Top 10 Application Development Manager Certifications

Certifications are an important part of any application development manager's job market value. They can demonstrate a commitment to staying up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies in the industry, as well as show that they have a comprehensive understanding of the various aspects of software engineering and development. Certifications also provide potential employers with a way to verify the manager’s skills and knowledge, making them more attractive candidates for open positions. Finally, certifications can help application development managers stand out from their peers in the job market by showing that they have taken extra steps to increase their professional value.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Application Development Managers and explain how they can help advance an application development manager's career.

What are Application Development Manager Certifications?

Application Development Manager Certification is a professional certification program designed to demonstrate mastery in application development management. This certification verifies that an individual has the skills, knowledge and abilities necessary to effectively manage the development of applications and software. With this certification, individuals can demonstrate their ability to lead teams in developing applications from concept to completion.

Application Development Manager Certification can help individuals enhance their career prospects by demonstrating their expertise in the field. It also serves as a benchmark for employers, who can use it as a measure of an applicant’s qualifications for a job related to application development management. Additionally, certification may give individuals access to higher salaries and greater professional opportunities than those without the credential. Finally, obtaining this certification can also provide professionals with increased credibility and recognition within the industry.

Pro Tip: When looking into application development manager certification, consider focusing on certifications that cover the latest technologies and trends in the field. This will help to ensure that your certification remains relevant and up-to-date, giving you an advantage when applying for jobs or competing with other professionals.

Related: What does an Application Development Manager do?

Top 10 Application Development Manager Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Application Development Managers today.

1. Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO)

Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the Scrum framework, as well as their ability to apply it in real-world scenarios. It is designed for product owners, business analysts, project managers, and other stakeholders who are involved in the development and delivery of products using the Scrum framework.

The CSPO certification requires a two-day course offered by a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST). This course covers topics such as: the basics of Scrum; how to create user stories; how to work with stakeholders; how to prioritize features; and how to manage product releases. At the end of the course, participants must pass an exam in order to become certified.

The cost of the CSPO certification varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD.

In order to maintain your CSPO certification, you must obtain at least 16 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years by attending conferences or taking additional courses related to Scrum or Agile methodology.

2. Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM)

Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM) is a certification program developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of agile project management principles, practices, and tools. The CAPM certification is intended for those who are new to project management or are looking to validate their skills in the field.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. To become certified, applicants must pass the exam with a score of at least 61%.

To get the CAPM certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include having a high school diploma or equivalent, completing 23 contact hours of formal education in project management topics, and having at least 1,500 hours of experience leading projects.

The cost of the CAPM exam varies depending on whether you are a PMI member or non-member. For members, the fee is $225 USD; for non-members it is $300 USD. The cost also includes an application fee of $10 USD for members and $150 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Application Development Professional (CADP)

Certified Application Development Professional (CADP) is a professional certification program that recognizes the expertise of professionals in developing software applications. It is awarded by the International Association of Software Architects (IASA). The CADP certification is designed to assess an individual’s knowledge, skills and abilities related to application development.

To obtain the CADP certification, applicants must first pass an online exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. After passing the exam, applicants must also submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in application development. This portfolio should include examples of projects they have completed or participated in, as well as any relevant certifications or awards they may have earned.

The cost for taking the CADP exam varies depending on the country you are located in but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees associated with submitting your portfolio and other materials needed for the certification process.

Once all requirements are met, it usually takes around four weeks for IASA to review your application and issue your certification. Once certified, you will receive a digital certificate and access to exclusive resources such as webinars and events hosted by IASA.

4. Certified Software Development Manager (CSDM)

Certified Software Development Manager (CSDM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize and validate the skills, knowledge, and experience of software development managers. The CSDM certification is offered by the International Institute of Software Development (IISD).

The CSDM certification program consists of three levels: Certified Software Development Manager (CSDM), Advanced Certified Software Development Manager (ACSDM), and Master Certified Software Development Manager (MCSDM). The CSDM level requires passing an online exam that covers topics such as project management, software engineering principles, customer relationship management, and quality assurance.

The ACSDM level requires passing an online exam that covers topics such as software architecture, design patterns, agile development methods, and software testing. The MCSDM level requires passing an online exam that covers topics such as enterprise architecture, systems engineering principles, data modeling techniques, and risk management.

The CSDM certification program typically takes between six months to one year to complete depending on the individual’s experience in software development management. To get certified at any of the three levels of the program, individuals must first submit an application form with their resume or CV along with proof of relevant work experience in software development management. After submitting the application form and documents for review by IISD staff members, applicants will be notified if they have been accepted into the program.

Once accepted into the program, applicants can begin studying for their desired level of certification. After successfully completing all required exams for their desired level of certification they will receive their official certificate from IISD.

The cost to become a Certified Software Development Manager varies based on which level you are pursuing and your country/region. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $200-$1000 USD depending on your location and chosen level of certification.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program for professionals who develop and maintain applications on the Microsoft platform. The MCSD certification is designed to recognize individuals who have the skills necessary to design, develop, deploy, and debug applications using Microsoft technologies.

To get the MCSD certification, you must pass four exams: two core exams and two elective exams. The core exams cover topics such as Windows Store Apps, Web Applications, SharePoint Applications, and Azure Solutions Architecture. The elective exams cover topics such as Windows Server Administration, Data Access Technologies, Business Intelligence Solutions, and Application Lifecycle Management.

The time it takes to get the MCSD certification varies depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months to complete all of the required exams.

In order to take any of the MCSD exams you must first purchase an exam voucher from Microsoft or an authorized reseller. Exam vouchers typically cost between $150-$200 USD per exam. You can also purchase practice tests which can help you prepare for the actual exam; these typically cost around $50 USD each.

Once you have purchased your exam voucher(s), you will need to register for your desired exam(s) at a Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center near you. After registering for an exam, you will receive an email with instructions on how to schedule your appointment at the testing center of your choice.

6. Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced Java developers. It is offered by Oracle, the world’s leading provider of enterprise software.

To become an Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-808 (Java SE 8 Programmer I) and 1Z0-809 (Java SE 8 Programmer II). The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, an independent testing organization. Each exam takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete.

To get started, you must first purchase a voucher for each exam from Oracle University or Pearson VUE. The cost of each exam is $245 USD plus applicable taxes and fees.

Once you have purchased the vouchers, you can register for the exams online at the Pearson VUE website. You will need to provide your name, address, contact information and payment information in order to register. Once registered, you will receive an email confirmation with instructions on how to schedule your exams at a local testing center near you.

It typically takes about 4-6 weeks to complete both exams and become certified as an Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 8 Programmer.

7. PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP)

PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize an individual’s expertise in applying agile principles, practices, and tools and techniques across agile projects. The PMI-ACP certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to understand and apply agile principles, practices, and tools and techniques in order to successfully deliver projects.

It typically takes between 4-6 months to complete the PMI-ACP certification process. To become certified as a PMI-ACP, you must:

1. Have at least 2,000 hours of general project experience within the past 5 years

2. Have 1,500 hours of experience working on agile project teams or with agile methodologies within the past 3 years

3. Hold a current PMP or PgMP credential

4. Pass an exam consisting of 120 multiple choice questions

5. Complete 21 contact hours of formal training in Agile Practices

6. Submit an application for review by PMI's Certification Department

7. Maintain your certification with 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years

The cost for the PMI-ACP certification varies depending on your region but typically ranges from $435 - $495 USD for members of PMI and $495 - $595 USD for nonmembers.

8. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals who design, deploy, and maintain applications on the AWS platform. The certification is intended for individuals who have at least one year of experience working with AWS technologies.

To get this certification, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as designing highly available, cost-efficient and fault-tolerant systems on AWS; selecting appropriate AWS services to design and deploy an application based on given requirements; estimating costs associated with deploying applications on AWS; identifying appropriate use of AWS operational best practices; and recognizing and implementing security best practices in cloud architectures.

The exam takes approximately 80 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD. You can register for the exam online through the AWS website or via a third-party testing center. Once you have registered, you will need to schedule a time to take the exam at an authorized testing center near you.

Once you have passed the exam, you will be certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate. This certification is valid for three years after which you must recertify in order to remain certified.

9. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) Foundation Certification is a globally recognized qualification for IT professionals. It is designed to provide an understanding of the core concepts and processes of IT service management, which are based on the ITIL framework. The certification covers topics such as service strategy, service design, service transition, service operation, continual service improvement and more.

It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the training required for the ITIL Foundation Certification. This includes studying and preparing for the exam. The exam itself is a multiple-choice test that lasts 60 minutes and consists of 40 questions. To pass the exam, you must get at least 65% of the questions correct.

You can get your ITIL Foundation Certification by taking an accredited course or self-study program offered by an approved education provider such as APMG International or PeopleCert. You can also take online courses from providers like Simplilearn or AXELOS.

The cost of getting your ITIL Foundation Certification varies depending on the provider you choose and whether you opt for a classroom-based course or online training program. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$1000 USD to get certified in ITIL Foundation.

10. CompTIA Security+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ is an industry-leading certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in the areas of network security, compliance, and operational security. It is one of the most widely recognized IT certifications in the world and is a prerequisite for many government positions.

The CompTIA Security+ certification exam covers topics such as risk management, cryptography, identity management, access control, authentication and authorization, system security, network infrastructure security, disaster recovery and incident response. The exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

In order to become certified with CompTIA Security+, you must pass the Security+ certification exam. To prepare for this exam, it is recommended that you have at least two years of experience in IT administration with a focus on security or have already earned other CompTIA certifications such as A+, Network+, or Server+. You can also take training courses offered by CompTIA to help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the CompTIA Security+ certification exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $320 USD to take the exam in North America or Europe. In some countries outside of North America and Europe, there may be additional fees associated with taking the test.

Once you pass the Security+ certification exam, your certification will remain valid for three years before needing to be renewed through continuing education credits (CEUs). You can renew your certification by completing CEUs through activities such as attending conferences or workshops related to information technology or cybersecurity topics.

Do You Really Need a Application Development Manager Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need an application development manager certificate in order to be successful in this role. However, having a certificate can certainly help demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.

Application development managers are responsible for overseeing the entire software development process from conception to implementation. This includes managing the resources involved in developing applications, ensuring that they meet customer requirements and deadlines, and troubleshooting any problems that may arise along the way. As such, it requires a combination of technical knowledge, management skills, and business acumen.

Having a certificate can help demonstrate your proficiency in these areas and show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to further your understanding of the field. It may also set you apart from other candidates who lack such credentials. In addition, many organizations prefer to hire those with certifications as they provide assurance that an individual has met certain standards of competency and can be trusted with important tasks.

Furthermore, having a certification can open up new opportunities for advancement within the organization or give you access to specialized training programs which could further enhance your skill set and career prospects.

In conclusion, while having an application development manager certificate is not essential for success in this role, it can certainly help provide evidence of your knowledge and dedication to the profession.

Related: Application Development Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Application Development Manager Certifications

Q1. What is an Application Development Manager Certification?

A1. An Application Development Manager Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates the knowledge and skills required to manage the development of applications throughout the entire software development life cycle. It covers topics such as project management, software engineering, design, testing, and deployment.

Q2. How do I become certified as an Application Development Manager?

A2. To become certified as an Application Development Manager, you must pass an exam administered by a recognized certification body such as Microsoft or Oracle. The exam covers topics such as project management, software engineering, design, testing, and deployment. You may also need to meet certain prerequisites in order to be eligible for the exam.

Q3. Are there any prerequisites for taking the Application Development Manager Certification Exam?

A3. Yes, depending on which certification body you are taking your exam through some prerequisites may apply such as having experience in software engineering or project management or completing specific courses related to application development management prior to taking the exam.

Q4. What is included in the Application Development Manager Certification Exam?

A4. The exam typically includes questions related to project management techniques and processes, software engineering principles and practices, design techniques and processes, testing strategies and techniques, and deployment best practices and tools.

Q5. What are some benefits of obtaining an Application Development Manager Certification?

A5: Obtaining an Application Development Manager Certification can demonstrate your expertise in developing applications throughout their life cycle; it can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs; it can give you access to higher-paying positions; and it may provide additional job security in a competitive field like application development management