5 Reasons to Earn a Career Certificate

Thinking about going back to school to grow your skills and move your career forward is already something to be proud of. It’s completely normal to feel a little overwhelmed at the prospect — committing your time and money to education is a big decision, no matter your situation. If you’re faced with a tight budget, a busy schedule, or even doubts about whether school is “your thing” at all, it’s natural to worry about choosing the wrong path. But here’s the good news: there are lower-commitment programs designed to fit your life and goals. A career certificate could be the perfect opportunity to take that next step with confidence.

Here are five reasons you should consider earning a career certificate

1. Increase your knowledge and understanding

When you earn a career certificate, you improve your skills and gain pertinent, up-to-date information that will get you ready for an in-demand job. A certificate also helps to highlight your competence through proficiency assessments and career commitment.

2. Improve employer confidence

Earning a certificate in your field of interest helps current and future employers match your skills to their job requirements. By matching employees to jobs that they are highly qualified for, employers have confidence that their workers have the right skills for the job and a commitment to their profession.

3. Boost your self-esteem

Certificates create an industry standard for knowledge and abilities. This includes performance standards, ethics and career paths. When you earn a certificate, you can not only command a higher salary and be qualified for more desirable jobs, but feel proud of what you’ve accomplished in life. All this means you’ll probably feel more confident and self-assured after earning a certificate.

4. Prove your professional achievements

A certificate in a specific career field gives you tangible proof of your knowledge and understanding: It shows potential employers you really know your stuff, and helps them to understand your knowledge level and better match you to the right job level. A certificate can also lead to recognition, respect and promotion opportunities in your current job.

5. Advance your career

Students who seek a certificate are actively advancing their careers to the next level. Once you earn a certificate, you can earn more money in more desirable jobs, giving you an edge over others. Surveys consistently show that certificate-holding students are also able to gain more employment and career advancement opportunities.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, full-time workers with a professional certification or license earned a median weekly salary of $1,106 — which is 35% higher than the $818 earned by those without credentials.

Something to keep in mind ...

Going back to school for a certificate can pay off in multiple ways, but success generally hinges on choosing wisely. Certificates in sectors with high employer demand — like healthcare, mechanical trades, or cybersecurity — tend to deliver the most value.

Take the next step toward your future with a certificate

Earning a career certificate is a smart investment in yourself and your future. Whether you’re looking to boost your knowledge, gain employer confidence, or advance your career, a certificate program provides the skills and credentials you need to stand out in today’s competitive job market.

With increased opportunities for higher pay, recognition, and job satisfaction, there’s no better time to take the next step toward achieving your goals. Explore relevant career certificate programs today and take control of your professional success.

Register with Imagine America to be matched with certificate-granting schools that offer our scholarships!