The International Center for Creativity offers an innovative, competency-based learning certificate program created specifically for the innovation, creativity and design industries. All learning is valuable, but quantifiable achievements can be real differentiators for career placement and career advancement. Further, life-long learning is a trait of a leader! Our model of competency-based learning allows you to enhance your abilities, acquire new skills, and display these accomplishments on your resume, portfolio and professional networking sites.

Eligibility will be based on an application process and individualized evaluation of the applicant's current competencies from an industry-readiness standpoint. Once accepted into the program, a team of ICC instructors and industry professionals will review each applicant’s materials and advise on gaps and on the required scope of work that the applicant would need to complete to receive their certificate.

Two certificate tracks are available to choose from:

• The Standard Certificate track in available in one of four design topics including interior space design, product design, transportation design, and design thinking.

• The Customizable Certificate track is available in a topic chosen by the learner and approved by the ICC Certificate Team. Topics include, but are not limited to, furniture design, power tool design, toy/game design, shoe design, or other areas of expertise.

Get Started Today

If you are ready to get started, the process is easy. Simply fill out the online application (below). Submitting an application is free and no work assignments will be needed at this time.

1. Complete and submit the online application below.

2. The application will be reviewed by the ICC Certificate Team within two business weeks. If the application is approved, the applicant will receive an email with the next steps, which may include an assessment worksheet, uploading samples of work, completing essays, and other assessment measures in order for the ICC to create your certificate completion program. If the application is not approved, the applicant will receive feedback and instructions for resubmitting.

3. Upon approval, 50% of the overall program fee us due by check, credit card, debit card or Venmo.

4. Next, the applicant will complete an assessment worksheet and submit any additional supporting materials. An advisor will be assigned at this time.

5. A team of ICC representatives with complete a competency review and a “S.M.A.R.T.” (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, timely) plan will be provided with a completion schedule.

6. Upon successful completion and review of the assigned plan, the applicant will apply for their certificate. The remaining 50% of the fee will be charged at this time.

7. The ICC will issue a secure link enabling the recipient to share their certificate on LinkedIn and other sites. The ICC will also provide a frameable printout of the certificate.

Free Online Application: ICC Specialization Certificate

What is a Micro Credential?

An ICC micro credential indicates the successful completion and/or competency of a non-accredited course or topic that meets stringent criteria. Upon competition, micro credentials can be displayed personally online to help self-promote accomplishments. Viewers of the credentials can then follow links to learn about the criteria and objectives of the micro credential. Aggregator websites are also searchable to find employment candidates that meet specific criteria.

ICC micro credentials are managed by Credly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

COST

The cost of the specialization certificate is $1199 for standard certificates and $1499 for specialized certificates. While the ICC will make every reasonable accommodation to provide access to software, hardware, and other materials and resources, additional expenses may still be required and may be at the expense of the applicant.

What if an Applicant Already Has Some Competency Through College Courses or Professional Work Experience?

Applicants with existing competencies will receive consideration commensurate with their displayed work in the three evaluations areas of: industry-specific technical skills, foundational industry knowledge and the application skills and knowledge through a project.

How is This Different Than a College Course?

A certificate is not a substitution for a college degree! It is a companion and enhancement to college coursework and efficiently and cost-effectively creates market differentiation. In some cases, this certificate will end up costing less than the fee for one college credit hour. These certificates are hyper-relevant and specific to an ever-changing industry landscape, providing a deeper dive than the permitted time in a traditional college course.

Are These Certificates Accredited?

No. Nor do they need to be! These micro-credentials were developed with industry advisors and are for industry’s quickly changing demands. The ICC is an award-winning program and we have created a rigorous compliance process.

 Are These Programs Online?

Because these certificates are competency-based, an applicant may never have to attend a course in person or online. The course of study required to obtain the certificate is determined by the displayed work that an applicant submits. Various external resources might be assigned as part of the completion requirements and some of those courses could be in-person or online.

Why Did the ICC Create This Program?

The program was created to offer an optional and affordable way for creatives to make themselves more competitive in the marketplace when looking for work or for established designers to get sharable recognition of their learned competencies. Further, the ICC has been committed to a four-year undergraduate degree program while many of its competitors have expanded to require a fifth year, which not only adds extra expenses, but also delays the start of earning wages.

How Long with it Take to Complete a Certificate?

This is completely dependent on how much specific coursework would need to be completed to earn competency in the topic. While some applicants will start the program with relevant and transferrable competency that will shorten their experience, other applicants might be starting with fewer demonstratable skills or knowledge of the topic.

How Should I Describe My Certificate for My Resume and Online?

Once you've earned your Certificate of Completion, list it on your resume along with the date of completion:

International Center for Creativity
Certificate in [topic as it is listed on completion notification email][Cohort Start Month and Year]

Also be sure to list your certificate on your LinkedIn profile. Upon completion of your certificate, additional information will be provided on how to digitally connect your new micro credential to Credly.