Top 11 Business Systems Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for business systems analysts in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that the analyst has a certain level of knowledge and skills. Certifications can also help business systems analysts gain an edge over other candidates, as they provide evidence of specialized training and experience. They also provide recognition from industry organizations, which can give the analyst more credibility and increase their chances of landing a job. Finally, certifications can open doors to higher-level positions and help the analyst stay up-to-date with the latest technology and trends in the industry.

The purpose of this article is to review and explain the various certifications that can help Business Systems Analysts advance their careers.

What are Business Systems Analyst Certifications?

Business systems analyst certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's understanding of the principles and processes related to designing, developing, and analyzing business systems. This certification is designed to prepare professionals for success in the field of business analysis. The certification requires passing a comprehensive exam and successfully completing additional training modules.

The main benefit of obtaining a business systems analyst certification is that it allows individuals to demonstrate their knowledge of key concepts involved in designing, developing, and analyzing business systems. With this certification, employers can be confident that potential employees have the necessary skills and qualifications to help them optimize their businesses’ performance. Additionally, it allows potential employers to identify those individuals who are best suited for specific job roles within their organization.

Business system analyst certifications also help individuals stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices. By participating in continuing education courses or attending webinars, individuals can stay abreast of new technologies and approaches that will help them maximize their effectiveness as an analyst. Furthermore, by staying current with the latest techniques, these professionals can provide better insights into how different aspects of a company’s operations interact with each other.

Overall, obtaining a business systems analyst certification provides individuals with the tools they need to become successful in this field. It allows them to demonstrate their knowledge and skillset while also keeping them informed about the latest trends in the industry. As such, this certification can be an invaluable asset for any professional looking to excel within the field of business analysis.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a Business Systems Analyst, consider getting certified. This will show potential employers that you have the necessary skills to be successful in the role and will give you an edge when competing for jobs. Additionally, certification can open up opportunities for higher pay and greater job security.

Related: What does a Business Systems Analyst do?

Top 11 Business Systems Analyst Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Business Systems Analysts today.

1. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is a professional certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of business analysis. The CBAP certification is intended to demonstrate proficiency in business analysis skills, techniques, and best practices.

To become certified as a CBAP, an individual must meet certain prerequisites and pass a rigorous exam. The prerequisites include having at least 7500 hours of documented business analysis experience within the past 10 years, as well as 21 hours of professional development within the last 4 years.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover six core knowledge areas: Business Analysis Planning & Monitoring; Elicitation & Collaboration; Requirements Life Cycle Management; Strategy Analysis; Requirements Analysis & Design Definition; and Solution Evaluation. The exam takes 3.5 hours to complete and costs $325 USD for IIBA members or $450 USD for non-members.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also agree to adhere to IIBA’s Code of Conduct and sign an attestation form affirming their commitment to ethical standards. Once certified, CBAPs must complete 60 PDUs every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

2. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification program offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and understanding of project management concepts, principles, and practices. The CAPM certification provides an entry-level qualification for project managers or those who are aspiring to become project managers.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within three hours. To qualify for the exam, you must have either 1,500 hours of professional experience in project management or 23 hours of formal education in project management topics.

To get the CAPM certification, you must first register with PMI and pay the applicable fees. After registering, you can purchase study materials from PMI or other vendors to help prepare for the exam. Once you’ve studied and feel ready to take the exam, you can schedule your appointment at a testing center near you.

The cost of obtaining a CAPM certification varies depending on if you’re already a PMI member or not. For non-members, it costs $300 USD to register for the exam plus an additional fee of $225 USD for each attempt at taking the exam. For members, it costs $225 USD to register plus an additional fee of $150 USD per attempt at taking the exam.

3. Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA)

Certified Financial Services Auditor (CFSA) is a professional designation offered by the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA). It is designed to recognize auditors who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and expertise in the field of financial services auditing. The CFSA credential is intended to help employers identify qualified professionals who can provide assurance services related to financial statement audits, internal control reviews, and other assurance services.

To become a CFSA, individuals must meet the following requirements:

• Have at least three years of experience in financial services auditing;
• Pass an exam administered by the IIA;
• Maintain continuing professional education requirements; and
• Abide by the Code of Ethics for Certified Financial Services Auditors.

The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete. The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD for members of the IIA and $550 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants must submit proof that they have met all other requirements before they can be awarded their CFSA certification.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification in the field of information security. It is administered by the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC2). The CISSP certification is designed to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding and knowledge of information security concepts, principles, and practices.

It typically takes six months to two years of study and preparation to obtain the CISSP certification. This includes studying for the exam, taking practice tests, attending review courses or seminars, and completing any prerequisites that may be required.

In order to get certified as a CISSP, you must first pass the exam which consists of 250 multiple-choice questions covering eight domains: Access Control; Asset Security; Communications & Network Security; Identity & Access Management; Security Architecture & Engineering; Security Operations; Software Development Security; and Risk Management. The exam can be taken at a Pearson VUE testing center or online from home with proctoring services provided by ProctorU.

The cost of the CISSP exam varies depending on your country/region but generally ranges from $699-$999 USD. After passing the exam, there is an annual maintenance fee of $125 USD which must be paid every three years in order to maintain your certification status.

5. Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB)

Certified Six Sigma Green Belt (CSSGB) is a professional certification that recognizes individuals who have achieved a mastery of the skills and knowledge necessary to lead and manage Six Sigma projects. The certification is awarded by the American Society for Quality (ASQ).

The CSSGB program is designed to provide an understanding of Six Sigma tools and techniques, as well as an understanding of how to apply them in real-world business situations. It also provides an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of a Green Belt in a Six Sigma project team.

It typically takes between two to six months to complete the requirements for the CSSGB certification. This includes completing coursework, passing an exam, and submitting evidence of successful completion of at least one project using Six Sigma methods.

To get certified as a CSSGB, you must first complete an ASQ-approved training course or equivalent self-study program. Once you have completed your training, you must then pass the CSSGB exam administered by ASQ. After successfully passing the exam, you must submit evidence demonstrating successful completion of at least one project using Six Sigma methods.

The cost for taking the CSSGB exam varies depending on where you take it and whether or not you are an ASQ member. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $400-$800 USD for non-members and $200-$400 USD for members.

6. International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Analysis Certification

The International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA) Agile Analysis Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who possess the knowledge and skills necessary to perform agile analysis activities. It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in agile analysis techniques and best practices.

The IIBA Agile Analysis Certification consists of two parts: the Agile Analysis Core Knowledge Exam and the Agile Analysis Practitioner Exam. The Core Knowledge Exam tests a candidate’s understanding of agile analysis principles, processes, and tools, while the Practitioner Exam tests a candidate’s ability to apply those principles, processes, and tools in real-world scenarios. Both exams must be passed in order to receive the IIBA Agile Analysis Certification.

It typically takes around 6 months for candidates to complete both exams and receive their certification. Candidates can prepare for the exams by taking self-study courses or attending instructor-led classes offered by IIBA accredited training providers.

The cost of obtaining the IIBA Agile Analysis Certification varies depending on which exam preparation option you choose (self-study or instructor-led). Generally speaking, self-study courses are more affordable than instructor-led classes, but they may require more time investment from candidates.

In addition to course fees, there are also exam fees associated with each exam ($125 USD for the Core Knowledge Exam and $250 USD for the Practitioner Exam).

7. Microsoft Technology Associate: Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals is a certification exam designed to validate the foundational knowledge of database concepts and skills. It is intended for individuals who are new to databases, or those who have some experience but are not experts in the field. The exam covers topics such as relational databases, data manipulation language, normalization, data integrity, and query optimization.

The MTA Database Fundamentals exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40-60 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam varies by country but typically ranges from $99-$127 USD.

To obtain the MTA Database Fundamentals certification, you must pass the associated exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 1000. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Microsoft Learning Partners. Once you have passed the exam, your results will be available immediately and your certification will be added to your Microsoft Certification Transcript.

8. Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Implementation Specialist

Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g is a comprehensive suite of business intelligence tools and technologies that help organizations to make better decisions, improve operational efficiency, and gain competitive advantage. It provides an integrated platform for data warehousing, data mining, analytics, reporting, dashboards and scorecards.

The Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Implementation Specialist certification is designed to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in implementing the Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g product. This certification requires passing a single exam which covers topics such as architecture, installation and configuration of the Oracle BI Foundation Suite 11g products. The exam also covers topics such as developing reports, dashboards and scorecards using the Oracle BI Presentation Services.

It typically takes around 1-2 months to get certified as an Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Implementation Specialist depending on your experience level with the product. To get certified you will need to pass the 1Z0-591: Oracle Business Intelligence Foundation Suite 11g Essentials exam. The exam costs $245 USD (or equivalent local currency).

9. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized certification for project managers and demonstrates a professional's experience, education, and competency in leading and directing projects.

To become certified as a PMP, you must have at least 4500 hours of project management experience and 35 contact hours of project management education. You will also need to pass an exam that covers all aspects of project management.

The process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. The first step is to create an account with PMI and submit your application. After your application has been approved, you can register for the exam. Once registered, you will have 180 days to take the exam.

The cost of becoming certified as a PMP varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of PMI. For non-members, the cost is $555 for the exam fee plus an additional $100 for the application fee. For members, the cost is $405 for the exam fee plus an additional $100 for the application fee.

10. 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 an industry-recognized certification program that validates a professional’s ability to implement and support SAP Business Warehouse (BW) 7.4 and SAP Business Intelligence (BI) 4.1 solutions in a customer environment. This certification demonstrates the candidate’s knowledge of the key concepts, processes, and tools used in the implementation of these solutions.

The exam for this certification is administered by Pearson VUE and consists of 80 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 180 minutes. The passing score for this exam is 64%.

To get certified, you will need to register for the exam through the Pearson VUE website and pay a fee of $400 USD. Once registered, you can schedule your exam at any time convenient for you.

It usually takes about 2-3 months to prepare for this certification as it requires a good understanding of both BW 7.4 and BI 4.1 technologies, their features, and how they work together to create business intelligence solutions. To prepare for the exam, candidates should use official training materials from SAP or other third-party vendors as well as practice exams available online or through study guides provided by Pearson VUE or other vendors.

11. TOGAF 9 Foundation Certification

TOGAF 9 Foundation Certification is a globally recognized certification program that validates an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the TOGAF 9 architecture framework. It is designed to provide assurance that the certified individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively apply TOGAF 9 in their organization.

The certification process consists of a one-hour multiple choice exam, which covers topics such as the basics of architecture development, the TOGAF 9 Architecture Development Method (ADM), and related concepts. The exam can be taken at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through Acclaim.

The exam typically takes about 60 minutes to complete, and you will need to score at least 55% in order to pass. The cost for the certification exam varies depending on your location, but it generally ranges from $320 to $400 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, you must also have attended an accredited training course or have studied independently using official study materials in order to qualify for certification. Once you have passed the exam and fulfilled all other requirements, you will receive your official TOGAF 9 Foundation Certificate from The Open Group.

Do You Really Need a Business Systems Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your current career goals and the requirements for the job you are seeking. If you are looking for a job that requires an understanding of business systems analysis, then a certificate in this field may be beneficial. A certificate will demonstrate to potential employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about business systems analysis, which could give you an advantage over other applicants.

However, if you already have experience in the field or are confident in your abilities without a certificate, then it may not be necessary to pursue one. You may want to consider taking courses or workshops related to business systems analysis if they can help improve your skills and knowledge. Additionally, if you are looking for a job that does not require certification, then having one may not be advantageous.

Ultimately, it is important to weigh your options carefully before deciding whether or not a business systems analyst certificate is necessary for your career goals. If you do decide that certification is beneficial for you, make sure that the program is accredited and meets the industry standards so that employers recognize its value when evaluating candidates.

Related: Business Systems Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Business Systems Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a Business Systems Analyst Certification?

A1. A Business Systems Analyst Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your understanding of business systems analysis and the related processes and technologies. It validates your skills in gathering and analyzing data, designing, developing, testing, and implementing solutions to improve business operations.

Q2. What are the benefits of getting a Business Systems Analyst Certification?

A2. There are many benefits to obtaining a Business Systems Analyst Certification including increased job opportunities, higher wages, greater credibility in the workplace and more respect from colleagues. Additionally, this certification can help you stay up-to-date on the latest technological advancements in the field and better understand how to use them for business optimization.

Q3. How do I become certified as a Business Systems Analyst?

A3. The process of becoming certified as a Business Systems Analyst varies depending on the organization offering the certification program. Generally speaking, you must complete educational courses or pass an exam that covers topics such as business analysis techniques, project management principles and software development lifecycle models in order to earn your certification.

Q4. What types of certifications are available for Business Systems Analysts?

A4. Different organizations offer different types of certifications for Business Systems Analysts including Certified Associate in Business Analysis (CABA), Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), Certified Professional in Requirements Engineering (CPRE) and others depending on the organization offering it.

Q5. How long does it take to get certified as a Business Systems Analyst?

A5. The time it takes to get certified depends on which certification program you choose and how much time you devote to studying for it each day or week; however, most programs require between 6 months and 2 years of dedicated study before taking the exam or completing coursework necessary for certification.