The Internet Marketing Association program aims to boost online marketing know-how in the fast-changing online business environment.

The Internet Marketing Association introduced a new certification program last weekend at its 2012 IMA Conference and Impact Awards event. Beginning October 1, the Certified Internet Marketer professional certification program will be available to both members and nonmembers through IMA’s website.

“There are billions of dollars being invested in internet marketing by businesses worldwide,” said Matt Langie, IMA’s vice chairman overseeing education initiatives. “The Certified Internet Marketer program provides marketers and businesses an accessible and affordable way to learn from highly experienced practitioners who deliver the fundamental knowledge necessary to succeed.”

Coursework includes an overview of internet marketing, online acquisition, online conversation, online retention, online analytics and measurement, and data-driven marketing. Lessons will be led by practitioners of internet marketing from companies including Microsoft, Adobe, and Ancestry.com. Participants will take a final exam to certify their knowledge of the subject, according to an IMA statement.

“One of the critical aspects of a thriving industry is an educated workforce,” IMA Founder and Chairman Sinan Kanatsiz said in the statement. “The IMA takes this responsibility very seriously and has invested in this certification program to provide unparalleled internet marketing education.”