Certifications can be a great way for students to make themselves marketable and stand out in the labor market. Certifications do not just guarantee technical proficiency; they signal a commitment to furthering their careers. The following are nine certifications that students should consider adding to their resumes to increase their chances of finding a high-paying job.
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1. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)
This Microsoft Office Specialist certification confirms your proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Since many entry-level jobs across all industries require familiarity with these applications, this certification can help you get a better starter job. The Microsoft Office certification shows companies that you know how to work with the tools for documentation, data analysis, and presentation. It is ideal for working in business, administration, and even creative fields, as most employees need to work with files and documents.
Knowing how to use these tools will also help you do a better job on your school papers. You can also use Academized to make your academic writing process even easier. In the meantime, work on that certification to boost your skillset.
2. Google Analytics Certification
Google Analytics Certification is necessary for all students studying marketing, data analysis, or web development. This course provides all the required knowledge to search website traffic and understand user behavior to make decisions using data. The certification is absolutely free, and Google provides several tools for preparing for the test. The techniques you master can be used in marketing, social media, and e-commerce.
3. Project Management Professional (PMP)
If you want to become a manager or do any other job involving coordinating tasks and groups, the PMP certificate can be a game-changer. Even though full PMP certification requires work experience, beginners can get started by obtaining the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), which is a forerunner to PMP. Project management certifications can teach you everything from budgeting to time management to strategic planning that you’ll need in practically any industry. This certification on your CV will differentiate you from other internships or entry-level positions applicants.
4. Certified Digital Marketing Professional (CDMP)
There is a growing demand for digital marketing specialists, and you can get a job in this fast-paced industry with a CDMP certification. The certification teaches subjects like content marketing, SEO, email marketing, and social media. If you are studying business, communications, or marketing, this certificate is more than a boost to your CV; it will give you skills that you can use right away in internships and entry-level jobs.
Benefits of a digital marketing certification:
- Provides knowledge in diverse marketing tactics.
- Increases employability in various industries.
- Helps you stay current with marketing trends.
- Allows you to apply learned skills immediately.
- Offers networking opportunities in marketing communities.
5. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
CISSP Certification is recommended for students who are serious about cybersecurity. It’s one of the most trusted credentials in the industry, and it shows that you know how to protect a company’s data systems. The entire CISSP certificate will require a few years of work experience, but students can begin with smaller cybersecurity certifications like CompTIA Security+ or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH). These can still enhance their CVs and demonstrate their interest in cybersecurity.
6. CPR and First Aid Certification
A CPR and First Aid certificate is incredibly useful and can save lives in different scenarios. Often, jobs (especially in education, sports, and medicine) will prefer or even require someone who is certified in CPR and first aid. This license shows that you can act quickly in the case of a crisis, which is a useful skill in any industry. Additionally, it can make you competitive when pursuing internships, especially in sports, recreation, or healthcare.
7. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is a fantastic choice for students pursuing design, multimedia, or web development. The ACA certificate verifies that you are proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, and Premiere Pro. Creativity is a great asset in any field, and getting a certification in Adobe products makes you even more appealing. You could be a graphic designer, video editor, or web designer, and with the ACA certification, you will add something valuable to your arsenal.
8. Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
A TEFL qualification can be a big opportunity if you seek to travel or teach abroad. TEFL proves that you can teach English to non-native speakers and is an excellent qualification for students interested in teaching abroad or teaching international students. The demand for TEFL-certified teachers in Asia, Europe, and Latin America is immense. And even if you’re not planning on teaching full-time, this certificate can give you the option to side hustle or volunteer while traveling or studying abroad.
9. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Solutions Architect
Cloud computing is an important new skill in tech, and AWS certifications are one of the most demanded in the industry. The AWS Certified Solutions Architect certification covers Cloud solutions and how to build scalable systems in AWS. This certification can make you much more employable if you are a student of software development, IT, or data science and you are studying cloud computing.
Certify Your Path to Success
Having one of these nine certifications will definitely position students well to land a job, helping them start making money and building their skills. If you have skills and expertise in a particular field, you can present yourself as a stronger candidate to employers. Pick the right certification based on your career path, learn, and let your qualifications become the crowning jewel of your resume.
