Is the Google Ads Course 2 (Display Certification) worth it today? Costs, salary & FAQ
If you’re ready to move beyond search ads and master visual advertising, Google’s Display Certification is the next step. This blog explains what the Google Ads Display Certification covers, why it matters, costs for Australian learners, pros and cons, and practical steps to prepare using only official Google sources.
What is the Google Ads Display Certification?
Google Ads Display Certification validates your ability to create, manage, and optimise display campaigns across the Google Display Network (GDN)a network of over 3 million sites and apps. Certified users demonstrate skills in audience targeting, automated bidding, creative optimisation, and performance measurement.
The official learning path on Skillshop includes:
- Fundamentals of Display campaigns
- Creating and optimising Display ads
- Measuring full value (click-through and view-through conversions)
- Audience strategies like Customer Match and remarketing
Why is the Display Certification so popular?
- Official Google credential: Recognised globally and counts toward the Google Partners program requirements.
- Free training and certification: Skillshop courses and exams are free, making it accessible for individuals and agencies.
- High-impact skill set: Display ads drive brand awareness, retargeting, and conversion lift, complementing search campaigns.
Is the Display Certification worth it today?
Yes especially if you manage visual campaigns or work in performance marketing. Google highlights Display as critical for reach and engagement, and recent updates include Connected TV inventory and AI-powered creative tools for better ad experiences.
Pros of Google Ads Display Certification
Job availability
Display advertising remains a core skill for agencies and in-house teams. Certification signals expertise in audience targeting, creative optimisation, and performance planning.
Salary potential
While Google doesn’t publish salary tables, certified professionals often qualify for specialist roles in PPC and programmatic advertising, boosting career prospects.
Global recognition
Certification is delivered via Skillshop, available in 22 languages, and counts toward Google Partner status.
Career pathways
Stack certifications: after Display, add Search, Video, Shopping, and Measurement for a full PPC skill set.
Cons of Display Certification
Cost considerations
Training and exams are free, but plan for time investment and practical account access for hands-on learning.
Evolving platform
Google frequently updates Display features (e.g., Performance Max, Demand Gen, AI creative tools). Continuous learning is essential.
Exam difficulty
Passing score: 80% within 75 minutes, no pause allowed. Retake after 1 day if you fail.
Where to begin
- Create a Skillshop account
Access the Display learning path and certification assessment. - Complete modules
Topics include Display fundamentals, audience targeting, bidding strategies, and measurement. - Review strategies
Learn automated bidding, creative best practices, and Performance Planner for Display campaigns. - Sit the exam
Score 80%+ in 75 minutes to earn your certificate and digital badge.
Key topics covered
- Display campaign setup (objectives, targeting, placements)
- Audience strategies (Customer Match, remarketing)
- Automated bidding (Target CPA, ROAS)
- Creative optimisation (responsive display ads, asset quality)
- Performance measurement (click-through vs view-through conversions)
Is Display Certification enough to get a job?
It’s a strong credibility signal, especially for agency roles, but employers expect portfolio results (CTR, CPA, ROAS improvements). Combine certification with case studies for maximum impact.
Is it worth it in Australia?
Yes because it’s free, globally recognised, and accessible online. Australian marketers can certify via Skillshop and apply skills to local campaigns.
Does it pay well?
Certification helps you qualify for specialist PPC roles and agency positions, but salary depends on experience and performance outcomes.
Is it difficult or stressful?
The exam is time-bound and requires practical knowledge. Reduce stress by completing all Skillshop modules and practising in live accounts before sitting the test.
How many fail?
Google doesn’t publish failure rates. Retakes are allowed after 1 day.
The future of Display advertising in Australia
Google is expanding Display inventory to Connected TV and integrating AI creative tools, making Display skills increasingly valuable for Australian advertisers.