Hello, kcoleman18 and welcome to allnurses.com
Certification generally refers to an
earned credential that demonstrates the holder's specialized knowledge, skills, and experience.
Certification differs from a certificate program, in that the latter is usually an educational offering that confers a
document at the program's conclusion.
Certification:
1. Results from an assessment process that recognizes an individual's knowledge, skills and competency in a particular specialty
2. Typically requires professional experience
3. Awarded by a third-party, standard-setting organization, typically not for profit
4. Indicates mastery/competency as measured against a defensible set of standards, usually by application or exam
5. Standards set through a defensible, industry-wide process (job analysis/role delineation) that results in an outline of required knowledge and skills
6. Typically results in credentials to be listed after one's name (SANE, ONC, CCRN)
7. Has on-going requirements in order to maintain; holder must demonstrate he/she continues to meet requirements
Certificate:
1. Results from an educational process
2. For newcomers and experienced professionals
3. Awarded by educational programs or institutions often for-profit
4. Indicates
completion of a course or series of courses with a specific focus (different than a degree granting program)
5. Course content determined by the specific provider or institution, not standardized
6. Usually listed on a resume detailing education, but does not
award credentials
7. Demonstrates knowledge of course content at the end of a set period in time
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