Copywriting and content writing certification overview
Copywriting and content writing have become necessary skills for many careers in marketing, advertising, content development and more. As the demand for skilled copywriters and content writers grows, certification has emerged as a way to validate one’s skills and knowledge in the field. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top copywriting and content writing certification options available.
What is certification?
Certification is the process of validating an individual’s qualifications and competencies in a specific field through an examination or assessment. Earning a certification demonstrates to employers and clients that the individual has attained a baseline level of skills, knowledge and abilities as judged by a recognized certifying body. Certification is voluntary and non-regulated, meaning there are no legal requirements to hold a particular certification to work in a given field. It has become an important credential for many careers.
Benefits of copywriting and content writing certification
Earning a copywriting or content writing certification can provide several key benefits:
Validates core skills and competencies. Certification validates that one has achieved a baseline level of understanding in areas like storytelling, tone/voice, keyword optimization, structure, SEO best practices and more.
Boosts credibility and confidence. Having a credential from a recognized certification body enhances credibility with employers and clients who may be unfamiliar with your experience level. It also boosts confidence knowing you’ve passed a standardized exam.
Stands out in a competitive field. Copywriting and content writing are competitive fields. Certification demonstrates extra commitment to professional development and can help job or freelance applicants stand out.
Continuing education requirement. Many certifications require ongoing continuing education credits to maintain the credential, ensuring certified individuals stay up-to-date on industry changes and advancements over time.
Potential salary boost. Studies have found certified workers often earn higher salaries than non-certified peers, as certification is valued by many employers. This will vary depending on experience level and location.
Top copywriting and content writing certifications
Let’s examine some of the most well-known and respected certification programs available in copywriting and content writing today:
Certified Content Marketing Professional (CCMP) – Offered by the Content Marketing Institute, this certification focuses specifically on content strategy, planning, creation and measurement. Requires passing an online exam.
Professional Copywriter Certification (ProCopy) – Administered by the Copywriter’s Guild of America, this test-based certification focuses broadly on copywriting best practices. Requires relevant work experience.
Certified Technical Writer (CTW) – Offered through the Society for Technical Communication, this certification targets careers in technical communication and documentation. Requires portfolio submission and experience.
Precision Nutrition Level 1 Nutrition Certification – While not solely focused on writing, this certification from Precision Nutrition requires covering nutrition topics clearly and concisely in writing. Approved after completing online course modules.
Foundation Certificate in Copywriting – This UK-based certification is offered through the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Requires passing two separate exams focused broadly on principles and practices of copywriting.
Content Marketing Certified (CMC) – Administered through the Content Marketing Institute, this generalist certification covers content strategy, social media, SEO and other key content areas through self-study and an exam.
Specialist Certificate in Copywriting – Another UK certification through the Chartered Institute of Marketing with a focus on directly response copywriting through online study and exams.
Associate Certified Coach (ACC) – While coaching-focused, this certification through the International Coach Federation involves writing case studies and requires samples of coaching correspondence for assessment.
Program requirements vary but most involve a combination of work experience, coursework, portfolio submissions and/or passing an exam. Maintaining certification may require additional training hours or credits over time as well.
Additional training resources
For those looking to gain skills and qualifications before pursuing a full certification, there are also many certificate programs, workshops and online courses available that can help:
Google Digital Garage – Offers free online courses, badges and certificates in digital marketing skills including content creation and copywriting.
HubSpot Academy – Free and paid online courses in inbound marketing and content marketing taught by HubSpot. Earn official certificates upon completion.
Copyblogger – Paid online courses and webinars teach proven strategies from leading copywriters. Additional training programs for more advanced copywriting and freelancing.
Copy Hackers – Online certification program takes weeks to complete writing assignments to craft strong digital marketing copy. Graduates get “Certified Copy Hacker” credential.
Coursera – Offers massive open online courses from top universities on topics like technical communication, web content strategy and advertising. Earn certificates.
Writing classes – Community colleges and continuing education programs locally offer short-term classes in freelance writing, advertising copy and more.
Choosing certification depends on career goals, but this overview provides a basis to evaluate options. Additional training combined with work experience can help lay the foundation for greater success and recognition as a copywriter or content professional.
Andrew Stroud