This workshop will focus on the differences and relative benefits of degrees (credentials), certificate programs and certification programs from a perspective when resources such as time and money are limited. Degrees are a time-intensive course of study designed to provide students with a balanced education and the skills necessary to pursue a specific career field. Certificates provide a relatively simple way to ensure regional workforce have learned a very specific set of skills or area of knowledge at a specific point of time. Because certificates are commonly offered online, they are a convenient short-term option for continuing education. Certifications provide employers with a reliable way to identify qualified staff who have demonstrated their knowledge in their field, their commitment, and a willingness to stay current through recertification. Certified individuals have positive incentives to life-long learning as well as marketable evidence of their competency. Certifications also provide assurance that certified employees are competent across various domains, not only in their area of specialty. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for assurance of workforce competency and also for the ability of the workforce to learn new skills quickly. The panel will discuss the difference between certifications, degrees and certificate programs. It will explain how certification programs are developed and how employers and governments can use certifications in workforce development. The workshop will also include individuals with degrees and certifications to provide firsthand accounts of their experience. Participants will actively participate by sharing their thoughts on the advantages and barriers of degree programs, certificates and certifications in their region. They will then compare benefits of each with the needs in their country/region and will work with session leaders to develop a recommendation by the end of the session. Learning outcomes by the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:1. Distinguish between certificates, degrees and certifications, 2. Explain how certifications ensure the workforce has the skills knowledge and abilities needed to perform in their field, 3. Understand how each option can increase employee recruitment and retention and strengthen the public health workforce