Top 11 Business Intelligence Consultant Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for a business intelligence consultant, as they demonstrate to potential employers that the individual has a certain level of expertise and competency in their field. Certification can also help a business intelligence consultant stand out among other applicants and show their commitment to professional development. Employers appreciate having staff with certifications as it demonstrates that they have taken the initiative to acquire specific knowledge and skills related to their role. Additionally, certifications provide assurance to employers that the consultant is up-to-date on the latest industry trends, best practices, and technology solutions for data analysis and reporting. Finally, certifications can often open up opportunities for higher pay or more senior roles.

This article reviews the top certifications for Business Intelligence Consultants and explains how they can help to enhance a Business Intelligence Consultant's career.

What are Business Intelligence Consultant Certifications?

Business intelligence consultant certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in business intelligence principles, practices, and tools. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field and show potential employers that they are qualified for a business intelligence job.

The certification covers a range of topics such as data analytics, data visualization, data warehousing, big data, predictive analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), natural language processing (NLP), and more. It also includes courses on how to use different types of business intelligence software and how to design successful BI solutions. By completing the certification program, individuals can prove their technical knowledge and prove their ability to implement effective business strategies.

Having a business intelligence consultant certification can be a great way for individuals to stand out from other job candidates when applying for jobs in the industry. The certification helps them demonstrate their expertise in the field and shows employers that they have the necessary skills needed to succeed in the job. It can also provide them with access to higher-level positions or even open up opportunities for career advancement within their current organization.

Pro Tip: When considering a business intelligence consultant certification, look for programs that offer hands-on practical experience and are recognized by industry organizations. This will ensure the certification is up to date with current best practices and technologies. Additionally, make sure the program covers topics such as data analysis, data mining, data visualization, and problem solving.

Related: What does a Business Intelligence Consultant do?

Top 11 Business Intelligence Consultant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Intelligence Consultants today.

1. Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP)

Certified Business Intelligence Professional (CBIP) is a certification program offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate expertise in business intelligence, analytics, and data management. The CBIP credential is awarded to individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of business intelligence.

The CBIP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as data warehousing, data modeling, ETL processes, reporting and analytics, data visualization, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

To be eligible for the CBIP certification, applicants must have at least three years of professional experience in a business intelligence related role or possess a relevant college degree from an accredited institution. Applicants must also submit a completed application form and pay the associated fee.

The cost for the CBIP certification varies depending on which country you are located in but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam depending on your location.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam they will receive their official CBIP certificate and can use it to demonstrate their expertise in business intelligence.

2. Certified Data Scientist (CDS)

Certified Data Scientist (CDS) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved proficiency in the field of data science. The certification is awarded by the International Institute for Analytics (IIA), a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the analytics profession. To become certified, applicants must demonstrate mastery of core data science concepts and techniques, including machine learning, data mining, predictive modeling, and statistical analysis.

The certification process typically takes between six and nine months to complete. This includes taking an online course that covers foundational topics such as data wrangling, exploratory analysis, and visualization; completing a project; and passing a final exam. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider and can range from $1,000 to $2,500 USD.

To get Certified Data Scientist (CDS) certification, one needs to pass all stages of the program which include:

1. Completing an online course that covers foundational topics such as data wrangling, exploratory analysis, and visualization;

2. Working on an individual project or case study;

3. Passing a final exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost of getting Certified Data Scientist (CDS) certification depends on the provider but it typically ranges from $1,000 to $2,500 USD for the entire program.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: DM&A) is a certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their ability to design, build, deploy, and maintain data solutions. It is an advanced-level certification that requires a combination of skills in database administration, data warehousing, business intelligence (BI), analytics, and cloud computing.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the MCSE: DM&A certification program. The process involves passing two exams: Exam 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse and Exam 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models. The exams cover topics such as database architecture, query optimization, data modeling, ETL processes, and more.

To get the MCSE: DM&A certification you must first pass both required exams with a score of 700 or higher. You must also have at least one year of experience working with Microsoft SQL Server or Azure SQL Database technologies. Once you have passed both exams and met the experience requirements you can submit your application for the certification to Microsoft.

The cost of the MCSE: DM&A certification varies depending on where you take the exams and whether or not you use any additional resources such as study guides or practice tests. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD for the entire process.

4. IBM Certified Solution Advisor for Business Analytics and Optimization (IBM CSAP)

IBM Certified Solution Advisor for Business Analytics and Optimization (IBM CSAP) is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in the use of IBM’s analytics and optimization solutions. The certification validates a professional’s ability to design, implement, and maintain optimized business solutions using IBM software.

The certification exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. It covers topics such as data analysis, predictive analytics, optimization techniques, data mining, machine learning, and more. The exam fee is $200 USD.

To get the IBM CSAP certification, you must first pass the required exam. You can register for the exam online or through an authorized testing center. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate within six weeks of taking it.

5. Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist (OBIF-11g CIS)

Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Certified Implementation Specialist (OBIF-11g CIS) is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in implementing Oracle Business Intelligence solutions. It is designed for professionals who have experience in designing, developing, and deploying Oracle Business Intelligence solutions.

The OBIF-11g CIS exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get the OBIF-11g CIS certification, you need to register for the exam through the Oracle website. The cost of the exam varies by country but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through Pearson VUE’s remote proctoring service.

Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access and take the test. You should plan to spend at least a few weeks studying for the exam before taking it as there is a lot of material covered in the test.

6. SAS Certified Business Intelligence Professional (SAS CBIP)

SAS Certified Business Intelligence Professional (SAS CBIP) is a certification program designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in business intelligence, analytics and data management. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge, skills and abilities of those working with SAS software.

The SAS CBIP certification program consists of two exams: the SAS Certified Business Intelligence Professional Exam and the SAS Certified Advanced Business Intelligence Professional Exam. The first exam covers topics such as data warehousing, business intelligence, analytics and reporting. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as predictive modeling, text mining, forecasting and optimization.

It typically takes about six months to complete both exams and become certified. During this time, you will need to study for the exams using textbooks or online courses from SAS or other providers. You will also need to practice using SAS software to gain hands-on experience with the concepts covered in the exams.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on which provider you choose for your training materials and how many times you take each exam. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay between $1,000-$2,000 USD for both exams combined.

7. Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate Certification

Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate Certification is a professional certification offered by Tableau, a data visualization and analytics software company. The certification is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the use of Tableau Desktop, the company's flagship product. It requires passing an exam that covers topics such as connecting to data sources, creating visualizations, and using advanced features like calculations and parameters.

It usually takes around two to three weeks to complete the certification process. To get started, you must first register for the exam on the Tableau website. Once registered, you will be given access to online training materials and practice tests that will help prepare you for the exam. After completing your training materials and practice tests, you can schedule your exam date with Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

The cost of taking the Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate Certification exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $250 USD for domestic exams and $400 USD for international exams. Additionally, there may be additional fees charged by Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers for scheduling your exam date.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive a digital certificate from Tableau confirming your qualification as a Tableau Desktop Qualified Associate. This certificate is valid for two years from the date of issue and can be used to demonstrate your expertise in using Tableau Desktop software.

8. SAP Certified Application Associate – Business Intelligence with SAP BW 7.4 & SAP BI 4.1

SAP Certified Application Associate – Business Intelligence with SAP BW 7.4 & SAP BI 4.1 is a certification program for professionals who have expertise in designing, building, testing and deploying business intelligence solutions using the SAP Business Warehouse (BW) 7.4 and SAP Business Intelligence (BI) 4.1 applications. It is designed to validate an individual’s knowledge of the core concepts and skills needed to successfully design, build, test and deploy business intelligence solutions using these two applications.

The certification exam takes approximately 180 minutes to complete and consists of 80 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as data modeling, data extraction from various sources, reporting and analysis using BEx tools, administration of the BW system, performance optimization, security and authorization management for BI/BW systems, integration with other systems such as SAP HANA or ERP, etc.

To get this certification you need to register with the SAP Learning Hub and purchase the appropriate course material for your desired certification level (Associate or Professional). After completing the course you can then register for the exam at a local Pearson VUE center or online through the Pearson VUE website. The cost of this certification varies depending on which level you are seeking but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

9. Teradata Certified Master -Business Intelligence Solutions

Teradata Certified Master - Business Intelligence Solutions is a certification program for IT professionals who wish to demonstrate their expertise in the design, implementation, and maintenance of Teradata Business Intelligence solutions. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of individuals who have experience in designing, deploying, and managing Teradata-based business intelligence solutions.

The certification process consists of two exams: one exam on the fundamentals of Teradata Business Intelligence Solutions (TDBI-101) and one exam on advanced topics related to Teradata Business Intelligence Solutions (TDBI-201). The TDBI-101 exam covers topics such as architecture, data modeling, query optimization, security, performance tuning, and more. The TDBI-201 exam covers topics such as data warehousing concepts, ETL processes, reporting tools, analytics techniques, and more.

It typically takes about 6 months to a year to complete the certification process. During this time you will need to study for both exams and pass them with a score of 80% or higher in order to be certified. You can find study materials online or through your employer’s training department.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. Some employers may also cover part or all of the costs associated with obtaining this certification.

10. Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Scientist

Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Scientist (CCP:DS) is a professional certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills in the field of data science. It is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates the holder’s ability to apply knowledge of data science and machine learning techniques to solve real-world problems.

The CCP:DS certification requires passing a proctored exam, which consists of multiple-choice and hands-on questions. The exam covers topics such as data wrangling, machine learning algorithms, big data technologies, and more. The total duration of the exam is three hours.

In order to become CCP:DS certified, one must first register for the exam on Cloudera's website and pay the associated fee. After registering, one can then schedule their exam at a testing center or online through ProctorU. After successfully completing the exam, candidates will receive an official certificate from Cloudera.

The cost for taking the CCP:DS exam is $400 USD.

11. QlikView Business Analyst Certification

QlikView Business Analyst Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in using the QlikView Business Intelligence (BI) tool. It is an industry-recognized credential that shows employers and peers that you have mastered the skills needed to develop and deploy successful QlikView applications.

The certification consists of two exams: the QlikView Data Modeling Exam and the QlikView Design & Development Exam. The Data Modeling Exam focuses on data modeling, data analysis, and data visualization; while the Design & Development Exam focuses on design principles, development techniques, and best practices for creating effective QlikView applications.

The certification process typically takes about 6 months to complete. During this time, you will need to study for both exams, take practice tests, attend training sessions, and complete a final project. Once you have passed both exams and completed your project, you will be eligible for certification.

The cost of obtaining a QlikView Business Analyst Certification depends on which type of exam you choose to take. If you choose to take the online version of the exam, it will cost approximately $200 per exam. If you choose to take the instructor-led version of the exam at a local training center or conference facility, it will cost approximately $800 per exam.

Do You Really Need a Business Intelligence Consultant Certificate?

Business intelligence consultants are in high demand, and having a certification can help individuals stand out from the crowd. With the right credentials, business intelligence consultants can demonstrate their knowledge and expertise to potential employers. However, it’s important to consider whether or not a business intelligence consultant certificate is necessary before investing time and money into obtaining one.

The answer to this question depends on the individual’s current skillset and goals. For example, if a person already has a strong understanding of data analytics and modeling techniques, they may not need a business intelligence consultant certificate. On the other hand, if someone is just getting started in the field or wants to make sure they have all the necessary skills needed to be successful in this role, then it could be beneficial for them to obtain this type of certification.

In addition to giving individuals an edge over their competition, having a business intelligence consultant certificate can also lead to higher salaries or better job opportunities. Employers recognize that certified professionals are more knowledgeable about their chosen field and are likely more reliable when it comes to completing tasks quickly and accurately. Therefore, those with certifications often find themselves being offered better positions than those without them.

Ultimately, whether or not someone needs a business intelligence consultant certificate will depend on their unique situation and career goals. If they feel that obtaining this credential will give them an advantage over others competing for the same job opportunities then it could be worth pursuing. However, if someone already has extensive experience in this field then they may not necessarily need one in order to succeed professionally.

Related: Business Intelligence Consultant Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Intelligence Consultant Certifications

Q1. What qualifications do I need to become a Business Intelligence Consultant?

A1. To become a Business Intelligence Consultant, you should have at least a Bachelor's degree in computer science, data analytics, information technology or related field. Additionally, experience in software development and data analysis is beneficial. You may also want to consider obtaining certifications related to business intelligence and data analytics such as the Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Oracle Data Warehouse & Analytics Certification.

Q2. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Business Intelligence Consultant certification?

A2. Yes, most certifications require you to have prior knowledge of technical topics such as database design, SQL programming, data warehousing and reporting tools like Tableau or Power BI. Additionally, some certifications require work experience in the field of business intelligence and/or data analytics.

Q3. How long does it take to complete a Business Intelligence Consultant certification program?

A3. The duration and requirements vary depending on the type of certification program you choose. Generally speaking, certification programs can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete depending on your level of commitment and study time invested.

Q4: What are the benefits of becoming a certified Business Intelligence Consultant?

A4: By becoming certified as a Business Intelligence Consultant you can demonstrate your expertise in the field and enhance your marketability with potential employers or clients. Additionally, having this certification can help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends in technology and techniques used within the industry which can give you an edge over other job candidates or consultants who don’t possess this knowledge or certification.

Q5: Are there any online courses available for those interested in obtaining a Business Intelligence Consultant certification?

A5: Yes! There are several online courses available that offer comprehensive training programs for obtaining various certifications related to business intelligence and data analytics such as Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) or Oracle Data Warehouse & Analytics Certification.