Top 11 Hadoop Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for a Hadoop developer in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge in the area. Certification can also give employers confidence that their employee will have the necessary skills to be successful in their role. Furthermore, certifications may help distinguish a candidate from other applicants and can show potential employers that the applicant is knowledgeable and has experience with different technologies. Finally, certifications can provide an avenue for professional development as they often require continuing education or recertification each year.

This article reviews the most beneficial certifications for Hadoop Developers and outlines how they can help further their career.

What are Hadoop Developer Certifications?

Hadoop developer certification is a professional certification program aimed at providing individuals with the knowledge and skills to develop and maintain Hadoop-based applications. It is designed to help developers gain expertise in the Apache Hadoop open source software framework for distributed storage and processing of large datasets. The certification covers topics such as setting up a Hadoop cluster, writing MapReduce applications, managing HDFS file systems, developing Pig scripts, and using HBase for database storage.

The certification can help an individual demonstrate their knowledge and experience with Hadoop to employers or clients. With certified professionals in high demand, having the Hadoop developer certification can give an individual a competitive edge when it comes to getting hired for jobs related to big data or analytics. It can also be beneficial for those already working in the field by providing them with recognition and validation of their skillset. Additionally, the certification can provide individuals with a better understanding of how to use Hadoop technologies like MapReduce and HDFS, which can help them become more efficient in their job roles.

Pro Tip: Get hands-on experience with Hadoop development before attempting a certification exam. There are many online resources available to help you understand the concepts and get familiar with the tools, but having practical knowledge is essential for success on the exam.

Related: What does a Hadoop Developer do?

Top 11 Hadoop Developer Certifications

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

1. Cloudera Certified Professional (CCP): Data Engineer

Cloudera Certified Professional (CCP): Data Engineer is a certification program offered by Cloudera, Inc. that validates an individual’s ability to design, build, and maintain data engineering solutions on Cloudera’s platform. The certification is designed for professionals who have experience with Apache Hadoop and related technologies such as Hive, Pig, Impala, Spark, and Kafka.

It typically takes around 3-4 months to prepare for the CCP: Data Engineer exam depending on your current knowledge level. To get certified, you will need to pass the online proctored exam which consists of 60 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The cost of the exam is $295 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center.

2. Hortonworks Certified Apache Hadoop Developer

Hortonworks Certified Apache Hadoop Developer (HDPCD) is a certification program that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in developing applications using Apache Hadoop. It is designed to demonstrate the ability to design, develop, deploy and maintain Apache Hadoop applications.

The HDPCD exam consists of a two-hour multiple-choice test with 60 questions. The exam covers topics such as data storage, data processing, data analysis, and other related technologies. To pass the exam, applicants must score at least 70% on the test.

To get certified as an Apache Hadoop Developer, applicants must first register for the exam through Hortonworks' website. Once registered, applicants will receive instructions on how to access the online testing environment and complete their exam.

The cost of the HDPCD certification is $250 USD per attempt.

3. MapR Certified Hadoop Developer

MapR Certified Hadoop Developer is a certification offered by MapR Technologies, Inc. It is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of developers who design, develop, deploy, and maintain applications that leverage the MapR Distribution for Apache Hadoop.

The certification consists of two exams: one on the fundamentals of Apache Hadoop and the other on developing applications with the MapR Distribution for Apache Hadoop. The exams are administered online through the Pearson VUE testing platform.

The first exam (Fundamentals of Apache Hadoop) covers topics such as HDFS architecture, data loading, MapReduce programming model, YARN architecture, Hive queries and Pig Latin scripts. The second exam (Developing Applications with MapR Distribution for Apache Hadoop) covers topics such as using M7 APIs to create applications in Java or Python, using Drill to query data stored in HDFS or NoSQL databases and using Flume to ingest data into HDFS.

It takes approximately 4 hours to complete both exams. To get certified you must pass both exams with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost for taking the two exams is $400 USD each ($800 total).

4. IBM Big Data and Analytics Developer

IBM Big Data and Analytics Developer is a certification program designed to help developers gain the skills needed to build and deploy big data solutions. The program focuses on developing the skills necessary for working with large datasets, such as Hadoop, Spark, NoSQL databases, and more. It also teaches the fundamentals of analytics and how to use these tools to create insights from data.

The IBM Big Data and Analytics Developer certification consists of two exams:

1) IBM Certified Data Professional - Big Data & Analytics Developer V2 (C2090-320)

2) IBM Certified Application Developer - Big Data & Analytics (C2090-321).

To get certified, you must pass both exams within 12 months of each other. The exams are multiple choice and cost $200 USD each. You can take them at any Pearson VUE testing center or online.

The cost of the IBM Big Data and Analytics Developer certification program varies depending on which training materials you choose to use. There are several self-paced courses available that range in price from $400-$1000 USD. Additionally, there are instructor-led courses available that can range in price from $2000-$3000 USD depending on the length of the course.

5. EMC Proven Professional Data Science Associate (EMCDSA)

EMC Proven Professional Data Science Associate (EMCDSA) is a certification program offered by EMC, a global leader in enterprise storage solutions. The EMCDSA certification validates an individual’s ability to understand and apply the principles of data science to solve business problems. The certification is designed for professionals who are interested in pursuing a career in the field of data science or those who already have some experience in this field.

The EMCDSA program consists of two exams: the EMC Data Science Fundamentals Exam and the EMC Data Science Associate Exam. The Fundamentals exam covers topics such as data collection and analysis, machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and big data analytics. The Associate exam focuses on advanced topics such as predictive analytics, deep learning algorithms, time series analysis, and unsupervised learning techniques.

The entire EMCDSA program typically takes about 6-12 months to complete depending on an individual’s prior knowledge and experience. Candidates must pass both exams before they can receive their EMCDSA certification.

The cost for the EMCDSA program varies depending on the country where you are taking the exams. In general, it costs around $400-$600 USD for both exams combined.

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

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE): Data Management and Analytics is a certification that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in designing, implementing, and managing data solutions. This certification demonstrates expertise in designing, deploying, and managing data solutions using Microsoft SQL Server technologies.

The MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification requires passing four exams: 70-767 Implementing a Data Warehouse using SQL; 70-768 Developing SQL Data Models; 70-775 Perform Big Data Engineering on Microsoft Azure HDInsight; and 70-776 Perform Cloud Data Science with Azure Machine Learning.

It typically takes 6 to 12 months to complete the requirements for this certification, depending on your experience level. To get started, you will need to have a basic understanding of database concepts as well as experience working with Microsoft SQL Server products such as SSMS and T-SQL. You should also have some familiarity with cloud computing platforms such as Microsoft Azure.

The cost of the four exams required for the MCSE: Data Management and Analytics certification is approximately $1,500 USD. However, some organizations may offer discounts or other incentives to help reduce the cost of obtaining this certification. Additionally, there are online training courses available from Microsoft or third parties that can help you prepare for the exams at an additional cost.

7. Oracle Big Data Certification Program

Oracle Big Data Certification Program is a comprehensive program designed to help professionals become certified in the use of Oracle’s Big Data technologies. This certification program is designed to give individuals the skills and knowledge necessary to design, build, and manage big data solutions using Oracle’s powerful suite of products.

The certification program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Expert. Each level requires a different set of exams and has its own prerequisites. The Associate level requires passing one exam (1Z0-497), while the Professional level requires passing two exams (1Z0-498 & 1Z0-499). The Expert level requires passing three exams (1Z0-500, 1Z0-501 & 1Z0-502).

In order to get certified, you must first register for an Oracle account and then purchase the relevant exam vouchers from Oracle’s website. Once you have purchased the exam vouchers, you can schedule your exams at any Pearson VUE testing center. It typically takes around 2-3 months to complete all the required exams for each level of certification.

The cost of taking each exam varies depending on which country you are located in but generally ranges from $150-$200 per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing study materials or attending training courses that are recommended by Oracle for those seeking certification.

8. Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Big Data – Specialty

Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Big Data – Specialty is a certification program that validates an individual’s technical expertise in designing, deploying, and operating big data solutions on the AWS platform. This certification is designed for individuals who have hands-on experience working with big data solutions on the AWS platform.

The exam for this certification consists of multiple-choice and multiple-answer questions and takes approximately 180 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as architecting, deploying, managing, and securing big data solutions on the AWS platform.

To get the AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty certification, you must first pass the AWS Certified Big Data – Specialty exam. You can register for the exam online at aws.amazon.com/certification/certified-big-data-specialty/. The cost of the exam is $300 USD.

Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive an email confirmation from Amazon Web Services with your official certificate. You will also be able to access your digital badge through Acclaim which can be used to showcase your achievement on social media or other websites.

9. Databricks Certified Apache Spark Developer

Databricks Certified Apache Spark Developer (DCAP-SD) is a certification program that validates an individual’s expertise in Apache Spark. It certifies that the individual has the skills and knowledge necessary to develop applications using Apache Spark on Databricks.

The DCAP-SD exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The topics covered include: Apache Spark Core, Structured Streaming, MLlib, GraphX, DataFrames and SQL.

To get certified as a Databricks Certified Apache Spark Developer, you must pass the DCAP-SD exam with a score of 70% or higher. You can register for the exam through the Databricks website.

The cost of the DCAP-SD exam is $200 USD per attempt.

10. SAS Certified Big Data Professional

SAS Certified Big Data Professional is a certification program offered by SAS, the leader in analytics and data management software. The certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in working with big data. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in the areas of big data architecture, analytics, and programming.

To get certified as a SAS Certified Big Data Professional, you must pass two exams: SAS Certified Big Data Professional Exam A and SAS Certified Big Data Professional Exam B. Each exam takes approximately 4 hours to complete.

You can register for the exams online at the SAS website or through an authorized testing center. The cost of each exam is $180 USD.

Once you have passed both exams, you will be awarded the official SAS Certified Big Data Professional credential which will be valid for three years from the date of passing your final exam.

11. Talend Certified Big Data Developer

Talend Certified Big Data Developer is a certification program that validates the skills and expertise of professionals in the field of big data. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge of Talend’s Big Data platform, which includes components such as Apache Hadoop, Apache Spark, Apache Kafka, and other related technologies. The certification exam covers topics such as data integration, data quality, and data governance.

The certification exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. To get certified, candidates must pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher. The cost for the certification exam is $250 USD.

In order to become a Talend Certified Big Data Developer, candidates must have at least one year of experience working with Talend’s Big Data platform or have completed an accredited training course on the subject. Candidates are also required to have a basic understanding of Java programming language and SQL query language.

Do You Really Need a Hadoop Developer Certificate?

No, you do not need a Hadoop Developer Certificate to be a successful Hadoop developer. A certificate is an important part of the job search process, but it is not necessary to have one in order to become a successful developer.

Having a certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and experience with the technology, but it is not the only way to demonstrate your skills. A strong portfolio of completed projects, an understanding of the core concepts of Hadoop development, and the ability to communicate clearly about your experiences are also important factors for success in this field. Additionally, most employers will want to see evidence of real-world experience with Hadoop before hiring someone for a position.

Ultimately, having a certificate may give you an edge when it comes time to apply for jobs or negotiate salaries, but it should not be seen as a prerequisite for success. It is more important to focus on developing the skills and experiences that will make you an effective Hadoop developer than trying to acquire a certificate just for its own sake.

Related: Hadoop Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About Hadoop Developer Certifications

Q1: What is a Hadoop Developer Certification?

A1: A Hadoop Developer Certification is a professional certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of a Hadoop developer in the use of the Apache Hadoop platform.

Q2: How do I get certified as a Hadoop Developer?

A2: To get certified, you will need to complete an approved training program and pass an exam. Training programs can be completed online or in person.

Q3: What topics are covered in the certification exam?

A3: The certification exam covers topics such as HDFS, MapReduce, YARN, Pig and Hive. It also covers advanced topics such as security, data governance, and performance tuning.

Q4: How long does it take to become certified?

A4: The time to become certified depends on your experience level and how much time you can dedicate to studying for the exam. Generally speaking, it takes around 1-2 months of dedicated study to become certified.

Q5: Are there any prerequisites for taking the certification exam?

A5: Yes, you must have some basic knowledge of Linux/UNIX commands before taking the exam. Additionally, some familiarity with programming languages such as Java or Python may be required for certain questions on the exam.