11 Best Photoshop Certifications (2024)

1. Introduction

In an evolving digital world, visual communication has become more important than ever. Adobe Photoshop, the industry standard for digital image editing and creation, has hence emerged as a vital skillset. A Photoshop Certification consequently serves as evidence of one’s competence in this crucial domain, giving them a competitive edge in various professional landscapes including photography, graphic design, advertising, and more.

1.1 Importance of Photoshop Certification

A Photoshop Certification not only validates your proficiency in using the software, but it also demonstrates your dedication to keeping your skillset up-to-date. For employers, it verifies that you can confidently handle tasks involving digital image manipulation, design, and enhancing visual content. Whether you’re looking to secure a new role in a related field, or hoping to demonstrate a wider range of skills in your current position, a Photoshop Certification can be an invaluable credential.

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1.3 Objectives of this Comparison

This comparison aims to provide an in-depth analysis of various Photoshop Certifications available in the market. We will evaluate each certification based on what they offer, weighing their pros and cons to guide you in making an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned professional looking to add another certification to your portfolio, or a beginner stepping into the world of graphic editing software, this comparison will provide a comprehensive picture of what each course entails, thus helping you choose the best-suited Photoshop Certification for your needs.

2. Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop

The Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop is a distinguished certification from Adobe, the creators of Photoshop. The program has been tailored to assess an individual’s ability to use both the technical and design capabilities of the software.

This certification program offers study materials, practice sets, and a comprehensive examination. After completion, the certification serves as a professional benchmark for proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, indicating a high level of mastery. It is recognized globally and often preferred by businesses and institutions looking out for skilled visual designers.

2.1 Pros

• Reputed Certification: Being direct from Adobe, this certification holds high credibility and global acceptance.
• Comprehensive Learning: The program covers a wide range of Photoshop tools, techniques, and workflows, providing learners a thorough understanding of the software.
• Advancement Opportunities: A certification from Adobe can open up advanced career opportunities in visual design and related fields.

2.2 Cons

• Costly: The certificate can be relatively pricey compared to other options.
• Requires Preparatory Work: As the examination is detailed and thorough, significant preparatory work and practice are needed to clear it successfully.
• Lack of Personalized Feedback: As a self-study program, learners miss out on personalized feedback or one-on-one interactions with instructors.

3. Certiport Adobe Certified Professional

The Certiport Adobe Certified Professional certification validates one’s technical skills using Adobe Photoshop. The certification is issued by Certiport, a well-known and widely accepted provider of certification exams in the information technology domain.

This certification is endorsed by Adobe and intends to recognize proficient users of Adobe software. It uses rigorous exam procedures to assess an individual’s skills and knowledge in digital media, design, and communication using Adobe’s leading software. This ultimately helps demonstrate technical skills and competence on one’s resume, enhancing employability considerably.

3.1 Pros

• Globally Recognized: Certiport certification is recognized worldwide, enhancing the value of this qualification.
• Validity: The certification remains valid for three years, giving certificate holders ample time to utilize it for career growth before needing to recertify.
• Practical Exam: The certification exam focuses on practical skills, allowing you to showcase your hands-on proficiency with the software.

3.2 Cons

• Exam Difficulty: The exam can be challenging, even for regular users of Adobe Photoshop due to its comprehensive coverage of the software’s features.
• Premium Pricing: The certification comes at a higher cost compared to others in this space.
• Test Center Proximity: The exam needs to be taken in an authorized test center, which might be inconvenient for individuals living far from such centers.

4. EDUCBA Free Online Photoshop Course

The EDUCBA Free Online Photoshop Course offers a valuable, cost-effective way to learn Photoshop at your own pace. This course is designed to equip learners with the basics of using Adobe Photoshop.

EDUCBA’s free online course offers comprehensive learning material that includes videos, articles, downloadable resources, and more, enabling learners worldwide to obtain a basic understanding of Photoshop. This course is ideal for beginners, as well as for individuals who wish to refresh their knowledge without incurring any costs.

4.1 Pros

• Free of Cost: This course is offered completely free, providing anyone interested in learning Photoshop with an accessible option.
• Flexible Learning: With self-paced learning, you can take the course according to your own schedule.
• Broad Content Coverage: The course covers a wide range of topics in Photoshop, making it a comprehensive learning platform.

4.2 Cons

• No Certification: The course does not offer a certification upon completion, which can make it less appealing for those looking to gain a tangible qualification.
• Lacks Advanced Levels: While great for beginners, the course does not offer advanced level content, limiting its usefulness for more experienced Photoshop users.
• Less Interaction: The course, being online and self-paced, lacks the interactive element and one-on-one assistance that some learners might need.

5. ACTE’s Photoshop Certification Online Training

The ACTE’s Photoshop Certification Online Training is a comprehensive course that includes both basics and advanced techniques of Adobe Photoshop.

ACTE provides a certified training course for Adobe Photoshop online, targeting both beginners who aim to learn the tools of Photoshop from scratch and experienced users who want to enhance their skills. The course is completely online, making it accessible for anyone, anywhere. The course also caters to a wide variety of primary applications of Photoshop, from graphic design and photography to marketing projects and business needs.

5.1 Pros

• Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers both basic and advanced Photoshop techniques, making it suitable for students of all levels of expertise.
• Certification Provided: Upon course completion, learners receive a certificate to validate their skills, which can be a valuable addition to the resume.
• Practical Training: The course provides real-world projects and examples for hands-on learning.

5.2 Cons

• Requires Time Investment: Given the comprehensive nature of the course, it can be time-consuming for those seeking quick learning.
• Cost Factor: Unlike some online courses, this training is not free and may not fit everyone’s budget.
• Connectivity Required: Since the course runs entirely online, you need a reliable internet connection to access the learning material.

6. American Graphics Institute Photoshop Certificate

The American Graphics Institute (AGI) Photoshop Certificate is a professional-grade certification that provides extensive training on using Adobe Photoshop.

The AGI Photoshop Certificate is designed to provide course participants with a solid foundation in the digital art world. It features in-depth instructions on Photoshop’s vast capabilities, from basic to advanced levels. This certificate is recognized across different industries, making it an excellent choice for professionals seeking a career in design or any field that demands Photoshop expertise.

6.1 Pros

• Industry Recognized: The AGI Photoshop Certificate is widely recognized across industries, adding value to your professional profile.
• Expert Teachers: The course is taught by experienced professionals in the field, providing you with top-quality education and guidance.
• Real-world Projects: The training includes practical assignments that replicate real-world situations, thereby enhancing your learning experience.

6.2 Cons

• Premium Pricing: The cost of obtaining the certificate is higher compared to other courses in the market.
• Classroom Learning: Unlike flexible online courses, this program offers scheduled classes which might not fit everyone’s time availability.
• Location Constraints: Individuals not residing in areas where AGI operates may find it hard to access the program.

7. Testizer Adobe Photoshop Practice Test

The Testizer Adobe Photoshop Practice Test is a handy resource for those preparing for Adobe Photoshop certification exams.

Testizer offers an online practice test for Adobe Photoshop that aids in exam preparation. It’s an efficient way to assess your knowledge and understanding of Photoshop before taking a certification exam. It features a set of questions that cover various aspects of the software, mirroring the actual certification exam.

7.1 Pros

• Test Preparedness: The practice test helps gauge your understanding of Photoshop and readiness for the exam.
• Instant Feedback: With instant results and explanations, you can identify areas of weaknesses and focus on improving them.
• Convenience: Being an online test, you can take it anywhere, anytime making it an extremely flexible option.

7.2 Cons

• No Certification: It’s important to note that Testizer only provides a practice test and does not award any certification or diploma upon completion.
• Not Comprehensive: It should be used as an additional study tool and not as the sole preparation method since it might not cover every single aspect of the certification exam.
• Pay per Test: Whilst it provides excellent preparation, each test attempt incurs a new cost which can add up.

8. Tosa Adobe Photoshop Certification

The Tosa Adobe Photoshop Certification is a globally recognized qualification that certifies one’s proficiency in Adobe Photoshop.

This certification from Tosa uses a real-world, hands-on approach to assess a candidate’s skills in Adobe Photoshop. The certification is offered at two levels – core and advanced, catering to different learning needs. It ensures that the candidates have demonstrable skills in graphic design and image manipulation using Adobe Photoshop.

8.1 Pros

• Two Levels of Certification: With core and advanced levels, it suits a wide range of skillsets, from beginners to pros.
• Offers Flexibility: The exam can be taken online at your own convenience, enabling easy access for all.
• Global Recognition: The Tosa certification is recognized internationally, boosting your career prospects worldwide.

8.2 Cons

• Language Barriers: The certification might not be available in all languages, which can be a deterrent for non-English speakers.
• No Instructor-led Training: The certification focuses on testing rather than training, which means candidates need to self-study or seek external training.
• Costly: The certification, particularly the advanced level, can be expensive compared to other offerings.

9. Noble Desktop Graphic Design Certificate

The Noble Desktop Graphic Design Certificate is a comprehensive program that offers extensive training in Adobe Photoshop among other graphic design tools.

This certificate program from Noble Desktop trains learners on the full spectrum of graphic design essentials, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Spanning various aspects of graphic design, from imaging and illustration to page layout and type setting, the course ensures learners gain proficiency in the critical tools of this domain.

9.1 Pros

• Well-rounded Curriculum: Besides Photoshop, this program also covers other critical tools of graphic design, providing a well-rounded graphic design learning experience.
• Expert Instructors: The course is conducted by experienced professionals, providing high-quality education and real-world insights.
• Project-based Learning: The hands-on projects provided in the course allow learners to apply what they have learned, thereby reinforcing concepts and techniques.

9.2 Cons

• Pricey: The comprehensive nature of the course is reflected in its premium pricing.
• Pre-scheduled Classes: Unlike flexible online courses, this course has pre-scheduled classes, which might not suit everyone’s availability.
• Location Constraints: The course is primarily offered in NYC, limiting options for those located elsewhere.

10. EITC/CG/APS Raster Graphics Processing Software (Adobe Photoshop)

The European Information Technologies Certification (EITC) Academy offers a dedicated certificate program focused on the use of Adobe Photoshop for raster graphics processing.

The EITC/CG/APS Raster Graphics Processing Software certification program covers the basics and advanced functions of Adobe Photoshop. Accredited by EITCI Institute, Brussels EU, the course is curated to provide a detailed understanding of the software, guiding you through a myriad of tools and techniques, and training you to work more efficiently with the program.

10.1 Pros

• Accreditation: The international accreditation increases the credibility and acceptance of the certificate globally.
• Detailed Curriculum: The in-depth course content covers a variety of Photoshop tools and techniques, benefiting learners at all levels of expertise.
• Online Learning: The entire course and examination are online, offering flexibility and convenience to the participants.

10.2 Cons

• Premium Pricing: The course, though comprehensive, comes at a higher cost in comparison to other alternatives.
• No Direct Certification from Adobe: Despite the detailed curriculum, it lacks the explicit Adobe endorsement.
• Self-paced Learning: While it provides flexibility, the self-paced learning format demands self-discipline and might lack the engagement provided by guided or instructor-led courses.

11. Softpro Computer Education Advance Diploma Course in Adobe Photoshop

The Advance Diploma Course in Adobe Photoshop from Softpro Computer Education is a comprehensive program that offers detailed knowledge about advanced Photoshop techniques.

With a curriculum designed to cater to an advanced level of understanding of Photoshop, this course from Softpro Computer Education covers an extensive range of Photoshop tools and techniques. It is a diploma course aimed towards preparing learners for a professional career in graphic design and image editing.

11.1 Pros

• Diploma Course: Upon successful completion, learners receive a diploma, enhancing the value of their professional qualifications.
• In-depth Training: The course covers both basic and advanced features of Photoshop, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of the software.
• Provision of Course Material: Along with the classes, learners receive course material for further reference and self-study.

11.2 Cons

• Cost: The cost of enrollment for the diploma course might be higher than other online classes or certifications.
• Location Bound: The institute is based in specific cities in India, posing accessibility issues for learners outside these regions.
• Timetable Constraint: The classes follow a fixed schedule which might not fit everyone’s availability.

12. Pepper Animation Adobe Photoshop Training

Pepper Animation offers training in Adobe Photoshop aimed at individuals seeking to build a career in the creative and design field.

Pepper Animation’s Adobe Photoshop training covers the essentials as well as detailed aspects of the software. The training program is designed to allow students to experiment with their creativity while learning and mastering the professional techniques of digital art and design.

12.1 Pros

• Professional Curriculum: The curriculum is designed keeping in mind the demands of the industry, making students ready for the professional world.
• Experienced Trainers: The course is conducted by professionals in the field, providing students with industry insights and quality education.
• Placement Assistance: The training also provides placement assistance, helping you launch your career after completing the course.

12.2 Cons

• Location Specific: The training institute is based in specific locations, creating access issues for students outside of those areas.
• Course Cost: The cost of the training may be higher than other Photoshop courses available online.
• Fixed Schedule: Unlike online courses, this training follows a fixed schedule which might not suit everyone’s availability.

13. Summary

13.1 Overall Comparison Table

Certification	Requirements	Price
Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop	Basic understanding of Photoshop	Premium
Certiport Adobe Certified Professional	Familiarity with Adobe Photoshop	Premium
EDUCBA Free Online Photoshop Course	Internet access	Free
ACTE’s Photoshop Certification Online Training	Basic to advanced knowledge of Photoshop	Premium
American Graphics Institute Photoshop Certificate	Proficient in Adobe Photoshop	Premium
Testizer Adobe Photoshop Practice Test	Prior Photoshop knowledge	Per test basis
Tosa Adobe Photoshop Certification	Knowledge about Adobe Photoshop	Premium
Noble Desktop Graphic Design Certificate	Proficiency in Photoshop	Premium
EITC/CG/APS Raster Graphics Processing Software (Adobe Photoshop)	Understanding of Photoshop interface and tools	Premium
Softpro Computer Education Advance Diploma Course in Adobe Photoshop	Familiarity with Photoshop	Premium
Pepper Animation Adobe Photoshop Training	Interest in digital designing	Premium

13.2 Recommended Certification Based on Various Needs

Based on the type of learner, the recommended courses vary:

• For beginners on a budget: The EDUCBA Free Online Photoshop Course is perfect as it’s accessible for all with Internet access and covers a wide range of topics on Photoshop.
• For intermediate learners: Certiport Adobe Certified Professional is an excellent option with its comprehensive exam structure and globally recognized certification.
• For advanced learners seeking career advancement: The Adobe Certified Professional in Visual Design Using Adobe Photoshop and the American Graphics Institute Photoshop Certificate are great options with high credibility and recognition in the industry.

14. Conclusion

14.1 Final Thoughts and Takeaways for Choosing an Photoshop Certification

Choosing the right Adobe Photoshop certification largely depends on your individual needs and career goals. Therefore, it’s essential to consider what you aim to achieve with the certification before making a decision.

Ensure to think about factors such as the recognition of the certification, depth of the course content, your budget, and the format of the course. It’s important to remember that a more expensive course isn’t necessarily better. Depending upon your level of expertise and the specific skills you wish to acquire, a less expensive or even free course could potentially serve you better.

Ultimately, investing in Adobe Photoshop certification can significantly enhance your skills and boost your career opportunities in the dynamic world of visual design. However, remember that certification is only a value addition; the main focus should always remain on developing and perfectening your Photoshop skills.

Author Introduction:

Vera Chen is a data recovery expert in DataNumen, which provides a wide range of products, including an advanced tool to fix corrupt RAR files.