Obtaining additional credentials and certifications can be a great way to progress your career and maximize your salary potential. It’s also a great opportunity to learn more about the topics within your field or even help you enter into a new industry. Take a look at a few certifications and credentials that can increase your salary.
CISSP – Computer Networking and Information Technology
CISSP-certified professionals clearly understand what it takes to design, implement,
and manage cybersecurity programs at the highest standards. Earning a CISSP certification can open the doors to a higher salary and a successful career in cybersecurity. Read more about earning a CISSP certification here.
PMP – Project Management
Whether it’s within healthcare, construction, or technology, project managers are
responsible for seeing projects through to completion. They are an essential part of companies, ensuring that projects stay within budget and run as smoothly and as efficiently as possible. According to Forbes, the average salary for a project manager with a PMP certification is $123,000 which is a 32% increase over non-certified PMP project managers.
Journeyman – Skilled Trades
A journeyman is a skilled professional in a specific trade. Journey-level workers earn their title by gaining certifications and licenses through experience and an apprenticeship. In order to become fully qualified to perform their trade without supervision, they must pass a state Journeyman exam. Common examples of journeymen are Journeyman Electrician and Journeyman Plumber. Income potential greatly increases when an apprentice becomes a journeyman. According to Indeed.com, the average salary increase can more than double when you become a certified journeyman. Of course, salary can greatly differ based on experience, location, and other credentials.
Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning
With the ever-changing trends of technology, many of the biggest companies in the world are in search of candidates skilled in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. Obtaining Machine Learning certificates or certifications can help you stand out from other candidates. There are several accredited AI and Machine Learning certifications out there that can help you reach close to a six-figure salary at a beginners level.
Nursing – Health Care
Nurses are needed all over the world and demand is only increasing. While salaries depend on location, education, and experience, the national average salary typically increases as you grow in your career and your advancement opportunities increase, which will likely lead to higher compensation. Starting with the most entry-level nursing credentials, you can advance your career and increase your earning potential. Just a few of the many credentials in the nursing field that you can pursue include:
- Licensed Practical Nursing (LPN) and Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN)
As an LPN and/or LVN, you’ll typically report to and support a Registered Nurse (RN). The time commitment to complete this certification program is usually one year. To become an LPN, enroll and graduate from an accredited LPN program and pass the NCLEX-PN exam. Peterson’s has the tools you need like practice tests, interactive study materials, and flashcards to help you ace the NCLEX-PN. - Registered Nursing (RN)
As an RN, you’ll apply critical thinking skills to evaluate and care for patients. To become a Registered Nurse, you’ll need to acquire an associate or bachelor level degree in nursing. After you’ve received your nursing degree, you’ll need to take and pass the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN) in order to become a licensed nurse. Peterson’s test prep gives you access to practice tests and study tools to help you pass the NCLEX-RN. - APRN (Advanced Practice Registered Nurse): After earning an RN credential, you may want to pursue an APRN license. As an APRN, you’ll have the option to practice independently without a physician’s supervision. And although the path to becoming an APRN requires a master’s degree and therefore is much longer than becoming an RN, it may be worthwhile to pursue. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Registered Nurses earn a median pay of $70,000 per year while Advanced Practice Registered Nurses, on the other hand, earn a median annual salary of $110,930.
Marketing
To help stand out in such a competitive industry, obtaining marketing certifications is a great way to show your skills and gain expertise. Whether you choose to focus solely on one certification like SEO, email, analytics, social media, or video advertising, or choose to pursue a few, there are several marketing certification options available to help give your salary a boost.
CPA – Accounting
Accountants with a CPA (Certified Public Accountant) license have met educational, work, and testing requirements through a rigorous exam. And although becoming a certified public accountant is a huge commitment and a difficult task, there are many benefits that come along with earning the credential. It’s reported that a CPA earns an average of 25% more than accountants who do not hold a CPA license. On top of an increased salary, you’ll have better and more opportunities to advance your career.
