Qualifications

Qualifications

You don't need a college degree to have a career as a relocation specialist. Then again, there are a lot of things the profession requires you to know. A four-year degree in accounting, business, or human resources management can open doors and have you climbing the ladder faster than starting with little training. 

Think about it this way—there are plenty of excellent in-state schools you can attend for about $12,000 per year. Spending around $50,000 to qualify for a job with a median income of $50,000 a year makes financial sense. Plus, the earning potential of six figures really makes the college investment look smart.

There are, however, alternative routes to qualifying for a corporate relocation specialist job. There are some notable certification programs that provide training materials and testing to people who have a real estate background or who have a year's worth of experience assisting in corporate relocation. Costs vary from $49 to $300 depending on what type of course you're taking and what certification you want. 

One such certification is the CRP or Certified Relocation Professional administered by WorldwideERC (source). Another certification is the CRTS or Certified Relocation Transition Specialist (source). Each of these certification organizations are professional groups that promote, train, and support those in the relocation specialist field.

Even with a college degree, belonging to professional organizations that provide needed continuing education units (CEUs), insight on industry trends, news, and the chance to know some of the most experienced professionals in your field just makes good sense.