Earn an Individual Professional Certification in Association Learning
Certified Association
Learning Specialist (CALS)
What Is a Certified Association Learning Specialist?
";The Certified Association Learning Specialist (CALS) is a competency-based professional credential developed specifically for individuals responsible for digital learning, continuing education, and professional development within Professional Societies and Trade Associations.
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The credential recognizes knowledge and applied competency in learning strategy, instructional design, digital content development, course and program management, evaluation, and the effective delivery of online and hybrid learning.
How Certification Works
Participants review the CALS eligibility requirements, enroll in the certification program, complete three competency-based learning modules and module self-assessments, and successfully pass the CALS Final Competency Examination.
Upon successful completion of all requirements, participants earn the Certified Association Learning Specialist (CALS) designation and receive their CALP certificate.
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Upon successful completion of all requirements, participants earn the Certified Association Learning Specialist (CALS) designation and receive their CALP certificate.
Course Topics
Module 1: Learning Strategy and Needs Assessment
- Needs Analysis & Strategic Alignment: identifying knowledge gaps within the association’s membership and aligning learning initiatives with strategic organizational goals.
- Curriculum Development: designing, developing, and delivering educational programs that cater to adult learning principles.
- Digital Content Administration: utilizing learning management systems and technology for administering onsite hybrid learning programs & conferences.
Module 2: Content Development & Delivery
- Instructional Design: The foundation for creating effective online courses, interactive modules, and digital materials, blending technology and pedagogy.
- Digital Content Development: Incorporating varied media, including video, audio, text, and interactive authored content.
- Course / Program Design: Including curriculum architecture, technology ecosystems and learner support theory / systems.
Module 3: Program Management and Evaluation
- Project Management: managing timelines, resources, and stakeholders to take education programs from concept to implementation.
- Evaluation and Impact Measurement: applying adult learning theory to measure learning outcomes and evaluate the effectiveness of training.
- Budgeting: developing, managing, and evaluating budgets for learning initiatives.
About the CALS Credential
What It Defines
The Certified Association Learning Specialist (CALS) designation defines the knowledge, skills, and applied capabilities required to design, manage, and evaluate high-quality e-learning programs in association environments.
Credential Purpose
The Certified Association Learning Specialist (CALS) is a professional credential developed by the E-Learning Collaborative to establish competency standards for digital learning and continuing education within Professional Societies and Trade Associations.
Follow Your CALS Journey
CALS Certification follows a clear seven-step pathway from eligibility through credential maintenance, so you know what to expect at every stage.
Review Eligibility Requirements
Review the CALS eligibility requirements to confirm that the certification aligns with your professional role and experience.
2. Enroll in the CALS Certification Program
Enroll in the CALS certification program and begin your certification journey.
3. Complete the Learning Program
Complete the three competency-based learning modules and module self-assessments.
4. Pass the Final Competency Examination
Demonstrate your knowledge and application of CALS competencies by successfully completing the final competency examination.
5. Earn the CALS Credential
Successfully complete all certification requirements to earn the Certified Association Learning Professional (CALS) designation.
6. Maintain Your Certification
Complete 6 hours of continuing education annually to maintain your CALS designation.
CALS Certification FAQs
Who is the CALS Credential designed for?
The CALS credential is designed for professionals responsible for association learning, continuing education, or digital training, including education directors, e-learning managers, instructional designers, learning operations professionals, and others responsible for education within Professional Societies and Trade Associations.
Is CALS a course or a professional credential?
CALS is a professional credential earned through a structured certification program. Candidates complete competency-based coursework, module self-assessments, and a final competency examination before earning the CALS designation.
What is the E-Learning Excellence Framework
The E-Learning Excellence Framework provides the competency foundation for CALS certification. It addresses the capabilities required to plan, develop, deliver, manage, and evaluate high-quality digital learning and continuing education within association environments.
Ready to Become a Certified Association Learning Professional?
";Develop the competencies needed to lead digital learning and continuing education for Professional Societies and Trade Associations
The Initial Certification fee is $199 and must be renewed yearly. The yearly renewal fee is $99.
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The Initial Certification fee is $199 and must be renewed yearly. The yearly renewal fee is $99.
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