Find your next pathway.

Start with what you need to show: professional competence, or new knowledge and skills.

A Prove your competence

Professional certification

Earn a credential from a certifying body. Usually needs a degree, relevant experience and a certification exam, with ongoing recertification.

ASP · CSP · CFPSSafety CIHIndustrial hygiene QEP · EPIEnvironmental

Select certification

B Build knowledge and skills

Certificate or diploma course

Study a syllabus with an approved provider and pass its assessments. Many starter courses have no formal entry requirements.

NEBOSHIGC and Level 6 diplomas IOSHLevel 3 Certificate and Level 6 Diploma BOHSOccupational hygiene M-series

Browse certificate courses

Not sure?Compare the two routes below, or start with ten free practice questions.

Certification or certificate?

Choose by what you need to demonstrate, not just the name on the award.

Professional certification and taught qualifications compared
What to compare	Professional certification	Certificate or diploma course
Purpose	Validates professional knowledge and competence against a credentialing body's standard.	Develops and assesses learning against a course or qualification syllabus.
Typical entry	May require a degree, relevant work experience and an existing credential.	Depends on the programme; some have no formal entry requirements.
Assessment	Usually a certification examination and review of eligibility evidence.	May include exams, assignments, practical tasks or attendance requirements.
Keeping it current	Often involves renewal fees, continuing development and recertification.	The award usually records achievement at a point in time; provider rules vary.
Examples	ASP, CSP, CIH, CFPS and QEP.	NEBOSH International General Certificate, IOSH Level 3 Certificate and Level 6 diplomas.

A certificate of attendance is different from an assessed qualification. NEBOSH and IOSH qualifications assess learning; a course does not automatically award a professional certification. EPI is an interim designation towards QEP, not a certification. Always check the awarding body's terminology and recognition.