This article is on 26 Digital Marketing Certifications To Improve Your Resume. Online training tools make it easy for people in marketing to continue learning the latest concepts in digital media advertising, analytics and optimization.
Certifications in digital marketing are a useful tool for staying up to date with market developments and establishing your credibility with potential employers. Both online colleges and a large number of social media sites provide certifications.
We go over the definition and types of digital marketing certifications in this post, and we also provide you with a list of 26 certifications you can get to bolster your professional credentials and resume.
What are digital marketing certifications?
A digital marketing certification is a credential earned by marketing and content specialists after completing a training program or passing an exam.
These optional certifications give marketers access to information and resources that adhere to industry best practices as of right now. An option to traditional, drawn-out academic programs is a certification.
Additionally, they can be used to augment prior learning—such as bachelor’s degrees—in order to maintain your competitiveness in rapidly developing industries like digital marketing. Numerous organizations, including tech and media companies, professional associations, colleges and universities, offer certifications.
Types of digital marketing certifications
There are two key types of credentials you can earn in digital marketing: certifications and certificates. Although some people use these two terms as synonyms, there are some distinct differences between the two that may help you choose the right path for you:
Certifications
Typically, certification programs consist of a quick training course followed by an exam. These programs are usually administered by credible industry-specific professional organizations. Certain certifications are also obtained from reputable private companies, such as well-known search engines and marketing networks. Certifications, particularly those provided by the software company, may concentrate on a particular technical skill or tool.
Certificates
After completing a brief program offered by an educational institution, like a college or university, you can obtain certificates, which are specialized credentials. In addition to two- or four-year degrees, certificate programs are frequently offered online. These courses typically concentrate on more general industry skills, such as social media or content marketing, though specific programs may differ.
Benefits of digital marketing certifications
Here are some benefits of digital marketing certifications:
Add credibility to your resume
Certifications be an effective way to demonstrate your competence to potential employers and people in your network. They vouch for your specialized skills and link you to a respected organization, such as an esteemed professional group or a university.
Distinguish you from other candidates
Obtaining a certification in digital marketing can help you stand out in your industry by demonstrating your depth of knowledge and commitment to developing your skills. Businesses seek out leaders in the field who have made additional training investments to stay current with best practices in the industry.
Strengthen your skills
Many courses also provide vetted expertise from industry experts. Studying critical topics in the digital marketing field and working with skilled marketers may prepare you to perform better in your roles and achieve results with your digital campaigns.
How to get digital marketing certifications
Here’s how to get a certification in digital marketing:
1. Set your career goals
It’s best to decide your goals before enrolling in a certification program to get the most out of it. Consider what you want to learn from your program to help you select the best one and use it to accomplish your objectives after it is over.
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2. Select a program
Consider your budget, schedule, interests and employment goals when researching different digital marketing certifications. Certification is an investment, so it’s beneficial to choose one that works with your needs.
3. Complete any training courses
Most certifications and certificates require you to complete a certain number of hours of training. This might include in-person classroom courses, self-paced online modules or virtual lessons.
4. Pass all required tests
Organizations frequently demand that you pass an exam in order to grant you a credential. The content you studied during your training program is usually covered in these exams, and many organizations provide study materials and tools to aid in your preparation. Plan your exam and prepare well to improve your chances of passing.
5. Display your credential
Once you’ve officially earned your certification, you can leverage it throughout your job search. Consider adding your credential to your resume, email signatures and professional networking profiles.
6. Maintain your certification
Many certifications expire after several years. Learn about the requirements for keeping your certification valid. This might involve continuing education and a renewal fee.
Which digital marketing certifications are best for me?
Determining which digital marketing certification is right for you can involve reflection and careful planning. Here are some tips for choosing the right one:
Consider your timeline
It’s crucial to choose a program that aligns with your schedule if you want to finish it in time to obtain your certification. Some programs require more time than others. For instance, you might want to choose a self-paced or short-term course if your manager asks you to complete your training before a significant conference you’re attending in three months. This will allow you to complete your training on time. Verify the exam dates for any certifications that call for one to make sure you can take it on a time that works for you.
Determine your career goals
Getting a professional certification can help you focus your skills. Select a credential that attests to your abilities in that field and think about how you might want to progress in the field. If you work as a marketing coordinator, for instance, consider pursuing various specialized career paths, such as social media and paid search. This can help you narrow down your choices.
Analyze job listings
Examine job postings in your area to find out what certifications companies are asking for if you’re seeking for a new position. Keeping a spreadsheet or running list of all the certifications you see listed for positions requiring your level of experience could be helpful. Keep track of the frequency of a specific certification to help you focus on the most sought-after ones that could help you get hired for new positions.
26 digital marketing certifications
Here are some reputable digital marketing certifications for all levels of learners:
1. American Marketing Association (AMA) Certified Digital Marketing Professional
In collaboration with the Digital Marketing Institute, the national association for marketing specialists provides a dual certification program. Graduates of the program receive certifications in PCM Digital Marketing and Certified Digital Marketing Professional. When you’re ready to finish the training, you can schedule a cumulative exam, which is delivered online over the course of 30 hours of self-paced learning. The AMA program offers classes on
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Content marketing
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Google Analytics
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Search engine optimization (SEO
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Digital marketing strategy
2. Google Ads
Those with prior Google AdWords experience can earn a one-year certification by completing this free course. Pass two tests in AdWords Fundamentals and one of the following subjects to become certified:
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Search Advertising
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Display Advertising
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Mobile Advertising
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Video Advertising
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Shopping Advertising
3. Google Analytics Individual Qualification (IQ)
A free tool that assists marketers in analyzing website traffic is Google Analytics. You can take the Google Universal Analytics exam to become certified in Google Analytics. Google advises gaining prior AdWords experience before taking the test. For this free certification, you can use Google to find study materials online.
4. Google Digital Garage: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing
You can work through 26 different digital media topics to learn fundamental concepts or review important principles, ranging from analytics to advertising, by earning the Google Digital Garage: Fundamentals of Digital Marketing credential through Google Unlocked, the digital market component of the Google Digital Garage. This certification, which is accredited by The Open University and The Interactive Advertising Bureau Europe, is ideal for those just starting out who want to learn the fundamentals of digital marketing. Among the subjects covered in these modules are:
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Online opportunities
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Building a web presence
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Online business strategy
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Getting discovered with search
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Getting noticed locally
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Improving search campaigns
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Social media
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Mobile advertising possibilities
5. Hootsuite Social Media Marketing Certification
You can prepare for a 60-question online exam covering social media marketing concepts with these 15 lessons and assessments provided by this social media management platform. After passing, you get a badge you can wear with pride to demonstrate your proficiency with social media and a lifetime certification. The Hootsuite Social Media Marketing course covers the following topics:
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Social media strategy
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Effective content sharing
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Improving return on investment (ROI)
6. HubSpot Content Marketing Certification
HubSpot offers an eight-hour, 14-lesson course for their certification in media strategies. The goal of the Hubspot Content Marketing Certification is for marketing specialists to learn how to implement a content marketing strategy to drive traffic and provide quality content to readers. The course includes lessons in the following:
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Storytelling
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Content framework
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Repurposing content
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Analysis
7. HubSpot Inbound Marketing
The five-hour, 11-lesson Hubspot Inbound Marketing Certification focuses on attracting customers and gaining leads through digital marketing efforts. Also referred to as “pull marketing,” this free course offers instruction in the following areas:
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Lead conversion
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Content creation
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Social promotion
8. Digital Marketing Institute Certified Search Marketing Specialist
DMI offers the Certified Search Marketing Specialist credential for digital marketers who want to verify their skills in search. This course covers topics such as SEO, paid search, search analytics and popular search tools. To earn this credential, you complete 30 hours of training over 10 modules and pass a two-hour exam.
9. eCornell Digital Marketing Certificate
This business school offers the eCornell Digital Marketing Certificate through its e-learning platform. The courses cover basic frameworks of digital media then moves on to practical exercises. This framework allows each student to create their own digital marketing strategy that can be tailored to their needs and implemented as needed.
10. Content Marketing Institute Online Certificate
This online hub for content marketing training offers this certificate through its CMI University. Upon completing the course and passing the final exam, you can earn a certification that never expires. After registering, you have 12 months to complete the program. The core curriculum involves 10 mandatory courses, and there are elective courses available taught by experts, including topics like customer experience and lead generation.
11. Duke University Digital Media & Marketing Certificate
Advance your digital marketing skills with this self-paced, 12-month program that results in a professional Digital Media & Marketing Certificate from Duke University. This program includes modules on the following topics:
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Content marketing
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Social media
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Mobile marketing
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Pay-per-click advertising
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Website conversion rate optimization
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Web analytics
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SEO
12. University of Vermont Advanced Social Media Marketing Certificate
This program from the University of Vermont is a four-week online course resulting in a certificate. Taught by industry experts and including Hubspot content, this course allows both veterans and beginners to hone their online marketing skills by developing campaigns. In this course, you can discover topics like:
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Advanced SEO
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Techniques for growing a small business with e-commerce
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Marketing analytics
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Social media storytelling
13. Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate
Meta, the owner of Facebook and Instagram, offers the Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate credential for digital marketers operating on their platforms. This credential is best for entry-level marketing specialists and certifies your proficiency with Meta products and services. A Meta certification can show companies your skills in digital ad campaigns and reporting. You can advance your skills in the future with a higher-level Meta credential in one of the following areas:
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Marketing science
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Creative strategy
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Media planning
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Media buying
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Community management
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Meta Spark
14. Harvard University Digital Marketing Strategy
In this brief but in-depth industry course, students learn how to build and implement a data-backed digital marketing strategy. Topics in the Harvard University Digital Marketing Strategy course span a wide range of relevant concepts, such as customer journeys, data analytics and influencer marketing. The course lasts five days and occurs on Harvard’s campus. It results in a certificate of completion.
15. Copyblogger Certified Content Marketer
The Copyblogger certification is for content strategists and creators who want to demonstrate their writing capabilities to potential employers and clients. To earn this advanced certification, you submit your work and pass a final review from a Copyblogger editor. Once you pass, you earn a listing in their directory as a Certified Content Marketer.
16. Twitter Flight School Get Started on Twitter Badge
Twitter’s Flight School is the platform’s learning center, and the Get Started on Twitter Badge consists of short video modules that take about an hour to complete. The modules show marketers how to utilize their social network to reach a wider audience and expand their opportunities. You can also earn their badges in areas like creative advertising, videos and performance ads.
17. quintly Social Media Analytics Course
The quintly Social Media Analytics Course focuses on the analytics of social media, giving participants training in how to track their performance goals across major social media platforms. It’s free and covers a variety of topics relating to social media. It includes courses on:
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Analyzing your social media presence and competitors
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Determining your goals
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Reporting on social media posts
18. Microsoft Advertising Certification
Previously known as the Bing Ad Certification, the Microsoft Advertising Certification course helps marketers get the maximum benefit from Microsoft platforms. Training documents help you prepare for an exam, which requires a score of 80% or higher. There are currently three available certification tracks:
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Search advertising learning path
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Native and display advertising learning path
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Shopping advertising learning path.
19. OMCP Digital Marketing Certification
The Online Marketing Certified Professional (OMCP) certification is one of the leading industry credentials for experienced digital marketers. You may be eligible if you have at least 5,000 hours of professional experience or 2,000 hours and qualifying industry training, such as a degree or approved courses. If you’ve earned other certifications or certificates, your training may make you eligible for the OMCP credential. You also take a series of exams.
20. YouTube Certified
A YouTube Certified credential from this popular video platform can help you define your video content strategy. Their training teaches you how to create, grow, optimize and monetize a YouTube channel. YouTube requires candidates to have a Content ID or partner manager to qualify.
21. GetResponse Digital Marketing Certification
The GetResponse Digital Marketing Certification helps marketers learn the tools to improve their online reach through areas like landing pages and marketing automation. They offer four curriculums for certifications in the following:
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Email marketing
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Landing page conversion optimization
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Content marketing
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Marketing automation
22. Full Sail University Digital Marketing Graduate Certificate
Full Sail offers a wide range of online courses for emerging media. Their digital marketing graduate certificate is a four-month program designed to provide an introduction to the following topics:
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Digital marketing methodologies
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New media
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Marketing analysis
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Digital analytics
23. Northwestern Kellogg Digital Marketing Strategies: Data, Automation, AI & Analytics
This two-month advanced program from Northwestern University focuses on concepts like brand storytelling and practical analytics through data mining. Learning about emerging technologies through this program could help you stay competitive and leverage the latest tools to your advantage. Key areas of focus include:
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Ethnographic research
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Social data mining
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Behavior segmentation
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Brand storytelling
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Customer journey mapping
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Marketing attribution
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Automation
24. DePaul University Digital Marketing Strategy Certificate Program
The Chicago-based university offers the DePaul University Digital Marketing Strategy Certificate Program at its downtown campus to offer beginners a broad overview of digital marketing principles. Participants take courses to better understand:
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Content marketing strategy
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Digital marketing fundamentals
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Search engine optimization
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Multichannel marketing communications
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Predictive analytics
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Social media marketing
25. BrainStation Digital Marketing Certificate
This tech-forward platform offers both online and on-campus classes in locations across the United States and Canada. The BrainStation Digital Marketing Certificate program discusses key elements of digital marketing, such as SEO, email marketing and social media. The program includes a final project where students create a digital marketing campaign.
26. HubSpot Email Marketing Certification
The HubSpot Email Marketing Certification course teaches participants how to create an effective email marketing campaign. It includes nine lessons, 28 videos and nine quizzes. You can complete the course in three hours and 19 minutes. Specific modules focus on:
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Segmentation
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Email deliverability
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Email design
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Analyzing and testing marketing emails
Ways to add digital marketing certifications to your resume
Below are some ways you could highlight your credentials on your resume to demonstrate your competence to potential employers:
Add a certifications section
You can add an optional section at the end of your resume for certifications. In this space, you can list the name of each credential you hold, the name of the organization that granted it and either year you earned it or the year it expires. Adding a certification section is an especially effective option if you have multiple digital marketing certifications to list. Here’s an example:
Certifications
Certified Search Marketing Specialist, Digital Marketing Institute – 2022
Content Marketing Certification, Hubspot – 2023
Put your credentials after your name
Some certifications result in a title, such as the OMCP, earn you acronym distinctions you can place behind your name. For example, if you earned this certification, you might write your name as follows:
[First name] [Last name], OMCP
Include digital marketing certifications in your professional summary
Reputable industry certifications are often excellent qualifications to discuss in your professional summary section. Including the name of a certification you hold can show the hiring manager you’re a trained expert in the field, which may encourage them to continue reading your application. Here’s an example of how you might add this information to your summary:
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