Top 10 Visual Coordinator Certifications

Certifications are important for a visual coordinator in the job market because they demonstrate expertise in the field and provide proof of specialized knowledge. Certifications can also give employers assurance that their visual coordinators have the skills necessary to successfully complete tasks. With certifications, visual coordinators are able to demonstrate their competency and stand out from other candidates, which can help them get hired. Additionally, certifications may provide access to certain positions or opportunities that would otherwise be unavailable.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Visual Coordinators and explains how they can enhance their career prospects.

What are Visual Coordinator Certifications?

Visual coordinator certification is a program designed to teach professionals the essential skills needed to create and manage visual content on various platforms. This includes topics such as graphic design, photography, video production, and web design. Through this certification program, individuals will gain an in-depth understanding of how to effectively use visuals across multiple mediums. Visual coordinator certification can help individuals develop the necessary skillset to create compelling visuals that engage audiences and drive results. By learning how to optimize visuals for different channels and platforms, certified visual coordinators can help businesses maximize their online presence and grow their brand visibility. Additionally, this certification provides valuable insight into the latest trends in visual content creation, allowing professionals to stay ahead of the curve when it comes to creating engaging visuals for their clients.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a Visual Coordinator Certification, make sure to become familiar with the industry standards and best practices for visual communications. This includes understanding the principles of design, typography, color theory and layout techniques. Additionally, make sure to take advantage of any online training courses or workshops available to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in visual communication.

Related: What does a Visual Coordinator do?

Top 10 Visual Coordinator Certifications

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

1. Certified Visual Coordinator (CVC)

Certified Visual Coordinator (CVC) is a certification program offered by the International Visual Merchandising and Design Association (IVMDA). The CVC certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a deep understanding of visual merchandising principles and practices. It is intended to provide employers with an assurance that the individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully manage a store’s visual presentation.

The CVC program consists of two parts: an online course and an in-person assessment. The online course covers topics such as visual merchandising fundamentals, store design, product presentation, signage, lighting, window displays, and more. The assessment includes a written exam and practical evaluation of the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes about six months from start to finish to complete the CVC program. To get started, individuals must first register for the online course through IVMDA's website. Once registered, candidates will receive access to all materials needed for the course including textbooks, videos, quizzes, and other resources. After completing the online portion of the program, candidates can then schedule their in-person assessment at one of IVMDA's approved testing centers.

The cost of obtaining a Certified Visual Coordinator certification varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs $399 USD while premium packages range from $599-$799 USD depending on additional services included such as one-on-one coaching or job placement assistance.

2. Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM)

Certified Visual Merchandiser (CVM) is a professional certification that recognizes an individual's expertise in visual merchandising. Visual merchandising is the practice of creating attractive displays and presentations to promote products in retail stores, online stores, and other commercial spaces. A Certified Visual Merchandiser has demonstrated their knowledge of visual merchandising techniques and best practices.

The CVM certification is offered by the International Visual Merchandising Association (IVMA). To become certified, individuals must complete an IVMA-accredited training program and pass a written exam. The training program typically consists of 30 hours of instruction over a period of two to three weeks.

The cost for the CVM certification varies depending on the institution offering the program. Generally, it costs between $500 and $1,000 to become certified.

3. Certified Visual Display Specialist (CVDS)

Certified Visual Display Specialist (CVDS) is a certification program designed to recognize professionals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of visual display technology. The CVDS certification is offered by the Society for Information Display (SID), an international organization dedicated to advancing the science and technology of visual displays.

The CVDS certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in the field of visual display technology through a combination of tests, interviews, and presentations. To become certified, applicants must pass two exams: one on general visual display concepts and another on specific technologies such as LCDs, LEDs, projection systems, etc. Applicants must also provide evidence of at least five years of relevant work experience and submit a written portfolio demonstrating their knowledge and skills.

The entire process typically takes several months to complete. The cost for the CVDS certification varies depending on the applicant’s country or region but generally ranges from $1,500-$2,000 USD.

4. Certified Visual Retail Professional (CVRP)

Certified Visual Retail Professional (CVRP) is a certification program offered by the National Retail Federation (NRF). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in visual merchandising, store design, and retail operations. The CVRP certification is an industry-recognized credential that can help professionals stand out from the competition and increase their career opportunities.

The CVRP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as visual merchandising principles, store design, customer service, and retail operations. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. Applicants must also have at least two years of professional experience in the retail industry.

To obtain the CVRP certification, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee of $250 USD. Once approved, applicants will receive their certificate within four weeks. They will also be listed on the NRF's online directory of certified professionals.

The CVRP certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another exam. Renewal fees are $150 USD per year.

5. Certified Visual Design Professional (CVDP)

Certified Visual Design Professional (CVDP) is a certification that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in visual design principles, processes, and tools. It is a comprehensive certification program that covers the fundamentals of visual design, including color theory, typography, layout, composition, branding and identity systems. The CVDP certification is administered by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA).

The CVDP certification process involves passing a written exam that tests the candidate’s knowledge of visual design principles and processes. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. Candidates must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their skills in visual design.

To become certified as a CVDP, candidates must first complete an application form and pay the required fee. The fee for the exam varies depending on the country in which you are taking it; however, it typically ranges between $150-$200 USD. After submitting their application and paying the fee, candidates will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. Once they have passed the exam, they will be eligible to receive their official certificate from AIGA.

The entire process typically takes around 4-6 weeks from start to finish.

6. Certified Window Display Designer (CWDD)

Certified Window Display Designer (CWDD) is a professional certification program for individuals who design, install and manage window displays. This certification is offered through the International Window Display Association (IWDA). It is designed to provide recognition of a designer’s knowledge and skills in the field of window display design.

The CWDD program consists of two parts: a written exam and an on-site evaluation. The written exam covers topics such as visual merchandising, creative concepts, store layout, lighting, product placement and more. After passing the written exam, candidates must complete an on-site evaluation at an IWDA-approved location. During this evaluation, the candidate will demonstrate their ability to create a professional window display that meets IWDA standards.

The cost of getting certified depends on the country you are in but generally ranges from $200-$400 USD. The process can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months depending on how quickly you can complete all the required steps. To get started with your application process visit the IWDA website for more information about requirements and fees.

7. Certified Visual Merchandising Manager (CVMM)

Certified Visual Merchandising Manager (CVMM) is a certification program offered by the International Visual Merchandising Institute (IVMI). It is designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage visual merchandising operations. The certification provides recognition of expertise in the field and can be used as a tool for career advancement.

The CVMM program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site assessment. The online course covers topics such as visual merchandising principles, store design, product display, customer service, and marketing. It takes approximately 8 to 10 weeks to complete the online course.

The on-site assessment is conducted by a certified IVMI instructor and consists of a written exam and practical exercises. This portion of the certification process typically takes 4 to 6 hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CVMM certification, applicants must successfully complete both parts of the program and pay a fee that varies depending on location. The fee typically ranges from $400-$600 USD.

8. Certified Visual Presentation Designer (CVPD)

Certified Visual Presentation Designer (CVPD) is a professional certification that recognizes and validates the skills of visual presentation designers. It is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals who possess the knowledge and experience necessary to design effective visual presentations.

The certification process takes approximately 6-12 months and involves a combination of self-study, workshops, and exams. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $1,000-$2,000 for the entire program.

To become certified as a CVPD, applicants must first complete an approved training course or workshop. After completing the course or workshop, applicants must then pass an exam administered by either the Association of Professional Presentation Designers (APPD) or Certified Visual Presentation Designers International (CVPDI).

Once all requirements are met, applicants can apply for certification with either APPD or CVPDI. Upon successful completion of their application process and verification of credentials, applicants will be issued a certificate recognizing them as a Certified Visual Presentation Designer.

9. Certified Visual Brand Strategist (CVBS)

Certified Visual Brand Strategist (CVBS) is a professional certification program designed to equip professionals with the skills and knowledge needed to create, manage, and measure successful visual brand strategies. It is offered by the Visual Brand Institute, an international organization dedicated to helping companies create effective visual brand strategies.

The CVBS certification requires a minimum of 8 hours of training in topics such as visual design principles, brand identity development, digital marketing, and analytics. The program also includes online assessments and interactive activities to test and assess the student’s knowledge.

To get certified as a CVBS, applicants must first complete the required training course and pass the online assessment. After that, they must submit their application for review by the Visual Brand Institute’s Certification Committee. Once approved, applicants will receive their official CVBS certificate.

The cost of the CVBS certification program varies depending on whether or not you are an existing member of the Visual Brand Institute. For non-members, it costs $499 USD for the full 8-hour course plus assessment fees; for members of the institute it costs $399 USD for the same package.

10. Certified Store Planner and Space Planner (CSPP)

Certified Store Planner and Space Planner (CSPP) is a professional certification program designed to help retail professionals understand the principles of store design, space planning, and visual merchandising. The program provides comprehensive training in store planning, space planning, visual merchandising, customer service, and retail operations.

The CSPP certification program includes online coursework and an in-person workshop. The online coursework covers topics such as store layout, customer experience design, product placement strategies, display techniques, and more. The in-person workshop focuses on hands-on practice with store design software and tools.

It typically takes 8 weeks to complete the CSPP program. To get started, you must first register for the program by completing an application form. Once accepted into the program, you will be provided with access to the online course materials and information about upcoming workshops.

The cost of the CSPP certification program varies depending on your location. In general, it costs around $1,500 USD for the entire 8 week program. This includes all course materials and access to the workshop sessions.

Do You Really Need a Visual Coordinator Certificate?

The short answer is no. A visual coordinator certificate is not a requirement for any job, and there are many successful visual coordinators who do not have any formal training or certification in the field. However, having a visual coordinator certificate can be beneficial for those looking to gain more experience in the field and demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

Having a certificate can give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs, as it will show that you have been trained in the specific skills needed to be successful in the role. It may also help you to stand out from other candidates when networking with potential employers or clients. Additionally, having a specialized certificate can open up more career opportunities within the industry, such as teaching or consulting roles.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a visual coordinator certificate depends on your individual goals and needs. If you are just starting out in the field and want to gain some basic knowledge about visual coordination, then it may not be necessary for you to pursue a formal certification program. However, if you are looking to advance your career or increase your earning potential within the industry, then obtaining a certificate could prove beneficial in helping you reach those goals.

Related: Visual Coordinator Resume Examples

FAQs About Visual Coordinator Certifications

1. What is a Visual Coordinator Certification?

Answer: A Visual Coordinator Certification is a credential that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the coordination and management of visual projects, including the planning, development, and implementation of visual materials.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified as a Visual Coordinator, you must pass an exam administered by an accredited organization such as International Association for Visual Coordinators (IAVC). You must also meet other requirements such as completing courses in graphic design, project management, and visual communication.

3. Are there any prerequisites for certification?

Answer: Yes, you must have at least two years of experience in visual project coordination or management to be eligible for certification. You may also need to complete additional courses or training related to graphic design, project management, and/or visual communication.

4. How long does it take to earn a Visual Coordinator Certification?

Answer: It typically takes 6-12 months to complete all the requirements for certification depending on your prior experience and study habits. It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to prepare for the certification exam in order to achieve success.

5. Is there an annual renewal process for my certification?

Answer: Yes, you will need to renew your certification every year in order to maintain its validity. This generally involves submitting proof of continuing education hours or completing online refresher courses related to the topics covered in the original exam.