Information technology is a field with industry certifications, which are different from the IT certificate programs offered by University of Phoenix.
An industry certification is earned by individuals who pass a standardized assessment that recognizes an individual’s knowledge, skill or competency in a particular specialty. University of Phoenix educationally prepares students to sit for select industry certification exams, but they must take the exam and pass through the company giving the exam like EC-Council.
A certificate is earned by individuals who successfully complete a course, or series of courses. University of Phoenix does offer IT certificate programs, which provides an academic credential that will be given when students upon successful completion of the program.