Whether you are entering the job market for the first time or seeking ways to move your career forward, you have likely heard about the advantages of obtaining industry- or job-specific licenses or certifications. These are prevalent in many industries, particularly in positions that involve mission-critical work processes or tools. Because they apply to jobs in the public, private and nonprofit sectors, and job complexity is increasing, a large percentage of workers obtain some form of license or certification.

If you’re looking to either start your career or advance, here are some of the industries where becoming licensed or certified is most common and useful. 

What is a License or Certification and Why Do You Need One?

Licenses are documents that are typically obtained from federal, state or local governments that allow individuals to do specialized tasks such as operate machinery, handle food, administer medical treatment, and so on, with the most common being a driver’s license. A certification is typically provided by a business or third-party organization. It represents the successful completion of training, familiarity with a topic, or another demonstration of competency. Put simply, licenses and certifications exist to prove that their holders have obtained and demonstrated their ability or knowledge in a particular area.

Industries That Encourage or Require a License or Certification

Certifications are prevalent in the professional world, so we’ll cover some of the most common industries that require professional credentials. We’ll also explore areas where demand is growing for licensed and certified workers:

Occupational Safety and Health

Professional safety certifications are becoming increasingly valuable for occupational safety and health specialists, complementing formal education and enhancing career opportunities. Many companies prioritize candidates with certifications to ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations and workplace safety standards.

Certifications and designations require a combination of education, experience and exams. Here are six common safety certifications:

• Associate Safety Professional®
• Certified Safety Professional®
• Graduate Safety Practitioner®
• Certified Safety and Health Manager™
• Certified Industrial Hygienist®
• Certified Hazardous Materials Manager ®

According to industry research, safety professionals with a certification can earn higher salaries and have greater job mobility. Maintaining certifications also requires continuing education, ensuring knowledge of industry best practices and regulatory updates.

Human Resources

HR certifications can help career prospects by demonstrating expertise and commitment in the field. While not always required, certifications from organizations like the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) can help candidates stand out. 

HRCI offers certifications that cater to different experience levels such as the following:

• Associate Professional in Human Resources (aPHR)
  
• Professional in Human Resources (PHR)
• Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR)
  

SHRM provides the SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP), which emphasize competency-based knowledge and strategic HR skills. Selecting the right certification depends on career goals and experience.

Health Care

People working in the health care industry are typically expected to have a certain level of certification, and quite often a professional license. The highly challenging nature of the work and the risks involved in providing even entry-level health care mean a certain percentage of health care workers have a professional credential. Certifications are often required for those who provide hands-on care, such as EMTs and paramedics, as well as for more “behind-the-scenes” positions such as pharmacy technicians.

For many hoping to enter the health care field, the challenge is often not just earning these credentials but also determining which ones are required, as states have different regulations for nurses, pharmaceutical workers, and other medical professionals. Certifications may be “nice to have” and aren’t required in other industries, but the fact that they are relatively standard in health care means any amount of health care training you receive will likely push you toward a certification or licensing process.

Education

Similar to health care, education is both a demanding and highly regulated industry that requires a high level of critical skills. The certification and license requirements can vary greatly from state to state and from role to role in this credentialed professional environment. Requirements differ based on state and role, but individuals pursuing a career in education should expect significant undergraduate coursework and on-the-job training.

Technology

The growth and importance of the tech industry have spurred interest in standardizing best practices for critical technology and tool usage. Ongoing issues with cybersecurity, identity and data theft, and hacking have made education and certifications much more valued and sought-after. Because job safety best practices now include your digital footprint and activity, anyone looking for a role in IT, software development, or cybersecurity would benefit from certifications in these disciplines.

Additional Education Options at Columbia Southern University

Certifications and licenses are critical in many professions, but they’re often just one of many types of education requirements. Earning academic degrees from accredited colleges is another important part of meeting the education requirements for many professions.

Here at Columbia Southern University, we offer online degree programs at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels, and many students receive academic credit for their certifications, licenses and training programs. Learn more by visiting our programs page. 

Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography and degree field, affect career outcomes. CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.

Columbia Southern University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees and certificates. Questions about the accreditation of Columbia Southern University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).