Top 11 Web Consultant Certifications

Certifications are important for web consultants in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that employers value. Certifications can also provide credibility, as they are often issued by respected organizations and demonstrate that the consultant has taken the time to pursue additional training and education outside of their existing experience. Additionally, certifications can help web consultants stand out from other applicants since they provide a reliable way for employers to differentiate between candidates with similar levels of experience. Finally, certifications can help open up new opportunities for web consultants, as many employers prefer to hire those who possess certifications in certain areas.

This article reviews some of the most beneficial certifications for Web Consultants and explains how they can help to advance a web consultant's career.

What are Web Consultant Certifications?

Web consultant certification is a type of professional development program that teaches the skills and processes necessary to be a successful web consultant. This includes developing technical, design, and marketing expertise in areas such as website architecture, user experience, search engine optimization (SEO), content management systems (CMS), and more.

By obtaining web consultant certification, professionals can demonstrate their knowledge and abilities to potential employers or clients. This certification also helps individuals increase their earning potential and establish credibility within the industry. Additionally, this certification allows those who are self-employed or freelancing to gain an edge over their competition by providing them with additional qualifications.

By completing the coursework for web consultant certification, individuals can gain a comprehensive understanding of web technologies and trends. They will learn how to create effective websites that meet user needs while utilizing best practices for SEO, CMS integration, website security, analytics data collection, digital marketing campaigns, and more. Furthermore, they will develop the knowledge needed to effectively communicate with clients about their projects and build trust between them and their customers. In addition to these benefits, those who receive this certification will have access to exclusive job opportunities within the industry that might not otherwise be available without this credential.

Pro Tip: When considering web consultant certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and find one that aligns with your particular skillset and goals. Additionally, look for certifications that are recognized by industry leaders and employers in order to ensure you have the best chance of getting hired.

Related: What does a Web Consultant do?

Top 11 Web Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Web Consultants today.

1. Certified Web Consultant (CWC)

Certified Web Consultant (CWC) is a certification program developed by the International Association of Web Professionals (IAWP). The CWC certification is designed to recognize and validate the skills, experience, and knowledge of professionals in the field of web consulting. It is intended to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary competencies to provide effective web consulting services.

The CWC certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in areas such as website design, development, content management systems, search engine optimization, user experience design, and digital marketing. In order to become certified, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam administered by IAWP.

The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics related to web consulting such as website design principles, usability testing methods, SEO best practices, content management systems, digital marketing strategies, and more. The exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

In order to take the CWC exam, applicants must first register with IAWP and pay a fee of $200 USD. After registering for the exam, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online test platform. Once they have completed the test successfully they will be certified as a Certified Web Consultant (CWC).

The cost of becoming a Certified Web Consultant (CWC) includes the registration fee ($200 USD) as well as any additional fees associated with taking the exam or renewing your certification every three years.

2. Certified Professional Web Developer (CPWD)

Certified Professional Web Developer (CPWD) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to design, develop, and maintain web applications. The CPWD certification is offered by the International Association of Web Professionals (IAWP), an organization that provides industry-recognized certifications for web professionals.

The CPWD certification requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL, AJAX, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. To be eligible for the CPWD certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in developing web applications or websites.

To get certified as a Certified Professional Web Developer (CPWD), applicants must first register with IAWP and pay the required fee. After registering, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. Once the exam has been completed successfully, applicants will receive their certificate within seven business days.

The cost of becoming a Certified Professional Web Developer (CPWD) varies depending on which package you choose. The basic package costs $99 USD while the premium package costs $199 USD. Both packages include access to the online exam as well as one year of IAWP membership benefits such as discounts on conferences and workshops.

3. Certified Internet Marketing Specialist (CIMS)

Certified Internet Marketing Specialist (CIMS) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals gain the knowledge and skills needed to become successful in the field of digital marketing. It is offered by the Digital Marketing Institute (DMI).

The CIMS certification program covers topics such as search engine optimization (SEO), content marketing, social media marketing, email marketing, mobile marketing, analytics and reporting, and more. The program also includes practical exercises to help students apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

The CIMS certification program takes approximately three months to complete. It consists of four modules: Introduction to Digital Marketing, Digital Strategy & Planning, Digital Execution & Measurement, and Professionalism & Ethics. Each module contains lectures, readings, case studies and assessments that must be completed before moving onto the next module.

In order to receive the CIMS certification, you must successfully complete all four modules with a score of 70% or higher on each assessment. You must also submit a portfolio showcasing your work throughout the course of the program.

The cost of the CIMS certification varies depending on where you take it from but typically ranges from $1,400 - $2,000 USD for online courses and $3,200 - $4,500 USD for in-person courses.

4. Certified Web Design Professional (CWDP)

Certified Web Design Professional (CWDP) is a certification program offered by the International Webmasters Association (IWA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of web designers. The CWDP certification consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical project.

The online exam covers topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, web design principles, usability testing, accessibility standards, and more. It is composed of multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours. Once the exam has been passed with a score of 70% or higher, the applicant can proceed to the practical project.

The practical project requires applicants to create a website from scratch using HTML5/CSS3/JavaScript technologies. Applicants must demonstrate their understanding of web design best practices by creating a website that meets all IWA standards for accessibility and usability. The project must also include features such as search engine optimization (SEO), social media integration, and responsive design.

The CWDP certification process typically takes around three months to complete from start to finish. Applicants should expect to spend at least 20 hours studying for the online exam and 40 hours working on the practical project.

The cost of obtaining the CWDP certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost between $500-$1,000 USD in total fees including registration fees, exam fees, and any additional materials required for completing the practical project.

5. Certified Web Security Professional (CWSP)

Certified Web Security Professional (CWSP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in web security. It is offered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc. (ISC2). This certification focuses on the technical aspects of web application security, such as authentication, authorization, cryptography, and secure coding practices.

The CWSP exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. The exam covers topics such as authentication methods, authorization techniques, cryptography principles, secure coding practices, web application vulnerabilities and attacks, and countermeasures.

To become certified as a CWSP, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set by ISC2. These include having at least two years of experience in information systems security or related fields and passing the CWSP exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points. You must also agree to abide by the ISC2 Code of Ethics.

The cost for taking the CWSP exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs between $500 and $600 USD per attempt to take the exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or obtaining study materials from third-party vendors.

6. Certified E-Commerce Professional (CEP)

Certified E-Commerce Professional (CEP) is a certification program offered by the International Association of E-Commerce Professionals (IAECP). The CEP program is designed to recognize and reward individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in e-commerce. It provides a comprehensive understanding of the principles, concepts, and technologies related to e-commerce.

The CEP program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as e-commerce fundamentals, digital marketing, customer service, web design, and more. The exam tests your knowledge on these topics. To earn the CEP certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The CEP program takes approximately six months to complete. It requires a significant commitment of time and effort to complete all requirements for the certification.

To get certified as a Certified E-Commerce Professional (CEP), you must first register for the IAECP’s online course and exam. After completing the coursework, you must take and pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher in order to receive your certification.

The cost for the CEP program varies depending on where you are located but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD for both the online course and exam fees combined.

7. Certified Web Analytics Professional (CWAP)

Certified Web Analytics Professional (CWAP) is an industry-recognized certification program that provides web professionals with the skills and knowledge required to effectively analyze, interpret, and report on website data. The certification is offered by the Digital Analytics Association (DAA), a non-profit professional organization dedicated to advancing the field of digital analytics.

The CWAP certification requires a minimum of 30 hours of coursework, including both online and in-person instruction. The coursework covers topics such as website analytics, data analysis techniques, reporting methods, and interpretation of results. After completing the coursework, candidates must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as a CWAP, individuals must first register for the DAA's Certified Web Analyst Program (CWAP). This program includes access to all necessary materials and resources needed for successful completion of the certification requirements. Once registered, individuals can begin taking courses at their own pace or attend live webinars and workshops hosted by the DAA.

The cost of becoming certified as a CWAP varies depending on whether you choose to take online courses or attend live events. Online courses typically range from $200-$500 USD while attending live events may cost up to $1,000 USD. Additionally, there is an exam fee of $250 USD which must be paid upon registration for the exam.

8. Certified User Experience Designer (CUED)

Certified User Experience Designer (CUED) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of experienced user experience designers. It is offered by the UX Design Institute, an international organization dedicated to advancing the field of user experience design.

The CUED certification requires applicants to have at least three years of professional experience in user experience design, as well as pass an online exam that tests their knowledge and skills in the areas of UX research, UX strategy, UX design, and UX evaluation. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first register with the UX Design Institute and pay a fee of $299 USD. Once registered, they will receive access to study materials and practice exams that can help them prepare for the actual exam. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official CUED certificate from the UX Design Institute.

The CUED certification is valid for three years from the date of issue and can be renewed by taking additional courses or attending workshops related to user experience design.

9. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer: Web Applications (MCSD:WA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer: Web Applications (MCSD:WA) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in developing web applications using Microsoft technologies. To earn this certification, individuals must demonstrate their ability to design and develop modern web applications using the latest Microsoft tools and technologies.

It typically takes about 6-12 months to prepare for the MCSD:WA certification, depending on an individual’s experience and background. To get certified, individuals must pass three exams: Exam 70-480 (Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3), Exam 70-486 (Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications), and Exam 70-487 (Developing Windows Azure and Web Services).

The cost of the MCSD:WA certification depends on the country you are located in. Generally, each exam costs around $150 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with retaking or rescheduling exams.

10. Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Associate

Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Associate (OCA) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of database administrators who are proficient in administering Oracle Database 11g. The OCA certification is an entry-level credential that demonstrates a basic understanding of the fundamentals of Oracle Database 11g administration.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to prepare for the OCA exam, depending on your prior experience and skill level. To get certified, you must pass the 1Z0-052: Oracle Database 11g: Administration I exam. This exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, backup and recovery, user management, database security, performance tuning, and more.

The cost of the OCA certification varies depending on where you take it. In general, it costs around $250 USD to take the 1Z0-052 exam.

11. Adobe Certified Expert: Dreamweaver CS6

Adobe Certified Expert: Dreamweaver CS6 is a certification program offered by Adobe to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in the use of Dreamweaver CS6. The certification is designed to validate an individual's expertise in creating, managing, and optimizing web sites using Adobe Dreamweaver CS6. To become an Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Dreamweaver CS6, an individual must pass the ACE: Dreamweaver CS6 exam.

The exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions that test an individual’s knowledge of basic and advanced features of Dreamweaver CS6. It typically takes two hours to complete the exam. In order to take the exam, you must have access to a computer with Adobe Creative Suite 6 installed on it. You can purchase the exam voucher online or at any authorized testing center.

The cost of the ACE: Dreamweaver CS6 exam varies depending on where you take it and whether or not you purchase a voucher online or at a testing center. Generally speaking, the cost for taking the exam is around $180 USD.

Do You Really Need a Web Consultant Certificate?

No, you do not need a web consultant certificate in order to become a successful web consultant. Although having one may give you an edge over your competition and demonstrate a level of knowledge and commitment to the profession, it is not necessary. There are many other ways to become an effective web consultant without having a certificate.

First, it is important to understand the basics of website design, coding, and content management. You can learn these skills through online courses or even on-the-job training. Additionally, staying up-to-date on the latest trends in web development and design is essential for success in this field. With practice and dedication, you can become knowledgeable enough to offer quality services as a web consultant without formally earning a certificate.

Second, networking with other professionals in the industry is key for any successful career path in web consulting. This will allow you to stay informed about new opportunities and gain valuable insight from experienced professionals who have already established themselves in the industry. Networking also provides access to potential clients and referrals that could help your business grow quickly.

Finally, building relationships with clients is fundamental for success as a web consultant. Having strong communication skills and being able to effectively listen to clients’ needs will ensure that they will be satisfied with the end product of their website or project. By understanding their goals and delivering results that meet their expectations, customers will be more likely to refer you to others who may need your services or continue working with you on future projects.

In conclusion, while having a certificate may look impressive on paper, it is not always necessary when becoming a successful web consultant. It is possible to gain knowledge through self-learning or training courses; network with other professionals; and build relationships with clients in order to establish yourself as an effective web consultant without needing one particular certification or diploma from an accredited institution.

Related: Web Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Web Consultant Certifications

Q1: What is a Web Consultant Certification?

A1: A Web Consultant Certification is a certification program designed to help professionals develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful web consultants. The program focuses on topics such as web development, design, marketing, analytics, and more.

Q2: How do I get certified as a Web Consultant?

A2: To become certified as a Web Consultant, you must complete an accredited certification program and pass the required exams. Some programs may also require additional coursework or other requirements in order to be eligible for the certification.

Q3: What are the benefits of becoming a Web Consultant?

A3: Becoming a certified web consultant can provide many benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, better credibility with clients, and more professional recognition. It can also provide valuable insight into how to create successful web projects.

Q4: How long does it take to become a certified Web Consultant?

A4: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a web consultant depends on the specific program you choose and your experience level. Generally speaking, most certification programs can be completed within 6-12 months depending on how much time you dedicate to studying and practicing.

Q5: Is there an exam I need to take for my Web Consultant Certification?

A5: Yes - most accredited certification programs will require you to pass an exam in order to earn your certification. The exact format of the exam will depend on the specific program you choose but generally involves multiple choice questions or short essay questions about web consulting topics.