Professional Certificates - Japan

Japan

Highlights

Revenue in the Professional Certificates market is projected to reach US$520.70m in 2024.
Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2024-2029) of 6.57%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$715.70m by 2029.
In the Professional Certificates market, the number of users is expected to amount to 2.8m users by 2029.
User penetration will be 1.8% in 2024 and is expected to hit 2.3% by 2029.
The average revenue per user (ARPU) is expected to amount to US$233.70.
In global comparison, most revenue will be generated United States (US$1.96bn in 2024).
With a projected rate of 2.3%, the user penetration in the Professional Certificates market is highest United States.

Market definitionIn-Scope/Out-of-scopeMarket structureReportsMethodology

The Professional Certificates market in Japan has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, driven by customer preferences for upskilling and career advancement opportunities.

Customer preferences: Japanese professionals have shown a strong interest in acquiring professional certificates to enhance their skills and knowledge in specific fields. This is partly due to the highly competitive job market in Japan, where individuals are constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves and increase their employability. Professional certificates offer a tangible proof of expertise and can give job seekers a competitive edge. Additionally, Japanese professionals value continuous learning and self-improvement, and obtaining professional certificates is seen as a way to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving job market.

Trends in the market: One notable trend in the Professional Certificates market in Japan is the increasing demand for certificates in technology-related fields. As Japan continues to embrace digital transformation and automation, professionals are seeking certificates in areas such as data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. These certificates not only provide individuals with the necessary skills to thrive in the digital economy but also open up new career opportunities in industries that are experiencing high growth. Another trend in the market is the rise of online learning platforms that offer professional certificate programs. These platforms provide flexibility and convenience, allowing individuals to learn at their own pace and from anywhere. This trend has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to a surge in remote learning. Online platforms also offer a wide range of certificate programs, catering to the diverse interests and career goals of Japanese professionals.

Local special circumstances: Japan has a strong culture of lifelong learning and professional development. The concept of "Kaizen," which refers to continuous improvement, is deeply ingrained in Japanese society. This cultural mindset contributes to the high demand for professional certificates as individuals strive to constantly improve their skills and knowledge. Additionally, the Japanese government has been actively promoting lifelong learning initiatives and providing support for individuals to pursue professional development opportunities, further fueling the demand for certificates.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The Japanese economy has been undergoing structural changes, with a shift towards a knowledge-based economy. This transition has created a demand for skilled professionals who possess specialized knowledge and expertise. Professional certificates serve as a validation of these skills and can significantly enhance job prospects. Furthermore, the aging population in Japan has created a skills gap, as younger generations need to fill the roles vacated by retiring workers. Obtaining professional certificates is seen as a way to bridge this gap and ensure a smooth transition in the workforce. In conclusion, the Professional Certificates market in Japan is experiencing growth due to customer preferences for upskilling, the increasing demand for technology-related certificates, the rise of online learning platforms, the cultural emphasis on lifelong learning, and the underlying macroeconomic factors driving the need for specialized skills. This market is expected to continue expanding as professionals recognize the value of professional certificates in advancing their careers and staying competitive in the job market.

Data coverage:

The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) and represent what consumers pay for these products and services. The user metrics show the number of customers who have made at least one online purchase within the past 12 months.

Modeling approach / Market size:

Market sizes are determined through a bottom-up approach, building on predefined factors for each market segment. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies, third-party studies and reports, as well as survey results from our primary research (e.g., the Statista Global Consumer Survey). In addition, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as GDP, GDP per capita, and internet connection speed. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the relevant market. For example, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing. The main drivers are internet users, urban population, usage of key players, and attitudes toward online services.

Additional notes:

The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. GCS data is reweighted for representativeness.