Top 10 Data Modeler Certifications

Certifications are important for data modelers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and proficiency in the field. Certified data modelers have proven their ability to design and implement databases that meet specific requirements, as well as their expertise in data modeling tools and techniques. Certifications also help employers validate a person’s technical skills and provide evidence that a candidate has the necessary experience to handle complex projects. Furthermore, certifications can be used to differentiate between candidates with similar backgrounds and qualifications, helping employers find the best fit for their team.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Data Modelers and discusses how they can help to enhance a data modeler's career.

What are Data Modeler Certifications?

Data modeler certification is a type of professional certification that validates a data modeler's knowledge and experience in the field. It typically consists of an examination, which tests the candidate's understanding of best practices and principles when it comes to designing and managing data models. The certification also covers topics such as database design, database security, data warehousing, and other related areas.

Having a data modeler certification can help individuals stand out in the job market by demonstrating their expertise with the latest technologies and techniques used in data modeling. Additionally, having this certification may give individuals more credibility when working with clients or colleagues as they will be seen as experienced in their field. Data modelers who have earned their certification will also generally have access to better job opportunities than those without it, as employers often prefer to hire certified professionals. Finally, having this certification can help individuals stay up-to-date on the latest trends and tools in the field, allowing them to make better decisions about how to manage their data models for maximum efficiency and accuracy.

Pro Tip: Before you attempt a data modeler certification, make sure you have a strong understanding of data modeling fundamentals such as entity-relationship diagrams, normalization, and database design. Additionally, research the specific certification requirements and understand the exam topics to ensure you are well prepared for testing.

Related: What does a Data Modeler do?

Top 10 Data Modeler Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Professional, Database Modeling & Design

Oracle Certified Professional, Database Modeling & Design is a certification program from Oracle that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge to design, model, build, and manage database systems. It covers topics such as database architecture and design principles, relational database modeling and design techniques, physical database implementation, data security and integrity, performance tuning and optimization, backup and recovery strategies, and more.

It typically takes around six months to complete the certification process. To get certified you must first pass an exam that tests your knowledge of Oracle Database Modeling & Design concepts. You can take this exam at any authorized testing center or online through Oracle University. After passing the exam you will receive an email confirmation with instructions on how to register for the certification program.

The cost of the certification varies depending on where you take the exam. If you take it at an authorized testing center it will cost around $300 USD. If you take it online through Oracle University it will cost around $400 USD.

2. IBM Certified Data Modeler

IBM Certified Data Modeler is a professional certification program offered by IBM. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of data modelers in designing, developing, and deploying data models for various applications.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test the candidate’s knowledge on topics such as data modeling principles, techniques, best practices, and tools.

It typically takes around 4-6 weeks to prepare for the exam depending on the individual's experience level. Candidates can study using self-study materials or take an online course from IBM.

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

3. Teradata Certified Master Data Modeler

Teradata Certified Master Data Modeler is a certification program offered by Teradata, a leading data analytics and business intelligence software provider. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of proficiency in designing and implementing data models for Teradata databases. This certification demonstrates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and maintain effective data models that are optimized for performance and scalability.

The certification process includes two exams: the Teradata Certified Master Data Modeler Exam (TCMDME) and the Teradata Certified Master Data Modeler Advanced Exam (TCMDMAE). The TCMDME exam covers topics such as database architecture, normalization techniques, physical database design, logical database design, and data modeling best practices. The TCMDMAE exam focuses on advanced topics such as query optimization techniques, data warehouse design principles, dimensional modeling concepts, and advanced SQL programming skills.

It typically takes about three months to complete the certification process. To get started with the certification process, you must first register for the exams online through Teradata's website. Once registered, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam materials. You will then need to study for both exams using the provided material before scheduling your exams at a local testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on where you take your exams (in-person or online). In-person exams typically cost around $200 each while online exams can range from $100-$400 each depending on which country you are taking them in.

4. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification program from Microsoft that validates the skills of IT professionals in designing, implementing, and managing business intelligence solutions using Microsoft SQL Server. It is designed to help individuals develop the skills needed to analyze data and create meaningful insights for their organizations.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification requires passing four exams:

1. Querying Data with Transact-SQL (70-761)

2. Administering a SQL Database Infrastructure (70-764)

3. Provisioning SQL Databases (70-765)

4. Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server (70-767).

It typically takes around 6 months to complete all four exams, depending on an individual’s experience level and study habits. To get the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification, individuals must pass all four exams within 12 months of starting the program.

The cost of each exam varies depending on where it is taken and which version is being used but typically ranges between $165-$200 USD per exam. The total cost of getting the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification can range from $660-$800 USD.

5. Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Modeler

Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Modeler is a certification program that validates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and maintain data models. It is designed for experienced data modelers who have hands-on experience in the development of data models. The certification requires a comprehensive understanding of the fundamentals of data modeling, including logical and physical data models, dimensional modeling techniques, and best practices for designing and deploying efficient data models.

It typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete the training and pass the exam. To get certified as a Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Modeler, you must first register for the course on Cloudera’s website. After registering, you will be able to access course materials such as lecture slides, practice exams, and other resources. Once you have completed the course material and passed the final exam with a score of at least 70%, you will receive your certification.

The cost of becoming a Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Modeler varies depending on whether you are taking an online or in-person class. Online classes typically range from $500-$1000 USD while in-person classes can cost up to $3000 USD.

6. MongoDB Certified Developer: Data Modeling

MongoDB Certified Developer: Data Modeling is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of developers in designing, building, and troubleshooting data models for MongoDB. It covers the fundamentals of data modeling in MongoDB, including schema design, data modeling patterns, and performance optimization. The certification requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to design effective data models for MongoDB applications, as well as their understanding of the core concepts related to data modeling.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions that are based on real-world scenarios. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and become certified.

In order to get MongoDB Certified Developer: Data Modeling certification, you must first register for an account with MongoDB University. Once registered, you can then purchase access to the online course material and take the exam when ready. The cost of this certification is $150 USD per attempt.

7. SAP-Certified Application Associate - Data Modeling & Analysis with SAP BW/4HANA

SAP-Certified Application Associate – Data Modeling & Analysis with SAP BW/4HANA is a certification program that validates a professional’s skills in designing, developing and managing data models and analysis solutions with SAP BW/4HANA. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to use the SAP BW/4HANA system to design, develop and manage data models and analysis solutions.

The certification exam consists of 80 multiple choice questions which must be completed within 180 minutes. The exam covers topics such as data modeling concepts, data modeling techniques, data warehousing principles, and SAP BW/4HANA features. To obtain the certification, you must score at least 60% on the exam.

The cost of the certification exam varies depending on your country or region. You can find out how much it costs by visiting the SAP website or contacting your local SAP representative.

In order to prepare for the certification exam, you should have a basic understanding of business intelligence concepts as well as experience using SAP BW/4HANA. You may also want to consider taking an official training course from SAP or an authorized training partner before attempting the exam.

8. SAS Certified Big Data Professional – Advanced Data Modelling

SAS Certified Big Data Professional – Advanced Data Modelling is a certification offered by SAS Institute Inc. This certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in advanced data modelling techniques and the use of SAS software for big data analysis. The exam covers topics such as advanced analytics, predictive modelling, machine learning algorithms, and data mining.

The certification requires candidates to pass an exam that consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and is available in both English and Japanese languages. Candidates must score at least 70% on the exam in order to pass and become certified.

In order to get the certification, candidates must first register for the exam online through the SAS Institute website. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically costs around $250 USD. Once registered, candidates can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide or online via remote proctoring services.

Once a candidate has passed the exam, they will receive an official certificate from SAS Institute Inc., which can be used as proof of their professional credentials when applying for jobs or promotions within their field.

9. Informatica PowerCenter Certified Metadata Manager

Informatica PowerCenter Certified Metadata Manager is a software application designed to help organizations manage, access, and share metadata across the enterprise. It provides a centralized repository of metadata that can be used to create reports and dashboards, as well as analyze data. The Certified Metadata Manager helps organizations to improve their data governance efforts by providing visibility into the data stored in various systems throughout the enterprise.

It takes approximately 8 hours of training and certification exams to become an Informatica PowerCenter Certified Metadata Manager. To get certified, you must first register for the certification program through Informatica’s website. After registering, you will have access to online courses and practice exams that will help prepare you for the certification exam. Once you pass the exam, you will receive your certification from Informatica.

The cost of the Informatica PowerCenter Certified Metadata Manager certification varies depending on where you purchase it from. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for the course and exam fees combined.

10. Oracle Database 12c SQL Fundamentals for Data Modelers

Oracle Database 12c SQL Fundamentals for Data Modelers is a comprehensive training course designed to help data modelers understand the fundamentals of SQL. It covers topics such as basic relational database concepts, data modeling techniques, and how to use Oracle’s SQL language to query and manipulate data. This course provides an introduction to the Oracle Database 12c platform and its features, including the new features of Oracle Database 12c Release 2.

The duration of this course is approximately three days. To get this certification, you will need to attend a training program or self-study using the materials provided by Oracle University. The cost of this certification varies depending on the type of training program you choose. Self-study materials are available from Oracle University at no charge.

Do You Really Need a Data Modeler Certificate?

When considering whether or not to pursue a data modeler certificate, it is important to consider the benefits of having such a certification. A data modeler certificate can demonstrate to employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively design and maintain data models. Data modeling is an essential skill for any database professional, as it allows them to create efficient databases that meet business requirements. With a data modeler certificate, employers can be assured that you possess the technical know-how needed to work with databases in an effective manner.

In addition, having a data modeler certificate can also make you more competitive in the job market. Many employers prefer candidates who have some sort of certification in their field, as this shows that they are dedicated and serious about their profession. A certification can also provide evidence of your proficiency with certain software applications or technologies related to data modeling. This may give you an edge over other candidates when competing for jobs at large companies or organizations.

Finally, pursuing a data modeler certificate can help broaden your knowledge base and open up new career opportunities. By gaining additional expertise in this field through courses or certifications, you may be able to move into more advanced roles within the database industry and increase your earning potential.

Overall, obtaining a data modeler certificate can be highly beneficial and worth considering if you are looking to advance your career in the database industry. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field, give evidence of your technical proficiency, and open up new opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Related: Data Modeler Resume Examples

FAQs About Data Modeler Certifications

1. What types of Data Modeler Certifications are available?

Answer: There are a variety of Data Modeler certifications available, including Oracle Database 12c Certified Master, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) in Data Management and Analytics, IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2), MongoDB Certified Professional, and SAP HANA Certification.

2. How long does it take to become a certified Data Modeler?

Answer: The amount of time required to become a certified Data Modeler depends on the specific certification and the individual's experience level. Generally, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete the necessary training and exams for certification.

3. What is the cost of a Data Modeler Certification?

Answer: The cost of a Data Modeler Certification can vary greatly depending on the type of certification and the provider offering it. Most certifications will require an exam fee ranging from $150-$300 USD as well as any applicable membership or subscription fees.

4. What skills do I need to be eligible for a Data Modeling Certification?

Answer: In order to be eligible for most Data Modeling Certifications, you should have an understanding of database design principles, data warehouse architecture, dimensional modeling techniques, query optimization strategies, data integration processes, data security best practices and more. Additionally, some certifications may require experience with specific technologies such as Oracle or SQL Server databases.

5. How long is my Data Modeling Certification valid for?

Answer: The validity period for most Data Modeling Certifications vary depending on the provider offering them; however generally speaking they tend to remain valid for 2-3 years before needing renewal or recertification.