Top 10 Database Specialist Certifications

Certifications for a database specialist are important in the job market because they demonstrate that the candidate has the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage and maintain databases. Certification can also help employers verify that a potential hire has the technical expertise needed for the position, which can be difficult to assess through interviews alone. Certifications can also provide an edge in competitive job markets, where having certified credentials may make a candidate more attractive than those without them. Additionally, certifications can give professionals access to higher-paying jobs and opportunities for career advancement.

This article reviews the top certifications for Database Specialists and explains how they can help to advance a database specialist's career.

What are Database Specialist Certifications?

Database specialist certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of database management. This certification can help professionals gain a competitive advantage in the job market and give them access to more job opportunities. Database specialists are responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and optimizing databases. They must have a thorough understanding of database design principles, coding languages, and operating systems. In order to earn this certification, individuals must pass an exam that tests their knowledge of database concepts and technologies.

Database specialist certification is beneficial for those looking to advance their career in the field. It can open up new opportunities for those seeking higher-level positions or those who want to specialize in a certain area of database management. Furthermore, it can help employers identify qualified candidates for positions within their organization and demonstrate an individual's commitment to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices. Earning this certification also provides recognition from peers in the industry as well as potential employers who may be considering hiring you. Finally, having this certification can provide you with greater job security since it shows that you possess specialized skills that other professionals may not have.

Pro Tip: When considering a database specialist certification, make sure to research the requirements and prerequisites for the program. It is important to ensure that you meet all of the qualifications before enrolling in a course or certification program. Additionally, consider the cost of the certification and whether it is worth your time and money.

Related: What does a Database Specialist do?

Top 10 Database Specialist Certifications

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

1. Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 11g Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of database administrators who use Oracle Database 11g. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s expertise in managing and administering Oracle databases.

To become an OCP, you must first pass two exams: the Oracle Database 11g: Administration I exam and the Oracle Database 11g: Administration II exam. You must also have completed at least one year of hands-on experience with Oracle Database 11g. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE, which charges $245 USD per exam.

The entire process typically takes between four to six months, depending on how quickly you can complete the required exams and gain the necessary experience.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert: Data Management and Analytics (MCSE: Data Management and Analytics) is a certification program designed to recognize IT professionals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to design, build, deploy, and manage data solutions with Microsoft technologies. This certification requires that candidates demonstrate their expertise in designing, building, deploying, and managing data solutions using Microsoft SQL Server.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification typically takes between three to six months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified, individuals must first pass one or more of the following exams: 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse; 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models; 70-462 Administering Microsoft SQL Server Databases; 70-463 Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server; or 70-464 Developing Microsoft SQL Server Databases. After passing these exams, individuals must then complete an elective exam related to data management or analytics.

The cost of the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification varies depending on the number of exams taken as well as any additional training courses required. The cost of each exam ranges from $165 - $200 USD per exam. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with training courses or other resources needed for preparation for the exams.

3. IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2

IBM Certified Database Administrator – DB2 is a professional certification program from IBM that recognizes individuals who possess the skills and knowledge to successfully install, configure, administer, and maintain a DB2 database. It is designed for IT professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in administering and managing DB2 databases.

The certification process takes about 2-4 weeks to complete. To get certified, you must pass two exams: one on DB2 fundamentals and the other on advanced administration of DB2 databases. Both exams are available online through Pearson VUE or at an IBM testing center.

The cost of the certification depends on the country where you take the exam. In the US, it costs around $200 per exam ($400 total). In India, it costs around Rs 5500 per exam (Rs 11000 total).

Once certified, you will receive an official certificate from IBM which can be used to demonstrate your expertise in administering and managing DB2 databases.

4. MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator Certification

MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator Certification is a professional certification program for database administrators who want to demonstrate their expertise in managing MySQL 5.6 databases. The certification is offered by Oracle and provides an industry-recognized credential that validates one’s knowledge, skills, and abilities to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot MySQL 5.6 databases.

The certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. To earn the certification, candidates must achieve a passing score of 70%.

To get certified as a MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator, you must first register for the exam through Oracle University's website or Pearson VUE's website. The cost of the exam varies based on your location but typically ranges from $200-$250 USD. Once you have registered for the exam, you will receive instructions on how to prepare for it and where to take it.

Once you have completed the exam successfully, Oracle will send you an email confirming your status as a certified MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator within two weeks of completing the exam.

5. MongoDB Certified DBA Associate

MongoDB Certified DBA Associate is a certification program designed to demonstrate knowledge and proficiency in MongoDB. It is offered by MongoDB, Inc., the company behind the popular open-source database. The certification covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, performance tuning, backup and recovery, monitoring, scalability and more.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam fee is $150 USD. To take the exam you must register with MongoDB University and create an account. Once registered you will be able to access the online course material which includes lectures, labs and practice exams. After completing the course material you can schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you.

The cost of the MongoDB Certified DBA Associate certification is $150 USD for the exam fee plus any applicable taxes or fees charged by Pearson VUE.

6. PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification

PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification is a certification program offered by the PostgreSQL Global Development Group. It is designed to provide an understanding of the fundamentals of administering and managing PostgreSQL 9 databases. The certification program covers topics such as installation, configuration, backup and recovery, security, replication, performance tuning, and more.

The certification process consists of two exams: one written exam and one practical exam. The written exam focuses on the theoretical aspects of PostgreSQL administration while the practical exam tests your ability to administer a live database system. The written exam takes approximately three hours to complete while the practical exam may take up to five hours depending on the complexity of the tasks assigned.

In order to obtain the PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 75%. You can register for the exams online or through an authorized training provider. The cost for taking both exams varies depending on where you take them; however, it typically ranges from $300-$500 USD.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your PostgreSQL 9 Administration Certification from the PostgreSQL Global Development Group. This certification is valid for three years and can be renewed by passing another set of exams before its expiration date.

7. Redis Certified Professional

Redis Certified Professional is a certification program from Redis Labs, the creators of Redis. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in using Redis for data storage and retrieval. The certification is valid for two years after passing the exam.

The exam consists of multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as data structures, caching, replication, clustering, security, monitoring, and troubleshooting. The cost of the exam is $99 USD.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam on the Redis Labs website. Once registered, you will be provided with a link to take the online exam at your convenience. After successfully completing the exam, you will receive an email confirming your certification status and providing instructions on how to access your digital certificate.

8. Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional

Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional is a professional certification program designed to recognize the expertise of IT professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in Oracle Database 12c administration. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a mastery of the skills and knowledge required to administer Oracle Database 12c.

To become an Oracle Database 12c Administrator Certified Professional, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-062: Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration and 1Z0-063: Oracle Database 12c: Advanced Administration. You can take these exams at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center or online.

The cost for each exam varies depending on your location, but generally ranges from $245-$295 USD per exam. The total cost for both exams is approximately $500 USD plus any applicable taxes.

It typically takes several months of studying and practice before taking the exams, so the amount of time it takes to get certified will depend on your individual study habits and experience level with Oracle databases.

9. Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Implementation and Maintenance Certification

Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Implementation and Maintenance Certification is a certification that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in the implementation, configuration, maintenance, and administration of Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the installation, configuration, and management of Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 databases.

The certification exam typically takes three hours to complete and covers topics such as database design, security, performance tuning, backup and recovery, replication, data warehouse implementation, scalability, high availability solutions, troubleshooting techniques and more. The exam also includes hands-on labs that require candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of the topics covered in the exam.

To get certified in Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Implementation and Maintenance Certification you must first pass the Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) Exam 70-462: Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases or Exam 70-463: Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014. After passing either of these exams you will be eligible for the MCSE: Data Platform certification.

The cost for each exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $150-$200 USD per exam.

10. SAP HANA Certification

SAP HANA Certification is an official certification program from SAP that demonstrates a professional's expertise in the SAP HANA platform. It is designed to validate the skills of professionals who have experience working with the SAP HANA platform and are looking to demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam tests your knowledge of the concepts and principles behind SAP HANA, while the practical assessment evaluates your ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.

To get certified, you must first register for the certification program on the SAP website. You will then need to pass both the written exam and practical assessment, which can take anywhere from one to three months depending on how quickly you study and prepare for them. The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you take the exams, but typically ranges between $1,000 - $2,500 USD.

Do You Really Need a Database Specialist Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on your goals and the type of job you are hoping to pursue. If you are looking to work in the database management field, then a database specialist certificate might be necessary or even beneficial. A database specialist certificate shows employers that you have a comprehensive knowledge of the various types of databases and how they operate, as well as the ability to troubleshoot any issues that may arise. Additionally, it can also serve as evidence that you have taken the initiative to acquire more specialized skills in order to become an even better candidate for jobs in the field.

On the other hand, if you are already working in the field and just want to increase your knowledge base, then a database specialist certificate might not be necessary. However, having such certification could still help you stand out from other applicants when applying for new positions or promotions. It could also make it easier for you to find higher-paying positions since employers may view your certification as proof that you have expertise in certain areas.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a database specialist certificate depends on your goals and needs. If having such certification could provide tangible benefits for your career, then it may be worth considering getting one. Otherwise, it is likely best to focus on improving your existing skillset and gaining more experience with different databases instead of investing time and money into obtaining a formal certificate.

Related: Database Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Database Specialist Certifications

Q1. What is a Database Specialist Certification?

A1. A Database Specialist Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates knowledge and skills in the field of database management. This certification validates an individual’s ability to design, implement, maintain, secure, and troubleshoot databases for organizations.

Q2. What are the benefits of having a Database Specialist Certification?

A2. Having a Database Specialist Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants, increase your salary potential, give you access to more job opportunities, and build credibility with employers. It also provides valuable recognition of your technical expertise in the field of database management.

Q3. What type of courses are required for a Database Specialist Certification?

A3. Courses typically required for a Database Specialist Certification include topics such as database administration, data modeling, SQL coding, relational databases, database security, backup/recovery techniques, performance optimization techniques and more.

Q4. How long does it take to complete a Database Specialist Certification program?

A4. The length of time it takes to complete a Database Specialist Certification program varies depending on the institution offering the program and the number of courses taken by an individual student. Generally speaking, most programs are completed within 1-2 years when taking classes full-time or 3-4 years when taking classes part-time.

Q5. Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in a Database Specialist Certification program?

A5: Prerequisites vary depending on the institution offering the program but generally include basic computer skills such as proficiency in operating systems and software applications as well as some knowledge of programming languages like SQL and/or Oracle PL/SQL Developer Certified Associate (OCA).