Certiport · Critical Career Skills

Critical Career Skills

A path to workforce readinessBuild versatile, in-demand career skills with the Critical Career Skills (CCS) program — available at NEXERA Institute through our Certiport partnership.

Prepare for

today's job market

To keep pace with the rapidly changing job market, Certiport's Critical Career Skills program builds on the previous Communication Skills for Business offering — expanding core communication training while boosting overall career readiness and employability across industries.The CCS program includes two certifications: Generative AI Foundations, which provides a solid grounding in emerging AI technologies and a competitive edge with employers, and Professional Communication, which trains the communication skills employers consistently rank as top priorities — preparing learners to perform effectively in diverse professional environments.

Choose a

CCS certification

Two Critical Career Skills exams are available at NEXERA Institute — Generative AI Foundations and Professional Communication — stackable credentials for ages 14 and up, with no degree required.

AI literacy

Generative AI Foundations

Validates a fundamental understanding of generative AI for personal and professional use, including methods and tools, prompt engineering and refinement, and the ethical, legal, and societal impacts of the technology. Brand-agnostic and suited to any business-focused career. Candidates should be familiar with productivity apps such as Microsoft 365 or Google Docs.

Each exam is valid for five years. Candidates should complete about 150 hours of instruction and hands-on practice. Exam lengths, objective domains, accommodations, retakes, and proctoring requirements are defined by Certiport.

Learn, Practice, and

Certify

Certiport's full pathway solution helps educators and candidates prepare for CCS certifications with tailored learning materials, resources, and GMetrix practice tests.

Learn

Develop cross-industry competencies in professional communication and generative AI foundations with curriculum-aligned materials designed for workforce readiness.

Practice

Reinforce knowledge with GMetrix practice tests and resources that mirror the live exam experience and build confidence before certification day.

Certify

Earn Generative AI Foundations or Professional Communication credentials and demonstrate the versatile skills today's employers demand.

Impact of

Critical Career Skills

CCS certifications boost resumes and significantly enhance employability. With demand for generative AI skills rising rapidly and professional communication listed across millions of job postings, CCS prepares learners with the cross-industry competencies employers need — from administrative and customer service roles to sales, marketing, and healthcare.Exam lengths, objective domains, accommodations, retakes, and proctoring requirements are defined by Certiport. Contact NEXERA Institute for scheduling and preparation support.

Take the next step

The NEXERA Institute team helps you prepare for and schedule Critical Career Skills certification exams through our authorized Certiport center.