Top 11 IT Developer Certifications

Certifications are important for IT developers in the job market because they help demonstrate to employers that the developer has acquired specific, in-demand skills and is qualified to do the job. Certifications also give employers confidence that the developer is up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in the industry. Lastly, certifications can give an IT developer a competitive edge over other applicants by showing potential employers that they have taken initiative to increase their knowledge and skillset.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for IT Developers and explains how they can contribute to an IT Developer's career.

What are IT Developer Certifications?

Developer certification is a type of professional credential that demonstrates one’s knowledge, skills, and competency in developing software applications. It helps developers to demonstrate their proficiency in the field and can help them stand out among their peers. It also helps employers to identify qualified professionals who have the necessary skills to develop software solutions for their organization. Certification also allows developers to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices, so they can continue to progress and refine their skills over time. Additionally, having a certification can open up new job opportunities or promotions as well as provide networking opportunities with other certified professionals. Overall, developer certification can be beneficial for both developers and employers alike by providing validation of one’s expertise and helping them remain competitive in the ever-changing technology landscape.

Pro Tip: Before you take any developer certification, make sure to research the requirements for the certification and read up on best practices for taking the exam. Additionally, it's important to practice coding and familiarize yourself with the material prior to taking the exam.

Related: What does an IT Developer do?

Top 11 IT Developer Certifications

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

1. AWS Certified Solutions Architect

AWS Certified Solutions Architect is a certification program offered by Amazon Web Services (AWS). It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their expertise in designing, deploying, and managing applications on the AWS platform.

The certification process consists of two exams: the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam and the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional exam. The Associate exam focuses on core services such as EC2, S3, VPC, CloudFormation, and more. The Professional exam covers advanced topics such as deployment strategies, security best practices, cost optimization techniques, and more.

In order to become certified as an AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate or Professional, you must pass both exams with a score of at least 70%. Depending on your experience level and study habits it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to prepare for the exams.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $150-$300 USD per exam.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that demonstrates a professional’s ability to design and develop solutions using Microsoft technologies. It is designed for experienced developers who have a deep understanding of the Microsoft development platform, including .NET Framework, Visual Studio, Azure, and other related technologies.

The MCSD certification requires candidates to pass four exams. The exams cover topics such as creating ASP.NET web applications, developing Windows Store apps, designing and developing Windows Azure and Web Services, and developing SharePoint Server 2013 Core Solutions. Candidates must also demonstrate their knowledge of best practices in software development processes such as Agile methodology.

The time it takes to get the MCSD certification can vary depending on the individual's experience level and how quickly they can study for each exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two months to one year or more to complete all four exams.

To get the MCSD certification, candidates must first register for an exam with Pearson VUE or Prometric Testing Centers. Once registered, they will need to purchase vouchers for each exam from Microsoft's website or through a third-party vendor such as Amazon or eBay. The cost of each voucher varies depending on the specific exam but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD per voucher. After passing all four exams and meeting any other requirements set by Microsoft, candidates will be awarded the MCSD certification.

3. Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP)

Oracle Certified Professional Java Programmer (OCPJP) is a certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of experienced Java developers. This certification is administered by Oracle Corporation, the world’s leading provider of enterprise software solutions. The OCPJP certification is widely recognized as a standard for demonstrating proficiency in Java programming and development.

The OCPJP exam consists of two parts: Part 1 covers basic Java language features, such as classes, objects, inheritance, and collections; Part 2 covers advanced topics such as concurrency, networking, and distributed computing. Both parts are multiple-choice exams that test your knowledge of the Java language and APIs.

It typically takes 6-12 months to prepare for the OCPJP exam depending on your experience level with Java programming. To prepare for the exam you should have a good understanding of object-oriented programming principles and be familiar with the core Java language features such as classes, objects, inheritance, collections, generics, etc. You should also be familiar with more advanced topics such as threading, network programming, distributed computing, etc.

To get certified you must pass both parts of the exam within 18 months of each other. You can register for the exams online or through an authorized training partner. The cost varies depending on which version of the exam you take but generally ranges from $150-$400 USD per part.

4. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals. It is designed to demonstrate competency in areas such as installation, configuration, diagnosing, preventive maintenance and basic networking.

It typically takes between 6 to 12 months to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exam. The amount of time needed depends on the individual’s experience level and commitment to studying for the exam.

To get CompTIA A+ certified, you must pass two exams: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of a combination of multiple-choice questions and performance-based items.

The cost of the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $200 per exam, so a total cost of $400 for both exams.

5. Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)

Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) is a certification program offered by Cisco Systems to validate an individual’s skills in networking and related technologies. It is the first step towards becoming a full-fledged Cisco Certified Professional (CCP). The CCNA credential is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-sized routed and switched networks.

It typically takes around 6 months to complete the CCNA certification. To get certified, you must pass two exams: ICND1 and ICND2. The ICND1 exam covers topics such as network fundamentals, LAN switching technologies, IPv4 and IPv6 routing technologies, WAN technologies, infrastructure services, infrastructure security, and infrastructure management. The ICND2 exam covers topics such as Ethernet technologies, IPv4/IPv6 routing protocols configuration, WAN technologies configuration, network device security configuration, troubleshooting of basic connectivity issues in IPv4/IPv6 networks.

The cost for the CCNA certification varies depending on where you take the exams. Generally speaking it can range from $300-$500 USD for both exams combined.

6. Google Cloud Platform Certified Professional Cloud Architect

Google Cloud Platform Certified Professional Cloud Architect is a professional-level certification designed to validate an individual's expertise in designing, developing, managing and maintaining applications on Google Cloud Platform. It is a globally recognized certification that verifies the skills of cloud architects who are responsible for the design, development and management of Google Cloud Platform solutions.

The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and consists of multiple choice and multiple answer questions. The exam covers topics such as designing and planning a cloud solution architecture, deploying applications on Google Cloud Platform, managing security and compliance, monitoring operations, troubleshooting issues and optimizing performance.

To get the certification you need to pass the Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect exam. This exam can be taken online or at an authorized testing center. The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken but typically costs between $200-$300 USD.

In order to prepare for the exam, you should have experience with using GCP services such as Compute Engine, App Engine, BigQuery, Cloud Storage and other related services. Additionally, it is recommended that you review the official training materials provided by Google as well as any other relevant resources available online.

7. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is a certification program for professionals who use and manage Linux-based systems. It is one of the most widely recognized certifications for Linux system administrators. The LPIC certification covers topics such as installation, configuration, maintenance and troubleshooting of Linux systems.

The LPIC certification consists of four levels: LPIC-1, LPIC-2, LPIC-3 and LPIC-4. Each level has its own set of exams that must be passed in order to achieve the certification. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE and are available worldwide.

In order to get the LPIC certification, you must pass all the required exams for each respective level. Depending on your experience and knowledge, it can take anywhere from a few months to several years to complete the entire process.

The cost of taking the exams varies depending on where you take them and how many exams you need to take. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $200 USD. In addition to the exam fees, there may also be additional fees associated with registering for an exam or purchasing study materials.

Overall, getting an LPIC certification is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in Linux systems administration and can open up new career opportunities for those looking to advance their career in this field.

8. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification that demonstrates an individual's ability to configure, manage, and maintain Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. This certification is designed for system administrators who are responsible for the day-to-day management of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.

The RHCSA exam typically takes around 2 hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions. The exam tests the candidate's knowledge of system administration tasks including installation, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, security and networking.

To become an RHCSA certified administrator you must pass the RHCSA exam. To prepare for the exam you can take online courses or attend instructor-led training classes offered by Red Hat or through their authorized training partners.

The cost of the RHCSA exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $400 to $600 USD.

9. Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst

Cloudera Certified Associate (CCA) Data Analyst is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of data analysis. It is an entry-level certification that focuses on the fundamentals of working with data, such as querying, manipulating, and analyzing data using Apache Hive and Impala. The CCA Data Analyst exam consists of 8 performance-based tasks that must be completed within 2 hours.

To get the CCA Data Analyst certification, you must pass the CCA Data Analyst Exam. The exam fee is $295 USD. You can register for the exam online through Cloudera’s website or through a third-party provider such as Pearson VUE or Kryterion. After registering, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam platform and start your test.

The CCA Data Analyst Exam covers topics such as SQL queries, data manipulation techniques, Apache Hive and Impala commands, data modeling concepts, and more. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take a training course from Cloudera or another approved provider. Additionally, there are several practice exams available online that can help you prepare for the real thing.

It usually takes around 3 months to study for and pass the CCA Data Analyst Exam depending on your level of experience with data analysis tools and techniques.

10. Salesforce Certified Platform Developer I

Salesforce Certified Platform Developer I is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s ability to design, develop, and deploy custom applications on the Salesforce platform. It is designed for individuals who have experience developing applications on the Salesforce platform.

The exam takes approximately 90 minutes and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 65% or higher. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD.

To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you have at least 6 months of experience developing applications on the Salesforce platform, as well as hands-on experience with Apex, Visualforce, Lightning Components, and other related technologies. You can also take advantage of online training courses and practice exams to help you prepare for the exam.

11. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide entry-level IT professionals with the fundamental technology skills needed to begin a successful career in IT. The MTA certification validates basic technology knowledge of core Microsoft technologies, such as Windows Server, Windows Client, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, and Software Development Fundamentals.

The MTA certification typically takes about one month to complete. To earn the certification, candidates must pass one or more exams that cover the topics listed above. These exams are available through Microsoft's Learning Portal and can be taken at any authorized testing center.

The cost of the MTA certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and the region in which they are taken. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $125 USD.

In addition to passing the exams, candidates must also have access to an active Microsoft account in order to obtain their MTA certificate after successfully completing all required exams.

Do You Really Need a IT Developer Certificate?

When it comes to the need for an IT developer certificate, the answer is not always a simple one. Depending on the individual's goals and career path, having an IT developer certificate can be very beneficial or completely unnecessary.

For those looking to break into the IT industry, having a certification can be a great way to demonstrate knowledge and skills in a specific area of development. Having a certificate can also help show potential employers that you have taken the time to further your education and gain more experience in this field. Employers often look for individuals with certifications when hiring new developers as they provide evidence that you have a certain level of expertise.

On the other hand, there are some cases where an IT developer certificate may not be necessary. If you already have experience in developing software or applications, then having a certificate may not add much value to your resume or portfolio. Additionally, if you already have a degree in computer science or another related field, then it might not be worth investing in additional certification courses.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an IT developer certificate depends on your individual situation and career goals. If you are just getting started in the development field, then obtaining certification could be beneficial and help make you stand out from other applicants. However, if you already have significant experience and/or academic qualifications, then it may not be necessary for your particular situation.

Related: IT Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About IT Developer Certifications

Q1. What is an IT developer certification?

A1. An IT developer certification is a professional credential that verifies an individual’s expertise in developing software and applications for the IT industry. It typically includes courses, exams, and practical experience in order to demonstrate mastery of concepts and skills related to programming, software engineering, and other IT development-related topics.

Q2. How do I obtain an IT developer certification?

A2. The process for obtaining an IT developer certification varies depending on the specific type of certification you are pursuing. Generally speaking, most certifications require completion of a course or program in order to receive the credential. Some certifications may also require passing a series of tests or exams in order to be awarded the credential.

Q3. What are some of the benefits of having an IT developer certification?

A3. Having an IT developer certification can help you stand out from other job candidates when seeking employment in the field of information technology (IT). Additionally, it is often seen as a sign that you have extensive knowledge and experience with various programming languages and technologies used within the industry. Furthermore, having a certification can open up opportunities for more advanced positions or higher salaries than what would otherwise be available without one.

Q4. How long do IT developer certifications last?

A4. The length of time that your certification will remain valid depends on the specific type you obtain; however, most certifications need to be renewed every few years in order to stay current with new technologies and methods used within the field of IT development. Additionally, some organizations may require periodic re-testing or retraining in order for their employees to maintain their credentials over time.

Q5. Are there any free resources available for studying for an IT developer certification?

A5. Yes! There are many free online resources available for studying for an IT developer certification including tutorials, study guides, practice exams, and more from websites such as Udemy and Coursera as well as from various educational institutions offering courses related to technology development topics such as Harvard University's CS50x course or Stanford University's Introduction to Computer Science course which are both offered free online through edX platform