Top 10 Database Analyst Certifications

Certifications are an important way for database analysts to demonstrate their expertise and knowledge in the field. They also provide potential employers with evidence that the analyst has the skills and experience necessary to handle a variety of tasks related to database management. Certifications can give a candidate an edge over other applicants when competing for a job, as they show that the analyst is committed to continuing education and professional development. Additionally, certifications can help a database analyst build credibility with employers, as well as establish their reputation in the industry.

The article reviews the top certifications for Database Analysts and explains how they can help to advance a Database Analyst's career.

What are Database Analyst Certifications?

Database Analyst Certification is a professional certification program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful database analysts. Database analysts play an important role in the IT industry, as they are responsible for designing, developing, testing, and managing databases and their associated applications.

Having a Database Analyst Certification can help professionals demonstrate their understanding of database fundamentals, design principles, and application development best practices. It also helps employers identify qualified candidates quickly and easily. Additionally, it can provide job seekers with an edge when applying for positions in the field as having a certification can show potential employers that they are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest trends in database analysis.

The certification is usually obtained by passing an exam or completing a course offered by an accredited college or university. The exam typically covers topics such as data modeling, query optimization, indexing techniques, relational database concepts, normalization and more. Once certified, individuals must renew their credentials every few years to stay current on new technologies and practices in the field.

In summary, Database Analyst Certification can provide numerous benefits to both employees and employers alike. It gives professionals the opportunity to develop their skillset and prove themselves as experts in the field while giving employers assurance that they are hiring qualified candidates who have been tested on their knowledge of database management systems and related topics.

Pro Tip: Before beginning your database analyst certification, make sure to research the different certifications available and find one that best fits your skill level. Additionally, create a study plan and practice using the tools and techniques you will need for the certification exam. Finally, take advantage of online resources such as tutorials and practice tests to help you prepare for the exam.

Related: What does a Database Analyst do?

Top 10 Database Analyst Certifications

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

1. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a certification program that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in administering Oracle Database 12c. This certification program is designed to recognize professionals who are able to configure, manage, and maintain Oracle Database 12c in an enterprise environment.

The Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional exam consists of two parts: the 1Z0-062 (Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration) and the 1Z0-063 (Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration). The exam covers topics such as installation and configuration, backup and recovery, database security, performance tuning, data replication, cloud computing, and more.

It typically takes around 120 hours to prepare for the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional exam. It is recommended that you have at least six months of experience working with Oracle databases before attempting this certification. In addition to studying for the exams, it is also important to gain hands-on experience with the technology by working on projects or taking courses related to Oracle databases.

The cost of the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional exam varies depending on your location. In general, you can expect to pay between $200-$400 USD per exam.

In order to become certified as an Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional, you must pass both exams within 18 months of each other. Upon successful completion of both exams, you will receive your official certification from Oracle University.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification for IT professionals who have the skills and knowledge necessary to design, implement, and maintain a data management and analytics solution in an organization. This certification requires individuals to demonstrate their ability to work with Microsoft SQL Server, Azure Data Services, Power BI, and other related technologies.

In order to obtain the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification, individuals must pass two exams: Exam 70-767: Implementing a Data Warehouse using SQL Server 2016 or Exam 70-768: Developing SQL Data Models. Both exams are designed to test an individual’s knowledge of data warehousing concepts, design principles, implementation strategies, and troubleshooting techniques.

The cost of each exam is $165 USD. It usually takes around 4-6 months of studying in order to prepare for the exams. In addition to studying for the exams, individuals should also have hands-on experience working with the technologies covered in the certification.

Once an individual has passed both exams they will be awarded the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification from Microsoft. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by passing one additional exam or completing a recertification course.

3. IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2

IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2 is a professional certification from IBM that provides recognition of expertise in the installation, configuration and administration of IBM DB2 databases. It is designed for IT professionals who have experience working with DB2 databases and want to demonstrate their skills and knowledge.

It takes approximately four months to complete the necessary training and pass the required exams. The training consists of two courses: IBM DB2 10.5 Fundamentals (Exam C2090-013) and IBM DB2 10.5 Advanced Administration (Exam C2090-614). The courses are available online or through classroom instruction at an authorized training center.

Once you have completed the training, you must register for and pass both exams in order to become certified. Each exam costs $200 USD, so the total cost of certification is $400 USD. You can find more information about the exams on the IBM website.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official certificate from IBM as well as a digital badge that can be displayed on your resume or other online profiles.

4. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Database – Specialty

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Database – Specialty is a certification that allows individuals to demonstrate their technical expertise in designing and managing AWS databases. This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in the design, implementation, and maintenance of databases on the AWS platform.

The exam for the AWS Certified Database – Specialty certification consists of multiple-choice and multiple-response questions. It takes about two hours to complete the exam, which covers topics such as database design, security, performance tuning, backup and recovery, monitoring and automation.

To get certified as an AWS Certified Database – Specialty professional, you need to pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher. The exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE test center or online through Amazon's website. The cost of taking the exam is $300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam and received your certification, you will receive an official certificate from Amazon Web Services that shows your achievement in becoming an AWS Certified Database – Specialty professional. You will also gain access to exclusive resources such as whitepapers, webinars, and other materials related to database management on AWS.

5. MongoDB Certified DBA Associate

MongoDB Certified DBA Associate is a certification program offered by MongoDB, Inc. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge required to administer MongoDB databases. The certification covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, monitoring and maintenance of MongoDB databases.

The certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

To get the MongoDB Certified DBA Associate certification, you must first register for the exam on the MongoDB website. You will then receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. Once you have completed the exam, your results will be available immediately and your certificate will be emailed to you within two weeks of passing the exam.

The cost of taking the MongoDB Certified DBA Associate exam is $150 USD per attempt.

6. Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst

Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst is a certification program offered by Cloudera, the leading provider of Apache Hadoop-based software and services. The certification is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to work with large datasets using Apache Hadoop and related technologies. The certification covers topics such as data wrangling, data analysis, machine learning, and visualization.

The certification exam takes approximately two hours to complete. It consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as data wrangling, data analysis, machine learning, and visualization. To prepare for the exam, Cloudera recommends taking their online training courses or attending instructor-led training classes.

To get certified as a Cloudera Certified Professional: Data Analyst you must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost of the exam is $295 USD. After passing the exam you will receive your certificate via email within two weeks.

7. Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M Administration Certification

Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M Administration Certification is a credential that proves an individual's expertise in administering Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M systems. This certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of experienced IT professionals who are responsible for configuring, managing, and troubleshooting Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M systems.

To obtain this certification, individuals must pass the Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M Administration Exam (Exam 1Z0-073). This exam covers topics such as installation and configuration, storage administration, database administration, performance tuning, security management, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete.

The cost of the Oracle Exadata Database Machine X8M Administration Exam is $245 USD. Individuals can register for this exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Once the exam has been successfully completed, individuals will receive their certification from Oracle.

8. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA): Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with a foundation of technology skills. The MTA Database Fundamentals certification covers the fundamentals of relational database design and implementation, including database objects, database storage, data manipulation, and data security. It also covers basic concepts such as normalization and transactions.

The exam takes approximately 45 minutes to complete and consists of 40-60 multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam is $127 USD. To obtain the MTA Database Fundamentals certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points.

To prepare for the MTA Database Fundamentals exam, Microsoft offers an online training course that covers all topics on the exam. This course usually takes about 10 hours to complete and costs $99 USD. Additionally, there are several practice tests available online that can help you prepare for the exam.

9. SAP HANA 2.0 SPS04 Certification

SAP HANA 2.0 SPS04 Certification is a certification program that tests a user's knowledge and skills in the implementation and management of SAP HANA 2.0 SPS04. This certification is designed to demonstrate a user's ability to design, configure, and manage an SAP HANA environment.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as installation, administration, security, performance optimization, data modeling, application development, and more. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified in SAP HANA 2.0 SPS04, you must pass the certification exam with a score of at least 70%. You can register for the exam through the SAP Learning Hub or on the SAP website. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $250-$400 USD.

Once you have passed the exam and become certified in SAP HANA 2.0 SPS04, you will receive a digital certificate that can be used to demonstrate your expertise in this area to employers or clients.

10. Teradata 14 Certification

Teradata 14 Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the Teradata Database and its related products. This certification validates an individual's knowledge of the Teradata Database, its architecture, and its features.

The certification consists of two exams: the Teradata 14 Basics Exam and the Teradata 14 Advanced Exam. The Basics Exam covers topics such as database fundamentals, query optimization, data modeling, and system administration. The Advanced Exam covers topics such as advanced SQL, stored procedures, performance tuning, security management, and backup/recovery strategies.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete both exams. To get certified, you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher. You can take the exams online or at a Pearson VUE testing center.

The cost for each exam is $150 USD. In addition to the exam fees, there may be additional costs associated with training materials or practice tests that you may choose to purchase in order to prepare for the exams.

Do You Really Need a Database Analyst Certificate?

In today’s competitive job market, having a database analyst certificate can be a valuable asset. It is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career in the field of data analytics or database administration. A database analyst certificate will provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to understand and manage large amounts of data. This certificate can also provide you with an advantage in the job market due to employers seeking candidates who possess these specialized skills.

Having a database analyst certificate can help you stand out from other applicants because it shows that you have taken the time and effort to gain knowledge and experience in this particular field. Employers are typically more likely to hire someone who has taken the initiative to become certified, rather than someone who simply has theoretical knowledge or experience. Additionally, having a database analyst certification will give you access to various resources and networks that can help further your career development.

Furthermore, having a database analyst certification will demonstrate to potential employers that you have the technical expertise necessary to perform tasks such as creating queries, understanding data structures, and developing reports. With this type of education, employers will know that they are hiring an individual with the proper qualifications and experience needed for their position.

In conclusion, having a database analyst certificate is beneficial for anyone looking to pursue a career in the field of data analytics or database administration. This type of certification demonstrates technical expertise as well as commitment and dedication towards gaining knowledge in this area. Obtaining this type of certification will give you an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs in this field, making it essential for those looking for success in their chosen profession.

Related: Database Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About Database Analyst Certifications

Q1: What types of certifications are available for database analysts?

A1: The most common certifications for database analysts include Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics, Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP), IBM Certified Database Administrator (CDA) and Cloudera Certified Professional (CCP).

Q2: How long do I have to study to get certified as a database analyst?

A2: The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification you are pursuing. Generally, it can take anywhere from 3 months to 2 years depending on the complexity of the certification.

Q3: What is the best way to prepare for a database analyst certification exam?

A3: The best way to prepare for a database analyst certification exam is to practice with real-world scenarios and hands-on experience. You should also review sample questions, practice tests, and study guides provided by the certifying body. Additionally, attending workshops or courses can help you gain more knowledge in this field.

Q4: Are there any prerequisites required before taking a database analyst certification exam?

A4: Yes, some certifying bodies may require prior training or qualifications before taking their exam. Be sure to research your chosen certification thoroughly before registering for an exam as there may be additional requirements needed for eligibility.

Q5: How much does it cost to become certified as a database analyst?

A5: Costs vary depending on which certification you are seeking and what type of resources you use to prepare for the exam. Typically, fees range from $100-$1000 USD per exam depending on the type of certification being pursued.