Best Certifications for High-Paying Jobs

Best Certifications for High-Paying Jobs | Resume.com

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Enrolling in a certification program can be an exciting and beneficial career opportunity in a number of different industries. Earning a certification can help you qualify for your dream job by proving you have the skills you need to succeed. Learn what certification is, why it is important and a list of some of the best certifications you can pursue.

What is certification?

In the professional world, the term certification refers to a designation or document that qualifies someone to perform a certain task or job. To become certified, individuals must prove in some way that they have sufficient knowledge and experience in a particular field. The certification process typically involves taking a comprehensive knowledge test and earning hours of practical experience. In some industries, professionals might choose to earn a certification instead of a degree. In other fields, individuals need both a degree and certification in order to practice.

Why should you consider certification?

Certified professionals often earn higher salaries than their uncertified peers. Pursuing certification usually involves paying testing fees, as well as dedicating significant time and effort. To acknowledge this, many employers offer certified employees as larger salary than those who are uncertified.

Being certified also allows you to qualify for more competitive jobs. In highly specialized fields, some jobs are only available to those with certification. If you earn a nationally recognized and standardized certification, you can prove you have the skills and expertise necessary to perform the job.

Additionally, earning a certification can set you apart from your peers and help you broaden your professional network. Many of the associations that award certifications also offer association memberships to the recipients. Joining a professional association is a great opportunity for less experienced individuals to connect with mentors and potential employers.

Top certifications that lead to well-paying jobs

Here are some of the best certifications that can lead to well-paying jobs:

Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Sonographers use sophisticated equipment to take photographs of the inside of their patients’ bodies using sound waves. Diagnostic sonographers create photo and video images that help doctors to diagnose illnesses and assess injuries. Depending on your level of education, it can take between one and two years to earn an RDMS certificate. To earn the RDMS, individuals must complete a sonography skills assessment and an additional assessment that is specific to their chosen field. RDMS applicants must also meet educational and experiential requirements.

Certified Bookkeeper

Bookkeepers keep track of all their clients’ financial accounts and handle their income, bills and savings. The Certified Bookkeeper License is accredited by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers. Certified Bookkeepers take and pass a four-part exam to prove their expertise with bookkeeping practices and equipment. They must also acquire several years of work experience, abide by a professional code of conduct and participate in 24 hours of continued education each year.

Registered Skilled Reporter

Court reporters are responsible for using specialized equipment to create accurate transcripts of law proceedings. Certificate programs, like the one offered by the National Court Reporters Association, teach individuals the skills they need to be successful stenographers in less than two years. Many court reporters choose to pursue certification instead of earning a post-secondary degree.  To earn the Registered Skilled Reporter certification, you must pass the RSR exam and become an active member of the NCRA.

Commercial diver certifications

Professional divers are trained to spend time underwater with the assistance of diving equipment. Divers can work in a number of industries including construction, law enforcement and scientific research. Divers choose to become certified to qualify to perform specific tasks and work in desirable environments. The Divers Institute of Technology offers several commercial diver certifications to individuals who can prove their skills in underwater navigation and safety procedures. Possible certifications include:

  • Certified First-Aid and Oxygen Provider
  • Entry-level Diver/Tender
  • Unrestricted Surface Supplied Diver
  • Hazardous Waste Materials Diver

Certified Plumber

Plumbers use their knowledge and practical skill with pipes and other equipment to install and maintain water and sewage systems. Plumbers are required to complete an apprenticeship before they can begin working as independent contractors. Plumbers must be licensed as Certified Plumbers in order to work in a certain state. Specifications vary by state, but most plumbers show proof of a certain number of work hours and pass an exam.

Registered Nurse

Registered nurses are licensed professionals who are responsible for providing care to patients in a variety of medical environments. Nursing involves feeding, cleaning and supervising patients, as well as administering medication, performing diagnostic tests and updating medical charts. The Registered Nurse certification is one of the most common types of medical licenses. Individuals pursuing an RN certification must take and pass the NCLEX-RN exam and apply for licensure with their state’s nursing board.

Web Development Professional

Web developers use their knowledge of computer programming and their skill with coding to write and develop websites and carry out other IT-related duties. The Web Development Professional certification is a nationally recognized designation offered by the CWI. Earning the Web Development Professional designation involves taking and passing three certification exams: the JavaScript Specialist, Perl Specialist and Database Design Specialist.

Certified Informational Security Manager

The CISM certification is available to information technology professionals who are looking for a high-paying job in data security. Informational security managers are responsible for ensuring that their employer’s computer systems and confidential data remains secure and uncompromised. To earn this certification, individuals must submit and application and pass an exam offered by the ISACA.

Tips for earning certification

Here are some tips to consider when pursuing certification:

  • Talk to the professionals. Before committing to a certification, reach out to professionals who are already working in the field. Ask them about the certification process and whether or not they would recommend becoming certified. Information from someone who has first-hand experience can help you make a well-informed decision.
  • Talk to your employer. Schedule a meeting with your current employer and ask if there are any certifications that they would recommend to someone in your position. This proves your commitment to the field and shows your interest in advancement. Certification may even qualify you for a pay raise or promotion.
  • Set long-term goals. When choosing to pursue certification, it is important to keep your career goals in mind. Your certifications can help you achieve objectives like securing your dream job or improving as a professional. Before selecting a certification, make sure that it is going to help you get somewhere you want to go.

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