A college or advanced degree isn’t the only way to further your education (and your career prospects!). Earning credentials or certificates can also help you advance in your chosen career field.

Credentials

The two primary types of credentials are licenses and certifications:

• License - Governmental licensing boards grant legally-required licenses to individuals to practice a specific occupation. State, federal, or local laws or regulations define the standards that individuals must meet to become licensed.
• Certifications – Certifications are awarded by a nongovernmental organization, often through an education and examination process, to individuals who meet predetermined qualifications in their industry area. They are not required, but advancement in certain industries may be contingent upon receiving a certification. Certifications must be periodically renewed.

Certificates

A certificate program is a noncredit educational program that is often offered at community or technical colleges. They generally require three to six classes that can be completed in a year or less by a full-time student. Certificates are typically issued upon completion of the program and do not need to be renewed.