Top 11 C++ Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for any C++ developer in the job market as they demonstrate to employers that the candidate has a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the language. Certification programs provide an objective measure of skills, and can set a C++ developer apart from other candidates by providing evidence of their expertise. Certifications can also help developers stay up-to-date on new technology, programming techniques, and best practices. Additionally, certifications can serve as a way to validate the experience and skills that employers are seeking.

The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for C++ Developers and explain how they can benefit a c++ developer's career.

What are C++ Developer Certifications?

C++ Developer Certification is a professional certification program created to recognize the advanced knowledge and expertise of experienced C++ developers. It is designed to assess and validate the skillset of an individual in the field, as well as demonstrate their proficiency in developing applications using the C++ programming language. This certification can be beneficial for both job seekers and employers alike.

For job seekers, having the C++ Developer Certification can provide them with a competitive edge when applying for positions requiring these specific skills. It shows potential employers that they have been tested and certified to possess a certain level of expertise in this field, which can be extremely valuable in today’s tight job market. Additionally, it can give job seekers added confidence when interviewing for positions that require C++ development experience.

For employers, having someone on staff who holds the C++ Developer Certification can provide assurance that they are getting an experienced professional with a proven track record of success in this field. Additionally, it reduces the risk associated with hiring someone who may not have sufficient knowledge or skill in this area. Having this certification also ensures that the person hired has received training from an accredited institution, thus providing a higher level of assurance that their skills are up-to-date and applicable to current industry standards.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified C++ developer, it is important to research various certifications and understand the requirements for each. Additionally, it is helpful to have a solid understanding of the language before tackling certification exams.

Related: What does a C++ Developer do?

Top 11 C++ Developer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to C++ Developers today.

1. Certified C++ Professional Program (C++ Institute)

The Certified C++ Professional Program (C++ Institute) is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in the C++ programming language. It is offered by the C++ Institute, a non-profit organization that aims to promote and develop the use of C++ worldwide. The program consists of two exams: the Certified Professional Programmer (CPP) exam and the Certified Associate Programmer (CAP) exam.

The CPP exam is a two-hour multiple choice test that covers topics such as object-oriented programming, templates, memory management, and more. The CAP exam is a one-hour multiple choice test that focuses on basic concepts such as variables, loops, functions, and classes.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to complete both exams depending on an individual’s knowledge and experience level. To get started with the program, you must first register for an account at cppinstitute.org and pay the registration fee of $99 USD. After registering for an account you will be able to access study materials, practice tests, and other resources related to your studies.

Once you have completed both exams successfully you will receive your official certification from the C++ Institute along with a digital badge that can be displayed on your online profile or website. The cost of taking both exams is $199 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

2. Certified C++ Associate Program (C++ Institute)

The Certified C++ Associate Program (C++ Institute) is an entry-level certification program designed to help developers demonstrate their knowledge of the C++ programming language. It is intended for those who are just beginning to learn C++, or for experienced professionals who want to validate their skills and gain recognition in the industry.

The program consists of a single exam that covers topics such as basic language syntax, data types, control structures, functions, classes and objects, templates, and more. The exam is administered online and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The passing score is 70%.

To get certified, you must first register with the C++ Institute and purchase the exam voucher. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your location but typically ranges from US$50 - US$100. After registering and purchasing the voucher, you will be given access to an online platform where you can take the exam at your own convenience.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive a digital certificate verifying your achievement along with a printed certificate mailed to your address of record. You will also receive an official Certified C++ Associate logo which can be used on resumes, websites, business cards and other professional documents.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD): App Builder is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professionals who develop applications using Microsoft technologies. It is an entry-level certification that requires passing three exams: Exam 70-480, Exam 70-481, and Exam 70-482. These exams focus on developing Windows Store apps using HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript; designing and developing Windows Azure and Web Services; and creating Windows Store apps with C# or Visual Basic.

It typically takes about 6 months to complete all three exams for the MCSD: App Builder certification. To get started, you will need to purchase vouchers for each exam from the Microsoft Learning website. Each voucher costs $150 USD. Once you have purchased the vouchers, you can register for each exam at the Microsoft Learning website or through a Pearson VUE testing center. After successfully completing all three exams, you will receive your MCSD: App Builder certification from Microsoft.

4. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer is an industry-recognized certification for experienced Java developers. This certification demonstrates that the holder has a strong understanding of the core language features and application programming interfaces (APIs) of the Java platform. It also shows that they have a good knowledge of object-oriented programming, JavaBeans components, servlets, and web services.

To get this certification, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-808 (Java SE 8 Programmer I) and 1Z0-809 (Java SE 8 Programmer II). These exams are designed to assess your knowledge and skills in developing applications using the Java Platform Standard Edition 8. The total time to complete both exams is approximately 4 hours.

You can register for these exams through Oracle University or Pearson VUE. The cost of each exam is $245 USD. You can also purchase practice tests and study guides from Oracle University or other third-party vendors to help you prepare for the exams.

5. Adobe Certified Expert: Programming in C++ Using Adobe Creative Suite 5

Adobe Certified Expert: Programming in C++ Using Adobe Creative Suite 5 (ACE: PSCS5) is a certification program from Adobe that validates an individual’s expertise in developing applications using the C++ programming language and the Adobe Creative Suite 5 software suite. It is designed for experienced developers who want to demonstrate their proficiency with the tools and technologies used to create professional-level applications.

To become an ACE: PSCS5, you must pass two exams that cover topics such as object-oriented programming, memory management, debugging, and optimization techniques. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE Testing Centers and are available online or at select physical locations. Each exam costs $180 USD and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

The cost of becoming an ACE: PSCS5 depends on the number of exams taken, but it typically ranges from $360-$540 USD. Additionally, some employers may offer reimbursement for certification fees as part of their employee benefits package.

6. Zend Certified Engineer in PHP 5

Zend Certified Engineer (ZCE) in PHP 5 is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of PHP developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to develop and deploy applications using the latest version of PHP, which is currently version 5.

It takes approximately two weeks to prepare for the ZCE exam. During this time, you should review the materials provided by Zend Technologies, such as their online tutorials and practice tests. You can also take advantage of additional training courses offered by Zend or other third-party providers.

To get your ZCE certification, you must first register for an online account with Zend Technologies and then purchase an exam voucher from them. Once you have purchased the voucher, you will be able to schedule your exam at any Pearson VUE test center worldwide. The cost of the voucher varies depending on your country/region but generally ranges between $200 and $300 USD.

Once you have taken and passed the exam, you will receive your official certificate from Zend Technologies. This certificate will be valid for three years after which time you may need to retake the exam in order to maintain your certification status.

7. Red Hat Certified Engineer in Linux

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) in Linux is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc., the world’s leading provider of open source solutions. The RHCE certification is designed to demonstrate a professional’s ability to configure, manage and troubleshoot Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry and is highly valued by employers.

To become an RHCE, you must first pass the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) exam. This exam tests your knowledge and skills related to system administration tasks such as user management, package installation and configuration, network services configuration, security settings, etc. Once you have passed the RHCSA exam, you can then take the RHCE exam which tests your ability to configure advanced features of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems such as clustering, virtualization, storage management and more.

The time required to get certified varies depending on individual experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it will take at least several months of studying for both exams before attempting them.

In order to become an RHCE in Linux, you must register for both exams through the Red Hat website or authorized training partner. The cost for each exam varies but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD per exam.

8. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a technician’s skills in computer hardware and software repair, installation, and troubleshooting. It is the most popular entry-level IT certification and is often a requirement for many IT positions.

The CompTIA A+ certification requires two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Both exams are 90 minutes long and include multiple choice questions as well as performance-based items. The exams cover topics such as networking, mobile devices, hardware, virtualization, cloud computing, security, operational procedures and more.

It typically takes around three months of studying to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. However, this time frame can vary depending on your level of experience with computers and IT concepts. In addition to studying for the exam itself, it’s important to have hands-on experience with computers so you can apply what you learn during your studies to real world scenarios.

To get CompTIA A+ certified you must register for the exams through Pearson VUE or another authorized testing center. Each exam costs $226 USD ($113 USD per exam). After passing both exams you will receive your official CompTIA A+ certification from CompTIA.

Overall, earning the CompTIA A+ certification demonstrates a commitment to learning new technologies and staying up to date with industry best practices. It also provides employers with assurance that you have the necessary skillset to work in their IT department.

9. CIW Advanced HTML5 and CSS3 Specialist

CIW Advanced HTML5 and CSS3 Specialist is a certification program that enables individuals to demonstrate their proficiency in the latest web development technologies. It is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the use and implementation of HTML5, CSS3, and other related web technologies. The certification requires the successful completion of two exams: CIW Site Development Associate (1D0-620) and CIW Advanced HTML5 and CSS3 Specialist (1D0-635).

The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, and can be taken online or at a local testing center. The exams typically take around 90 minutes each to complete.

To get certified as a CIW Advanced HTML5 and CSS3 Specialist, you must first purchase the certification exam voucher from the CIW website. The cost for the voucher is $245 USD, which includes both exams. After purchasing the voucher, you will receive instructions on how to register for your chosen exam through Pearson VUE's website. Once you have successfully passed both exams, you will receive your official certificate from CIW.

10. Apple Certified Technical Coordinator 10.9

Apple Certified Technical Coordinator 10.9 is an Apple certification that validates a professional’s ability to configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Mac OS X 10.9 systems. This certification is designed for IT professionals who are responsible for managing networks of Mac computers running the Mavericks operating system.

It typically takes around 40 hours of study time to prepare for the Apple Certified Technical Coordinator 10.9 exam, depending on your existing knowledge and experience with Mac OS X. You can take the exam at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost of the Apple Certified Technical Coordinator 10.9 exam varies depending on where you take it, but it typically costs around $150 USD per attempt.

11. IBM Certified Solution Developer – WebSphere Application Server V7

IBM Certified Solution Developer – WebSphere Application Server V7 is a professional certification offered by IBM. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of developers in designing, developing, deploying, and troubleshooting applications on the WebSphere Application Server V7 platform.

It typically takes between 3-6 months to prepare for this certification exam. The best way to prepare for this exam is to take an instructor-led training course from IBM or an authorized training provider. Additionally, you can also use online resources such as tutorials, books, and practice tests to help you prepare for the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

In order to become certified as an IBM Certified Solution Developer – WebSphere Application Server V7, you must pass a single multiple-choice exam (C2180-401). This exam consists of 65 questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

Do You Really Need a C++ Developer Certificate?

In short, no. In the world of software development, certificates are not a requirement for employment and many employers do not place emphasis on them. Instead, what matters most is your skillset, experience and portfolio. Having a certificate may help to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to the field, but it is not essential for getting hired as a C++ developer.

Certificates can be beneficial if you are looking to specialize in certain areas of programming or gain recognition from potential employers. For example, you may be able to obtain certifications in specific programming languages such as C++ that can help show potential employers that you have a deep understanding of the language and its applications. Additionally, if you are looking to transition into a new industry or technology, certifications can provide an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment and capabilities in that area.

Ultimately, while having a C++ developer certificate may be beneficial in certain circumstances, it is not essential for gaining employment as a C++ developer. Your skillset and experience will still be the primary factors when it comes to getting hired. Therefore, if you feel like having a certification would help you reach your goals then it may be worth pursuing; however, if not then there is no requirement for obtaining one.

Related: C++ Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About C++ Developer Certifications

Q1. What is a C++ Developer Certification?

A1. A C++ Developer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates the holder's proficiency and expertise in developing applications using the C++ programming language.

Q2. How do I become a Certified C++ Developer?

A2. In order to become a Certified C++ Developer, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by an accredited certifying body such as the International Association of Software Architects (IASA).

Q3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified C++ Developer?

A3. Benefits of becoming a certified C++ developer include increased job opportunities, higher salaries, improved credibility with employers and clients, and greater knowledge of the language and its advanced features.

Q4. What topics are covered on the Certified C++ Developer exam?

A4. The topics covered on the Certified C++ Developer exam include object-oriented programming, design patterns, data structures, algorithms, memory management, debugging techniques, and more.

Q5. Is there any prerequisites for taking the Certified C++ Developer exam?

A5. Yes, candidates must have at least two years of experience developing applications using the C++ programming language or equivalent knowledge prior to taking the exam.