Top 11 Author Certifications

Certifications are an important part of an author’s job market credentials. They demonstrate the author’s knowledge, skills and experience in a particular field or area of writing. Certifications can be used to demonstrate expertise in a certain type of writing, such as technical writing, copywriting or SEO writing, which can make authors more attractive to potential employers. Additionally, certifications can demonstrate an author’s commitment to professional development and provide evidence of their dedication to improving their craft. This is especially valuable for authors who want to make a career out of writing and need to prove their capabilities to potential employers.

This article reviews the top certifications for Authors and explains how they can help authors advance their careers.

What are Author Certifications?

Author certification is a process in which authors can verify the accuracy and quality of their work. This verification is done by an independent third party, such as an editor or publisher, who has specialized knowledge in the subject matter. By having their work certified, authors can demonstrate to potential readers that their writing is accurate and reliable. Author certification can help ensure that readers are getting a well-researched and properly written book or article. It also allows authors to build trust with their audience and establish credibility for their work. Additionally, author certification provides assurance to publishers that the material they are publishing meets certain standards of quality and accuracy.

Pro Tip: When pursuing author certification, make sure to research the requirements and expectations of the program you are applying for. Knowing what is required up front can help you to plan and prepare your application materials in advance and ensure that you are meeting all the necessary criteria for successful certification.

Related: What does an Author do?

Top 11 Author Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Authors today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program from Microsoft that recognizes individuals who have the skills and knowledge to develop solutions using Microsoft technologies. The MCSD certification is designed for experienced software developers who design, build, deploy, and maintain applications and services on the Microsoft platform.

To get the MCSD certification, you must pass three exams: one core exam and two elective exams of your choice. The core exam covers topics such as developing applications with Visual Studio, designing and implementing Azure solutions, and developing web applications with ASP.NET. The elective exams cover topics such as Windows Store apps development, SharePoint development, or Windows Communication Foundation (WCF).

It typically takes 3-6 months to prepare for the MCSD certification depending on your experience level. You should plan to dedicate at least 20 hours per week studying for the exams in order to pass them successfully.

The cost of taking the MCSD exams varies depending on where you take them. In the United States, each exam costs $165 USD. So if you are planning to take all three exams, it will cost you around $495 USD in total.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their ability to design and implement solutions based on Microsoft technologies. The MCSE credential is awarded upon successful completion of a series of exams that test an individual’s knowledge and skills in areas such as Windows Server, Exchange Server, SQL Server, SharePoint, System Center, Office 365, Azure, Cloud Platform and Infrastructure.

In order to obtain the MCSE certification, individuals must first pass one or more of the required Microsoft exams. Depending on the chosen track (e.g., Data Management & Analytics or Productivity), there may be up to seven exams required for certification. Each exam typically takes between 90 minutes and two hours to complete.

To get started with the process of obtaining the MCSE certification, individuals should review the requirements for each track on the Microsoft website. They should also consider taking practice tests or courses to prepare for each exam. Once they have completed all of the necessary exams, they can submit their application for certification online through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of obtaining an MCSE certification varies depending on which track you choose and which exams you need to take in order to become certified. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $150 USD per attempt; however, discounts are available if you purchase multiple exams at once or if you purchase a training package from a third-party provider like CBT Nuggets or Pluralsight.

3. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a technician’s competency in computer hardware and software installation, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It is the most widely recognized certification for entry-level IT professionals.

The CompTIA A+ certification requires two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Each exam consists of 90 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exams cover topics such as hardware, networking, mobile devices, virtualization and cloud computing, security, software troubleshooting and operational procedures.

To get CompTIA A+ certified you must first register for the exams through the CompTIA website or a testing center. After registering for the exam you will need to study using course materials from CompTIA or other sources such as books or online courses. Once you feel confident with your knowledge it is time to take the exam. You can take the exam at a testing center or online depending on your preference.

The cost of taking the CompTIA A+ certification exams varies depending on where you take them. The cost of each exam is around $200 USD plus any applicable taxes. Additionally, there may be additional fees for registration or other services related to taking the exam such as proctoring fees if you are taking it online.

4. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in the Java programming language. The certification is designed to validate the abilities of experienced Java developers.

To obtain the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer certification, candidates must pass one exam: 1Z0-808: Java SE 8 Programmer I. This exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of basic concepts related to the Java language such as object-oriented programming, syntax, and control statements. It also covers topics such as data types, operators, strings, arrays, and loops.

The exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of 80 multiple choice questions. Candidates must achieve a score of 65% or higher to pass the exam and earn the Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer certification.

The cost of taking the 1Z0-808 exam varies by country but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD.

5. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a professional certification program offered by Adobe Systems Incorporated. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of expertise in using Adobe products and technologies.

The ACE program consists of two levels: the Associate-level and the Professional-level. The Associate-level is for those who are just starting out with Adobe products, while the Professional-level is for those who have more experience with Adobe products and technologies. Both levels require passing an exam that covers topics such as product knowledge, design principles, workflow techniques, and troubleshooting tips.

The amount of time it takes to become an ACE depends on the individual's familiarity with Adobe products and their commitment to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it could take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for the exam.

To get certified as an ACE, you must first register for an exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Once registered, you will receive study materials that will help you prepare for the exam. You can also find practice exams online that will help you get familiar with the types of questions asked on the actual exam.

The cost of becoming an ACE varies depending on which level you are trying to achieve and which country you are taking your exam in. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD per exam at both Associate and Professional levels in most countries; however, prices may vary depending on where you take your test.

6. CIW Web Design Professional Certification

The CIW Web Design Professional Certification is a globally recognized certification program that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in web design. It is designed to provide professionals with the technical expertise necessary to create, manage, and maintain effective websites. The certification is offered by the Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) organization, which is dedicated to providing industry-leading training and certification for web professionals.

The CIW Web Design Professional Certification requires successful completion of two exams: the CIW Site Development Associate Exam and the CIW Web Design Professional Exam. The Site Development Associate Exam covers HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and Responsive Web Design fundamentals. The Web Design Professional Exam focuses on advanced topics such as graphic design principles, color theory, typography, user experience design principles, website accessibility standards, and search engine optimization techniques.

In order to obtain the CIW Web Design Professional Certification, individuals must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. The exams can be taken online or at authorized testing centers around the world. It typically takes between two months and one year to complete both exams depending on an individual’s study habits and available time for studying.

The cost of obtaining the CIW Web Design Professional Certification varies depending on the format chosen for taking the exams (online or in person). The exam fees are $150 USD each for online testing or $250 USD each for in-person testing at an authorized testing center. There may also be additional fees associated with registration or other administrative tasks related to taking the exams.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification

Project Management Professional (PMP) Certification is a credential offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that recognizes an individual’s expertise in project management. The PMP Certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to successfully manage complex projects and lead teams. It is one of the most sought-after certifications for project managers.

To obtain the PMP certification, individuals must meet certain prerequisites, including having a minimum of 4500 hours of experience leading and directing projects, 35 hours of formal project management education, or a combination of both. Once these prerequisites are met, individuals can apply for the exam online through PMI’s website. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

The cost to take the PMP Exam varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of PMI. For members, the cost is $405 USD; for non-members, it is $555 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with preparing for and taking the exam such as study materials or courses.

Overall, it typically takes between 6-12 months to prepare for and obtain your PMP certification. This includes studying for the exam, completing any required project management courses or training programs, and scheduling and taking the actual exam itself.

8. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program offered by Apple Inc. to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in supporting and troubleshooting Apple products. The ACSP certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's ability to configure, diagnose, repair, and maintain Mac computers, iPhones, iPads, and Apple TV devices.

The ACSP certification requires the successful completion of two exams: the Apple Certified Technical Coordinator (ACTC) exam and the Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) exam. The ACTC exam covers the fundamentals of using Mac OS X Server, while the ACSP exam focuses on troubleshooting and support for Mac OS X clients.

In order to become certified as an ACSP, you must first pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. Both exams are administered through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide and can be taken at any time throughout the year. The cost for each exam is $150 USD. It typically takes about two weeks for applicants to receive their results after taking the exams.

9. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is an industry-recognized certification that validates a professional’s ability to design, deploy, and manage applications on the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform. It is designed for individuals who have at least one year of experience working with AWS services.

The exam typically takes about 80 minutes to complete and consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions. The exam fee is $150 USD. To register for the exam, you must have an AWS account and create a web services (AWS) Certification Account. Once registered, you can purchase the exam voucher from the AWS Certification Portal.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have hands-on experience with AWS services as well as knowledge of core concepts such as security, networking, storage, compute, database management systems, application development, and deployment strategies. You should also be familiar with best practices related to cost optimization and performance optimization when using AWS services. Additionally, there are several online training courses available to help prepare for the exam.

10. CompTIA Security+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of security. It proves a professional’s competency in areas such as network security, compliance and operational security, threats and vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, cryptography, and more.

The exam for CompTIA Security+ takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To get certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 750 or higher on a scale from 100-900.

To prepare for the exam, you can take an online course or attend a class at an accredited training center. You can also study on your own using books or practice tests available from CompTIA or other vendors.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $250 to $320 USD. In addition to taking the exam, you must also pay an annual fee to maintain your certification status. This fee is currently set at $50 USD per year.

11. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., the world's leading provider of open source solutions. It is designed to recognize IT professionals who demonstrate the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully install, configure, and manage Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. RHCE certification is valid for three years from the date of initial certification.

To become an RHCE, you must first pass the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam. This exam tests your ability to perform basic system administration tasks such as setting up users, configuring network services, managing storage devices, and more. Once you have passed the RHCSA exam, you can then take the RHCE exam which tests your ability to configure advanced system services such as DNS servers, web servers, and more.

The cost of taking the RHCE exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $400 US dollars per exam. The cost includes both the RHCSA and RHCE exams. In some cases, there may be additional fees for certain materials or services related to taking the exams.

It typically takes about two months of study and practice before taking either of these exams. After passing both exams, you will receive your RHCE certification from Red Hat which will be valid for three years from the date of initial certification.

Do You Really Need a Author Certificate?

Whether or not you need an author certificate depends on your goals. An author certificate is a formal document that recognizes the completion of a writing course, program, or other educational experience related to writing. It can be used as proof that you have taken a course or program in writing and may be required for certain professional positions or certifications.

If your goal is to become a published writer, then an author certificate may not be necessary. Most publishers and literary agents do not require authors to have any specific qualifications before they will consider their work. However, if you are interested in teaching writing at the college level, then an author certificate could be beneficial. This type of certification can give you credibility and demonstrate your commitment to the craft of writing.

In addition to teaching opportunities, there are other benefits to having an author certificate. For example, some professional organizations offer special membership rates for those who hold certifications in their field. If you’re looking for ways to increase your visibility as a writer and build your network within the industry, then having an author certificate could help. Finally, having an official document acknowledging your accomplishments can provide a sense of accomplishment and pride that comes with completing such a rigorous program.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an author certificate will depend on what you hope to achieve with your writing career. If it’s important for you to have this certification in order to pursue certain opportunities or gain recognition within the industry, then obtaining one may be worth considering.

Related: Author Resume Examples

FAQs About Author Certifications

Q1: What is an Author Certification?

A1: An Author Certification is a program designed to help authors gain credibility and recognition in the publishing industry. Through certification, authors are able to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as writing, editing, marketing, and book design.

Q2: How do I get certified?

A2: To become certified, you must complete a series of courses or modules that cover topics related to the publishing industry. These courses can be completed online or through in-person workshops. Once all requirements have been met, you will receive your certification from the organization offering the program.

Q3: Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

A3: Yes, most organizations require applicants to have certain qualifications before being allowed to take part in the certification process. This may include having some prior experience in writing or publishing, completing certain courses related to the publishing industry, or passing an exam.

Q4: How long does it take to become certified?

A4: The length of time it takes to become certified can vary depending on the organization offering the program and how quickly you are able to complete all of the requirements. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months up to a year or more.

Q5: What benefits come with being certified?

A5: Being certified provides authors with a number of benefits including increased credibility and recognition as an author in the publishing industry; access to networking opportunities; potential discounts on products and services related to writing and publishing; eligibility for awards; and greater chances of success when submitting manuscripts for publication.