you credibility with employers, as well as an understanding of the fundamentals needed to become a successful training manager. It will also provide you with the skills necessary to effectively manage and lead training programs.

However, if you have prior experience in the field or are already an experienced trainer, then a certification may not be necessary. In these cases, it is best to focus on building up your experience and knowledge base through continued education and on-the-job training. This will ensure that you are current on trends and best practices in the field and are better able to apply them when managing training programs.

Overall, whether or not you need a training manager certificate will depend on your individual goals and circumstances. If certifications are important for your career path or desired job role, then obtaining one is highly recommended. On the other hand, if certifications are not essential for your position or desired job role, then it may be better to focus on developing your skillset through continued education and experience in the field.

Related: Training Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Training Manager Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for Training Managers?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available for Training Managers, such as Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM), Certified Training Manager (CTM), and Master Trainer Certification (MTC).

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The amount of time required to become certified varies depending on the certification program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs require at least one year of experience in training management before you can qualify to sit for the certification exam.

3. How much does it cost to get certified?

Answer: Costs vary depending on the certification program you choose, but most range from $200-$600 USD.

4. What is the best certification program for Training Managers?

Answer: The best certification program is dependent upon your individual goals and needs. It is important to research the different programs available and determine which one is right for you based on cost, requirements, and other factors.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs have some type of prerequisite requirement such as experience or education in training management or related fields. It is important to check with each specific program to determine what its requirements are prior to enrolling in a course or sitting for an exam.