There really is a difference
As the global demand for qualified information protection professionals continues to grow, PACC helps identify and promote a competent workforce — by recognizing practitioners who successfully demonstrate that they possess the skills, ongoing practical experience, and academic achievement that are essential for the effective practice of information privacy, access-to-information, and data protection.
Certification
- Relies on an objective, unbiased qualification process typically designed to evaluate skills, experience and knowledge
- Evaluations are based on generally accepted standardsAwarded by professional associations or governing bodies, usually not-for-profit
- Indicates demonstrable skill, education and education
- Considers knowledge, skill and experience acquired through many sources, not a particular institution or organization
- Confirms attainment of experience, not only completing courses or getting a passing grade on exams
- Usually confers the right to use specified letters after their name indicating the designation awarded
- Demonstrates achievement of skills and expertise acquired through experience, and knowledge acquired through professional pursuits and educational courses
Certificate
- Results from an educational process typically designed to help upgrade skills or start a new career path
- Accessible by newcomers and experienced professionals
- Awarded by educational programs or institutions, typically for-profit
- Indicates completion of a course of study with a specific focus (different than a degree granting program)
- Course content is determined by the specific provider or institution, but might not meet national standards
- Usually referenced on a resume as an educational accomplishment
- Demonstrates knowledge of course content at the end of a set period in time or a certain number of educational courses
