Top 11 DBA Certifications

Certifications are important for a DBA in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills required to perform specific tasks. The certifications establish credibility and prove that an individual is knowledgeable about the latest technologies, standards, and best practices in the field. Additionally, many employers require certification as part of their hiring process. Certification can also open up opportunities for career advancement, as employers often prefer to hire people with certifications when compared to those without them.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the top certifications for DBAs and explain how they can help advance a DBA's career.

What are DBA Certifications?

DBA certification stands for Database Administrator Certification. It is a professional certification that demonstrates expertise in database administration and management. With DBA certification, database administrators can prove their skills and knowledge in database technologies, such as SQL Server, Oracle, and DB2.

The primary benefit of DBA certification is that it gives database administrators the ability to demonstrate their competency and professionalism in the field of database administration. This can help them stand out from the crowd when applying for jobs or promotions. Additionally, having a DBA certification may also be beneficial when negotiating salary with employers.

Another advantage of having a DBA certification is that it can give individuals an edge over non-certified candidates when competing for job positions at large companies. Companies often prefer to hire certified professionals because they are more likely to have the necessary experience and skillset to manage complex databases. Furthermore, some companies may even offer higher salaries to certified database administrators as a sign of appreciation for their qualifications and expertise.

Finally, having a DBA certification can also be beneficial for those who want to advance their career in the field of database administration. As databases become increasingly sophisticated and complex, obtaining a DBA certification will help individuals stay ahead of the curve by keeping up-to-date with new technologies and best practices.

Pro Tip: It is important to research the different types of DBA certifications available and find one that best fits your career goals. Additionally, make sure to explore the requirements and fees associated with each certification before committing to a program. Finally, be sure to take advantage of online resources and practice exams to maximize your chances of passing the certification exam.

Related: What does a DBA do?

Top 11 DBA Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program offered by Oracle Corporation. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Oracle products and technologies. The OCP certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates a professional’s expertise in the Oracle database, development tools, and other related technologies.

To become an Oracle Certified Professional, you must complete a series of exams that test your knowledge of Oracle products and technologies. Depending on your area of specialty, you may need to take multiple exams to achieve OCP certification. Generally speaking, it takes between three and six months to complete all the necessary exams for OCP certification.

To get started on the path to becoming an OCP, you will need to register with Oracle University and purchase the appropriate exam vouchers. Exam vouchers can be purchased directly from Oracle or through authorized resellers. Prices vary depending on which exams you are taking and how many vouchers you are purchasing at once. Generally speaking, exam vouchers cost around $200 each.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s expertise in data management and analytics. It is intended for IT professionals who have experience working with Microsoft SQL Server, Azure Data Services, Power BI, and other related technologies. The certification requires a combination of coursework and hands-on experience.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification typically takes between 12 to 18 months to complete. To earn the certification, an individual must pass four exams: 70-767 Implementing a SQL Data Warehouse; 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models; 70-774 Perform Cloud Data Science with Azure Machine Learning; and 70-775 Perform Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure HDInsight.

To get the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification, individuals must first register for the program through the Microsoft Learning website. After registering, they can purchase the appropriate exam vouchers from Microsoft or an authorized training provider. Once all of the exams have been passed, individuals will receive their certificate in the mail.

The cost of the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification varies depending on which exams are taken and where they are taken. Generally speaking, each exam voucher costs around $165 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with taking courses or using other resources to prepare for the exams.

3. IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2)

IBM Certified Database Administrator (DB2) is a professional-level certification offered by IBM. It is designed to prove that the individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to install, configure, upgrade, and maintain DB2 databases in an enterprise environment.

It takes approximately two years of experience with DB2 to be eligible for this certification. To get certified, you must pass three exams: Foundations of DB2 10.5 for LUW; Database Administration for DB2 10.5 for LUW; and Advanced DBA for DB2 10.5 for LUW.

The cost of the certification depends on the number of exams taken and their respective fees. The exam fees range from $200 - $250 each, so the total cost can vary depending on how many exams are taken.

4. MySQL Database Administrator Certified Professional (MCDBA)

The MySQL Database Administrator Certified Professional (MCDBA) is a certification program offered by Oracle to validate the knowledge and skills of database administrators in managing and administering MySQL databases. The MCDBA certification is designed to ensure that those who have earned it possess the necessary skills to effectively manage the most complex and demanding MySQL environments.

To obtain the MCDBA certification, you must first pass two exams: the MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator Exam (1Z0-888) and the MySQL 8.0 Database Administrator Exam (1Z0-908). Both exams are administered by Oracle University and cover topics such as installation, configuration, security, backup/recovery, optimization, replication, performance tuning, troubleshooting, and more.

The cost of each exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $245 USD to $295 USD. It usually takes around two months of studying to prepare for each exam. After passing both exams you will be awarded with your MCDBA certification.

5. PostgreSQL Certified Professional (PGCP)

PostgreSQL Certified Professional (PGCP) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of expertise in PostgreSQL, an open source relational database management system. The PGCP certification is administered by the PostgreSQL Global Development Group (PGDG), and is recognized worldwide as a top-level professional credential for PostgreSQL experts.

The PGCP certification requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in areas such as database design, query optimization, performance tuning, replication, security, backup and recovery, and more. To qualify for the PGCP certification, applicants must pass two exams: one on core PostgreSQL topics and one on advanced topics. The core exam focuses on basic concepts such as data types, SQL commands, transactions, indexes, views and stored procedures; while the advanced exam covers topics such as replication strategies, partitioning techniques, performance optimization and security best practices.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the requirements for the PGCP certification. This includes studying materials provided by the PGDG or taking online courses offered by third-party providers like Udemy or Coursera. After completing all of the necessary coursework and passing both exams with a score of 80% or higher, applicants can apply for the certification through the PGDG website.

The cost of obtaining a PGCP certification varies depending on which study materials are used and whether any third-party courses are taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1,000 USD to become certified.

6. MongoDB Certified DBA Associate (MCDBA)

MongoDB Certified DBA Associate (MCDBA) is a certification program designed to demonstrate an individual's expertise in administering MongoDB databases. It is offered by MongoDB University and is targeted at database administrators, system architects, and software engineers who want to prove their technical proficiency with MongoDB.

The MCDBA certification exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 70%. The exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, maintenance, performance tuning, and troubleshooting of MongoDB databases.

To get the MCDBA certification, candidates must first take the online course “MongoDB for DBAs” from MongoDB University. This course provides an introduction to MongoDB and teaches students how to administer MongoDB databases. After completing the course, candidates can register for the MCDBA certification exam by paying a fee of $150 USD.

Once they have successfully passed the exam, they will receive their official MCDBA certificate from MongoDB University. The certificate is valid for two years after which it needs to be renewed by taking a refresher course or retaking the exam.

7. Amazon Web Services Database Specialty Certification

Amazon Web Services Database Specialty Certification is a certification program offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS) that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in designing, deploying, and managing databases on the AWS platform. This certification is designed for individuals who have experience working with relational and non-relational databases on the AWS platform.

The Amazon Web Services Database Specialty Certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 180 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as database design, data modeling, database administration, security, performance tuning, backup and recovery, monitoring, automation, disaster recovery planning, and more.

To get certified as an AWS Database Specialist you must first pass the AWS Certified Database Specialist – Specialty exam. The exam costs $300 USD. You can register for the exam online through the AWS Certification Portal or through a Pearson VUE testing center.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official AWS Certified Database Specialist – Specialty certification from Amazon Web Services.

8. Red Hat Certified Engineer in Database Administration (RHCE-DB)

Red Hat Certified Engineer in Database Administration (RHCE-DB) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. It is designed to certify the skills of database administrators who have experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) and its related technologies. The RHCE-DB certification is an advanced level credential that demonstrates expertise in database administration, including installation, configuration, security, monitoring and maintenance of databases on RHEL systems.

It typically takes around four to six months to prepare for the RHCE-DB exam. This includes studying the official Red Hat documentation and taking practice tests. Candidates can also take courses from certified training providers or self-study using online resources.

To get the RHCE-DB certification, candidates must pass one exam: EX436 - Red Hat Certified Engineer in Database Administration Exam. This exam consists of multiple choice questions and performance-based tasks that test a candidate's understanding of database administration on RHEL systems. The exam costs $400 USD and must be taken at an authorized testing center.

In order to maintain their certification status, RHCE-DBs must renew their credentials every three years by passing either a new version of the EX436 exam or another approved recertification course.

9. SAP HANA Certified Database Administrator

SAP HANA Certified Database Administrator (HCDA) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to effectively manage and maintain an SAP HANA database. This certification validates that the individual has mastered the technical skills required to install, configure, upgrade, secure, monitor, troubleshoot and optimize an SAP HANA database.

The HCDA certification is offered by SAP Education in partnership with the SAP Certification program. The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 180 minutes. The exam fee is $500 USD.

In order to become certified as an HCDA, you must first complete two courses: Introduction to SAP HANA and Administration of SAP HANA. These courses can be taken online or in a classroom setting at an authorized training center. Once these courses are completed, you will then need to register for the HCDA exam through the SAP Learning Hub portal. After registering for the exam, you will receive a voucher code that can be used to schedule your exam date with Pearson VUE.

Once you have successfully passed the HCDA exam, you will receive your official certificate from SAP Education via email within 2-3 weeks after completing the exam. You will also receive a digital badge that can be shared on social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter.

10. Cloudera Certified Administrator for Apache Hadoop

Cloudera Certified Administrator for Apache Hadoop (CCAH) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge necessary to manage and deploy Apache Hadoop clusters. The CCAH certification is based on the Cloudera Enterprise Data Hub Edition, which includes the core components of Apache Hadoop such as HDFS, YARN, MapReduce, Hive, Pig, Oozie, Sqoop, Flume, Hue and Impala.

The CCAH exam consists of eight sections that cover topics such as cluster planning and installation; configuration; administration; monitoring and troubleshooting; security; data management; performance tuning; and integration with other systems. Each section contains multiple-choice questions that must be answered correctly in order to pass the exam. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to obtain the CCAH certification, you must first register for the exam through the Cloudera website. Once registered, you will be given access to an online practice test that can be used to prepare for the actual exam. After completing the practice test successfully, you can then schedule your actual examination at a testing center near you.

The cost of taking the CCAH exam is $295 USD.

11. Hortonworks Data Platform Administrator Certification

Hortonworks Data Platform Administrator Certification is an industry-recognized certification that demonstrates a professional’s ability to install, configure, and manage a Hortonworks Data Platform (HDP) cluster. It is designed for system administrators, data engineers, and other IT professionals who are responsible for the installation, configuration, and management of HDP clusters.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as HDP installation and configuration, security setup, cluster maintenance and troubleshooting. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get the certification you must first register with Hortonworks University. Once registered you can purchase the certification exam voucher from the Hortonworks website or through one of their authorized training partners. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is purchased but generally costs around $200 USD.

Once you have purchased your voucher you will be able to schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you. You must bring a valid photo ID with you to take the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam you will receive your official Hortonworks Data Platform Administrator Certification credential via email within 5 business days.

Do You Really Need a DBA Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual and their career goals. For those who are interested in pursuing a career as a Database Administrator (DBA), having a DBA certificate is essential. This certification proves that an individual has the knowledge and expertise necessary to work with databases in an efficient manner. It also demonstrates that the individual is up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in the field.

In addition, having a DBA certificate can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for positions as DBAs. Employers tend to prefer candidates who have taken the time to become certified, as it shows dedication and commitment to the profession. Furthermore, many employers require applicants for DBA positions to have some form of certification before they will even consider them for employment.

For those who are already working as DBAs or are looking to advance their careers in this field, having a DBA certificate can be beneficial, as it may lead to higher pay or more job opportunities. Additionally, having certification may open up opportunities for teaching or consulting positions in database administration.

Ultimately, whether someone needs a DBA certificate will depend on their individual career aspirations and goals. If they are serious about becoming a successful Database Administrator, then obtaining certification is likely worth the effort and expense involved.

Related: DBA Resume Examples

FAQs About DBA Certifications

1. What are the benefits of getting a DBA Certification?

A: A DBA certification provides tangible proof of expertise in database management and can help increase your salary potential, open new job opportunities and boost your career development.

2. How long does it take to get a DBA Certification?

A: The length of time required to obtain a DBA certification varies depending on the specific certification you pursue. Generally speaking, most certifications can be achieved within 1-2 years.

3. Is there an exam that I have to take for a DBA Certification?

A: Yes, each individual certification requires its own exam which must be passed in order to receive the certification.

4. What is the cost of pursuing a DBA Certification?

A: Costs vary depending on the specific certification you pursue; however they typically range from $100-$300 per exam. Additionally, some certifications may require additional fees for registration or materials.

5. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a DBA Certification?

A: Prerequisites vary depending on the specific certification you pursue; however most certifications require at least 2-3 years of prior experience in database management before attempting the corresponding exam(s).