Top 10 Development Manager Certifications

Certifications play an important role in the job market for development managers. They demonstrate a certain level of expertise and knowledge in a particular field, which can be beneficial when competing for positions. Certifications also provide employers with tangible evidence that the applicant has taken the time to acquire additional skills and knowledge that may be required for the position. This can give them confidence that the applicant is capable of performing their duties effectively and efficiently. Additionally, certifications are often seen as industry standards, allowing employers to distinguish between applicants who have invested in their professional development and those who have not.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Development Managers and explains how they can help to advance a development manager's career.

What are Development Manager Certifications?

Development Manager Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage the development of software applications. It is designed to help professionals gain the skills needed to plan, design, develop, test and deploy software applications. The certification covers a variety of topics such as project management, software development lifecycle, requirements engineering, user experience design and quality assurance. Additionally, the program helps individuals understand best practices in areas such as coding standards, version control systems and automated testing.

By obtaining this certification, individuals demonstrate their expertise in software development management and are able to better position themselves for career advancement opportunities. The certification also serves as proof of an individual’s commitment to staying up-to-date on industry trends and advancements in technology. Those who obtain this certification have a higher chance of being offered more competitive salaries than those without it. Additionally, they may be able to negotiate better terms with employers or land higher-paying jobs at larger companies due to their demonstrated knowledge in software development management.

Pro Tip: When researching development manager certifications, look for courses and programs that are tailored to your specific skillset and job role. This will ensure that the certification you receive is relevant and practical, giving you the best chance of success in your role.

Related: What does a Development Manager do?

Top 10 Development Manager Certifications

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

1. Certified Scrum Development Manager (CSDM)

Certified Scrum Development Manager (CSDM) is a certification program created by the Scrum Alliance to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing and leading software development projects using Scrum. The CSDM certification provides recognition for experienced Scrum practitioners who have a deep understanding of how to apply Scrum principles and practices to successfully manage software development projects.

The CSDM certification process involves completing a two-day training course, followed by passing an online exam. The training course covers topics such as the roles and responsibilities of the Scrum Master, the Agile Manifesto, Agile Estimation Techniques, Product Backlog Management, Sprint Planning and Tracking, Release Planning and Delivery, and more. After completing the training course, candidates must pass an online exam that tests their knowledge of the material covered in the course.

The cost of obtaining the CSDM certification varies depending on where you take the course. In general, it costs around $1,500 USD for both the training course and exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel or lodging if you are attending an in-person class.

It typically takes about three months from start to finish to complete all of the requirements for obtaining your CSDM certification. This includes taking the two-day training course as well as studying for and passing the online exam.

2. Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM)

Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM) is a certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in project management. It is offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). CAPM certification is designed to provide project managers with the foundational understanding of agile principles and practices, and to help them apply these principles to their projects.

The CAPM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions, which must be completed within three hours. To become certified, applicants must have at least 1,500 hours of project experience or 23 contact hours of formal education in project management. The cost for taking the exam is $225 for PMI members and $300 for non-members.

In order to get certified, applicants must pass the CAPM exam with a score of at least 61%. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their official certificate from PMI within four weeks.

3. Certified Professional in Software Development Management (CPSDM)

Certified Professional in Software Development Management (CPSDM) is a professional certification program that provides an industry-recognized credential for software development managers. The certification is offered by the International Association of Software Professionals (IASP).

The CPSDM certification program is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of software development professionals who manage software development projects. It is intended to provide assurance to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that those certified possess the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage software development projects.

The CPSDM certification requires applicants to pass a three-hour written examination covering topics such as project management, risk management, process improvement, product lifecycle management, and organizational change management. The exam also includes questions about best practices for managing software development teams.

The cost of taking the CPSDM exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in; however, it typically costs between $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with registering for the exam or receiving your certificate once you have passed it.

It typically takes around 6 months to prepare for the CPSDM exam depending on your experience level. To get ready for the exam, you should become familiar with IASP’s recommended study materials as well as any additional resources available online or through other sources such as books or courses. Additionally, practice exams can help you get comfortable with the format of the test and identify any areas where you need more preparation or review before taking the actual exam.

4. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most widely recognized and respected certifications in the project management field. PMP certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, experience, and skills in leading and directing projects.

It typically takes about six months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on an individual’s prior experience with project management. To be eligible to take the exam, an individual must have either a four-year degree or a high school diploma plus five years of project management experience. They must also have completed 35 hours of project management education.

To get the PMP certification, individuals must pass the PMP Exam administered by PMI. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions and requires a minimum score of 61% to pass. The cost of taking the exam is $405 for members of PMI and $555 for non-members.

5. Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a certification program developed by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is designed to provide project managers with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively manage projects. The CAPM certification is a valuable asset for project managers who want to demonstrate their commitment to professional development and enhance their credibility in the workplace.

The CAPM certification requires that applicants have at least 1,500 hours of project experience or 23 hours of project management education. After meeting these requirements, applicants must pass an exam administered by PMI. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and takes three hours to complete.

To obtain the CAPM certification, applicants must register for the exam through PMI's website and pay a fee of $225 USD for PMI members or $300 USD for non-members. Once registered, applicants can take the exam at any Prometric testing center around the world. The exam results are usually available within five business days after taking the test.

Successful completion of the CAPM exam will earn you an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of project management principles and practices.

6. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a professional certification program designed to help IT professionals demonstrate their expertise in developing and maintaining applications using Microsoft technologies. The MCSD certification requires that you pass four exams, which cover topics such as Windows Store Apps, Web Applications, SharePoint Applications, and Azure Solutions.

In order to become an MCSD certified professional, you will need to take and pass all four of the required exams. The exam topics are: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3 (70-480); Developing ASP.NET MVC Web Applications (70-486); Developing Microsoft Azure and Web Services (70-487); and Developing Microsoft SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions (70-488). Depending on your experience level and the amount of time you have available to study for the exams, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to prepare for them.

The cost of taking the four required exams varies depending on where you take them. Generally speaking, they range from $150-$200 per exam. You can also purchase practice tests or online courses to help you prepare for the exams as well as books or other materials that provide additional information about the topics covered in each exam.

Overall, becoming an MCSD certified professional is a great way to demonstrate your knowledge of Microsoft technologies and give yourself an edge in the job market. It’s also a good way to stay up-to-date with new technologies and trends in the industry.

7. Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer

Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to design and develop complex web services using the Java Platform, Enterprise Edition (Java EE) 6. This certification is designed for experienced professionals who have a deep understanding of the Java EE 6 platform and its related technologies.

To get this certification, you must pass two exams: Oracle Certified Professional, Java EE 6 Web Services Developer exam (1Z0-897) and Oracle Certified Master, Java EE 6 Web Services Developer exam (1Z0-899). The 1Z0-897 exam tests your knowledge of web services development concepts and technologies such as SOAP, WSDL, XML Schema, JAX-WS, JAXB, JAXRPC, SAAJ and WSIT. The 1Z0-899 exam tests your ability to apply these concepts in a real-world environment.

The cost of the Oracle Certified Master, Java EE Enterprise Edition 6 Web Services Developer certification depends on which exams you take. The 1Z0-897 exam costs $245 USD and the 1Z0-899 exam costs $295 USD.

It typically takes about 3 months to prepare for both exams depending on your experience level with web services development. You can find study materials online or purchase books from various sources to help you prepare for the exams.

8. International Software Testing Qualifications Board – Test Manager

The International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) Test Manager is a professional certification designed to recognize the knowledge and experience of software testers who manage software testing projects. It is an internationally recognized qualification that is highly valued by employers in the IT industry.

To get the ISTQB Test Manager certification, you must first pass the Foundation Level exam. This exam covers topics such as test management, risk analysis, test planning, and more. Once you have passed the Foundation Level exam, you can apply for the Test Manager certification. The Test Manager exam consists of two parts: a written examination and a practical assessment.

The written examination takes about three hours to complete and covers topics such as test strategy, design techniques, execution strategies, and more. The practical assessment requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to plan, execute, monitor and control a software testing project. Applicants must also provide evidence of their experience in managing software testing projects.

The cost of taking the ISTQB Test Manager certification varies depending on your location. Generally speaking, it costs between $500-$1000 USD for both parts of the exam (written and practical).

9. ITIL Expert Certification

ITIL Expert Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's ability to apply IT Service Management principles and practices. It is the highest level of certification within the ITIL scheme, and requires a comprehensive understanding of the entire ITIL framework.

The ITIL Expert certification requires candidates to have already achieved both the Foundation and Practitioner certifications, as well as having at least five years of experience in a role that involves the application of IT Service Management principles. Candidates must also pass two exams: Managing Across the Lifecycle (MALC) and Service Strategy (SS).

The MALC exam focuses on how to manage services across their lifecycle, while the SS exam focuses on how to develop service strategies. The exams are multiple-choice, with each exam taking up to three hours to complete.

It typically takes between nine months and one year for individuals to gain their ITIL Expert certification, depending on their experience level and study habits. In order to get certified, individuals should first obtain the Foundation and Practitioner certifications, followed by studying for and passing both MALC and SS exams.

The cost of obtaining an ITIL Expert certification varies depending on which training provider you use. Generally speaking, it can range from $2,000 - $4,000 USD for all required courses/exams.

10. PRINCE2 Foundation and Practitioner

PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a project management methodology developed by the UK government and used widely in the public and private sectors. It provides a framework for managing projects, and is based on seven principles, seven themes, and seven processes.

PRINCE2 Foundation is an entry-level qualification that provides an understanding of the PRINCE2 methodology. It is designed to provide basic knowledge of PRINCE2 and how it can be applied to manage projects effectively. The Foundation level does not require any prior knowledge or experience of project management.

The PRINCE2 Practitioner qualification builds on the Foundation level by providing delegates with a deeper understanding of how to apply the PRINCE2 methodology in practice. It also covers how to tailor PRINCE2 to different project environments, as well as how to assess risk and quality control within projects.

It typically takes around three months to complete both levels of certification, depending on your learning style and availability. You can self-study for both qualifications or attend a training course delivered by an accredited training organisation.

The cost of obtaining both qualifications varies depending on which route you take – self-study or attending a training course – but typically ranges from £350 - £1,000 + VAT.

Do You Really Need a Development Manager Certificate?

A Development Manager Certificate can be a valuable asset to have in the world of business. It demonstrates a level of knowledge and experience that employers may look for when seeking out potential candidates for management positions. The certificate can also help those already in management roles to further their career by allowing them to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the field.

However, it is important to note that a Development Manager Certificate is not necessary for success in this role. Many successful managers are able to achieve great results without any formal training or certification. This is especially true if they have significant experience in the field or have been working in the same type of position for many years.

The decision as to whether or not you need a Development Manager Certificate will ultimately depend on your individual career goals and aspirations. If you are looking to move up in your company or land a new job, having this certificate can give you an edge over other applicants who may not have taken the time to earn it. On the other hand, if you are content with your current position and do not feel that earning this certificate would benefit you, then there may be no need for you to pursue it.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Development Manager Certificate is up to you and your personal career objectives. If you think it could help propel your career forward, then earning one could be a great way to demonstrate your commitment and dedication to the industry and show potential employers that you are serious about succeeding as a manager.

Related: Development Manager Resume Examples

FAQs About Development Manager Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Development Manager?

Answer: The requirements to become a Development Manager will vary depending on the organization and the level of responsibility that is expected of you. Generally, you should have at least 5 years of experience in software development or related fields, as well as an advanced degree in computer science, engineering, or management.

2. What types of development manager certifications are available?

Answer: There are several certifications available for development managers, including Certified Software Development Professional (CSDP), Certified Scrum Master (CSM), Certified Agile Project Manager (CAPM), and PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP).

3. What are the benefits of earning a development manager certification?

Answer: Earning a development manager certification can help you stand out from other job candidates and demonstrate your commitment to your profession. It can also give you access to professional networks, resources, and job opportunities that may not otherwise be available to you. Additionally, it can provide employers with assurance that you possess the necessary skills and knowledge needed to be successful in the role.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a development manager?

Answer: The amount of time required to complete a certification program varies depending on the specific program chosen and your prior experience and knowledge base. Many programs offer self-paced courses that allow students to complete their studies at their own pace over several months or even years if needed.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a development manager?

Answer: The cost will vary depending on the specific certification program chosen but generally ranges between $500-$2000 USD for most programs offered by reputable organizations such as PMI or Scrum Alliance.