Find your degree

Online College Plan is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Did you know that 86% of employers feel certifications strengthen a candidate’s application according to Forbes? This striking statistic underscores the importance of certifications in today’s competitive job market. As an undergraduate student, you’re already investing time and money in your degree. However, adding certifications to your resume can significantly enhance your future career prospects.

Certifications offer a unique way to demonstrate your skills, knowledge, and dedication to potential employers. They can complement your degree, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. This article will explore why you should consider getting certifications as an undergraduate student. We’ll discuss the benefits they offer, how to choose the right ones, and how to make them a part of your academic journey.


Related:

What Are Certifications?

Certifications are official documents that prove you’ve completed specific training. They also show you have achieved a certain level of expertise in a particular field or skill. Degrees take several years to complete. But certifications can often be earned in a matter of weeks or months.

Types of Certifications

There are three main types of certifications you might consider as an undergraduate student:

Industry-Specific Certifications

These certifications are tailored to particular industries and are designed to demonstrate your expertise in those sectors. They often focus on the unique skills, knowledge, and best practices required in a given field.

Examples include:

  • IT: Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) for networking professionals
  • Healthcare: Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for those entering the nursing field
  • Finance: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) for investment and finance professionals
  • Marketing: Google Ads Certification for digital marketers
  • Education: Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) for aspiring language teachers

Industry-specific certifications can be particularly valuable if you’re certain about the field you want to enter after graduation. They show potential employers that you have specialized knowledge and are committed to your chosen industry.

Skill-Based Certifications

These certifications focus on specific skills that can be applied across various industries. They’re great for developing practical abilities that complement your academic knowledge.

Examples include:

  • Project Management Professional (PMP) for project management skills
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for cybersecurity expertise
  • Six Sigma certifications for process improvement and quality management skills
  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) for proficiency in Adobe software
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for accounting skills

Skill-based certifications can be useful if you want to specialize in a specific area within your field. They are also helpful if you’re looking to develop transferable skills that can be applied in multiple industries.

General Certifications

These certifications cover broader areas and can be applicable across multiple industries. They often focus on soft skills or general business knowledge that can benefit professionals in various roles.

Examples include:

  • Leadership certifications like those offered by the John Maxwell Team
  • Communication skills certifications from organizations like Toastmasters International
  • Microsoft Office Specialist certifications for proficiency in widely-used software
  • Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) for entry-level project management skills
  • HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification for general marketing knowledge

General certifications can be a great choice if you’re unsure about your specific career path. They are also an excellent option if you want to develop well-rounded skills that can be applied in various professional settings.

Difference Between Certifications and Degrees

While both certifications and degrees can boost your career, they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics:

Degrees:

  • Provide broad, theoretical knowledge: Degrees offer a comprehensive understanding of a field, covering various aspects and theories. For example, a Bachelor’s in Computer Science will cover programming, algorithms, data structures, and computer architecture.
  • Take several years to complete: Most undergraduate degrees take 3-4 years of full-time study. This longer duration allows for in-depth exploration of various subjects within your field.
  • Offer a comprehensive education in a field: Degrees include general education requirements, electives, and major-specific courses, providing a well-rounded education. For instance, a Business degree might include courses in accounting, marketing, management, and economics.
  • Provide a foundation for further education: Degrees often serve as prerequisites for advanced degrees like Master’s or PhDs.
  • Developed and awarded by accredited educational institutions: This gives them widespread recognition and credibility.

Certifications:

  • Focus on specific skills or knowledge areas: Certifications are typically more targeted. For example, a Java Programming certification focuses specifically on Java language skills rather than computer science as a whole.
  • Can be completed relatively quickly: Many certifications can be earned in weeks or months, allowing you to quickly gain new skills or validate existing ones.
  • Demonstrate practical, up-to-date expertise: Certifications often focus on current industry practices and technologies. They’re frequently updated to reflect changes in the field, ensuring your knowledge is current.
  • Many certifications require periodic renewal through continuing education or re-examination. This ensures your skills stay current.
  • Typically offered by industry associations or companies: For example, Cisco offers networking certifications. And Google offers digital marketing certifications.
  • Can be more flexible: You can often study for certifications at your own pace, fitting them around your degree studies or work commitments.
  • Provide immediate proof of specific skills: Certifications can quickly demonstrate your capabilities in a particular area to potential employers.

Understanding these differences can help you decide how to best complement your degree with certifications. Your degree provides a strong foundation and broad knowledge base. However, strategically chosen certifications can help you specialize and stay current with industry trends. Plus, they help you stand out in the job market. 

Benefits of Certifications for Undergraduate Students

Enhanced Employability

One of the primary benefits of certifications is that they make you more attractive to employers. They show that you have practical skills beyond your academic knowledge, which can set you apart from other job applicants. Certification programs for students can give you a significant advantage in the job market.

Skill Development

Certifications offer a great way to develop industry-relevant skills. While your degree program provides a broad foundation, certifications allow you to focus on specific skills that are in high demand in your chosen field. This combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills can make you a more well-rounded candidate.

Networking Opportunities

Many certification programs provide access to professional networks. These networks can be invaluable for finding mentors, learning about job opportunities, and staying updated on industry trends. Networking is a crucial aspect of career advancement for students, and certifications can open doors to these opportunities.

Confidence and Competence

Earning a certification can boost your confidence in your abilities. It provides tangible proof of your skills, which can help you feel more prepared for job interviews and workplace challenges. This increased confidence can translate into better performance and faster career growth.

Popular Certifications for Undergraduate Students

Let’s discuss some popular certifications among college students. These can help you stand out when you’re looking for a job after graduation.

Industry-Specific Certifications

Different jobs need different skills. Here are some examples of certifications that are important in specific fields:

IT

Internet Technology is all about computers and how we use them. Here are some certifications that IT companies really like:

  • CompTIA A+: This one is great if you want to fix computers. It shows you know how to solve common computer problems.
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This certification is for people who want to work with computer networks. It shows that you know how to set up and manage the systems that help computers communicate with each other.
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals: Azure is a cloud computing service from Microsoft. This certification shows you know the basics of how to use it.

Healthcare

If you want to work in healthcare, these certifications can be really helpful:

  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA): This shows you know how to help nurses take care of patients.
  • Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB): This is for people who want to work in pharmacies, helping to give out medicine.
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT): EMTs are the first people to help in medical emergencies. This certification shows you know how to handle these situations.

Business

For those interested in the business world, these certifications are valuable:

  • Project Management Professional (PMP): This shows you know how to manage big projects from start to finish.
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA): This is for people who want to work with money and taxes.
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA): This certification is for people who want to make sure a company’s computer systems are safe and working well.

General Skill-Based Certifications

Some certifications are useful no matter what job you want to do. They teach skills that lots of different companies need. Here are some examples:

  • Google Analytics Individual Qualification: This shows you know how to use Google Analytics, which helps understand how people use websites.
  • HubSpot Inbound Marketing Certification: This teaches you about a type of marketing that focuses on creating helpful content for customers.
  • Salesforce Certified Administrator: Salesforce is a popular software that many companies use. This certification shows you know how to manage it.

These general certifications can make you more appealing to employers, no matter what kind of job you’re looking for.

Online Learning Platforms

There are lots of websites where you can take courses and earn certifications online. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Coursera: This website partners with top universities to offer online courses.
  • edX: Like Coursera, edX also works with universities to provide online learning.
  • Udemy: This platform has tons of courses on all sorts of topics taught by experts in their fields.
  • LinkedIn Learning: This is connected to the LinkedIn job network and offers courses on professional skills.

These websites work with universities and experts to offer high-quality courses that you can take from home. Many of them offer certificates when you finish a course, which you can add to your resume.

Getting certifications while you’re still in college can give you a big advantage when you’re looking for a job: They show that you have practical skills that employers are looking for, in addition to the knowledge you’re getting from your degree. Plus, they demonstrate that you’re motivated to learn and improve yourself, which is something employers really like to see.

How to Choose the Right Certification

Align with Career Goals

When considering certification options, think about your career aspirations. Choose certifications that align with the skills and knowledge needed in your desired field. This alignment will help you make the most of your time and resources.

Research and Credibility

Before committing to a certification program, research its credibility and recognition within your industry. Look for certifications that are widely respected and valued by employers. Check industry forums, professional associations, and job postings to gauge the demand for specific certifications.

Cost and Time Commitment

Consider the cost and time required for each certification. Some certifications can be expensive and time-consuming, while others are more affordable and quicker to complete. Weigh these factors against the potential benefits to ensure you’re making a wise investment.

Integrating Certifications into Your Academic Journey

Balancing Act

Pursuing certifications while completing your degree can be challenging. Here are some tips for balancing certifications and studies:

  • Plan ahead: Schedule your certification studies during less busy periods of your academic year.
  • Break it down: Divide your certification studies into manageable chunks.
  • Use downtime effectively: Study for certifications during breaks between classes or while commuting.

Leveraging University Resources

Don’t forget to take advantage of the resources your university offers:

  • Career services: They can guide you on which certifications are most valuable in your field.
  • Academic advisors: They can help you plan your schedule to accommodate certification studies.
  • Alumni networks: Connect with graduates who have pursued similar certifications for advice and insights.

Real-World Application

Look for opportunities to apply your certification knowledge in real-world settings:

  • Internships: Seek internships where you can use the skills from your certifications.
  • Part-time jobs: Apply for roles that align with your certifications.
  • Campus projects: Volunteer for initiatives where you can showcase your certified skills.

Long-Term Impact of Certifications

Career Advancement

Certifications can have a significant impact on your long-term career prospects:

  • Promotions: Many employers consider certifications when evaluating candidates for promotions.
  • Salary increases: Certified professionals often command higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts.
  • Specialization: Certifications can help you carve out a niche in your field, making you a sought-after expert.

Continuous Learning

The world of work is constantly evolving, and certifications play a crucial role in keeping your skills up-to-date:

  • Stay relevant: Regular recertification ensures your knowledge remains current.
  • Adapt to changes: New certifications emerge as industries evolve, allowing you to adapt to changing job markets.
  • Lifelong learning: Pursuing certifications instills a habit of continuous learning, which is crucial for long-term career success.

Global Opportunities

Many certifications are recognized internationally, opening up global career opportunities:

  • Work abroad: Internationally recognized certifications can help you qualify for jobs in other countries.
  • Remote work: With the rise of remote work, certified skills can make you an attractive candidate for global companies.
  • Multinational corporations: Many large companies value certifications across their global operations.

Closing Thoughts

To wrap things up, getting certifications while you’re in college can really help you in many ways. It can make you more likely to get hired, teach you new skills, and help you keep learning throughout your career.

When you pick certifications that match what you want to do in the future and fit them into your college studies, you can stand out when looking for jobs. This can open doors to exciting chances in your future career.

Think of your college degree as the base of a building. Certifications are like adding special rooms to that building. They give you unique skills that make you different from other job seekers in your field.

So, why not start now? Look into certification options that interest you. It’s a great way to invest in yourself and your future. The sooner you start, the more prepared you’ll be for the job market when you graduate!

Sources:

Spread the love