ADCES offers a variety of certificate and assessment-based certificate learning programs. A certificate program is intended to provide training in a specific body of knowledge and/or skillset. Successful completion of a certificate program provides a certificate of completion validating the learner’s participation in the course of study, not a credential. Some ADCES certificate programs require a final assessment to evaluate the learner’s achievement of the intended learning outcomes. These are referred to as “assessment-based certificate” programs. A certificate program generally does not require renewal or CE to maintain the certificate. ADCES certificate programs are not certifications or credentials.
The certification program, or credentialing program, is intended to evaluate an individual’s mastery of an established, formal set of domains and competencies. Certification programs generally require passing an examination following the coursework. They may require documentation of specific practice hours or demonstration of specific skills before the certification can be earned. Usually, a credential is must be renewed through renewal examinations and/or meeting specific CE or other requirements.