Top 10 Database Engineer Certifications

Certifications are important for database engineers in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge and expertise in specific areas of database engineering. They also show potential employers that the engineer has taken the time to invest in their professional development and stay up to date with the latest technologies. Certifications can provide a competitive edge over other applicants, as they prove that you have a greater understanding of the technology and processes involved with database engineering. Additionally, many employers prefer certified candidates when filling roles, as it provides them with an assurance that they are hiring someone who is well-versed in the field.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for Database Engineers and explain how they can help advance a database engineer's professional career.

What are Database Engineer Certifications?

Database engineer certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in database engineering. Database engineers are responsible for the design, development, maintenance, and support of databases and their related systems. The certification helps to validate one's knowledge and skills in the database engineering field, and can provide increased job opportunities or higher pay.

In order to obtain database engineer certification, individuals must complete an approved training program or pass an exam. This exam evaluates the individual's understanding of topics such as database design principles, data modeling techniques, query optimization strategies, performance tuning methods, security best practices, and more. Passing this exam indicates a mastery of database engineering concepts and demonstrates one's ability to work with databases in a professional capacity.

Having a database engineer certification can be beneficial for those looking to enter or advance in the field of database engineering. It provides employers with an assurance that the applicant has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the duties required for their position. Additionally, having a certification may also open up new career opportunities or lead to higher salaries due to its recognition as a mark of excellence in the field of database engineering.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a database engineer certification, make sure to research the requirements for the certification and ensure you have the necessary knowledge and skills to be successful. Additionally, consider joining a professional organization or attending conferences related to database engineering to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices.

Related: What does a Database Engineer do?

Top 10 Database Engineer Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) is a professional certification offered by Oracle Corporation. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in Oracle database technology, and it is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry.

To become an OCP, you must pass two exams: one on the fundamentals of Oracle Database Administration and another on a specific version of Oracle Database. The exams are based on real-world scenarios and require hands-on experience with the product. The exams typically take 4-6 hours to complete and can be taken at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center.

The cost for both exams is approximately $400 USD per exam, so the total cost to become certified is around $800 USD. However, Oracle offers discounts for students and veterans, so it is possible to get certified for less than $800 USD.

In addition to passing the two exams, applicants must also complete an online training course from Oracle University before they can become certified. This course typically takes about 8 weeks to complete, but this may vary depending on your experience level and how quickly you learn new material.

Once you have passed both exams and completed the training course, you will receive your OCP certification from Oracle Corporation. This certification will be valid for three years from the date of issue, after which time you will need to renew it by taking additional courses or passing additional exams as required by Oracle Corporation.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification from Microsoft that validates the skills of IT professionals in designing, implementing, and managing data solutions. It is designed to ensure that IT professionals have the necessary skills to design, implement, and maintain data management solutions using Microsoft's SQL Server technology.

In order to get the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification, you must first pass two exams: 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse and 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models. Both exams are offered through Pearson VUE Testing Centers or online through Microsoft Learning.

The cost of each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $165 - $200 USD per exam. The total cost for both exams will be around $400 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

It typically takes around 3-6 months of study time to prepare for the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification exams. However, this can vary depending on your experience level with SQL Server technology and your ability to dedicate time to studying for the exams.

3. IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2)

IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2) is a certification program offered by IBM to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and experience in the administration of DB2 databases. This certification is designed for experienced database administrators who are responsible for the design, installation, configuration, maintenance, and security of DB2 databases.

The time it takes to get this certification depends on the individual's background and experience. It typically takes between 6-12 months of study and preparation to become certified. The process involves studying material from IBM's training courses, taking practice exams, attending workshops or seminars, and completing an exam.

In order to obtain the IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2) certification, individuals must pass two exams: Exam C2090-622 - DB2 11 Fundamentals for LUW and Exam C2090-623 - DB2 11 DBA for LUW. These exams are available through Pearson VUE testing centers worldwide.

The cost of each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $200-$250 USD per exam.

4. MongoDB Certified DBA Associate

MongoDB Certified DBA Associate is a certification program that validates the skills of MongoDB Database Administrators. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to install, configure, and maintain MongoDB deployments. It also tests the candidate’s knowledge of MongoDB security and monitoring best practices.

The certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To be eligible for the exam, candidates must have at least six months of experience working with MongoDB in a production environment.

To get the certification, candidates must register for the exam through the MongoDB website and pay an exam fee of $150 USD. After registering for the exam, candidates will receive instructions on how to access the online testing platform. Once they successfully complete the exam, they will receive their official certificate via email within 5 business days.

The cost of taking the MongoDB Certified DBA Associate Exam is $150 USD.

5. MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator (CMDBA) Certification

MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator (CMDBA) Certification is a professional certification program offered by Oracle to demonstrate an individual's expertise in administering MySQL databases. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage, maintain, and optimize MySQL databases.

The CMDBA certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in database administration, along with completion of a series of courses and exams. The courses cover topics such as database architecture, security, performance tuning, replication, backup and recovery, and more. After completing the courses and exams, individuals must pass a final exam to become certified.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the CMDBA certification exam. During this time candidates should familiarize themselves with the material covered in the coursework and practice using MySQL tools such as command line utilities and graphical user interfaces (GUI). Additionally, candidates should review relevant documentation such as the MySQL Reference Manuals and online tutorials.

The cost for obtaining CMDBA certification varies depending on which training provider you choose to use. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$4,000 USD for the entire process including course fees and exam fees.

Overall, obtaining CMDBA certification can be beneficial for individuals looking to gain recognition in their field or demonstrate their expertise in managing MySQL databases.

6. PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification

PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification is a certification program provided by the PostgreSQL Global Development Group. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to administer and manage PostgreSQL databases. The certification covers topics such as installation, configuration, backup and recovery, performance tuning, security management, and replication.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test an individual’s knowledge of PostgreSQL administration. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and requires a passing score of 70%. Upon successful completion of the exam, individuals will receive their official PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification.

In order to take the exam, individuals must first register with the PostgreSQL Global Development Group and pay a fee of $195 USD. After registering for the exam, individuals can choose from one of three available testing centers in North America or Europe. Once they have chosen a testing center, they can schedule an appointment for their exam date and time.

The cost of the PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification Exam is $195 USD. This fee covers all costs associated with taking the exam including registration fees, proctor fees, and any other applicable taxes or fees associated with taking the exam.

7. Redis Certified Professional (RCP)

Redis Certified Professional (RCP) is a certification program offered by Redis Labs that validates an individual's knowledge and expertise in working with the Redis database. It is designed to demonstrate a deep understanding of Redis, its features and capabilities, as well as best practices for using it.

The RCP exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as data modeling, data structures, clustering, security, and performance optimization. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and can be taken either online or at a testing center.

To get certified as an RCP, you must first pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from Redis Labs within two weeks.

The cost to take the RCP exam varies depending on where it is taken. Online exams are priced at $199 USD while in-person exams are priced at $249 USD.

8. Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst

Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst is an industry-recognized certification that validates an individual’s skills in using Cloudera’s Apache Hadoop platform. The CCA Data Analyst credential demonstrates an individual’s ability to ingest, transform, and query data using SQL on Apache Hadoop.

The CCA Data Analyst exam consists of 8 performance-based tasks on a CDH 5 cluster, focusing on the core competencies required to ingest, transform, store and analyze data in Apache Hadoop. The exam typically takes 2 hours to complete.

To get the CCA Data Analyst certification, individuals must pass the CCA Data Analyst Exam (CCA159). This exam can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online with a proctored remote option. The cost for the exam is $295 USD.

9. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of database administrators who are proficient in managing Oracle Database 12c. This certification is offered by Oracle Corporation, an American multinational computer technology corporation.

The Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, patching, upgrades, backup & recovery, performance tuning, security management and more. It is a multiple-choice exam that consists of 81 questions and has a time limit of 120 minutes. The passing score for this exam is 70%.

To get the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional certification, you must first pass the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional Exam (1Z0-062). You can prepare for this exam by taking courses from Oracle University or other training providers. Additionally, there are many online resources available to help you study for the exam.

The cost of the Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional Exam (1Z0-062) is $245 USD. After passing the exam, there is no additional fee to receive your certification.

10. Microsoft Technology Associate: Database Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) Database Fundamentals is an entry-level certification that validates a candidate’s knowledge of the fundamentals of database design, implementation, and maintenance. The MTA Database Fundamentals exam covers topics such as understanding relational databases, creating database objects, manipulating data with Transact-SQL, and maintaining a database.

The MTA Database Fundamentals exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 40 to 60 multiple-choice questions. To get certified, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher on a scale of 1000.

To get the MTA Database Fundamentals certification, candidates must first register for the exam at Microsoft Learning. The cost for the exam is $127 USD and it can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through ProctorU. After registering for the exam, candidates must study using official Microsoft learning materials and resources before taking the test.

Do You Really Need a Database Engineer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a database engineer certificate to be successful in the field. However, depending on your individual career goals and the industry you are targeting, it could be beneficial to obtain one. Database engineering requires a high level of technical knowledge and experience, and having a certification can demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and expertise. It also provides evidence of your commitment to continuing education and professional development in the field.

A database engineer certificate can help open doors to higher-level positions within organizations or even act as an entry point into the field if you’re just starting out. Employers may view a certification as evidence that you’ve mastered the fundamentals of database engineering and are knowledgeable about current trends in the industry. A certification can also make you more attractive to potential employers because they know that they’re getting someone who is qualified and experienced in this specific area.

Ultimately, it’s up to you whether or not obtaining a database engineer certificate is worth your time and money. If you feel like it would benefit your career, then it might be worth pursuing. However, if you already have extensive experience working with databases and feel confident in your abilities without a certificate, then it might not be necessary for you to pursue one at this time.

Related: Database Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Database Engineer Certifications

1. What is a Database Engineer Certification?

Answer: A Database Engineer Certification is a professional certification that verifies an individual’s expertise in database engineering, including topics such as database design, optimization and security.

2. What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Database Engineer?

Answer: Becoming certified as a Database Engineer can provide professionals with increased job opportunities and higher salaries, as well as recognition from employers and peers. It also provides proof of technical knowledge and experience in the field of database engineering.

3. What types of certifications are available for Database Engineers?

Answer: There are many different certifications available for Database Engineers, including those offered by Oracle, Microsoft, IBM, MongoDB, and other vendors.

4. How do I prepare for a Database Engineer Certification Exam?

Answer: Preparation for a Database Engineer Certification Exam typically includes studying official certification materials provided by the vendor offering the exam, practicing with sample questions or practice tests, and gaining hands-on experience working with databases.

5. How much does it cost to become certified as a Database Engineer?

Answer: The cost to become certified as a Database Engineer varies depending on the vendor offering the certification exam; however, most exams range from $100-$300 USD per exam attempt.