Credentials that prove skills
Beyond degrees, industry certifications and other credentials let people prove specific, job-ready skills — in IT, healthcare, the trades, business and more. They're often faster and cheaper than a degree and highly valued by employers for particular roles.
Certification vs license vs degree
Three credentials often get confused:
- Degree — broad education from a college
- License — government permission to practice a regulated job (nurse, electrician)
- Certification — an industry body vouching you have specific skills, often via an exam
Many careers combine them, and students can start earning certifications in high school through CTE.
Where certifications matter
Certifications are especially valuable in fast-moving, skills-based fields: IT (CompTIA, Cisco, cloud certs), healthcare (CNA, phlebotomy, EMT), the trades, and business software. In these areas, a specific certification can matter as much to an employer as a degree.
Related resources
See the accreditation guide to certificates & certifications and trade certifications, plus CTE.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a certificate and a certification? A certificate usually recognizes completing a course of study; a certification means an industry body has verified you have specific, current skills, often via an exam.
- Are certifications worth it? For many roles, yes. They prove job-ready skills quickly and cheaply, and employers value them for IT, healthcare, trades and more.
- Can students earn certifications in high school? Yes. Many CTE programs let students earn recognized industry certifications before they graduate.
- What's the difference between a certification and a license? A certification is an industry body vouching for your skills; a license is government permission to practice a regulated job like nursing or electrical work.