Top 11 IT Analyst Certifications

Certifications are important for IT analysts in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge. They provide employers with a way to quickly evaluate potential candidates and determine if they have the necessary skills and qualifications for the job. Certifications also provide an easy way for hiring managers to identify qualified applicants and help them stand out from the competition. Additionally, certifications can be used as a way to differentiate between junior and senior level positions, allowing employers to make more informed hiring decisions. Lastly, certifications can also be beneficial when it comes to negotiating salaries as they demonstrate a certain level of expertise that is valued by employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for IT Analysts and explains how they can help to advance an IT Analyst's career.

What are IT Analyst Certifications?

Analyst certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the field of analytics. It is designed to ensure that analysts have the skills and knowledge necessary to work successfully with data and to provide meaningful insights. Analyst certification can help organizations build confidence in their analytics teams by providing assurance that their employees have the necessary qualifications and experience. Additionally, analyst certification can give organizations a competitive advantage by allowing them to quickly identify qualified individuals who can help develop data-driven strategies and provide valuable insights on customer behavior, market trends, and other business-critical topics. By investing in analyst certification, organizations can further develop their team’s expertise while also demonstrating a commitment to data-driven decision making.

Pro Tip: Before you begin pursuing an IT Analyst Certification, make sure to review the requirements and prerequisites for each certification. Many certifications require applicants to have a certain level of experience in the field, so be sure to plan ahead and get the necessary experience before applying.

Related: What does an IT Analyst do?

Top 11 IT Analyst Certifications

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

1. Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP)

Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP) is an internationally recognized certification offered by the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills and knowledge of experienced business analysts. The CBAP certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a high level of expertise in business analysis.

The CBAP certification requires applicants to have 7,500 hours of experience in the field of business analysis over the past 10 years, as well as 35 hours of professional development activities in order to be eligible for the exam. The exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions and lasts 3.5 hours.

In order to get certified, you must first register with IIBA and pay the $125 application fee. Once your application has been approved, you will need to pay a $325 examination fee before scheduling your exam date. You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your CBAP certificate from IIBA which will be valid for three years. You will then need to complete 60 hours of continuing education credits every three years in order to maintain your certification status.

2. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a certification program offered by the Scrum Alliance, an organization dedicated to promoting and improving the use of Scrum. The CSM credential is designed to recognize individuals who have a deep understanding of Scrum and its principles. It is intended for individuals who are responsible for leading teams in the implementation of Agile processes, such as Scrum.

The CSM certification requires that applicants complete a two-day course with an accredited instructor. During the course, participants learn about the values, principles, roles, and artifacts of Scrum, as well as techniques for successful team collaboration and communication. Upon completion of the course, participants must pass an online assessment to receive their certification.

The cost of a CSM certification varies depending on where it is taken and who provides it. Generally speaking, courses range from $800 - $2,000 USD per person.

Once certified, CSMs must renew their credentials every two years by completing 16 hours of continuing education credits or retaking the full two-day course.

3. Certified Project Management Professional (PMP)

Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) is a certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). The PMP certification recognizes an individual's knowledge and experience in project management, and is one of the most sought-after credentials for project managers.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on how much time you dedicate to studying. To get certified, you must have at least 3 years of professional project management experience and 35 hours of formal project management education. Additionally, you must pass a 200-question multiple-choice exam that covers five core areas of project management: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring & controlling, and closing.

The cost of the PMP exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can range from $400-$550 USD.

4. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized certification that validates a professional’s expertise in information security. It is designed to demonstrate mastery of an array of topics related to information security, including access control, software development security, cryptography, risk management, and more.

To obtain the CISSP certification, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers all eight domains of the Common Body of Knowledge (CBK). The exam consists of 250 multiple-choice questions and takes six hours to complete. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight CBK domains.

The cost to take the CISSP exam varies by country but typically ranges from $699-$1,199 USD. Additionally, members of (ISC)2 pay a discounted rate for their first attempt at taking the exam. After passing the exam and meeting all other requirements, individuals become certified CISSPs and are required to maintain their certification through continuing education credits every three years.

5. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program designed for IT professionals who have experience with Microsoft technologies. It is an advanced-level certification that validates a person’s ability to design, implement, and maintain complex IT solutions based on Microsoft products and services.

To become an MCSE, you must first pass one or more of the core exams related to the technology you are specializing in. The core exams cover topics such as networking, security, virtualization, cloud computing, messaging, and business intelligence. You will also need to take one or more elective exams depending on your chosen specialization.

The time it takes to get an MCSE certification depends on how much experience you already have with the technology and how quickly you can learn new material. Generally speaking, it takes anywhere from six months to two years to complete all the necessary requirements for certification.

To get an MCSE certification, you must register for and pass all required exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. Each exam costs around $150 - $200 USD depending on which country you are taking it in. In addition to the cost of the exams themselves, there may be additional fees associated with registering for them and scheduling appointments at testing centers.

Overall, getting an MCSE certification can be expensive but it is worth it if you want to demonstrate your expertise in Microsoft technologies and increase your earning potential in the IT industry.

6. Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP)

Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in the field of information technology. It is offered by the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM), and it requires a minimum of five years of experience in IT-related positions.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete the requirements for CITP certification, depending on your level of experience. To become certified, you must pass a written exam, complete a portfolio review, and submit letters of recommendation from employers or other professionals who can attest to your qualifications.

The cost of CITP certification varies depending on the country you are located in, but generally ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD. This includes the cost of the written exam and portfolio review fees.

To get started with CITP certification, you must first register with ICPM and pay the applicable fees. You will then need to create an online profile that outlines your educational background, work experience, and any relevant certifications or awards you have earned. Once this is completed, you can begin studying for the written exam and preparing your portfolio for review.

7. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ Certification is a globally recognized industry standard for computer technicians. It is an entry-level certification that verifies the knowledge and skills of IT professionals who work with computers and other digital devices. The certification covers a wide range of topics, including hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting, and customer service.

It typically takes between six months to two years to complete the CompTIA A+ Certification. This depends on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and preparing for the exams. You can take as long or as short as you need to feel confident in your knowledge and skills before taking the exams.

To get CompTIA A+ Certification, you must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams cover different topics related to computer hardware, software, networking, security, troubleshooting, and customer service.

The cost of CompTIA A+ Certification varies depending on where you take the exams. Most testing centers charge around $200 per exam; however this can vary depending on location and availability. Additionally, some employers may offer discounts or reimbursements for taking the exams.

8. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Associate (ODA-CA)

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Associate (ODA-CA) is an entry-level certification that demonstrates a fundamental knowledge of Oracle Database 12c. It is designed for individuals who are just starting out in their database administration career and those who want to demonstrate their skills in the field.

In order to become certified, you must pass the Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration exam. This exam consists of 70 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The cost of the exam is $245 USD.

The ODA-CA certification does not expire, but Oracle recommends that you stay up to date on new versions of the software by taking additional courses or exams as they become available.

9. ITIL Foundation Certification

ITIL Foundation Certification is an entry-level certification that provides a basic understanding of IT service management (ITSM) and how it can be used to improve the delivery of IT services. It is based on the IT Infrastructure Library (ITIL), which is a set of best practices for managing IT services. The certification requires passing an exam that covers the five core areas of ITSM: Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continual Service Improvement.

The exam typically takes two hours and consists of 40 multiple choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a score of at least 65%. The cost of the exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $150-$250 USD.

To get certified, you must first complete an accredited training course. This can be done in person or online through various providers. Course lengths vary but usually take between 2-4 days to complete. After completing the course, you will need to register for and pass the exam in order to receive your certification.

10. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification from Cisco Systems that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of networking, routing, switching, and security. It is the entry-level certification for those pursuing a career in network engineering or administration. The CCNA certification requires passing two exams: ICND1 and ICND2.

The ICND1 exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, LAN switching technologies, routing technologies, infrastructure services, and infrastructure maintenance. The ICND2 exam covers topics such as WAN technologies, infrastructure security, infrastructure services, and network troubleshooting.

It typically takes around three to six months to prepare for the CCNA exams depending on your background knowledge and experience. To get started with your preparation you should have a good understanding of basic networking concepts such as IP addressing and subnetting. You should also be familiar with Cisco IOS commands used to configure routers and switches.

You can prepare for the CCNA exams by taking online courses or attending instructor-led classes offered by Cisco Learning Partners or self-study using books or other resources available online.

The cost of the CCNA certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. Online courses typically range from $300-$500 while instructor-led classes can range from $1,000-$3,000. Books are usually around $50-$100 each and practice exams can range from $50-$100 each as well.

11. AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate

AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate is a certification that validates an individual’s expertise in designing and deploying scalable, highly available, and fault-tolerant systems on Amazon Web Services (AWS). The certification requires a deep understanding of the AWS platform and its services.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the exam. To get the certification, you must pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam. This exam consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions that test your knowledge of AWS services, architecture best practices, security, and other topics related to designing distributed applications on the AWS cloud platform.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, it costs $150 USD to take the exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through their website. It also costs $20 USD to retake the exam if you fail it.

Do You Really Need a IT Analyst Certificate?

An IT analyst certificate can be a valuable asset to any individual looking to break into the IT industry. With an IT analyst certificate, you can demonstrate your knowledge and experience in the field, helping you stand out from other applicants. Additionally, having an IT analyst certificate can give you the edge in job interviews and help you land a job in the IT field.

However, whether or not you need an IT analyst certificate depends on your individual circumstances. If you already have experience working with computers and networks and can demonstrate that knowledge through past work history or references from employers, then a certification may not be necessary. Additionally, if you already have a degree in computer science or another related field, then having a certification may not be worth the cost of the program.

On the other hand, if you are just starting out in the IT industry and don't have any prior experience or education in this field, then having an IT analyst certificate could prove invaluable. It will provide employers with evidence that you possess the skills necessary to work in this field and make it more likely that they will consider hiring you for open positions. Furthermore, having a certification may also provide additional opportunities for advancement within your chosen career path.

In conclusion, whether or not an individual needs an IT analyst certificate depends on their particular situation and goals within the industry. For some individuals who already possess relevant experience or education in this field, obtaining such a certification may not be necessary; however for those just starting out in this industry, it can prove invaluable as it will demonstrate their commitment to learning and developing their skillset further.

Related: IT Analyst Resume Examples

FAQs About IT Analyst Certifications

Q1. What Is an IT Analyst Certification?

A1. An IT Analyst Certification is a professional certification that verifies the holder’s knowledge and skills in information technology (IT) analysis, which involves analyzing data to identify trends and make recommendations for improvement. It is typically awarded by a professional organization or educational institution after successful completion of a course or program.

Q2. What Types of Certifications Are Available?

A2. There are various types of certifications available depending on the focus of the program. Common certifications include Certified Information Systems Analyst (CISA), Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), and Certified Software Testing Professional (CSTP).

Q3. How Do I Become Certified?

A3. To become certified, you must complete a certification program that includes coursework and/or an exam covering topics related to IT analysis. Many programs also require you to have prior work experience in order to qualify for the certification.

Q4. How Long Does It Take to Become Certified?

A4. The length of time it takes to become certified varies depending on the type of certification, but most programs can be completed within one year or less with full-time study and dedication to the program material.

Q5. What Benefits Does Certification Offer?

A5: Becoming certified as an IT analyst offers many benefits, including increased job security, higher salaries, career advancement opportunities, and improved credibility among employers and peers alike. Additionally, becoming certified can help you stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in your field, allowing you to better serve your clients or employer's needs