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Best technical writer certifications
Technical writer certifications allow job seekers to demonstrate their competency as an technical writer to employers. However, not all technical writer certifications provide the same value for job seekers.
The best certifications for a technical writer are Certified Technical Professional (CTP), Certified Professional Technical Communicator - Expert (CPTC), and Project Management Professional (PMP).
Below is a list of the best technical writer certifications. Obtaining an technical writer certification will give you a leg up when you apply for jobs and increase your potential salary.
20 best certifications for technical writers
20 best technical writer certifications
1. Certified Technical Professional (CTP)
Certified Technical Professional (CTP) program is designed to serve graduates of both 2-Year and 4-Year Programs. The exam is broad-based, geared to technical programs without a management component that result in either an associate (AS, AAS) degree or a baccalaureate (BS, BA) degree.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
2. Certified Professional Technical Communicator - Expert (CPTC)
The Certified Professional Technical CommunicatorTM (CPTC) credential assures employers and the public that the certified practitioners possesses the knowledge, skill, and ability needed to meet the demands of complex technical communication projects from the planning stage through completion.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
3. Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP designation following your name tells current and potential employers that you have demonstrated a solid foundation of knowledge from which you can competently practice project management.To be eligible for a PMP Credential, you must first meet specific educational and project management experience requirements and agree to adhere to a code of professional conduct. The final step to becoming a PMP is passing a rigorous multiple-choice examination designed to objectively assess and measure your ability to apply project management knowledge in the following six domains: initiating the project, planning the project, executing the project, monitoring and controlling the project, closing the project, and professional and social responsibility. This computer-based examination is administered globally with translation aids in 10 languages.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
4. Master Project Manager (MPM)
If you have 3+ years of Project Management Experience, you may apply for MPM™ Master Project Manager Board Certification.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
5. Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma)
A technician with six or more years combined work and electronics training may be eligible for the ETA Master Certified Electronics Technician (CETma) certification. The Master certification was created to showcase those technicians who are able to demonstrate proficiency in the many fields of electronics. In addition to the Associate level certification, one must successfully obtain six other certifications, with no more than two originating from the same specialized category, in order to qualify.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
6. Certified Aviation Manager (CAM)
NBAA's Certified Aviation Manager (CAM) Program identifies qualified professionals to lead flight departments and companies that use business aircraft. Join the ranks of esteemed aviation professionals who have already been recognized as Certified Aviation Managers and apply for the CAM Exam today.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
7. Engineer In Training Certification (EIT)
The EIT Certification, which is formally known as the Engineer In Training Certification, is simply a document, a number, granted by the individual’s state engineering board after they pass the Engineer In Training Exam. The Engineer in Training Exam (EIT Exam) is the first of two exams you will take as you move towards obtaining your Professional Engineering License (PE). This exam, which you may also hear referred to as the Fundamentals of Engineering exam (FE Exam), is developed and administered in all states (and a number of locations outside the US) by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The FE Exam is offered to eligible students year-round in four different testing windows.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
8. Adobe Digital Publishing
The Adobe Digital Publishing Suite Exam targets individuals who create and publish content by using Adobe InDesign and the Adobe Digital Publishing Suite. Please note that in order to be certified as an ACE - Digital Publishing Suite, you must pass the Digital Publishing Suite exam, and be certified on InDesign CS6 or InDesign CC.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
9. Software Engineering Master Certification (SEMC)
This professional competency certification requires successful completion of Certificates of Proficiency in twelve key knowledge areas: Software Engineering Requirements, Software Engineering Design, Software Engineering Construction, Software Engineering Testing, Software Engineering Maintenance, Software Engineering Configuration Management, Software Engineering Quality, Software Engineering Processes, Software Engineering Models & Methods, Software Engineering Management, Software Engineering Project Management, Software Engineering Economics and the successful completion of two advanced applied modules.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
10. Program Management Professional (PgMP)
Project Management Institute's newest credential is specifically developed to acknowledge the qualifications of the professional who leads the coordinated management of multiple projects and ensures the ultimate success of a program. You will benefit from the many advantages of this new designation. Candidates earning this credential will be internationally recognized as professionals with the knowledge and experience to make and implement the important decisions and accomplish the strategic objectives that enhance business results.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
11. Professional Business Analyst Certificate
Solidify, verify, and claim your business analysis expertise with our Professional Business Analyst Certificate. Through our four-course business analysis training curriculum, you can propel your skills as a business analyst.In this business analysis training program, you will examine the role and responsibilities of the business analyst. Through hands-on exercises and case studies, you will learn techniques for ensuring project success every step of the way - from identifying and analyzing potential projects to making sure that the final project product meets the requirements you identified.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? No
- Renewal required? No
12. Communication Management Professional (CMP)
•The Communication Management Professional certification is aimed at the generalist/specialist level, a mid-level stage in the communication professional's development, for those with 6-8 years of experience in the communication field.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
13. Certified Information Systems Security Professional - Architecture (CISSP)
CISSP-ISSAP requires a candidate to demonstrate 2 years of professional experience in the area of architecture and is an appropriate credential for Chief Security Architects and Analysts who may typically work as independent consultants or in similar capacities. The architect plays a key role within the information security department with responsibilities that functionally fit between the C-suite and upper managerial level and the implementation of the security program. The candidate would generally develop, design, or analyze the overall security plan. Although this role may typically be tied closely to technology, it may be fundamentally closer to the consultative and analytical process of information security.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
14. Adobe FrameMaker 8
The Adobe FrameMaker 8 ACE Exam tests your knowledge of creating template-based documents and publishing those documents for unstructured, structured and XML/ DITA content.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
15. Microsoft Office Specialist Master Certification (MOS)
The Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) Master certification helps demonstrate an individual's overall comprehension and expertise of Microsoft Office programs. Microsoft Office Specialist Masters have more than a working familiarity with Microsoft Office programs-they are technically skilled to take advantage of the breadth of features efficiently and effectively.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required?
16. Certified Network Computer Technician (CNCT)
Certified Network Computer Technicians are expected to obtain knowledge of computer electronics basic concepts, Internet and networking technology applicable to various areas of the computer industry. Once the CNCT has acquired these skills, abilities and knowledge, he or she will be able to enter employment in any part of the computer industry. With minimal training in areas unique to the specific products, the CNCT should become a profitable and efficient part of the computer industry workforce.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? No
- More than two years of work experience required? No
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 4 year(s)
17. Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT)
A Certified Phlebotomy Technician (CPT) draws blood from patients or donors in hospitals, blood banks, or similar facilities for analysis or other medical purposes.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 2 year(s)
18. Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP)
The GISP certification program was founded on the principle that real-world work experience combined with education and professional association activities could serve as a proxy for a comprehensive exam on the basics of geographic information science and technology (GIS&T). This was because, when the GISCI program was created, there was no established guide for the content of such a test.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 5 year(s)
19. Advanced Pain Management Practitioner Certification (APMP)
The Advanced Pain Management Practitioner (APMP) is open to MDs, DOs, NPs, CRNAs and PAs. The program is designed to reinforce the expertise of those who have spent years practicing pain management, but who may not have the ability or desire to complete a fellowship training program. It demonstrates your knowledge of and commitment to pain management, with a special emphasis on pharmacotherapy.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 3 year(s)
20. Certified Management Accountant (CMA)
The CMA (Certified Management Accountant) is the advanced professional certification specifically designed to measure the accounting and financial management skills that drive business performance.
- More than two years of education or training after high school required? Yes
- More than two years of work experience required? Yes
- Oral or written exam required? Yes
- Renewal required? Every 1 year(s)
What is the best certification for a technical writer?
The best technical writer certification is Certified Technical Professional (CTP). The Certified Technical Professional (CTP) is awarded by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering. This certification is great to have as it shows an improvement in your competency to perform your role. You can earn this certification at the beginning of your career, as it often doesn't require a minimum education level and work experience.
Here's a bit more background on how to obtain this technical writer certification:
- To become a certified Certified Technical Professional (CTP), you need to pass the exam.
- Lucky you - certification doesn't require more than two years of work experience.
- Renew certification every year.
What are some of the most in-demand certifications for technical writers?
The most in-demand technical writer certification is Project Management Professional based on all active job postings. Having this technical writer certification will give you access to more technical writer jobs with higher salaries.
What certifications can impact a technical writer career and salary?
The Certified Technical Professional certification will help you to secure a senior technical writer position, which will increase your pay and career trajectory. A senior technical writer's average salary is $86,913 whereas technical writers make an average salary of $65,329.
The most common combination of technical writer certifications include: Certified Technical Professional (CTP), Certified Professional Technical Communicator - Expert (CPTC), and Project Management Professional (PMP).
Online courses for technical writers to earn certifications
1. Introduction to Technical Support
Technical Support professionals are in great demand! This is the first course in the IBM IT Support Professional Certificate program, designed to prepare you for a rewarding career in technical support. You will begin this self-paced course by learning what Informational Technology (IT) support is all about. You'll find out the roles and responsibilities of Technical Support professionals and become familiar with all the different career paths you can take in Technical Support. You will also...
2. Technical Writing: How to Write Software Documentation
Learn a proven strategy for writing software docu in Git Hub wiki based on the 12 main principles of technical writing!...
3. Technical Writing: How to Write API Software Documentation
A framework for writing software documentation for an API as a technical writer, using Postman or Swagger UI...
4. Learn API Technical Writing 2: REST for Writers
API Documentation 2: Teaches technical writers how to document REST. No programming experience required...
5. Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers
API Documentation 1: Teaches technical writers how to document structured data. No programming experience required...
6. Technical Writing: How to Write Using DITA XML
How to Become a Modern and Successful Technical Writer Using DITA XML...
7. Professional Technical Writing: Advance Your Writing Skills
Create your first technical document by applying the principles and techniques of technical writing taught by Pro Writer...
8. The New Trainer's Guide to Creating End User Documentation
Learn quick, easy and practical technical writing skills to write great end user software documentation - FAST...
9. IT Support Technical Skills Bootcamp
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Professionals...
10. Business Writing & Technical Writing Immersion
Effective Writing Technical Documentation Writing System Software Documentation Emails PPTs...
11. Technical Writing: Master Your Writing Career
Technical Writing: How to Become a Profitable, Reliable, and Successful Technical Writer...
12. The Art of API Documentation
API Documentation 3: Teaches technical writers how to write API overview material, tutorials, etc...
13. Introduction To Technical Writing
How To Write Proper Documentation...
14. IT & Technical Support Guide to Helpdesk, Desktop & Servers
Learn how the different levels of IT technical support work, from service desk to infrastructure and server support...
15. Technical Analysis: Trading Smart With Technical Analysis
Master Real-World Technical Analysis: Revolutionize Your Trading Game & Profit In Stocks, Forex & Crypto!...
16. Technical Program Management
This is a course designed for individuals looking to learn about the Technical Program Management (TPM) discipline...
17. IT Support Technical Skills Helpdesk
Hands-on Technical skills for IT Support Learners...
18. Oracle Fusion Technical - A Complete Technical Guide
Oracle Cloud ERP Technical - Integration, Conversion(FBDI, ADFdi, SOAP/REST), Reports(BI/OTBI), Workflows, Security, OIC...
19. Leadership: New Manager Training for Technical Professionals
Learn to establish yourself as a manager and lead your technical team to success. We are PDU Accredited...
20. Technical Analysis MasterClass:Trading By Technical Analysis
Stock Market Technical Analysis Secrets for Forex , Stock Trading , Options , Swing Trading & Day Trading + ASSIGNMENTS...