Those who want to succeed in video editing can demonstrate their proficiency by obtaining a formal certification or certificate, which can help them stand out amongst other candidates when seeking work in digital media and video editing.
Video editing certification vs. certificate: Understanding the differences
Video editing certificates are obtained by students who enroll in and complete stand-alone courses or in-depth programs that cover skills relevant to the industry. While these certificates are sometimes awarded for the mastery of a specific video editing application, such as Premiere Pro or Final Cut, they can also be obtained by completing more robust programs with multiple courses on video editing theory, skills, and applications. For example, those who complete a video editing program with the American Graphics Institute (AGI) earn a certificate and develop a portfolio of work. These certificates of completion can be listed on resumes, portfolios, and professional websites to demonstrate proficiency in video editing.
Conversely, certifications are earned by passing exams that are created by third-party testing companies on behalf of the manufacturers of video editing applications. For example, a third-party testing company Certiport administers a video editing certification exam. The exam is designed to test a user’s knowledge on technical skills, and job-readiness., but is not widely used and not required for working in the video editing field. Most employers are not even aware of the exam.
Best video editing certifications and certificates
AGI is a well-known school offering cost-effective professional development training for those wanting to become skilled video editors. Students who finish their AGI coursework and demonstrate proficiency in their Premiere Pro courses and Final Cut courses can earn a certificate of completion for these individual classes. Each course is led by a live instructor, meets on specific days and times, and can be taken either online or at an AGI campus location.
For those who want to showcase a broad range of video editing skills, AGI’s video editing certificate program includes courses on After Effects, Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and digital imaging. This program teaches in-depth skills, such as media management and color correction, that can be utilized in any video editing application. Additionally, those who enroll in this program build work portfolios and are matched with a dedicated career counselor who can help them with job placement.
Is video editing certification required
Even though video editing certifications are not required, it is a valuable asset for anyone who is applying for roles in the film, television, and digital media industries. Those who dedicate time and energy to obtain a formal certificate or certification are able to demonstrate a level of commitment and technical expertise to potential employers and clients when interviewing for a video editing job or freelance project.
In addition to establishing a baseline level of skill, those who have video editing certificates or certifications can communicate their proficiency in a particular video editing application or highlight specialized skills. For example, a freelance video editor might display the certificate of completion they earned from AGI’s advanced Premiere Pro course in order to attract new clients and offer additional color correction services.
Where to get certified in video editing
Video editors of all skill levels can find an AGI course that comes with a certificate of completion and suits their budget, schedule, and goals. AGI’s introductory courses on Premiere Pro and Final Cut are designed to help new users feel confident navigating the interface, utilizing basic features, and exporting their work. Those who have some prior video editing experience may benefit from more advanced video editing courses, which cover everything from multicam editing to compositing and color correction.
AGI also offers a video editing certificate program that can be taken by both part-time and full-time students. With seven courses in total, this immersive program gives AGI students the opportunity to complete hands-on projects in a number of professional-grade applications and prepares them to enter the video editing industry. Anyone who completes this program leaves with a foundation in video editing, special effects, and motion graphics, as well as training on related tools and skills. Each student who enrolls in this certificate program also receives one-on-one guidance from industry professionals and help with job placement from AGI career counselors.