Top 11 Associate Software Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for an associate software engineer in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise. Certifications show employers that the associate software engineer has taken the time to learn and gain experience with specific technology, tools, and processes used in the software engineering field. This can be especially important when competing against other candidates with similar educational backgrounds, as certifications provide evidence of greater technical proficiency. Additionally, certifications may also be required for certain positions or roles within organizations, so having them can help an associate software engineer stand out from the competition.

The article reviews and explains the importance of certifications for Associate Software Engineers, and how they can help to advance their career.

What are Associate Software Engineer Certifications?

Associate software engineer certification is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills, experience and knowledge of software engineers. This certification provides employers with a reliable method of assessing an applicant's technical abilities, making it easier to identify qualified candidates for a position. The certification also serves as a way for software engineers to demonstrate their commitment to their profession and improve their job prospects.

The associate software engineer certification program is offered by several organizations, including the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). To qualify for this certification, applicants must meet certain educational and experience requirements, such as having at least two years of professional experience in software engineering or completing an accredited post-secondary program related to software engineering. Additionally, applicants must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of computer programming languages, operating systems and other areas related to software engineering.

By obtaining associate software engineer certification, professionals can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the field. This credential can help them stand out from other job candidates when applying for positions, as well as give them access to higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement within their current organization. Additionally, certified professionals may be eligible for membership in professional organizations or receive discounts on continuing education courses related to technology.

Pro Tip: Before investing in an Associate Software Engineer certification, research the requirements for the certification and make sure it fits your career goals. Also, look into what employers are looking for when hiring software engineers and determine if the certification will provide the necessary skills to increase your chances of getting hired.

Related: What does an Associate Software Engineer do?

Top 11 Associate Software Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Associate Software Engineers today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program from Microsoft that validates an individual’s technical skills in deploying, managing, and troubleshooting IT infrastructure. It is an entry-level certification for IT professionals who are looking to demonstrate their expertise in Microsoft technologies.

It typically takes about 6 months to obtain the MCSA certification. To get the certification, you must pass one or more exams related to specific Microsoft products or technologies. The exams are available online and cost between $165-$250 per exam.

In order to prepare for the exams, it is recommended that you take a training course from a certified Microsoft Learning Partner or use self-study materials such as books and videos. Additionally, there are practice tests available online which can help you prepare for the real exam.

The cost of obtaining the MCSA certification varies depending on how many exams you need to take and how much training you require before taking them. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2000 depending on your needs.

2. Oracle Certified Associate (OCA)

Oracle Certified Associate (OCA) is an entry-level certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of individuals who work with Oracle Database products. The OCA credential is the first step in a three-tier certification path that includes the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) and Oracle Certified Master (OCM).

It typically takes around six months to prepare for and pass the OCA exam, depending on your experience level. To get certified, you must take one or more exams that cover topics such as database administration, SQL, PL/SQL, and other related technologies.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 per exam. However, some training providers may offer discounts if you purchase multiple exams at once or if you are a student or veteran.

3. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification offered by Cisco Systems, Inc. that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in networking. It is the most popular certification for entry-level network professionals, and it is widely recognized as an industry standard.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the CCNA program depending on the individual's level of experience and commitment. To get the CCNA certification, one must pass two exams: ICND1 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 1) and ICND2 (Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices Part 2). Both exams are available through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of the CCNA certification varies depending on where you take the exam and which version of the exam you take. The cost for taking both exams ranges from $325 to $450 USD.

4. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-leading, vendor-neutral IT certification that covers a wide range of hardware and software technologies. It is considered the foundation of a successful IT career and provides a comprehensive understanding of computer systems, networks, and security. To obtain CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, diagnostics, preventive maintenance, networking, security, troubleshooting, customer service and communication skills.

The amount of time it takes to get CompTIA A+ certification depends on your individual experience level. If you are new to IT or have limited experience in the field then it may take several months to prepare for the exams. If you have more experience in the field then you may be able to complete the exams in a shorter period of time.

To get CompTIA A+ certified you will need to register for the exams with CompTIA’s testing partner Pearson VUE. You can register online or by phone at 800-274-6289. After registering for the exam you will receive an authorization code which will allow you to schedule your exam date and time at any Pearson VUE testing center across the US.

The cost of CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on which version of the exam you choose to take. The current cost for both Core 1 & Core 2 is $339 USD per person plus applicable taxes and fees.

5. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and network troubleshooting. It is designed to provide a foundation for a career in networking and to help prepare individuals for more advanced certifications.

The CompTIA Network+ certification exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, industry standards/best practices, and emerging technologies.

To get CompTIA Network+, individuals must pass the CompTIA Network+ exam (N10-007). To be eligible to take the exam, individuals must have at least nine months of experience in networking technology or have earned other related certifications such as A+, Security+, or Server+.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on the testing center but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

6. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the fundamental technology skills needed to begin a career using Microsoft technologies. The MTA program provides credentials for professionals who are just beginning their career in IT and need to demonstrate basic knowledge of core Microsoft technologies.

The MTA certification is available in 10 different technology areas, including Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, Database Fundamentals, Software Development Fundamentals and more. Each exam covers the fundamentals of the associated technology area and requires a minimum score of 700 out of 1000 points in order to pass.

The exams take approximately 90 minutes to complete and cost $127 USD each. Candidates can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through the Microsoft Learning Portal. Once an individual has passed all required exams, they will receive an official MTA certification from Microsoft that recognizes their achievement.

7. Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification offered by Amazon that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing applications on the AWS platform. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's ability to design and deploy secure and robust applications on the AWS platform.

To become certified as an AWS Solutions Architect – Associate, you must pass the AWS Solutions Architect – Associate Exam. This exam requires a minimum of 80% correct answers in order to pass. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can take up to two hours to complete.

In order to prepare for the exam, it is recommended that individuals have some experience working with the AWS platform or have taken courses related to AWS technologies. Additionally, there are many online resources available such as practice tests, study guides, and tutorials that can help individuals prepare for the exam.

The cost of taking the exam varies based on location but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD. Additionally, some organizations may offer discounts or reimbursements for employees who take the exam.

Overall, obtaining an Amazon Web Services Certified Solutions Architect – Associate certification can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of cloud computing technologies and help you stand out in today’s competitive job market.

8. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of system administrators in managing Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The RHCSA certification is a prerequisite for the Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) certification.

To become an RHCSA, candidates must pass a hands-on, performance-based exam that tests their ability to perform common system administration tasks on Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and covers topics such as installation and configuration, user management, storage management, security, and troubleshooting.

The cost of taking the RHCSA exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 USD for the exam itself plus any applicable taxes or fees.

In order to prepare for the RHCSA exam, candidates should have experience working with Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems and be familiar with basic system administration tasks such as user management, package installation/removal, file permissions, network configuration, etc. Candidates can also take self-study courses or instructor-led training courses offered by Red Hat or its partners in order to gain more knowledge and practice before taking the exam.

9. Linux Professional Institute Certification Level 1 (LPIC-1)

Linux Professional Institute Certification Level 1 (LPIC-1) is the first level of certification offered by the Linux Professional Institute (LPI). It is designed to validate a person's knowledge and skills in using the Linux operating system. LPIC-1 certification is divided into two exams: LPIC-1 Exam 101 and LPIC-1 Exam 102.

To obtain LPIC-1 certification, you must pass both exams. The exams are administered online by Pearson VUE and consist of multiple choice questions. Each exam takes up to 90 minutes to complete and costs $200 USD each.

The amount of time it takes to prepare for the LPIC-1 exams depends on your existing knowledge of Linux and how much study you are willing to put in. Generally speaking, most people take anywhere from one month to six months of preparation before taking the exam. There are numerous resources available online that can help you prepare for the exams, including books, practice tests, video tutorials, and more.

In addition to passing both exams, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to obtain LPIC-1 certification. These include having at least six months of professional experience with Linux systems administration or equivalent knowledge; having access to a computer running a supported version of Linux; having access to an Internet connection; and agreeing to abide by LPI's Code of Ethics.

Once you have passed both exams and met all other requirements, you will receive your official LPIC-1 certification from LPI via email within four weeks.

10. ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management

ITIL Foundation Certificate in IT Service Management is a globally recognized certification program that provides a comprehensive overview of the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) best practices for IT service management. It is designed to help organizations improve their service delivery, reduce costs, and increase customer satisfaction. The certificate covers the five core components of ITIL: Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continual Service Improvement.

The ITIL Foundation Certificate takes approximately 16 hours to complete and can be obtained by taking an accredited training course or by self-study. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider and type of course chosen. Generally speaking, it can range from $400 to $1,000 USD.

11. VMware Certified Professional 6 - Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV)

VMware Certified Professional 6 - Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in the areas of VMware vSphere 6.x, including installation, configuration, management, and troubleshooting of VMware vSphere 6.x environments. The VCP6-DCV certification requires individuals to pass two exams: the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCP6-DCV) Exam and the VMware Certified Professional 6 – Data Center Virtualization (VCAP6-DCV) Design Exam.

The VCP6-DCV exam is a multiple choice exam that tests an individual’s ability to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot a vSphere 6 environment. It takes approximately 2 hours to complete the exam and it costs $225 USD for each attempt.

In order to become certified as a VCP6-DCV, you must first take the required training courses from an authorized VMware training provider or attend a qualifying event such as VMworld. After completing the required training course(s), you must then pass both exams mentioned above within 12 months of each other in order to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a VCP6-DCV varies depending on which training option you choose and which country you are located in. Generally speaking, however, it can cost anywhere from $3,000-$5,000 USD for all associated fees such as training courses and exam fees.

Do You Really Need a Associate Software Engineer Certificate?

No, you do not need an Associate Software Engineer Certificate to become a software engineer. It is possible to become a software engineer without having any formal certifications or qualifications. Many software engineers are self-taught and have acquired their skills through online courses, tutorials, or on the job experience.

That said, having an Associate Software Engineer Certificate can be beneficial in some cases. Having certification shows employers that you have the technical knowledge and skills required to work as a software engineer. It also demonstrates that you are committed to staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and trends in the industry.

Ultimately, it is up to you if you want to pursue an Associate Software Engineer Certificate or not. If you are confident in your abilities and have already acquired the skills necessary for success in this field, then it may not be necessary for you to get certified. However, if you feel like certification could give you an edge over other applicants and help get your foot in the door with certain employers, then it may be worth considering getting certified.

Related: Associate Software Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Associate Software Engineer Certifications

1. What is an Associate Software Engineer Certification?

Answer: An Associate Software Engineer Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates proficiency in the development, maintenance, and deployment of software applications. It is typically obtained through a combination of coursework, exams, and/or hands-on experience.

2. What are the benefits of an Associate Software Engineer Certification?

Answer: Benefits of an Associate Software Engineer Certification include demonstrating mastery of the fundamentals of software engineering to employers, gaining recognition for your expertise in the field, increasing job prospects and earning potential, learning best practices for developing software applications, and staying up to date with industry trends.

3. How long does it take to get an Associate Software Engineer Certification?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to get an Associate Software Engineer Certification varies depending on the program you choose and the amount of prior knowledge or experience you have in software engineering. Generally speaking, most programs take between 6 months and 1 year to complete.

4. What type of jobs can I get with an Associate Software Engineer Certification?

Answer: With an Associate Software Engineer Certification, you may be eligible for entry-level roles such as Junior Programmer or Junior Developer. You may also be able to work as a Systems Analyst or Database Administrator depending on your specialization within the software engineering field.

5. Is an Associate Software Engineer Certification worth it?

Answer: Yes! An Associate Software Engineer Certification is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field and can help you stand out from other job candidates when applying for positions in the software engineering field.