Certification Programs

The Global Communication Certification Council (GCCC) was created by the International Association of Business Communicators (IABC) to offer certification at various levels and to promote a common, global understanding of what constitutes professionalism and competence in communication. 

The GCCC is independent of IABC. Its members represent the communication industry worldwide and come from a broad spectrum of organizations. The independent status reflects the GCCC’s understanding of the importance of impartiality in carrying out its certification activities, managing conflict of interest, and ensuring the objectivity of its certification activities. Membership in IABC is not a condition of Council membership or certification. 

The GCCC is responsible for: 

• Developing and maintaining procedures for operating the certification program
• Protecting and building the credibility of the program 
• Developing, reviewing, and recommending updates to certification requirements 
• Overseeing the establishment, ongoing review and updating of certification examinations 
• Reviewing disciplinary matters and policies

The GCCC has based its certification programs, including the continuing professional development requirement, on the Global Standard for communication professionals set out by IABC. Applying that standard enables GCCC® to cross all borders, align with diverse cultures, and effectively serve organizations of all types and sizes. Certification is intended to support communicators throughout their careers. 

GCCC currently offers two levels of certification: