Top 10 Training Supervisor Certifications

Certifications are important for a training supervisor in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage and lead a training team. Certifications also provide evidence of professional development, which is highly valued by employers. They can also open up opportunities for advancement within an organization, as individuals with certification credentials may be more likely to be promoted or receive higher salaries. Finally, certifications can also give potential employers confidence in the individual's ability to handle complex training scenarios and provide quality instruction.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Training Supervisors and explains how they can help enhance a training supervisor's career.

What are Training Supervisor Certifications?

Training supervisor certification is a professional credential awarded to individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and understanding of the principles and practices of effective training supervision. This certification is designed to recognize those who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in training supervision, helping employers ensure that their supervisors are well-equipped to provide high-quality instruction and guidance to their employees.

The certification process typically involves completing an approved course or program, passing an assessment of knowledge, and/or meeting certain experience requirements. Upon successful completion of these requirements, the candidate will be awarded a certificate recognizing them as a certified training supervisor. This certification can help individuals stand out in the job market by verifying they possess the skills necessary for successful training supervision. It also provides employers with assurance that their supervisors are capable of providing effective leadership and instruction within their organization. Additionally, becoming certified in training supervision allows professionals to stay up-to-date on best practices within the industry and demonstrate their commitment to professional development.

Pro Tip: Before beginning the process of supervisor certification training, make sure you have a clear understanding of the job requirements. Review any relevant material and ensure that you are familiar with all policies and procedures related to the position so that you can effectively train your supervisors.

Related: What does a Training Supervisor do?

Top 10 Training Supervisor Certifications

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

1. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a professional certification 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).

To become certified, applicants must have a minimum of two years of professional experience in training and development. They must also complete an approved course in training and development, such as those offered by IBSTPI or other accredited institutions. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass the CTDP exam to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the CTDP certification varies depending on the institution offering the coursework. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 to $2,500 USD. The time it takes to complete the program depends on how quickly you can learn and apply the material covered in the coursework. Most students are able to complete their studies within six months to one year.

2. Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is a professional certification offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD). The CPLP certification recognizes professionals who demonstrate expertise in designing, developing, delivering, and evaluating learning and performance initiatives.

The CPLP designation requires that applicants have a minimum of three years of experience in the field of learning and performance. In addition to the experience requirement, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as instructional design principles, training delivery methods, performance improvement strategies, evaluation techniques, and more.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for the CPLP exam. During this time, applicants should review the ATD Body of Knowledge which outlines all of the topics covered on the exam. Additionally, applicants may choose to take an online or classroom-based preparation course or study guide to help them better understand the material covered on the exam.

The cost of obtaining a CPLP certification varies depending on whether you are an ATD member or non-member. For members, it costs $495 for the exam application fee plus $395 for each part of the exam taken ($790 total). For non-members it costs $695 for the exam application fee plus $495 for each part of the exam taken ($990 total).

3. Certified Training Manager (CTM)

Certified Training Manager (CTM) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of training and development. The CTM certification is offered by the American Society for Training & Development (ASTD).

The CTM program consists of three parts: an online self-assessment, a comprehensive online course, and a final exam. The self-assessment helps participants identify their areas of strength and weakness in training and development. The comprehensive course covers topics such as instructional design, adult learning principles, training delivery methods, evaluation techniques, and more. The final exam tests participants’ knowledge of these topics.

It typically takes about three months to complete all three parts of the CTM program. Participants must also complete at least two years of professional experience in the field of training and development before they can be eligible for certification.

The cost to become certified as a CTM varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 to $2,500 USD.

4. Certified Organizational Trainer (COT)

Certified Organizational Trainer (COT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who are responsible for designing, delivering, and evaluating training programs in organizations. COT is offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), a leading professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of workplace learning and performance.

The COT certification program consists of three courses: Foundations of Training Delivery, Instructional Design Fundamentals, and Evaluating Training Programs. To become certified as a COT, you must complete all three courses within two years. Each course takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete.

To get started on your journey to becoming a Certified Organizational Trainer (COT), you must first join ATD as an individual member or through your organization. Once you have joined ATD, you can purchase the COT Certification Program from their website for $1,295 USD. After purchasing the program, you will be given access to all three courses which can be completed online at your own pace over two years. Upon successful completion of all three courses, you will receive your official Certified Organizational Trainer (COT) certification from ATD.

5. Certified Instructional Designer (CID)

Certified Instructional Designer (CID) is a professional certification that recognizes instructional design professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field. It is offered by the Association for Talent Development (ATD), formerly known as the American Society for Training and Development (ASTD). The CID credential is designed to provide employers with assurance that those who hold it have met the highest standards of excellence in instructional design.

The CID certification consists of two parts: an ATD Certification Institute (CI) course and an exam. The CI course provides instruction on how to apply adult learning principles, use technology-based tools, develop performance objectives, and evaluate training effectiveness. The exam is a comprehensive assessment of knowledge and skills related to instructional design.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete both parts of the CID certification process. However, this timeline can vary depending on individual circumstances such as prior experience or available study time.

To earn the CID credential, individuals must first register for the CI course through ATD’s website. After completing the course, they must then pass the CID exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of obtaining the CID certification varies depending on whether you are an ATD member or non-member. For ATD members, it costs $1,595 to take the CI course and $395 to take the exam. For non-members, it costs $2,095 for both parts of the certification process.

6. Certified Master Trainer (CMT)

A Certified Master Trainer (CMT) is an individual who has achieved the highest level of professional certification in the field of training, instruction, and facilitation. The CMT credential is awarded by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET). It is a mark of excellence that demonstrates a trainer’s commitment to providing quality training and instruction.

To become a CMT, applicants must demonstrate their expertise in several areas including instructional design, learning theory, adult education principles, and assessment techniques. They must also have at least five years of experience as a trainer or instructor and complete an approved IACET-accredited program.

The process to become a CMT typically takes 6-12 months depending on the applicant’s prior experience and knowledge. Applicants must first complete an IACET-accredited program which includes coursework in instructional design, learning theory, adult education principles, and assessment techniques. After completing the program, applicants must submit an application to IACET for review. Once approved by IACET, applicants can take the final exam to become certified.

The cost for becoming a CMT varies depending on the applicant’s location and chosen program provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $2,000-$4,000 USD for tuition fees alone. Additional fees may apply such as registration fees or exam fees.

7. Certified Performance Technologist (CPT)

Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) is a professional certification offered by the International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in the area of performance technology. The CPT certification is an internationally recognized credential that shows employers and clients that you have the skills to develop, implement, and evaluate performance improvement initiatives.

To become certified as a CPT, you must first meet the prerequisites and then pass the CPT exam. The prerequisites include having a minimum of two years of experience in performance improvement or related field, such as instructional design or training and development. You must also provide proof of at least 20 hours of professional development activities within the past three years.

The CPT exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as performance analysis, intervention selection, evaluation methods, learning theory, change management, project management, and more. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete.

To get your CPT certification you must register with ISPI and pay an application fee ($150 for members/$200 for nonmembers). Once you are approved to take the exam you will need to pay an additional fee ($250 for members/$300 for nonmembers). After passing the exam you will receive your official CPT certificate from ISPI.

8. International Society for Performance Improvement Certification (ISPI-CPT)

The International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) Certified Performance Technologist (CPT) certification is a professional credential awarded to individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, implement, and evaluate performance improvement initiatives.

To obtain the CPT certification, applicants must have at least three years of experience in the field of performance improvement or related fields. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as performance analysis, instructional design, training delivery, and evaluation. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete.

Once the exam has been passed successfully, applicants will be awarded their CPT certification. This certification is valid for three years from the date it is issued and can be renewed by taking continuing education courses or retaking the exam every three years.

The cost of obtaining the CPT certification varies depending on whether you are a member of ISPI or not. For non-members, the fee is $450 USD while members pay $350 USD.

9. The Association for Talent Development’s Master Trainer Certificate Program

The Association for Talent Development’s (ATD) Master Trainer Certificate Program is a comprehensive, professional development program designed to help trainers and facilitators become more effective in their roles. The program consists of three courses that focus on the core competencies of training and facilitation. Each course is designed to build upon the skills learned in the previous one, culminating in a final project that demonstrates mastery of the material.

The program takes approximately 12 months to complete, depending on how quickly you work through the material. To get started, you must first register for the program and pay the associated fee. The cost of the program is $2,495 USD, which includes all materials and access to online resources.

Once registered, you will be able to access the course materials and begin working through them at your own pace. You will need to complete each course before moving on to the next one. After completing all three courses, you will be required to submit a final project demonstrating mastery of the material. Once your project has been reviewed and accepted by ATD staff, you will receive your Master Trainer Certificate from ATD.

10. American Society for Training & Development’s Master Trainer Certificate Program

The American Society for Training & Development’s (ASTD) Master Trainer Certificate Program is a comprehensive training program designed to help trainers and educators become more effective in their work. The program is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge and skills that are essential for successful training delivery.

The program consists of four modules, which can be completed in any order: Instructional Design, Facilitation Skills, Training Delivery, and Evaluation. Each module includes readings, activities, and assessments that must be completed before the certificate can be awarded. The modules are available online or in a classroom setting with an instructor.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the program depending on the individual’s learning pace. To get started, individuals must first apply to ASTD and pay a $50 application fee. Once accepted into the program, individuals will need to purchase the course materials at a cost of $1,000 per module or $3,600 for all four modules.

Upon completion of all four modules and passing all assessments with a minimum score of 80%, individuals will receive their Master Trainer Certificate from ASTD. This certificate signifies that they have achieved the highest level of professional development in training and development practices.

Do You Really Need a Training Supervisor Certificate?

Whether or not you need a training supervisor certificate depends on your particular career goals and the requirements of the job for which you are applying. In some cases, having a training supervisor certificate may be beneficial in that it demonstrates to potential employers that you have taken the time to invest in improving your skills as a trainer. It can also provide employers with an assurance that you have a basic understanding of the principles of effective training and supervision.

However, depending on the context, having a training supervisor certificate may not always be necessary. For instance, if you are already working as a trainer in an organization and have been successful in that role without any formal certification, then it may not be necessary to obtain one. Similarly, if you are just starting out in your career and do not yet have any experience as a trainer or supervisor, then obtaining such certification may not be necessary either. Ultimately, it is important to consider your individual situation before deciding whether or not to pursue certification.

Related: Training Supervisor Resume Examples

FAQs About Training Supervisor Certifications

1. What is a Training Supervisor Certification?

Answer: A Training Supervisor Certification is a formal credential that verifies an individual’s ability to effectively manage and lead a training program. It demonstrates knowledge in areas such as instructional design, curriculum development, and training delivery.

2. How do I obtain a Training Supervisor Certification?

Answer: To obtain a Training Supervisor Certification you must complete the necessary coursework and pass the certification exam. The requirements vary by organization, so it is important to check with the specific certifying body for more information.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the organization offering the certification, as well as how much prior experience and/or education you have in the field of training supervision. Generally, it can take anywhere from three months to two years depending on these factors.

4. What are the benefits of having a Training Supervisor Certification?

Answer: Having a Training Supervisor Certification can provide employers with assurance that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge for managing and leading training programs effectively. Additionally, having this credential can open up opportunities for career advancement and salary increases within your current organization or when looking for new job opportunities.

5. Are there any special requirements or prerequisites for getting certified?

Answer: Yes, some certifying bodies may require candidates to have certain levels of experience or education before they can take their certification exam. Additionally, some organizations may also require candidates to complete additional courses or workshops before they can become certified