Compliance Certifications for Compliance Professionals

There are many different types of compliance certifications available, and the best one for you will depend on your industry and job role. Here are some of the most popular compliance certifications:

- Healthcare Compliance Certification (CHC): This certification is for healthcare professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of compliance issues in the healthcare industry.

- Financial Compliance Certification (FCC): This certification is for financial professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of compliance issues in the financial industry.

- General Compliance Certification (GCC): This certification is for professionals who want to demonstrate their knowledge of compliance issues in any industry.

The Compliance Certification Board (CCB) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to promote ethical conduct and best practices in the field of compliance through certification.

Compliance professionals who earn CCB certifications demonstrate their commitment to compliance excellence, ethical conduct, and professional development. CCB-certified professionals are sought after by employers because they know that these individuals have the skills and knowledge to help organizations meet their compliance obligations.

CCB's healthcare compliance certifications:

CHC, CHPC, and CHRC show that you have the knowledge and skills to help your organization meet its compliance obligations.

Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC):

The CHC certification is the premier healthcare compliance certification. It is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of healthcare compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively manage a compliance program.

Certified in Healthcare Privacy Compliance (CHPC):

The CHPC certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of healthcare privacy compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively manage a healthcare privacy program.

Certified in Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC):

The CHRC certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of healthcare research compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively manage a healthcare research program.

Certified in Healthcare Compliance Fellow (CHC-F):

The CHC-F certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a mastery of healthcare compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively lead a compliance program.

Compliance certifications from other organizations:

In addition to CCB's financial and healthcare compliance certifications, there are other compliance-related certifications offered by other organizations, such as the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) and the Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA).

These certification programs offer individuals the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge of compliance issues and their ability to effectively manage a compliance program.

Some of the most popular compliance certifications include the Certified Compliance Professional (CCP), Certified Compliance Specialist (CCS), and Certified Compliance Analyst (CCA).

Certified Healthcare Compliance Officer (CHCO):

The CHCO certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of healthcare compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively manage a healthcare compliance program.

Certified Healthcare Compliance Specialist (CHCS):

The CHCS certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a detailed understanding of healthcare compliance issues and who have the skills to support a healthcare compliance program.

Certified Healthcare Compliance Analyst (CHCA):

The CHCA certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a thorough understanding of healthcare compliance issues and who have the skills to analyze healthcare compliance data.

Compliance Certifications in Banking, IT, and Privacy

Banking, information technology, and privacy are all high-risk industries where compliance is critical. A certification in banking, IT, or privacy compliance might assist your company reduce risks and better adhere to regulations. Obtaining these certifications may also help you stand out among employers because of the additional level of knowledge and training they frequently represent.

Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)

The CIPP certification, which is issued by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), is for those whose occupation revolves around privacy and data compliance. There are four concentrations under thiscompliance certification based on different regions: Asia (CIPP/A), Canada (CIPP/C), Europe(CIPP/E) and U.S private-sector (CIPP/US).

The GDPR poses a significant risk to your company's ability to continue operating if you don't have the proper procedures in place. Losing this certification, on the other hand, demonstrates that candidates comprehend major worldwide ideas like data privacy and protection law and practice, as well as legal norms for handling and transferring data.

Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must pass an exam and receive IAPP-approved training materials.

Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)

The Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) issues the CGEIT credential, which is for people working in the governance of IT compliance. It has four categories: governance of enterprise IT, IT resources, benefits realization, and risk optimization.

Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible, candidates must: 

-Complete at least 120 CEUs every three years 

-Pay an annual fee 

-Comply with the ISCA code of ethics

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)

The CRISC certification is also offered by ISACA, and it is targeted toward people with prior IT enterprise risk management and information system control experience. This credential covers four work-related topics: identifying IT risk, assessing IT risk, reacting to and mitigating risks, and monitoring risks and control.

Eligibility Requirements: The requirements for the CGEIT are 120 units of continuing education every three years, an annual fee, and compliance with the ISCA code of ethics.

CCB's financial compliance certifications:

The Financial Compliance Certification Board (FCCB) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to promote ethical conduct and best practices in the financial services industry through certification.

Financial professionals who earn FCCB certifications demonstrate their commitment to compliance excellence, ethical conduct, and professional development. FCCB-certified professionals are sought after by employers because they know that these individuals have the skills and knowledge to help organizations meet their compliance obligations.

Certified Financial Compliance Officer (CFCO):

The CFCO certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of compliance issues in the financial services industry and who have the skills to effectively manage a compliance program.

Certified Financial Compliance Specialist (CFCS):

The CFCS certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a detailed understanding of compliance issues in the financial services industry and who have the skills to support a compliance program.

Certified Financial Compliance Analyst (CFCA):

The CFCA certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a thorough understanding of compliance issues in the financial services industry and who have the skills to analyze compliance data.

FCCB's General Compliance Certification:

The General Compliance Certification Board (GCCB) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to promote ethical conduct and best practices in the compliance profession through certification.

Compliance professionals who earn GCCB certifications demonstrate their commitment to compliance excellence, ethical conduct, and professional development. GCCB-certified professionals are sought after by employers because they know that these individuals have the skills and knowledge to help organizations meet their compliance obligations.

Certified Compliance Professional (CCP):

The CCP certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of compliance issues and who have the skills to effectively manage a compliance program.

Certified Compliance Specialist (CCS):

The CCS certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a detailed understanding of compliance issues and who have the skills to support a compliance program.

Certified Compliance Analyst (CCA):

The CCA certification is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated a thorough understanding of compliance issues and who have the skills to analyze compliance data.

CCB's corporate compliance certifications

Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional (CCEP)

For compliance professionals of all levels within organizations: the CCEP® credential is the only compliance certification accredited by ANSI and recognized by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) under ISO 17024:2012. The CCEP® designation certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and/or manage a best-in-class compliance program and adhere to high ethical standards.

To earn the CCEP®, candidates must successfully complete an exam that tests their knowledge of seven core compliance areas essential for managing an effective program. These core areas are: 1) Compliance Program Management; 2) Compliance Risk Management; 3) Compliance Communications; 4) Compliance Training; 5) Compliance Monitoring, Auditing, and Reporting; 6) Compliance Investigations; and 7) Compliance Culture.

Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional International (CCEP-I)

The CCEP-I credential is the international version of the CCEP and is also accredited by ANSI and recognized by the Compliance Certification Board (CCB) under ISO 17024:2012. The CCEP-I designation certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and/or manage a best-in-class compliance program and adhere to high ethical standards.

Certified Compliance and Ethics Professional Fellow (CCEP-F)

The CCEP-F credential is the most senior-level compliance certification offered by the Compliance Certification Board. The CCEP-F designation certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and/or manage a best-in-class compliance program and adhere to high ethical standards. To earn the CCEP-F, candidates must first earn the CCEP or CCEP-I credential and then complete additional requirements, which include: 5 years of full-time compliance experience; 40 hours of approved continuing education; 2 Letters of Recommendation from a Board Member or Certified Compliance Professional; and an original essay on a compliance topic.

Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) 

The American Bankers Association (ABA) issues the CRCM certification. The certification is designed for people who work with financial services and compliance. It would be especially beneficial for professionals interested in demonstrating expertise in topics related to regulatory change management, governance, oversight, and auditor & regulator compliance management.

Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must have worked six years or completed two ABA courses. Candidates must complete 60 CEUs every three years to remain eligible.

Leadership Professional in Ethics and Compliance (LPEC) 

The LPEC certification is issued by the Ethics & Compliance Initiative (ECI), which is designed for people working in the business compliance sector who want to assist businesses build a strong culture of honesty and governance.

Eligibility Requirements: The ECI's Member or non-member requirements are as follows: You must take and pass a 100-question test.

NAFCU Certified Compliance Officer (NCCO) 

The National Association of Federal Credit Unions (NAFCU) issues the NCCO certification, which is designed for individuals who work in compliance and credit union operations.

Eligibility Requirements: Attend the NAFCU's six-day regulatory compliance training seminar. To keep their accreditation, students must earn 24 CEUs every two years.

Certified Compliance Professional (CCP) by IABFM

The International Academy of Business & Financial Management (IABFM) offers the CCP certification for corporate executives who are in charge of regulatory compliance within their enterprises. This is one of a number of credentials that this professional organization provides.

The IABFM offers a more advanced certification known as the Advanced Certified Compliance Professional (ACCP). It is a more complicated credential, and those who seek it may anticipate to tackle knotty case studies. There are two CCP certification program types: one for businesses and one for banks and financial institutions.

Eligibility Requirements: Candidates must pass a five-day training course and undergo comprehensive testing.

Certified Compliance Director (CCD)

The CCD credential is for compliance professionals who develop and oversee global compliance programs. The CCD® credential certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and manage a best-in-class compliance program as well as their commitment to high ethical standards.

To earn the CCD®, candidates must successfully complete an exam that tests their knowledge of seven core compliance areas essential for managing an effective program. These core areas are: 1) Compliance Program Management; 2) Compliance Risk Management; 3) Compliance Communications; 4) Compliance Training; 5) Compliance Monitoring, Auditing, and Reporting; 6) Compliance Investigations; and 7) Compliance Culture.

Certified Compliance Officer (CCO)

The CCO credential is for compliance professionals who develop and oversee global compliance programs. The CCO® credential certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and manage a best-in-class compliance program as well as their commitment to high ethical standards.

To earn the CCO®, candidates must successfully complete an exam that tests their knowledge of seven core compliance areas essential for managing an effective program. These core areas are: 1) Compliance Program Management; 2) Compliance Risk Management; 3) Compliance Communications; 4) Compliance Training; 5) Compliance Monitoring, Auditing, and Reporting; 6) Compliance Investigations; and 7) Compliance Culture.

Certified Healthcare Compliance Professional (CHC)

The CHC credential is for healthcare compliance professionals who develop and oversee global compliance programs. The CHC® credential certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and manage a best-in-class compliance program as well as their commitment to high ethical standards.

To earn the CHC®, candidates must successfully complete an exam that tests their knowledge of seven core compliance areas essential for managing an effective program. These core areas are: 1) Compliance Program Management; 2) Compliance Risk Management; 3) Compliance Communications; 4) Compliance Training; 5) Compliance Monitoring, Auditing, and Reporting; 6) Compliance Investigations; and 7) Compliance Culture.

Certified Financial Compliance Professional (CFCP)

The CFCP credential is for financial compliance professionals who develop and oversee global compliance programs. The CFCP® credential certifies an individual’s ability to develop, implement, and manage a best-in-class compliance program as well as their commitment to high ethical standards.

To earn the CFCP®, candidates must successfully complete an exam that tests their knowledge of seven core compliance areas essential for managing an effective program. These core areas are: 1) Compliance Program Management; 2) Compliance Risk Management; 3) Compliance Communications; 4) Compliance Training; 5) Compliance Monitoring, Auditing, and Reporting; 6) Compliance Investigations; and 7) Compliance Culture.

The importance of compliance certification:

Organizations face an ever-increasing array of regulatory requirements, and compliance professionals play a critical role in helping organizations meet these obligations. Compliance certifications provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage compliance programs. These credentials are also sought after by employers, as they demonstrate a commitment to compliance excellence and ethical conduct. Compliance certifications can help you advance your career and make you more attractive to potential employers.

Compliance Certifications for Business & Organizations

Compliance certifications by industry help ensure that organizations are following best practices for safety, quality control, and ethical standards. There are many different types of compliance certifications, each designed to fit the needs of a specific sector. Here is an overview of some of the most common compliance certifications:

General Compliance Certifications

There are a number of general compliance certifications that can be useful for any organization, regardless of industry. Some of the most popular general compliance certifications include:

ISO 9001: This certification is granted by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and indicates that an organization has a strong quality management system in place. This certification can be used in any industry.

ISO 14001: Also granted by the ISO, this certification indicates that an organization has a robust environmental management system. It is often required by companies that have a large environmental impact, such as those in the manufacturing or energy sectors.

OHSAS 18001: This Occupational Health and Safety Assessment Series certification is granted by the British Standards Institution (BSI). It indicates that an organization has a comprehensive health and safety management system. This certification is often required in industries with high risks for employee injury, such as construction or healthcare.

Healthcare Compliance Certifications

There are several compliance certifications that are specific to the healthcare industry. These include:

The Joint Commission: Also known as TJC, this organization provides accreditation to healthcare organizations that meet its standards for quality and safety. Organizations that are accredited by TJC must undergo regular reviews to maintain their accreditation.

Medicare Certification: In order to participate in the Medicare program, healthcare organizations must obtain certification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Organizations that provide care to Medicare patients must meet a number of quality standards in order to maintain their certification.

Banking Compliance Certifications

The banking industry is heavily regulated, and as such, there are a number of compliance certifications that banks can obtain. These include:

Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance: Named for the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, this compliance certification is designed specifically for public companies. In order to obtain this certification, organizations must have strong internal controls in place to prevent financial fraud.

Basel III Compliance: Also known as the Third Basel Accord, this set of international banking regulations was designed to improve the stability of the banking system. In order to be Basel III compliant, banks must meet a number of capital and liquidity requirements.

Securities Compliance Certifications

Organizations that are involved in the securities industry must adhere to a number of rules and regulations. Some of the compliance certifications that are specific to this industry include:

Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) Compliance: FINRA is a self-regulatory organization that oversees broker-dealers and investment advisers. In order to become a member of FINRA, organizations must meet a number of financial and operational requirements.

Investment Adviser Association (IAA) Compliance: The IAA is a trade association for investment advisers. To become a member of the IAA, organizations must meet certain ethical and professional standards.

Compliance certifications are an important way for organizations to demonstrate their commitment to following the rules and regulations that apply to their industry. By obtaining one or more of these certifications, organizations can show potential customers, partners, and investors that they take compliance seriously.

In some industries, such as healthcare and banking, compliance certifications may even be required in order to do business. Compliance certifications can be a valuable asset for any organization, so it is important to research the various options and choose the certification (or certifications) that best fit your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Compliance Certifications 

There are a number of things to think about if you want to get your hands on a compliance certificate.Whether you're looking for a healthcare compliance certificate or corporate compliance certification, there are certain information you should be aware of.

The following section will answer some common questions related to compliance certifications.

What are the best compliance certifications to get?

While there is no hierarchy of compliance certifications, the one that will benefit you most depends on your occupation and what industry you work in. Consider your individual needs to decipher which certification would suit you best.

The guide on this page provides an overview of many industry-specific compliance certifications, which you may use as a reference to determine which certification is best for your needs.

Is it necessary to obtain a compliance certification?

Though certification may not be necessary for some jobs, it could help you stand out from other candidates. If you're thinking about getting certified, consider your career goals, what your employer needs, and if the job requirements demand it.

What is the process of getting certified in compliance?

Requirements for various certifications vary considerably. Most certifications need you to take and pass an exam, as well as fulfill some form of continuing education requirement. Check with the relevant certification board once you've decided to pursue any of their qualifications.

What are the background requirements to apply for compliance certifications?

Different certifications have distinct requirements, as you can see from the explanations above. Make sure to look into the requirements for any certification you might be interested in - typically, these include work experience related to compliance and an academic background in compliance. In addition, most certificates demand that applicants pass an exam.

There are many different types of compliance certifications available, and each one can offer benefits for both you and your employer. Understanding the requirements for each certification can help you make the best decision for your career. In addition to advancing your career through compliance certifications, you may also want to consider a master’s degree in compliance if you would like to deepen your knowledge of this field.

Glossary:

Compliance Certification: A certification that demonstrates an organization's commitment to following the rules and regulations that apply to their industry.

Healthcare Compliance: The act of following therules and regulations that apply to the healthcare industry.

Financial Compliance: The act of following the rules and regulations that apply to the financial industry.

OHSAS 18001: A certification granted by the British Standards Institution (BSI) that indicates an organization has a comprehensive health and safety management system.

The Joint Commission: An organization that provides accreditation to healthcare organizations that meet its standards for quality and safety.

Medicare Certification: A certification from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that allows an organization to participate in the Medicare program.

Sarbanes-Oxley Compliance: A compliance certification named for the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 that is designed specifically for public companies.

Basel III Compliance: A compliance certification that indicates a bank has met the capital and liquidity requirements set forth by the Third Basel Accord.

FINRA Compliance: A compliance certification granted by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA) that allows an organization to become a member of FINRA.

IAA Compliance: A compliance certification granted by the Investment Adviser Association (IAA) that allows an organization to become a member of the IAA.

Compliance: The act of following the rules and regulations that apply to an industry.

Certified professional compliance officer: A certified professional compliance officer is a person who has been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to perform the duties of a compliance officer.

Healthcare research compliance certification: A healthcare research compliance certification is a certification that indicates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to comply with the rules and regulations that apply to healthcare research.

Legal obligations: Legal obligations are the duties that an individual or organization has under the law.

Project management professional: A project management professional is a person who has been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage projects.

Effective compliance programs: Effective compliance programs are programs that are designed to help organizations comply with the rules and regulations that apply to them.

Organizational integrity: Organizational integrity is the principle that an organization should be honest and ethical in its dealings.

Intellectual property laws: Intellectual property laws are laws that protect the intellectual property of individuals and organizations.

Compliance: Compliance is the act of following the rules and regulations that apply to an industry.

Certified information systems security professional cissp: A certified information systems security professional cissp is a person who has been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively secure computer systems.

Anti money laundering: Anti money laundering is the practice of preventing money from being used to finance criminal activities.

Bank secrecy act: The Bank Secrecy Act is a law that requires financial institutions to maintain records of their customers' transactions.

Financial sectors: The financial sector is the part of the economy that deals with the provision of financial services.

Highly regulated industries: Highly regulated industries are those industries that are subject to stringent rules and regulations.

Government agencies: Government agencies are organizations that are responsible for the administration of government policy.

Certified compliance and ethics professional ccep: A certified compliance and ethics professional ccep is a person who has been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage compliance and ethics programs.

Financial crimes: Financial crimes are crimes that involve the use of money or other financial assets.

Compliance certification: Compliance certification is a certification that indicates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to comply with the rules and regulations that apply to an industry.

Healthcare compliance: Healthcare compliance is the act of following the rules and regulations that apply to the healthcare industry.

Financial compliance: Financial compliance is the act of following the rules and regulations that apply to the financial industry.

American national standards institute: The American national standards institute is a nonprofit organization that develops and maintains voluntary standards for products, services, and systems.

Risk assessment: Risk assessment is the process of identifying the risks that are associated with a particular activity or situation.

Addressing legal obligations: Addressing legal obligations is the process of ensuring that an organization complies with the laws and regulations that apply to it.

Address legal obligations: Address legal obligations is the process of ensuring that an individual or organization complies with the laws and regulations that apply to them.

Systems security professional cissp: A systems security professional cissp is a person who has been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively secure computer systems.

Proactive compliance approach: A proactive compliance approach is an approach that focuses on preventing problems before they occur.

Project management institute: The project management institute is a nonprofit organization that provides certification and training in project management.

Compliance processes: Compliance processes are the procedures that organizations use to ensure that they comply with the rules and regulations that apply to them.

Relevant regulations: Relevant regulations are the laws and regulations that apply to an industry or activity.

Intellectual property laws: Intellectual property laws are laws that protect the rights of creators of intellectual property.

Cissp computer adaptive test: The cissp computer adaptive test is a test that measures an individual's knowledge of computer security concepts.

Compliance Officer: A Compliance Officer is an individual who is responsible for ensuring that an organization complies with the rules and regulations that apply to it.

Compliance training: Compliance training is training that covers the compliance requirements that apply to an industry or organization.

Compliance program: A compliance program is a program that sets out the rules and procedures that an organization must follow in order to comply with the law.

Compliance audits: Compliance audits are audits that are conducted to assess whether an organization is complying with the rules and regulations that apply to it.

Regulatory agencies: Regulatory agencies are organizations that are responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations that apply to an industry.

Ethical principles: Ethical principles are the principles that guide an individual's or organization's conduct.

Compliance policy: A compliance policy is a policy that sets out the rules and procedures that an organization must follow in order to comply with the law.

Compliance risk: Compliance risk is the risk of not complying with the rules and regulations that apply to an organization.

Compliance management system: A compliance management system is a system that helps organizations manage their compliance risks.

Compliance monitoring: Compliance monitoring is the process of assessing whether an organization is complying with the rules and regulations that apply to it.

Compliance report: A compliance report is a report that summarizes an organization's compliance with the rules and regulations that apply to it.

International certification: International certification is a certification that is recognized by more than one country.

Certified information systems security: Certified information systems security is a certification that indicates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively secure computer systems.

aml compliance: AML compliance is compliance with the rules and regulations that apply to anti money laundering.

Risk identification: Risk identification is the process of identifying the risks that may affect an organization.

Ethics professionals: Ethics professionals are individuals who have been certified by a professional organization as having the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively apply ethical principles.

Professional conduct: Professional conduct is conduct that meets the standards of behavior that are expected of members of a profession.

Bank secrecy act: The bank secrecy act is a law that requires banks to maintain records of their customers' transactions.

Anti money laundering: Anti money laundering is the process of preventing money from being used to finance criminal activity.

Manage risk: Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and managing risks.

Government agencies: Government agencies are organizations that are responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations that apply to an industry.

Financial sectors: Financial sector is an industry that is involved in the provision of financial services.

Highly regulated industries: Highly regulated industries are industries that are subject to strict regulation by government agencies.

Compliance with highly regulated industries: Compliance with highly regulated industries refers to an organization's compliance with the rules and regulations that apply to its industry.

CCEP certification: The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) certification is a certification that indicates that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage compliance and ethics programs.