Top 10 Computer Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for a computer analyst in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the analyst has the knowledge and skills necessary to do the job. Certifications can also make an analyst more competitive in the market, as they show employers that the analyst is committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and technologies. Additionally, certifications may be required by certain employers in order for an analyst to be considered for a position. Finally, certifications can also open up new opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Computer Analysts and explains how they can help to enhance a computer analyst's career opportunities.

What are Computer Analyst Certifications?

Computer analyst certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s competency in the field of computer analysis. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the field, as well as their ability to work with various software programs and hardware components. With this certification, individuals can prove that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to be successful in the industry.

The certification process typically involves taking a series of exams that test an individual’s knowledge of specific software programs, hardware components, and other topics related to computer analysis. Once all of the tests are passed, individuals receive a certificate indicating that they have achieved a certain level of proficiency in the area. This certification can then be used as proof that they possess the requisite skills needed for positions within organizations requiring such competencies.

Having computer analyst certification can also be beneficial when applying for jobs or promotions within IT-related fields. Employers may view this type of qualification favorably when considering potential candidates, as it shows that an individual has taken the initiative to gain more knowledge in their chosen field and has proven their competency through testing. In addition, having such a credential may make an individual more competitive in the job market since it indicates advanced levels of expertise compared to those who do not have similar qualifications.

Pro Tip: When considering a computer analyst certification, look for programs that offer a combination of theoretical and practical training. This will ensure you have the best understanding of both software and hardware systems, as well as the skills required to troubleshoot complex issues.

Related: What does a Computer Analyst do?

Top 10 Computer Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification that certifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in the field of information security. The CISSP credential is considered to be one of the most prestigious qualifications for IT professionals working in the field of information security.

The CISSP exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within 6 hours. To obtain the CISSP certification, an individual must pass the exam and have a minimum of five years of full-time paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains covered by the CISSP Common Body of Knowledge (CBK).

To become eligible to take the CISSP exam, applicants must complete a training course or self-study program that covers all eight domains covered by the CBK. There are many different types of training courses available online and through accredited institutions.

The cost to take the CISSP exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $699 to $1,199 USD. In addition to this fee, there is also an annual maintenance fee that must be paid each year in order to maintain your certification status. This fee is usually around $85 USD per year.

2. 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 advanced knowledge and experience in the field of business analysis.

The CBAP certification requires that applicants meet certain criteria, including having a minimum of 7500 hours of business analysis work experience over the past 10 years, as well as a minimum of 35 hours of professional development related to business analysis within the past 4 years. Applicants must also pass an exam consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions.

It typically takes between 6 and 12 months to prepare for the CBAP exam. This time frame can vary depending on factors such as the applicant’s prior experience, learning style, and study habits. Preparation for the exam may include taking courses or workshops, attending webinars or seminars, reading books or articles, or completing self-study materials.

To get certified as a CBAP, applicants must first register with IIBA and pay an application fee. After registering, applicants will receive instructions on how to schedule their exam date with Pearson VUE. The cost to take the CBAP exam is $325 USD for IIBA members and $450 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Computing Professional (CCP)

The Certified Computing Professional (CCP) is a professional certification program offered by the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP). The certification is designed to recognize the competency of computing professionals in their field. CCP certification demonstrates that an individual has met a standard level of knowledge and experience in computing technology, as well as a commitment to professional development and ethics.

To obtain the CCP certification, individuals must pass an exam administered by ICCP. The exam covers topics such as software engineering, programming languages, computer architecture, operating systems, network technologies, database management systems, and other related topics. To prepare for the exam, individuals can take courses or self-study from recommended resources provided by ICCP.

The exam typically takes about four hours to complete and costs $395 USD for ICCP members and $495 USD for non-members. After passing the exam, individuals receive their CCP certification which is valid for three years. To maintain their certification status, individuals must participate in continuing education activities every three years to demonstrate their ongoing professional development.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in Microsoft technologies. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their ability to design and build solutions based on Microsoft products and services. It also demonstrates the ability to manage, maintain, troubleshoot, and deploy solutions on the Windows platform.

It typically takes three to six months of study and practice to prepare for the MCSE exams. The amount of time required will vary depending on the individual's experience level with Microsoft technologies.

To obtain an MCSE certification, individuals must pass a series of exams that cover topics such as networking, security, server administration, cloud computing, virtualization, and other related areas. After passing all required exams, individuals are awarded the MCSE certification.

The cost of obtaining an MCSE certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and the country in which they are taken. In general, each exam costs around $150 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking proctored exams or using practice tests or other materials to prepare for the exam.

5. Oracle Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program offered by Oracle Corporation that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the use of Oracle products and technologies. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry, as it demonstrates expertise in database administration, development, and design.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to prepare for the OCP exam, depending on your level of experience with Oracle databases. To get certified, you need to pass two exams: one on core concepts and one on a specific product or technology. The cost of each exam varies depending on the version of Oracle being tested; however, they range from $245-$395 USD per exam.

In order to become an OCP certified professional, you must first complete an approved training course from an Oracle authorized education center or self-study using approved materials such as books or online courses. Once you have completed your training, you can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. After passing both exams with a score of 70% or higher, you will be awarded your OCP certification.

6. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is the most widely recognized project management certification in the world. The PMP credential demonstrates that an individual has the knowledge and experience to lead and direct projects successfully.

The PMP certification process involves passing an exam that tests your knowledge of project management principles, practices, and processes. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least three years of project management experience and 35 hours of project management education or training.

It typically takes three to six months to prepare for the PMP exam. During this time, you should review relevant materials, practice sample questions, and attend study groups or classes if available. Once you are ready to take the exam, you can register online with PMI and pay the $405 fee.

The cost of obtaining a PMP certification includes both the registration fee for taking the exam ($405) as well as any additional fees associated with preparation materials such as books or courses ($200-$400).

7. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is a globally recognized certification that proves competency in areas such as networking, hardware, security, software, troubleshooting and more. This certification is designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their technical proficiency and advance their careers.

It typically takes around two to three months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam. To get certified, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). The exams cover topics such as mobile devices, networking technology, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing, security and operational procedures.

To get CompTIA A+ certified, you must first purchase an exam voucher from CompTIA or a third party vendor. The cost of the voucher varies depending on where it is purchased from but generally ranges from $220-$300 USD per exam. After purchasing the voucher you can register for your exams online at Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Once you have passed both exams successfully you will receive your official CompTIA A+ certification.

8. CompTIA Network+ Certification

CompTIA Network+ certification is a vendor-neutral certification designed to validate an individual's knowledge of networking concepts, skills and best practices. It is an entry-level certification that demonstrates competence in installing, configuring, maintaining, troubleshooting and managing basic network infrastructure.

The exam for the CompTIA Network+ certification consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The passing score is 720 on a scale of 100-900.

To get the CompTIA Network+ certification you must pass the exam which can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through their website. You will also need to have either 2 years of experience in IT networking or have achieved the CompTIA A+ certification before taking the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$300 USD.

9. CompTIA Security+ Certification

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that certifies a professional’s knowledge of information security. It is designed to demonstrate competency in system security, network infrastructure, cryptography, access control and organizational security. The certification is vendor-neutral and covers the most important foundational principles for securing a network and managing risk.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the CompTIA Security+ exam. However, this time frame can vary depending on how much experience you have with computer networks and security concepts. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take an authorized training course or read through study materials such as books or online resources.

To get certified with CompTIA Security+, you must pass the SY0-501 exam which consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and has a maximum time limit of 90 minutes. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $320-$400 USD.

Overall, obtaining a CompTIA Security+ certification can help you stand out from other IT professionals in terms of knowledge and experience when it comes to cybersecurity principles. It can also open up more job opportunities in the field as many employers look for candidates who have this certification.

10. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides a comprehensive introduction to IT Service Management (ITSM) best practices. It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and apply the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework in their own organizations.

The ITIL Foundation certification consists of a two-day course, which typically takes place over two consecutive days or four half-days. The course covers the five core disciplines of ITIL: Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation and Continual Service Improvement. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an internationally recognized certificate from EXIN or PeopleCert.

To get ITIL Foundation certified, you must attend an accredited training program and pass the associated exam. Accredited training programs are offered by many providers around the world and can be found online or through local training centers. The cost of attending a training program varies depending on your location and provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. After completing the training program, you must then pass the associated exam with a score of 65% or higher in order to receive your ITIL Foundation certification.

The cost of taking the exam is usually included in the price of attending a training program but can also be purchased separately for approximately $200 USD.

Do You Really Need a Computer Analyst Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on your individual situation. If you are looking to enter the computer analyst field, then a computer analyst certificate may be beneficial for you. With a certificate, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of computer analysis and have a better chance of finding a job in the industry.

On the other hand, if you already have experience in the computer analyst field or have relevant education and experience, then a certificate may not be necessary. However, having a certificate can still help you stand out from other applicants in the job market and increase your chances of getting hired.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide if obtaining a computer analyst certificate is worth your time and money. Consider what kind of career path you would like to take and how much time and money you are willing to invest in achieving those goals. If you decide that getting certified is right for you, then make sure to look into the different types of certificates available so that you can find one that best suits your needs.

Related: Computer Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Computer Analyst Certifications

Q1. What is a computer analyst certification?

A1. A computer analyst certification is a credential that shows employers that the individual has the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to work as an analyst in the IT field. It is typically obtained through specialized training programs or certifications offered by professional organizations such as CompTIA or ISACA.

Q2. What are the benefits of obtaining a computer analyst certification?

A2. Obtaining a computer analyst certification can demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful in the IT field. Additionally, it can provide you with more job opportunities, higher salaries, and increased credibility with clients and colleagues.

Q3. How long does it take to get certified as a computer analyst?

A3. The length of time required for certification will depend on which type of program or certification you choose to pursue. Generally speaking, most programs require anywhere from six months to two years of study before you are able to obtain your certification.

Q4. Is there an exam I need to pass in order to be certified as a computer analyst?

A4. Yes, most certifications require passing an exam in order for you to be fully certified as a computer analyst. The type of exam will vary depending on which program or certification you choose to pursue; some may require written exams while others may involve hands-on testing of your skills and knowledge in an actual IT setting.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a computer analyst?

A5: Yes, most certifications have certain prerequisites that must be met before being eligible for the program or exam. These may include having prior experience working in the IT field or taking specific courses related to computer analysis topics such as data structures and algorithms, database design, programming languages, etc..