Are you looking for a simple way to advance your career? Professional certificate programs can help you get that promotion or even step into a new career. 

As someone who has completed a certification program in education, I have seen the advantages of these programs personally. I’ve also seen how colleagues have benefited from completing certificates to help them acquire new skills and explore career opportunities. 

What are certificates and certifications? More importantly, are they worth it? We’ll explore these questions and provide a list of certificate programs to consider. 

What’s a Certificate vs. Certification?

A certificate shows that participants have completed a program designed to teach skills or information. A certification is more rigorous and tests participants on their skills or knowledge. 

There are two different types of certificates: professional certificates and academic certificates. Although both are valuable, an academic certificate can be applied toward college credit. If you're considering getting a degree at some point in the future, an academic certificate acts as a stepping stone.

Are Career Certificates Worth It?

Yes! Career certificates and certifications can help participants qualify for new jobs and careers. According to a study by the Lumina Foundation, people who had completed certifications had better quality jobs, job satisfaction, and career advancement opportunities than those who hadn’t completed any postsecondary education. 

Certificate Programs in Technology

Are you a computer nerd? Then this is the certification and certificate programs list for you. 

1. IT and Networking

This area focuses on IT support, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and networking. In these roles, you’ll protect data and keep companies safe from security breaches. There are several important certificates and certifications to consider such as the Google IT Support Certificate which will help you learn the ropes for an entry-level IT support position. 

The Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a must for breaking into the networking industry. Obtaining this certification will prepare you to become a network specialist, network administrator, IT support specialist, or network engineer. 

2. Software Development

From building websites and apps to managing the systems that keep computers and digital devices running, software development is a large field. Explore web development, software engineering, and app development, among others. One popular certification to get started is the CompTIA ITF+. This certification teaches you the basic technology skills you’ll need to succeed in software development and applications. 

3. Data Science and Analytics

Do you enjoy telling stories with numbers? Making sense of data is important for many companies. If you’d like a career change, certificate programs can help you get started. Learn essential skills like data cleansing and data visualization with Google’s Data Analytics Certificate. This introductory course will also help you learn to use essential tools like SQL and Python. 

Certificate Programs in Healthcare

Are you considering a healthcare career? Take our quiz to discover which area of healthcare is the best fit for you. 

4. Nursing and Patient Care

If you’re interested in starting your career in patient care, some options include nursing assistants, medical assistants, and patient care technicians. To get started, you’ll need to take an education course ahead of an exam such as NNAAP (National Nurse Aide Assessment Program) or the NCLEX, which is the standard exam for entry-level nurses. 

If you are already a nurse looking to advance your career, consider specialty certifications offered by The American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Certification Program. You can specialize in areas such as cardiac care, pain management, pediatric nursing, and more. 

5. Health Administration

Administration is a key part of healthcare, including roles in medical billing and coding. A dual certification, Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and Certified Professional Biller (CPB) is a popular and well-recognized option.  

6. Specialized Healthcare Fields

If you’re considering a healthcare career, areas like phlebotomy and radiology are excellent options for entry-level positions. You might also consider becoming an ECG technician, someone who specializes in performing basic exams on the heart. Certifications in these areas typically require some practical experience gained through an internship or on-the-job training. 

Certificate Programs in Business and Management

For those with a passion for business, certification programs lists include focuses like project management and HR. On the fence? Take our quiz to discover if business is the right career area for you. 

7. Project Management

Do you like motivating teams and ensuring deadlines are met? Good project management is essential to keep companies on track to reach goals. Certifications such as the Project Management Professional or Certified Associate in Project Management demonstrate that you have what it takes to lead a team. In addition to planning and monitoring, project managers also assess risks, manage conflict, work with suppliers and contractors, and more. 

8. Human Resources

Human Resources professionals help companies recruit and retain staff and also manage employee benefits. SHRM-CP (Society for Human Resource Management - Certified Professional) and PHR (Professional in Human Resources) are ideal if you're new to the world of HR or if you want to advance your career with a certificate.     

9. Business Analysis

Business analysts play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing needs in a company. Some popular certifications include the CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional). This certification is ideal for professionals with experience, as candidates must prove 7,500 hours of relevant experience in the last 10 years. 

Certificate Programs in Education

Do you wonder if you have what it takes to make it in education? Find out if your experience and passions align with a career in education with our free quiz. 

10. Teaching and Education Administration

The requirements for aspiring teachers vary by state. In most states, teachers must be certified by Praxis in relevant exams. If you’re looking to start your career, you may consider getting a teacher’s assistant certification. Or, try a TESL certification and learn to teach English as a second language. Another path to becoming a teacher is at a private school, where requirements may be more lenient. 

11. Corporate Training and Development

Creating a curriculum for corporate training and online learning environments requires creativity and an understanding of education. Certifications in e-learning and instructional design can prepare you to build educational apps and online learning modules. 

Certificate Programs in Creative Fields

No list of certification program areas would be complete without creative fields like design, writing, and fine arts. 

12. Graphic Design

One of the most popular software in graphic design is Adobe. The Adobe Certified Professional program prepares you to use essential tools so you can achieve excellent outcomes. 

14. Writing and Communication

Discover your inner Shakespeare and become a writer. From writing novels and children's stories to product descriptions and marketing copy, there are many possible areas of focus. Choose a certificate program that is most relevant to your interests and goals.

Certificate Programs in Skilled Trades

Work with your hands and make a difference with skilled trades. 

15. Construction and Carpentry

The sky’s the limit with construction certifications. Consider safety certifications to reduce on-the-job incidents. Or, get certified in sustainable construction to approach each job with the planet in mind. 

16. Automotive Technology

Work as a mechanic specializing in diesel technology or build your expertise in collision repair. An important certification in this area is Automotive Service Excellence. 

17. HVAC and Plumbing

Heating, cooling, ventilation, and plumbing are essentials in every building and home. Keep these systems running smoothly by becoming an expert in the industry. One popular certification is the EPA 608 Certification, which is required for working with refrigerants. Another well-respected certification for HVAC technicians is the NATE Certification.

Certificate Programs in Finance and Accounting

If numbers are your thing, why not get into finance and accounting?

18. Accounting and Bookkeeping

From becoming a Certified Public Accountant to preparing taxes or working as a bookkeeper, there are many career options here. You can get started with a basic certification such as Certified Bookkeeper (CB), offered by the American Institute of Professional Bookkeepers. 

19. Financial Planning and Analysis

Help people plan for retirement, analyze investments, and manage finances. The Certified Financial Planner Board is the governing body for industry standard certifications in financial planning. 

Which Type of Certificate Program Is Right for You?

Did any of these 19 certificate program areas pique your interest? Take the quiz to explore the best career area for you based on your interests and skills.