Definition of Certification

Certification, the original objective for ALA-APA, is a well-established practice in many professions; indeed a right of passage in some fields for those who wish to progress. Although the terms certificate and certification programs are often used interchangeably, ALA-APA defines certification as

• usually offered by a professional association;
• voluntary;
• requiring that applicants meet minimum criteria, such as experience or education;
• granting the authority for graduates to use a designation (e.g., CPLA®);
• including an assessment covering a broad range of skills;
• ensuring the privacy of participants; and
• requiring that certified professionals adhere to procedures to retain the designation