I’ve nearly completed the coursework segment of AIGA Professional Certification as a Professional Designer—Design Leader. So far, the courses have featured engaging materials and presentation methods. Furthermore, the materials have affirmed my experience within professional practice along with offering new learning opportunities, especially within the Accounting and Finance Module of the Business Fundamentals for Designers course. More on that later.

The new certification program from AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) is in its first year of implementation. AIGA, the professional association for design, now offers certification to individuals meeting criteria to be recognized as professional designers. The endorsement of a professional body such as the AIGA is set to become a distinctive marker of professional design in the coming years. This is a welcome advancement in my mind working towards licensure for designers in the United States.

AIGA have developed two tracks for certification. The first, AIGA-PD designation (Professional Designer) is available to anyone who has practiced for one year as a designer in a number of specializations. The second, AIGA-DL designation (Design Leader) is open to persons who have practiced for at least seven years. Both certifications involve successful completion of a set of 4 courses, and a portfolio assessment. The PD portfolio assessment takes place virtually, while the DL assessment occurs in person during either the yearly Design Leadership Summit or AIGA National Conference.

I’ve elected to pursue Design Leader certification as part of my professional development program for this year. I see the certification benefiting my professional practice (as AIGA suggests) by:

• Affirming my commitment to life-long learning
• Differentiating myself in a competitive marketplace
• Upholding and developing professional standards for design
• Committing to my craft and professional practice
• Elevating my value with peers and clients

I’ll update the blog after I complete the process with a more full evaluation and recommendation, but at this point in the process, I whole-heartedly recommend pursuing certification to my fellow designers. I have found the courses rich with information and perspective that young designers will find instructive. More senior designers will find significant validation of their experiences in the field. Of course, no one can be expert at all facets of professional practice, so there is plenty to learn for designers of all levels.

Look for a post regarding specific courses in the coming days.