Professional certification programs prepare candidates for certification testing, or provide training that ends with certification. They grant licensure to people who demonstrate a standard set of skills within a certain discipline. Many engineering professionals are required to be certified every few years, or may be seek voluntary certification in a specialized area. Certification typically involves proof of experience, recommendations from colleagues and supervisors, and written or oral examinations.

Information Technology (IT) fields offer many different certifications in key areas. IT certification can include network, server, security, training or e-commerce specialities. One of the best known is MSCE certification offered by Microsoft. Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MSCE) certification ensures a standard level of proficiency in several areas that are specific to Microsoft systems and products, such as network security, computer network infrastructure, and general networking.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification is considered the premier standard for systems security engineers. The areas of expertise include access control systems, business continuity planning, cryptography, operations and physical security, security architecture, and others.

International Organization for Standardization (ISO) certification is divided into two standards: ISO 9000, which deals with quality management, and ISO 14000, which deals with environmental management. ISO 9000 certification ensures that an organization meets the ISO’s standards for quality control. ISO 14000 certification ensures that an organization meets the ISO’s standards for managing environmental challenges, such as minimizing harmful effects on the environment that may result from its practices.

Other professional certification programs promote the use of techniques and skills that ensure practitioners are up on the latest practices and protocols. Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) certification recognizes qualified individuals in the field of automotive repair and service. The IPC - Association Connecting Electronics Industries (originally founded under the name Institute for Printed Circuits) offers IPC certification, ensuring that individuals have state-of-the-art soldering skills.